ASIA/INDIA - Bishop of Tezpur resigns, Successor appointed

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - The Holy Father, Benedict XVI, on 3 December 2007, accepted the renunciation of the pastoral government of the diocese of Tezpur (India), presented by Bishop Robert Kerketta, S.D.B., in conformity with the Code of Canon Law, canon 401 § 1. The Holy Father appointed as Bishop of Tezpur (India), Rev Mgr Michael Akasius Toppo, of the clergy of Tezpur, until now diocesan bursar and chancellor.
Rev. Mgr Michael Akasius Toppo was born on 8 May 1955 at Gormara, in the diocese of Tezpur. He was educated successively: at Don Bosco School, Dekhiajuli1964 to 1969; at St. Paul’s Apostolic School, Shillong, 1970 to 1977 and then Christ King College, Shillong, where he studied philosophy. He has a B.A. from St. Antony’s College, Shillong. After a period of experience at Muktidata Minor Seminary at Tezpur, he completed his studies in theology at St. Albert’s College, Ranchi. He was ordained on 26 January 1986, at Dhekiajuli, for the diocese of Tezpur. Since then he has ministered as follows: Prefect of studies at Muktidata Minor Seminary (1986-1988); assistant priest at Soraibil (1988-1989); assistant priest at Tezpur Cathedral (1989-1993); parish priest at Tezpur (1993-1996); rector of Muktidata Minor Seminary (1996-2005). Since 2005 he has been diocesan bursar, diocesan chancellor and consultant ad a member of the Council of Priests. (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 3/12/2007; Righe 17; Parole 233)