ASIA/INDIA - The Pope appoints Auxiliary Bishop of Verapoly

Vatican City (Agenzia Fides) - The Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI on 25 November 2006 appointed Auxiliary of the Archdiocese of Verapoly (India) Mgr. Joseph Karikassery, Vicar General of the same archdioceses, assigning to him the titular See of Capo della Foresta.
Mgr Joseph Karikassery was born on 13 February 1946 in Karthedom, Kerala. He attended St. Joseph's Minor Seminary, and then studied for the priesthood at St. Joseph’s Pontifical Seminary, Alwaye. Ordained a priest on 19 December 1973 he has since ministered as follows: assistant priest at Kottapuram (1974-1976); assistant priest at Elamkulam (1977-1981); director Holy Angels Institute, Kalamasery (1982-1986); parish priest at Perumannoor (1987-1988); parish priest at Palarivattam (1989-1992); parish priest at Chatiath (1993-1997); parish priest at Cheranalloor (1998); Spiritual director and Professor at St. Joseph's Minor Seminary, Kalamassery (1999); parish priest at Kuttikattukara and vice rector St. Joseph's Pontifical Seminary, Alwaye (2000-2001); Rector St. Joseph's Minor Seminary, Kalamassery (2002-2006); Episcopal Vicar for Religious (2002-2006). Since 2006 Vicar General of the archdiocese of Verapoly (S.L.) (Agenzia Fides 25/11/2006; Righe 14; Parole 179)