Most Rev. Jeromedhas Varuvel, SDB

The Diocese of Kuzhithurai announces with deep sorrow the demise of Most Rev. Jeromedhas Varuvel, SDB, its first Bishop, who was called to his eternal reward on March 24, 2026, at 12:10 a.m., at the age of 74.
Most Rev. Jeromedhas Varuvel was born on 21 October 1951 in Sahayanagar Parish, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India. He did his initial seminary studies for the Diocese of Kottar and later completed his philosophical studies at Sacred Heart Seminary, Chennai.
He pursued his higher studies at Arulanandar College, Madurai, under Madurai Kamaraj University. Drawn by a deep missionary zeal, he joined the Salesian Congregation and pursued his theological studies at the Pontifical Salesian University (UPS), Rome. He was ordained a priest on 2 June 1985 in Rome by Pope John Paul II.
Following his ordination, he served the Church in various capacities with dedication and distinction. He began his priestly ministry as Assistant Parish Priest in Chennai–Mylai. Over the years, he rendered valuable service as an administrator, director, coordinator, and spiritual guide.
He was deeply committed to priestly formation, generously accompanying and guiding seminarians. In a special way, his ministry among the poor, the marginalized, and rural communities was remarkable, bringing them hope, dignity, and a renewed sense of purpose in life.
The Diocese of Kuzhithurai was erected on 22 December 2014 by His Holiness Pope Francis, bifurcated from the Diocese of Kottar. Rev. Fr. Jeromedhas Varuvel, SDB, was appointed as its first Bishop. With zeal and pastoral vision, he laid a strong foundation for the growth of the new Diocese.
He personally visited all parishes and communities, strengthening the faith and enthusiasm of the people. He reorganized the Diocese into six vicariates to ensure better pastoral care and effective coordination. From the beginning of his episcopal ministry, he fostered unity among priests and the faithful, promoting collaboration and shared responsibility.
During his episcopal ministry, he established five new parishes and two sub-parishes. He was instrumental in building numerous institutions, including 16 churches, 8 community halls, 5 presbyteries, 5 convents, 3 schools, 6 parish houses, 5 bank branches, 2 libraries, and a diocesan office, contributing significantly to both spiritual and social development.
He also served as the head of youth ministry at the Tamil Nadu level, inspiring and guiding young people. He initiated several institutions and participatory bodies to enhance the life and functioning of parish communities. He also established a Happy Home to ensure dignified care for elderly and ailing priests.
Demonstrating his concern for the poor and the sick, he established St. Xavier’s Multi-Specialty Hospital to provide quality healthcare. He promoted pilgrimage centers and spiritual renewal programs, and initiated the construction of diocesan offices and the bishop’s residence with a clear vision for future development. Because of his earnest efforts, St. Mary’s Church, Mulagumoodu, was elevated to the status of a Basilica.
During the challenging period of the COVID-19 pandemic, he guided the faithful with hope, encouraging families to transform their homes into places of prayer and worship. He ensured that pastoral activities continued effectively through well-organized councils and community initiatives.
After serving the Diocese faithfully for five years, he took voluntary retirement due to declining health and was undergoing treatment at the Salesian residence in Chennai. He was lovingly cared for by the members of the Salesian Congregation during this time.
Bishop Jeromedhas, known for his simplicity, compassion, and pastoral zeal, endeared himself to people from all walks of life. His passing is an irreparable loss to the Diocese of Kuzhithurai and to the Salesian Congregation. As the first Bishop of the Diocese, he will always be remembered for fostering unity, strengthening faith, and rendering selfless service for the welfare of the Church. .