Historic Appointment: New Diocese of Joypurhat Established, Rev. Fr. Paul Gomes Named First Bishop

Dhaka, March 25, 2026 — In a moment of great joy and historic significance for the Catholic Church in Bangladesh, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV has officially established the Diocese of Joypurhat, marking the creation of a new ecclesiastical jurisdiction in the country.

The announcement was made through Apostolic Nunciature in Bangladesh by Archbishop Kevin Randall, who conveyed that the new diocese has been formed from territories previously belonging to the Dioceses of Rajshahi and Dinajpur. The Diocese of Joypurhat will function as a suffragan of the Archdiocese of Dhaka.

In the same declaration, the Holy Father has appointed Reverend Father Paul Gomes as the first Bishop of Joypurhat. Until this appointment, Paul Gomes was serving as the Rector of the Holy Spirit Major Seminary in Banani, Dhaka.

Rev. Fr. Gomes, (New Bishop) born on September 3, 1962, in Kharbaria under the Diocese of Rajshahi, has long been recognized for his dedicated service to the Church. His academic journey includes studies in philosophy and theology in Dhaka, followed by advanced theological education at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, Philippines, where he earned advanced degrees in Dogmatic Theology. He also pursued psycho-spiritual studies in England.

He ordained to the priesthood in 1992, he has served in various pastoral, academic, and administrative roles. These include parish ministry, seminary formation, and leadership responsibilities such as Rector of St. Joseph’s Seminary, Ranma, Vice Rector and later Rector of the Holy Spirit Major Seminary. He has also served as Vicar General and Diocesan Consultor of Rajshahi, contributing significantly to the life and mission of the Church.

This appointment is not only a recognition of his lifelong dedication but also a hopeful beginning for the newly established Diocese of Joypurhat. The faithful of Bangladesh welcome this development with gratitude and prayer, entrusting the new bishop and the diocese to God’s guidance.