Archbishop Emeritus Bernard Moras is the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Mysore from 07/01/2023.
Archbishop Emeritus Bernard Moras is a distinguished Indian Catholic prelate who served as the Archbishop of Bangalore from 2004 to 2018. Born on August 10, 1941, in Kuppepadavu, Mangaluru, Karnataka, he was ordained a priest on December 6, 1967. His episcopal journey began when he was consecrated as the Bishop of Belgaum on February 25, 1997, and later appointed as the Archbishop of Bangalore on July 22, 2004.
During his tenure, Archbishop Moras was instrumental in expanding the Church’s outreach and infrastructure. He initiated the construction of several churches, including the inauguration of St. Anthony’s Church in Marathahalli, one of the largest churches built by the Archdiocese of Bangalore in recent times. He also laid the foundation stone for the Divine Mercy Retreat Centre at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Bengaluru, aiming to provide a space for spiritual renewal and holistic growth.
Beyond his administrative roles, Archbishop Moras has been a strong advocate for the Church’s presence in healthcare and education. He chaired the Pastoral Commission for Health of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India and served as the Ecclesiastical Advisor to the Catholic Health Association of India. His commitment to education is evident from his efforts to establish institutions that cater to the educational needs of the community.
In 2023, after Bishop K. Antony William left the diocese on leave, Archbishop Moras was appointed as the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Mysore, overseeing its administration and pastoral care during the interim period.
Archbishop Moras’s episcopal motto, “In Thee We Hope—Mary Our Mother,” reflects his deep devotion to the Virgin Mary and his unwavering faith in God’s guidance throughout his ecclesiastical journey.