The Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) gave a warm farewell to Leopoldo Girelli at a special gathering in New Delhi on April 23, 2026.
Archbishop Girelli served as the Apostolic Nuncio to India and Nepal from March 13, 2021, to April 23, 2026. The farewell programme was held at the Apostolic Nunciature and was attended by many Church leaders, bishops, and diplomats.
Among those present were Filipe Neri Ferrão, Peter Machado, Anil Couto, and Baselios Mar Cleemis. Several bishops from northern India and ambassadors from different countries also attended the event.
In his message, Cardinal Ferrão thanked Archbishop Girelli for his dedicated service. He especially praised his concern for the poor and his efforts to build unity within the Church and society.
In his reply, Archbishop Girelli expressed gratitude to the Church in India for their support. He said his time in India was both challenging and enriching. He described the Indian Church as vibrant and diverse, with strong traditions and cultures.
As part of the farewell, he was honoured with a memento, a traditional shawl, and a letter of appreciation from the Church leaders.
Archbishop Girelli left India on April 24, 2026, to begin his new mission in Croatia, continuing his service to the global Church.
