A Shepherd Raised from Among His Flock: The Historic Journey of Bishop-elect Vijay Paul Reddy Duggimpudi

June 30, 2026: When the telephone rang on May 5, Monsignor Vijay Paul Reddy Duggimpudi had little reason to imagine that his life—and the history of the Telugu Catholic Church—was about to change forever.

The call came from the Apostolic Nunciature. On the other end was the message that Pope Leo XIV had chosen him to become the fourth Bishop of the Diocese of Warangal. For the priest who had faithfully guided the diocese as its Administrator for the previous 13 months, the news was completely unexpected.

"I never imagined such a call," he recalled with characteristic simplicity. "I accepted it as God's will and in obedience to the Holy Father. I know the needs of the diocese, and I also know my own limitations. God is great, and we should always remain grateful to Him."

His appointment marks a historic first for the Telugu Catholic Church. Never before has a diocesan Administrator been directly appointed Bishop, making his elevation not merely a personal milestone but a significant moment in the Church's history in the Telugu-speaking region.

A Vocation Rooted in Faith

Long before he became a priest, Administrator or Bishop-elect, Vijay Paul Reddy Duggimpudi was a village boy growing up in Manugonda, nurtured by a family whose faith shaped every aspect of daily life.

Raised in a farming family with deep Christian values, he learned the importance of prayer at an early age. Morning Mass and the family Rosary were cherished traditions rather than obligations. Above all, he credits his late grandfather, Duggimpudi Marreddy, for sowing the seeds of his priestly vocation.

"My grandfather inspired me to become a priest," he said. "The faith I received at home became the foundation of my entire life."

Today, one of his greatest blessings is that both his parents are alive to witness his episcopal consecration—a deeply moving moment for a family that has journeyed with him throughout his vocation.

Choosing the Apostle of India

Bishop-elect Vijay Paul Reddy Duggimpudi deliberately chose July 3, the Feast of St Thomas the Apostle, for his episcopal ordination and installation.

The episcopal ordination at Fatima Nagar Cathedral Campus will be led by Cardinal Anthony Poola as Principal Consecrator, assisted by Archbishop Udumala Bala and Bishop Rayarala Vijayakumar as Co-consecrators. Bishops from across the Telugu-speaking states, together with Archbishop Anil Couto of Delhi, are expected to join the celebration.

A Bishop with the Heart of a Farmer

Although he now assumes one of the Church's highest responsibilities, Bishop-elect Vijay Paul Reddy Duggimpudi has never forgotten his rural roots.

Coming from a farming family has given him a lifelong concern for the struggles of agricultural communities.

During his earlier ministry as Director of Lodi Catholic Social Service, he promoted organic farming, water conservation and sustainable agricultural practices.

His pastoral vision continues to include special attention to farmers and recognising their hardships.

Building Lives Through Education

Education has long been an important part of the Diocese of Warangal, and Bishop-elect Vijay Paul Reddy Duggimpudi intends to build upon that legacy.

He acknowledged the pioneering contributions of Bishops Beretta, Thumma Bala and Udumala Bala in expanding the diocese's educational institutions. He also expressed satisfaction that the medical college envisioned by the late Fr Colombo has become a flourishing centre offering MBBS, Nursing and Paramedical programmes.

"Our mission is to provide quality education to the poor at an affordable cost," he affirmed.

He also praised the dedication and academic excellence of diocesan priests who continue to strengthen educational and pastoral ministries through advanced studies both in India and abroad.

Friendship That Has Endured for Decades

Among the many relationships that have shaped his priesthood, few are as enduring as his friendship with Bishop Jaya Rao Polimera of Eluru.

The two entered the seminary together, were ordained priests on the very same day and have now shared 46 years of friendship and ministry.

Their shared journey has remained a source of strength and blessing throughout their ministry.

Leadership Forged Through Challenges

His year as diocesan Administrator tested both his leadership and his faith.

One of the greatest challenges arose when permission for the diocesan medical college was initially denied. Rather than surrendering to disappointment, the diocese pursued legal remedies while relying on the constant prayers of priests, religious and lay faithful.

Eventually, permission was restored through the unity of the diocese and the prayers of the faithful.

Even amid financial difficulties and administrative pressures, he found strength in the solidarity of the diocesan family.

Walking Together

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Bishop-elect Vijay Paul Reddy Duggimpudi's leadership is his emphasis on collaboration.

He speaks warmly of the priests of Warangal, appreciating their missionary commitment and their willingness to work together.

Rather than imposing solutions, he believes in dialogue.

"When small problems arise, we sit together, discuss them and resolve them peacefully," he said.

His appreciation extends equally to the religious congregations that have served the diocese since its earliest years. During his tenure as Administrator, their partnership proved invaluable, particularly in organising the diocesan Jubilee celebrations in 2025.

A Shepherd Close to His People

Asked whether he preferred being a priest, Administrator or Bishop, Bishop-elect Vijay Paul Reddy Duggimpudi offered an answer that reveals much about his spirituality.

Each role, he said, has been an opportunity to serve God's people.

As Bishop, he hopes to visit every parish, know his people personally and accompany them in their joys and struggles.

A Humble Request

As he prepares for episcopal ministry, Bishop-elect Vijay Paul Reddy Duggimpudi remains deeply grateful for the support of the faithful. He also expressed heartfelt appreciation for Divyavani TV, describing it as a remarkable instrument of evangelisation that became especially significant during the COVID-19 pandemic.

His final request was simple but profound.

"Please pray for me."

As the Diocese of Warangal prepares to welcome its new Bishop, the historic appointment of Bishop-elect Vijay Paul Reddy Duggimpudi offers more than a reason for celebration. It tells the story of a village boy formed by faith, a priest shaped by service, an administrator strengthened through adversity, and now a bishop called to lead God's people with humility and hope.

For the faithful of Warangal and the wider Telugu Catholic community, this historic appointment marks not simply the beginning of a new episcopate, but. the continuation of a journey of faith entrusted to a shepherd raised from among his own flock.

Source: Divyavani TV

Photo Credits : Divyavani TV