Bishop George of Miao Diocese Meets Pope Leo XIV in Vatican

Miao, 29 May 2025 — In a proud and blessed moment for the Diocese of Miao and the faithful across Arunachal Pradesh, Bishop George Pallipparambil of Miao had the special honour of meeting the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, during the General Audience at the Vatican.

This extraordinary encounter — from the serene hills of Northeast India to the very heart of the Catholic Church — is being hailed as a powerful sign of communion, unity, and deep faith. The meeting, held in St. Peter’s Square, marks the first time Bishop George has met the newly elected Pope Leo XIV, who continues to inspire millions around the world with his humility and warmth.

Sharing his joy through photos of the occasion, Bishop George wrote, “Met the Pope, wished him for you all, and requested his prayers and blessings for all. His greetings to each family.”

His message has sparked joy and gratitude across the Diocese. “So blessed feeling to see our Bishop with our new Holy Father,” responded Junnem Langching, a youth leader from Miao, echoing the sentiments of many faithful who felt spiritually connected through this special moment.

“As you requested to pray for us, may Holy Father’s blessings reach every family in our diocese as well as the whole of Arunachal Pradesh,” wrote Mr. Dominic Wangham, President of the Catholic Association of Miao Diocese.

The sense of pride and connection was also shared by the women of the diocese. “Happy to see our new Holy Father and our dear Bishop in one frame. From the hills of Arunachal Pradesh to the heart of the Church — a beautiful sign of our communion and faith,” reflected Mrs. Likro Mossang, Women President of the Diocese.

This meeting not only strengthens the bond between the local Church and the universal Church but also brings hope and encouragement to the faithful in Arunachal Pradesh. It reminds us all that, no matter how remote or small a community may seem, we are united in one faith, one Church, and under the care of one Shepherd

By Fr. Felix Anthony

Secretary, Office of Social Communication

Miao Diocese