Rev. Dr. Ambrose Pitchaimuthu Appointed to Supreme Committee of Pontifical Mission Societies

Bangalore, September 10, 2024: Rev. Dr. Ambrose Pitchaimuthu has been officially appointed as a member of the Supreme Committee of the Pontifical Mission Societies by the Vatican’s Dicastery for Evangelization. This appointment, announced by Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, Pro-Prefect of the Dicastery, will see Fr. Ambrose serve a five-year term from 2024 to 2029 contributing to the Vatican's global efforts to promote missionary enthusiasm and cooperation across the Catholic faithful. 

The Pontifical Mission Societies began officially in 1922 when the organizations were granted "Pontifical" status by Pope Pius XI. The Pontifical Mission Societies, also known as Pontifical Mission Organizations in India, comprise four distinct societies. Its primary objectives include raising awareness of the importance of missions, promoting missionary vocations, and gathering material aid for systematic missionary work. The PMO focuses on building unity among churches and facilitating mutual assistance to support young churches in their development. The first of these societies, the Pontifical Mission Society for the Propagation of the Faith, was founded in 1822 by Venerable Pauline Marie Jaricot in France.

It is remarkable that while each Pontifical Mission Society preserves its unique character, they collectively bear witness to a unity of spirit and purpose, reflecting the commitment of the Holy Father and the bishops to fostering a fruitful missionary spirit among the faithful. Each of the four societies operates within its specific social spectrum, with distinct goals and methods, yet they work together toward the common mission of spreading the Gospel and promoting the Church's evangelizing efforts.

Fr. Ambrose, born on May 3, 1966, in Cheyur, Tamil Nadu, was ordained a priest on March 25, 1993. With an academic background that includes a master’s degree from the Catholic University of Leuven and a doctorate from Angelicum, Rome, he has served in various roles, including parish priest, superintendent of R.C. Schools, and director of the Jeevan Jothi Institute of Administrative Services. His extensive service in the diocese of Chingleput, including seven years as Vicar General, and his academic contributions at Sacred Heart Seminary, Poonamallee, highlight his dedication to the Church's mission.

Rev. Dr. Ambrose Pitchaimuthu’s appointment underscores the Vatican’s trust in his leadership and commitment to the Church’s missionary efforts.

By Catholic Connect Reporter