- 01 October, 2026
Mangaluru, October 1, 2026:: Fr. John Noronha, a senior priest of the Diocese of Mangalore who devoted more than four decades to pastoral ministry, passed away on Thursday, October 1, at St. Zuze Vaz Home in Jeppu. He was 82.
Born on April 2, 1944, in Pamboor, Fr. Noronha was the son of Mathias and Anjeline Noronha. Responding to his religious calling, he was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Mangalore on December 3, 1969.
Beginning his ministry as an assistant parish priest, he served at Agrar from 1969 to 1971, Kirem from 1971 to 1974, and Madanthyar from 1974 to 1976. These early assignments marked the beginning of a long and dedicated pastoral journey across the Diocese of Mangalore.
Fr. Noronha subsequently served as parish priest in several communities, offering pastoral care and spiritual guidance to generations of faithful. His appointments included Kuppepadav (1976–1982), Uppinangady (1982–1988), Kolalgiri (1989–1996), Ranipura (1996–2003), and Mt Rosary, Kallianpur (2003–2010).
Between 1988 and 1989, he also served as chaplain at Rosamistica Convent. Through his years of ministry, he remained committed to serving the Church and accompanying parish communities in their spiritual journey.
After retiring from active pastoral service in 2010, he spent his later years at St. Zuze Vaz Home in Jeppu. His long ministry remains a significant part of the history of the parishes and communities he served.
The Diocese of Mangalore and the faithful mourn the loss of a senior priest whose life was devoted to the service of God and His people.
The funeral Mass and final rites of Fr. John Noronha will be held on Monday, October 5, at 10 am at St. Vincent Ferrer Church, Valencia, Mangaluru.
The clergy, religious and faithful are expected to gather to offer prayers and pay their final respects to the departed priest.
By Catholic Connect Reporter
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