Udupi: Most Rev. Dr Leslie Clifford D’Souza, Bishop of Udupi, celebrates his 64th birthday today, marking another milestone in a priestly journey that has spanned more than three decades.
Born on August 19, 1962, at Yermal in the Diocese of Udupi, Bishop Leslie Clifford D’Souza was ordained a priest on May 10, 1990. He was appointed Bishop of Udupi by Pope Leo XIV on January 31, 2026, and was ordained and installed as the second Bishop of the Diocese on April 20.
From Yermal to the Bishop’s chair
Bishop Leslie began his journey in a faith-filled family in Yermal-Uchhila. He pursued his early education locally before studying philosophy at St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary, Mangaluru, and theology at the Pontifical Urbaniana University in Rome.
He later pursued advanced studies in moral theology at KU Leuven, Belgium, where he obtained both a licentiate and doctorate.
A ministry shaped by education and service
Over the years, Bishop Leslie has served in several pastoral and academic responsibilities in the Mangalore and Udupi dioceses. He served as a professor and formator at St Joseph’s Interdiocesan Seminary and as parish priest in places including Pangala, Kallianpur and Shirva.
His episcopal ministry began in April 2026, when he took charge as the second Bishop of Udupi, succeeding Bishop Gerald Isaac Lobo.
Birthday wishes from the faithful
As Bishop Leslie marks his 64th birthday, members of the clergy, religious communities and faithful across the Diocese of Udupi are extending prayers and greetings to their shepherd.
His journey from Yermal to the episcopal leadership of Udupi stands as a story of faith, learning and dedicated service to the Church and community.