Fr. Santosh Pereira Takes Charge as Parish Priest of St. Anthony’s Church, Shanthi Nagara, Shivamogga 

Shivamogga, Shanthi Nagara, May 16, 2026  : Rev. Fr. Santosh Perera officially took charge as the new Parish Priest of St. Anthony’s Church, Shanthi Nagara (Ragigudda), Diocese of Shimoga, on May 15, 2026, at 6PM.

The faithful of St. Anthony’s Church gathered at the church entrance to receive Fr. Santosh, together with the outgoing Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. David D’Lario. A solemn procession then proceeded towards the church.

The handing-over ceremony was led by Rev. Msgr. Stanley D’Souza, representative of the Apostolic Administrator. Fr. David Dellario, who served the parish faithfully for the last three years, participated in the rite and symbolically handed over the stole, Tabernacle key, and the Holy Bible to Fr. Santosh Perera. He also handed over the parish census and books of accounts to the new Parish Priest.

Fr. Glanson D’Souza emceed the ceremony. The occasion was graced by the presence of Fr. Sunil Rodrigues, OCD, Fr. Paul Crasta, Fr. Franklin D’Souza, Fr. Venil D’Silva, and other priests.

Following the installation, the parishioners organized a short felicitation program for the outgoing priest, Fr. David Dellario, and a welcome ceremony for the newly appointed priest, Fr. Santosh Pereira.

Fr. Santosh Pereira brings with him 11 years of priestly experience and has served as Director of the Minor Seminary of the Diocese of Shimoga for the past seven years.

Fr. David Dellario has been transferred to Our Lady of Lourdes Church as Resident Priest.

The entire program was compered by Br. Alvin Lopes. Parish Council members, Finance Council members, and all association members were present and thanked God for this blessed day.