Mangaluru : The Diocese of Mangaluru mourns the peaceful passing of one of its most revered priests, Rev. Fr Aloysius D’Souza, who departed for his heavenly abode on the morning of August 7, 2025, at the age of 100 years and 7 months. He breathed his last at St Jude Vaz Home for Priests, Jeppu.

The Funeral Mass and final rites will be held on Friday, August 8, 2025, at 4:00 PM at St Vincent Ferrer Church, Valencia, Mangaluru.

Fr Aloysius D’Souza faithfully served the Church for 72 years, having been ordained a priest on August 24, 1953. He celebrated his 100th birthday earlier this year on January 29, 2025, becoming the first priest in the Mangaluru Diocese to reach a century in age. The milestone was commemorated with a grand thanksgiving Eucharist at St Joseph Seminary, Jeppu, where he had served for over two decades post-retirement.

A Life of Faith, Simplicity, and Service

Born on January 29, 1925, in Puttur to Martin and Piedad D’Souza, Fr Aloysius’s life was a testament to simplicity, discipline, deep prayer, and unwavering dedication to his priestly calling. Known for his intellectual depth and pastoral zeal, he held several key roles throughout his ministry:

Assistant Parish Priest, Bejai (1954–1963)

Missionary Parish Priest, Arva (1963–1964)

Bishop’s and Curia Secretary (1964–1965)

Director & Administrator, Kodialbail Press (1965–1973)

Parish Priest & Vicar Forane at Pezar and Kinnigoli (1973–1987)

Vicar General of the Diocese (1987–1995)

Director, St Antony Charitable Institutions, Jeppu (1995–2000)

Spiritual Director, St Joseph Seminary, Jeppu (2000–2022)

In his final years, he led a life of prayer and contemplation at St Jude Vaz Home for Priests in Jeppu.

A Witness to a Century

During his lifetime, Fr Aloysius served under six bishops of the Mangaluru Diocese and left a lasting impact in every role he undertook. Remembered by former students, fellow clergy, and the laity alike, he was admired for his wisdom, humility, and a joy-filled priestly spirit. A scholar of languages, he taught Latin and English, cherished the Church, and remained deeply rooted in the Eucharist.

On the occasion of his centenary earlier this year, Pope Francis granted him a special Papal Blessing. Reflecting on his priestly journey during the celebration, Fr Aloysius had said, “A priest is not for himself, but to serve others. Pray, work, and obey – that has been my mantra.”

A Legacy of Grace

Fr Aloysius D’Souza leaves behind not just a legacy of longevity, but a life wholly dedicated to God’s love and service. As the Mangaluru Diocese mourns his loss, it also offers thanks for the abundant blessings his life and ministry brought to generations of faithful. His memory and example will continue to inspire both current and future generations of priests and believers.

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.