Mangaluru
The Diocese of Mangaluru has appointed Rev. Fr Rupesh Madtha as the new Priest Public Relations Officer (PRO), effective June 1, 2026. The appointment was announced by Bishop Dr Peter Paul Saldanha of the Diocese of Mangaluru.
Fr Madtha will succeed Rev. Dr J.B. Saldanha, who completed a five-year tenure as PRO. In line with diocesan practice, the Public Relations Office is jointly managed by clergy and laity. Fr Madtha will work alongside Lay PRO Mr Roy Castelino, who continues in his role.
Currently, Fr Madtha holds several key responsibilities within the diocese. He serves as Manager and Editor of ‘Raknno’ Weekly, the official Konkani publication of the Diocese of Mangaluru. He is also the convenor of the Diocesan Ecumenical Commission and the Diocesan Interreligious Dialogue Commission.
In addition, he serves as Secretary of the Mangaluru Christian Council and Treasurer of the All Karnataka United Christian Forum for Human Rights (Western Zone). His wide experience in media, administration, and interfaith engagement is expected to strengthen diocesan communication outreach.
As PRO, Fr Madtha will be responsible for coordinating with media organisations, issuing official press statements, and maintaining liaison with government authorities on church-related matters. He will also play a key role in organising press briefings and ensuring timely dissemination of information.
The Diocese of Mangaluru expressed gratitude to outgoing PRO Rev. Dr J.B. Saldanha for his service and contributions over the past five years. We wish him well in his future pastoral and administrative assignments within the diocese. Fr Madtha’s appointment is seen as a strategic communication step.
