Pope Leo XIV establishes Diocese of Joypurhat

Pope Leo XIV established the Diocese of Joypurhat in northwestern Bangladesh on March 25, 2026. The new diocese was formed from territories belonging to the Diocese of Rajshahi and the Diocese of Dinajpur and operates as a suffragan diocese of the Metropolitan Archdiocese of Dhaka.

Paul Gomes serves as the first bishop of the diocese, having taken possession of the see last June. The Catholic community in Joypurhat consists of approximately 25,000 faithful across 13 parishes. Most members belong to indigenous and tribal groups, including the Santal, Oraon, Mahali, Munda, and Paharia peoples. Bishop Gomes noted in an interview with Agenzia Fides that these communities are among the most socially vulnerable in the country, often working as small-scale farmers or agricultural day laborers.

Because the diocese lacks permanent facilities, the Mary Help of Christians Parish in Khanjanpur, managed by the Salesians, currently serves as the cathedral. Bishop Gomes stated that the diocese needs to build an episcopal seat and a pastoral center.