TURA, July 6: The Diocese of Tura solemnly commemorated the first death anniversary of Late Bishop George Mamalassery, a devoted missionary and former shepherd of the diocese, on Saturday.
A special Holy Eucharist was celebrated at the Cathedral Church, with Bishop Andrew R. Marak, Bishop of Tura, as the main celebrant., and was joined by Auxiliary Bishop Jose Chirackal, Rev. Fr. Joseph Mappilaparambil, CMF, Provincial of the Claretian Congregation, several other priests, religious men and women, and lay faithful from across the diocese.
Born on April 22, 1932, in Kalathoor, Kerala, Bishop George was ordained a priest in 1960 and was consecrated as the Bishop of Tura on March 19, 1979, by Bishop Hubert D’Rosario of Dibrugarh. He faithfully served the people of the Garo Hills for over two decades with great pastoral dedication, before retiring and later passing away on July 5, 2024, at the age of 92.
As part of the anniversary observance, the Mama Educational and Charitable Trust (MECT) was formally inaugurated in memory of Bishop Mamalassery, who was deeply committed to charitable and educational works during his episcopal ministry. Soon after taking office as bishop, he initiated a yearly scholarship for all students who passed their matriculation. As the number of students grew, he focused support on those pursuing MBBS and nursing studies. His efforts helped many young people receive higher education and serve society.
In his will dated November 4, 2022, he requested that after the celebration of the prescribed Holy Masses for him, the remainder of his personal savings be used for the education of the poor. Fulfilling this noble wish, the MECT has been established to continue his legacy.
The Trust aims to provide educational scholarships and charitable aid, especially to students from economically weaker backgrounds. With the support of generous well-wishers, this Trust is envisioned to grow and serve the long-term educational and social needs of the diocese.
On the occasion of his death anniversary, the first MAMA Scholarship was awarded to Miss Marsillina R. Marak from Rabhagre village. Alongside this, the T. Marengo Scholarship was also introduced to support deserving students, particularly those aspiring for higher education and civil service (UPSC) preparation.
Special guests at the event included Fr. Joby Mamalassery CST, nephew of the late bishop and Vice Provincial of the Congregation of St. Thérèse of Lisieux (CST); Fr. Sabu Kandemkettiyil CST, Provincial of CST Gorakhpur Province (Uttar Pradesh), along with two other priests from the same congregation and province who also joined in the celebration.
In his homily, Bishop Andrew R. Marak highlighted Bishop Mamalassery’s missionary zeal and his tireless efforts in establishing parishes and educational institutions. The late bishop deeply believed education was the key to uplifting the Garo people and transforming society, he recalled.
The commemoration not only honoured the memory of a beloved shepherd but also renewed the Church’s commitment to carry forward his mission of faith, education, and service.
