-Prof.Peter Archibald Furtado
Roots of Faith: The Making of a Shepherd from Yermal–Uchhila Part 2
Part II:
A Shepherd Chosen for a Greater Mission
When Rev. Dr. Leslie C. D’Souza was handpicked to take charge as the Vicar of the vast Shirva Parish, along with the responsibility of serving as the Dean of Shirva Varado, a quiet expectation began to take shape in the minds of many of his admirers: “One day, God may choose him for even greater responsibilities.”
Fr. Leslie himself never aspired to such heights—nor did he even dream of them. His focus remained firmly rooted in his priestly calling: to serve.
His tenure in Shirva Varado, in particular, offered him valuable exposure to administrative leadership and endeared him deeply to the clergy and faithful of the deanery. In these large and dynamic parishes, he encountered the real lives of people at close quarters—walking with them in their joys and struggles, and truly becoming one among them.
And now, within just four years, that quiet expectation has found fulfilment. Fr. Leslie has indeed been chosen to lead the young and growing Diocese of Udupi.
The path ahead is certainly not a bed of roses—it is a mission filled with challenges. The Diocese comprises 52 parishes spread across five deaneries: Kundapura, Kallianpur, Udupi, Shirva, and Karkala. Yet, with deep faith, he echoes the reassuring conviction: “Devacha Ghara Kain Unne Na”—there is no scarcity in God’s kingdom.
Those who know Fr. Leslie closely share this confidence. They see in him a shepherd in the making—one who leads by example, a deeply effective preacher, sincere, dedicated, and hardworking. His chosen episcopal theme, “Humble and Meek of Heart,” beautifully reflects the essence of his personality and mission.
At the same time, he is fully aware of the realities before him. A leader is only as strong as his team. Today, vocations are fewer—perhaps due to smaller families, worldly attractions, and changing aspirations. The Diocese has around 75 priests, nearly half of whom are above the age of 50.
Encouraging greater and more visible involvement of the laity—already initiated by his predecessor—will need to be continued with care and discernment. With a growing population of senior citizens in the Diocese, healthcare and social security programmes deserve priority attention.
Equally important is the future of the Church among the youth. Without the active presence of children and young people, the vibrancy of the Church cannot be sustained. Focused efforts in youth engagement, along with support for education and professional growth, will be essential in shaping a hopeful future.
History reminds us that God’s plans are not always as man expects. Time and again, He has chosen the humble and the seemingly weak, strengthening them for great missions. In Fr. Leslie, a youthful 64- years with a simple exterior, we find rare qualities—simplicity, courage, deep faith, rich pastoral experience of over 36 years, 5 early years as assistant priest, 6 years of higher education, about 12 years as Professor and equal number as Parish Priest and recent 4 years as Dean...and sound academic formation—all pointing to his ability to lead the flock with wisdom and unity.
Let us keep him in our prayers, that the Almighty may continue to guide, strengthen, and bless him abundantly in his new mission.