A tribal Santal priest, Sebastian Tudu, was today ordained as the first bishop from the community in the predominantly tribal northwestern Dinajpur diocese. Apostolic Nuncio Archbishop Joseph Marino presided over the consecration Mass at St. Francis Xavier Cathedral parish in Dinajpur district, 400km from the capital Dhaka. About 11,000 Catholics including two archbishops, six bishops and about one hundred priests attended the event, said Church officials. “It’s day of blessing for me. I thank God for choosing me this important duty even though I’m unworthy. I promise to work for the people in the diocese with love and enthusiasm and hope the faithful will support me in fulfilling the needs of the diocese,” said Bishop Tudu after the ordination. He was appointed by Pope Benedict XVI on October 29 last year. Bishop Tudu was born on 17 June, 1967 at Changura village under Mariampur Catholic Church of northwestern Gaibandha district. His priestly ordination took place on 30 December, 1999 at Mariampur parish in Dinajpur. Related Reports: Pope appoints new bishop in Dinajpur Church cheers first tribal missioner