Rev Fr Raymond Coelho – A Pioneer Missionary and Visionary Builder of the Diocese of Jaipur

  •   Thu, Sep 24 2026
  •   Fr Melwyn D’Souza

September 24, 2026

Rev Fr Raymond Coelho is one of the pioneering priests whose dedication, vision, and missionary zeal have significantly shaped the growth of the Diocese of Jaipur. Through his commitment to education, pastoral ministry, and institution-building, he has touched the lives of thousands of people and laid strong foundations for the Church in Rajasthan.

Born on 8 September 1939, Fr Raymond Coelho responded generously to God's call to the priesthood and was ordained on 2 October 1966. From the beginning of his priestly ministry, he devoted himself wholeheartedly to the mission of proclaiming the Gospel through education, pastoral care, and service. 

Served in Ajmer Diocese from July 1967 to 1971: Vice Rector, St Teresa's Minor Seminary, 1971 to 1981: Parish Priest and Principal, St Paul's, Kota, 1981 July to 1987: Principal, St Anselm's Sen. Sec. School.

One of his most remarkable achievements was the establishment of St Anselm's Pink City School, Malviya Nagar. In 1986, despite numerous challenges, including delays in acquiring land, he courageously began the school in a rented building. With extraordinary faith, determination, and leadership, he guided the development of the institution, and within a short time the permanent school building was completed and inaugurated in 1988. Under his visionary leadership, the school grew steadily into one of Jaipur's premier educational institutions, renowned for academic excellence, discipline, moral formation, and the holistic development of students. Thousands of young people from diverse backgrounds have benefited from the strong educational foundation and values imparted through this institution.

Alongside his educational ministry, Fr Raymond played a pivotal role in developing the Catholic community at Malviya Nagar. His tireless pastoral efforts laid the foundation for what would later become the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Annunciation, the mother church of the Diocese of Jaipur. His vision and dedication greatly strengthened the life of the parish and contributed significantly to the growth of the local Church.

His missionary vision extended to Mansarovar, where he initiated educational and pastoral outreach that eventually led to the establishment of St Thomas the Apostle Parish. His foresight and commitment prepared the way for a flourishing Catholic community that continues to grow in faith and service.

Another significant milestone in his priestly ministry came in 2000, when he founded the Holy Redeemer Mission, Jhotwara. As its first Parish Priest and Principal, he established the parish, opened the school, supervised the construction of the initial buildings, and nurtured the faith of the growing Catholic community. Through his dedicated leadership, the mission developed into a vibrant centre of education, evangelization, and pastoral care.

His contribution to Catholic education continued with the growth of St Anselm North City School, Jhotwara, where his vision and guidance helped strengthen the institution as an important centre of quality education. His emphasis on academic excellence, discipline, character formation, and Christian values has left a lasting impact on students, teachers, and parents alike.

Even today, Fr Raymond continues his mission of education and service at St Anselm Morning Star School, Sanganer, where he is guiding and inspiring the school and the parish community. His continued presence reflects his lifelong dedication to forming young minds and nurturing future generations through the ministry of Catholic education.

Throughout his priestly life, Fr Raymond Coelho has been known for his simplicity, humility, discipline, and unwavering trust in Divine Providence. He has inspired countless students, parishioners, teachers, religious, and priests through his example of selfless service, visionary leadership, and deep commitment to the mission of the Church.

His legacy is not merely found in the buildings he constructed, but in the countless lives he has transformed through education, faith formation, and compassionate pastoral care. The schools, parishes, and institutions he established continue to bear witness to his vision, courage, and dedication.

As we honour Rev Fr Raymond Coelho, we thank Almighty God for the gift of his priesthood and for his many decades of faithful service to the Diocese of Jaipur and the Church. May the Lord continue to bless him with good health, joy, and peace, and may his inspiring life encourage future generations to serve the Church with the same missionary spirit, generosity, and love.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." (Matthew 25:23). 

 

 

 
Fr Melwyn D’Souza
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Title: Rev Fr Raymond Coelho – A Pioneer Missionary and Visionary Builder of the Diocese of Jaipur



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