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The 100-Year Journey and History of the Chattogram Archdiocese

The Chattogram Archdiocese is a highly significant and historic diocese of the Catholic Church in Bangladesh. Having officially started its journey as a diocese in 1927, it is currently on the verge of celebrating its centenary (1927–2027). Below are the main highlights of its 100-year historical journey:

1. Early History and Context

Although the Chittagong Diocese was officially established in 1927, the history of Christianity in Chattogram dates back several centuries.

• Arrival of the Portuguese: The first Christian settlements began to grow around 1518 with the arrival of Portuguese merchants and missionaries.

• Early Missions: The earliest churches and Christian communities were established in Diang (Anwara), Patiya, and the Patharghata area of the city. From the 16th century until the early 20th century, this region was administered at various times under the dioceses of Goa, Cochin, Mylapore, and Dhaka.

2. Establishment of the Chittagong Diocese (1927)

• Official Recognition: On May 25, 1927, Pope Pius XI officially established the ‘Diocese of Chittagong’ by separating Chattogram, the Chittagong Hill Tracts, Noakhali, and the greater Barishal region from the Dhaka Diocese.

• First Bishop: Father Alfred-Arthur Lepailleur, C.S.C. (Congregation of Holy Cross), was appointed as the first bishop of this newly formed diocese.

• Contribution of the Holy Cross Congregation: The fathers, brothers, and sisters of the Holy Cross worked tirelessly to build a strong foundation for the diocese, specifically in preaching the faith and spreading education in both the remote hilly regions and the plains.

3. Expansion and Development (1927 – 21st Century)

Over this century-long journey, the diocese has flourished through various ups and downs:

• Pastoral and Spiritual Growth: The spiritual care of the local Catholic population was ensured through the establishment of numerous parishes.

• Creation of a New Diocese: The territorial boundaries of the Chittagong Diocese were once much larger. For administrative and pastoral convenience, the greater Barishal region was separated from Chittagong in 2015 to form the new ‘Barishal Diocese’.

4. Elevation to Archdiocese (2017)

• Historical Milestone: On February 2, 2017, recognizing the importance, expansive scope, and pastoral service of the region, Pope Francis elevated it to a ‘Metropolitan Archdiocese’.

• First Archbishop: The late Archbishop Moses M. Costa, C.S.C. took charge as the first archbishop. Under his dynamic leadership, the local church advanced significantly. (Sadly, he passed away in 2020 due to COVID-19 complications).

• Current Leadership: Since 2021, Archbishop Lawrence Subrato Howlader, C.S.C. has been guiding the archdiocese as the current Archbishop.

5. Contributions to Society, Education, and Healthcare

Beyond religious activities, the archdiocese’s contributions to the socio-economic development of Chattogram over the past 100 years have been undeniable:

• Education Sector: Historic and renowned educational institutions like St. Placid’s School and College, St. Scholastica’s Girls’ High School, Brother Andre High School, and Miriam Ashram have been educating generations of students irrespective of their caste, creed, or religion.

• Caritas Bangladesh: Serving as the social welfare arm of the church, Caritas has played a massive role in poverty alleviation, disaster management, the development of indigenous hill communities, and healthcare.

• Healthcare and Charity Work: The archdiocese has consistently stood by marginalized communities by operating mother and child health centers, rural dispensaries, and orphanages.