Bishop of Bhagalpur
Kurian (Ciriaco) Valiakandathil was born on November 18, 1952, in Elanjy, in the Eparchy of Palai, Kerala. After attending the Minor Seminary in Bhagalpur, he entered St. Albert's College in Ranchi for his philosophical studies, while completing his theological studies at the Papal Seminary in Pune. He was ordained a priest on October 28, 1977, and incardinated into the Diocese of Bhagalpur. Following his ordination, he held the following positions: 1977–1979: Parochial Vicar in Belantar, Spiritual Director, and Seminary Professor; 1979–1983: Director of the Vianney Hotel (a boarding facility for tribal boys) in Bhagalpur; 1983–1986: Parish Priest in Leela, Parish Priest of the Catholic Ashram in Giridih, and Director of St. John's Britto High School in Maheshmunda; from 1997: Parish Priest in Leela. He also serves as a member and secretary of the Presbyteral Council and as a diocesan consultor.