Shillong 24th October 2026: Pope Leo XIV has declared Bishop Orestes Marengo, SDB, Venerable after recognising his heroic virtues, marking a significant milestone in the Italian missionary’s cause for sainthood. Bishop Marengo was appointed Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Tura in 1969 and played a key role in establishing parishes, schools and healthcare services across the Garo Hills. He remained in the region after completing his tenure and died in Tura on July 30, 1998, aged 91. Born in Italy in 1906, Marengo also served as the first Bishop of Dibrugarh and later as Bishop of Tezpur, contributing to the growth of the Catholic Church across Northeast India.The Vatican’s declaration recognises his exemplary faith and virtues. The next stage towards beatification requires a confirmed miracle attributed to his intercession.
