During a solemn ceremony held at the Immaculate Conception, the President of the Republic of Seychelles, Dr. Patrick Herminie, accompanied by First Lady Mrs. Veronique Herminie and Vice President Sebastien Pillay, joined members of the Catholic community to mark the ordination of the new Bishop of Port Victoria, Monsignor Landry Philippe Rasamison.

Bishop Rasamison becomes the eleventh Bishop of Port Victoria since the Diocese was established in 1892, succeeding Bishop Alain Harel, who has stepped down upon reaching the canonical age of 75.

Born on 3 May 1972 in Ambanja, Madagascar, Bishop Rasamison is the first-born in a family of six children. He pursued his philosophical and theological studies in Madagascar before obtaining a licentiate in spiritual theology from the Pontifical University Antonianum in Rome. Ordained to the priesthood on 15 August 2000, he has served in various pastoral and administrative roles. Having lived and served in Seychelles for the past 13 years, he notably held positions as parish priest in La Misère and Anse aux Pins, and is now a naturalised Seychellois.

The ceremony brought together clergy, government officials, and members of the faithful from across the nation in a spirit of unity and celebration. The ordination marks a significant milestone for the Catholic Church in Seychelles, as Bishop Rasamison assumes his new role in guiding the spiritual life of the Diocese.

The Government of Seychelles also takes this opportunity to express its sincere gratitude to Bishop Alain Harel for his tenure and dedicated service to the Catholic community and the Seychellois people. His leadership has been widely respected, marked by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to fostering unity, faith, and social cohesion. Throughout his years of service, Bishop Harel has played a pivotal role in strengthening the Church’s presence in the country, supporting community development, and promoting dialogue and understanding across all sectors of society. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

In attendance were also ministers, invited guests, bishops from different dioceses, members of the clergy, and members of the wider Catholic community, reflecting the significance of the occasion. The ordination stands as a moment of unity and renewal, reaffirming the role of faith in guiding communities and strengthening the social fabric of Seychelles.