Faith Service Community
Our Story

About the Diocese

Rooted in Kandhamal

A mission born among the hills

Tribal Diocese of Kandhamal – Daringbadi spans four districts of Odisha: Kandhamal, Ganjam, Gajapati and Rayagada, with Daringbadi serving as the central point of these districts. What began as a small mission reaching out to the Kandha and other tribal communities of the highlands has grown into a diocese that journeys with the people — celebrating their culture while bringing the light of faith, learning and dignity.

The diocese was formed with the election of its first Bishop, Rt. Rev. Sarat Kumar Pradhan, together with ten presbyters and 40 pastors. Council members and executive members were appointed to guide the diocese and meet regularly, overseeing church planting, church growth and pastoral care across all four districts.

Diocese community
Our Calling

Vision, Mission & Values

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Our Vision

To love the marginalised and all people, uniting and gathering everyone together to bring peace among society. To transform lives through the love, truth and power of Jesus Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17, John 14:6) — so that every person experiences salvation, spiritual growth and a life of purpose in Christ (John 10:10, Ephesians 2:10).

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Our Mission

Church planting, church growth and caring for the flock — with faith, love and service committed to our people. To glorify God by proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ, making disciples, nurturing believers in God's Word, and serving communities with compassion and love in every area of life.

Our Values

Faith, compassion, justice, integrity and respect for every person — the heart of all we do.

Through the years

Milestones of our journey

1980s

The Beginning

The first mission workers arrive in Kandhamal, sharing the Gospel and starting small fellowships in the hills.

1995

Schools & Hostels

Education work grows with the opening of schools and children's hostels reaching remote villages.

2008

Diocese Formed

The mission is established as a full diocese, strengthening pastoral and development work across the district.

Today

Serving Many

Dozens of parishes, schools, health centres and community programmes now serve tens of thousands every year.

Diocesan leadership
Leadership

Guided by dedicated servants

Our first Bishop, Rt. Rev. Sarat Kumar Pradhan, leads the diocese together with ten presbyters and 40 pastors serving across Kandhamal, Ganjam, Gajapati and Rayagada.

A council of members and an executive committee meet regularly to guide the diocese, ensuring transparency and that every initiative truly serves the people across all four districts.

Contact the Diocese