Most Rev. Dr. Arulselvam “Roy” Rayappan, Bishop of Salem

Early Life and Education

Bishop Arulselvam “Roy” Rayappan was born on 18 November 1960 in Sathipattu near Panruti, in the Archdiocese of Pondicherry–Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu. He completed his early schooling in Tindivanam and Cuddalore.

He pursued philosophy at Arul Anandar College, Karumathur, and theology at St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute, Bangalore, where he secured first rank in his class. His academic journey continued in Rome, where he earned a Doctorate in Canon Law with highest honors (Summa Cum Laude) from the Pontifical Urban University in 1994.

Priesthood and Pastoral Ministry

Fr. Rayappan was ordained a priest on 20 May 1986. His first assignments were in parish ministry, where he served in Cuddalore, Viriyur, Karaikal, and Kurumbagaram. These years helped him develop a deep pastoral sensitivity and strong ties with the faithful.

Seminary and Academic Service

In 1990, he joined the faculty of St. Peter’s Pontifical Seminary, Bangalore. Over the years, he served in many leadership roles, including Vice Rector (2000–2006) and later President of St. Peter’s Pontifical Institute (from 2010).

As a gifted teacher and scholar, he guided generations of young seminarians, while also contributing to academic life in the Church across India.

Contributions to Canon Law

Apart from his teaching, Bishop Rayappan is recognized as one of India’s leading experts in Canon Law. He has served as:

• Executive Secretary of the Commission for Canon Law, Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI)
• President of the Canon Law Society of India (two terms)
• Judge in the Archdiocesan Tribunal of Pondicherry

His expertise has shaped both academic study and practical application of Canon Law in India.

Appointment as Bishop of Salem

On 31 May 2021, Pope Francis appointed him as the Bishop of Salem. He was consecrated a bishop on 4 August 2021 by Archbishop Antony Pappusamy of Madurai, with Bishop Emeritus Sebastianappan Singaroyan of Salem and Bishop Lawrence Pius of Dharmapuri serving as co-consecrators. On the same day, he officially took charge of the Diocese of Salem.

Shepherd of Salem

Today, Bishop Rayappan continues his ministry with a balance of scholarship, leadership, and pastoral care. Widely respected for his humility and wisdom, he remains dedicated to guiding the Diocese of Salem with faith, compassion, and service.

Listen to the Audio Bible in Tamil Language read by Rev. Fr. Arulselvam Rayappan.