Modernist Compromise Erodes Bangladesh’s Catholic Heritage
The article from EWTN News laments the financial crisis hindering the “Catholic Church” in Bangladesh from reclaiming the site of the nation’s first church, built by Portuguese Jesuits in 1600. Located in Iswaripur, Satkhira district, the Church of the Holy Name of Jesus—consecrated on January 1, 1600—has been erased physically, with its land now occupied by a Muslim family. The Khulna “diocese” under “Bishop” Michael D’Rozario (1970-2005) allegedly attempted to recover the site but abandoned efforts due to financial constraints. Current “priest” Philip Mondal admits the “diocese” lacks funds and seeks government intervention. Lay Catholics urge building a chapel to “preserve history,” while government land officer Rashed Hossain vaguely promises to “look into the matter” if formally approached.