Seneca, Kan. – A somber announcement has been made by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann regarding a tragic incident in Seneca. In a social media post on Thursday, Archbishop Naumann confirmed the fatal shooting of Father Arul Carasala, a beloved Catholic Priest serving at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church in Seneca.
Details surrounding the shooting are currently limited. However, the Archbishop’s statement conveys the profound loss felt by the community.
Father Carasala’s dedication to his faith and parishioners is evident in his long service to the Catholic Church. According to the Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Church’s website, he was ordained on March 4, 1994, for the Diocese of Cuddapah in India. He arrived at Sts. Peter and Paul as Pastor on July 15, 2011, and had previously served as an associate pastor in Fidelity, Sabetha, and Wetmore. Father Carasala also held the position of Pastor for four additional parishes: St. Vincent de Paul in Onaga, St. Patrick Parish in Corning, St. Bede Parish in Kelly, and St. Columbkille in Blaine.
Despite the tragic circumstances, a mass led by Father Carasala was scheduled for Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Parishioners and those wishing to offer their prayers can view the service on the Sts. Peter and Paul – Seneca YouTube page. A rosary for Father Carasala took place earlier in the evening at 6 p.m.
