By Matters India Reporter
DAKAR, November 14, 2026: Archbishop Waldemar Stanislaw Sommertag, the newly appointed apostolic nuncio to India, has expressed joy and commitment to fostering communion, fraternity and collaboration with India’s bishops as he prepares for his new mission.
Pope Leo XIV appointed Sommertag on Nov. 14. Until then, he served as apostolic nuncio to Senegal, Cabo Verde, Guinea-Bissau and Mauritania.
In a Nov. 14 message from Dakar to India’s cardinals, archbishops and bishops, Sommertag thanked God and the pope for entrusting him with the role, which he said he undertakes with deep responsibility. He noted that a papal representative accompanies the life of local churches and fosters communion among pastors.
Sommertag praised India’s spiritual and cultural heritage, citing the expression “Atithi Devo Bhava,” which recognizes the sacred dignity of the guest, and hoped that spirit of hospitality would inspire mutual openness and trust.
He assured the bishops of his willingness to walk alongside them through listening and dialogue, sharing in their joys, hopes and challenges. Expressing eagerness to meet them personally and learn about their communities, he entrusted their mission to the Blessed Virgin Mary, St. Thomas the Apostle and St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta.