In this article, we delve deep into the diary of one of the most-challenged Vicar of Bombay, namely Bishop Anastasius Hartmann. He saved the Bombay Seminary from shipwreck and the Church from stagnation. Here’s a sneak peek into Bishop Hartmann’s Hassles:

March 28, 1850 – Bishop Hartmann takes over as the Vicar Apostolic of Bombay. On arrival, he finds the Seminary in a chaotic mess. It had no rector, no professor, and five students on the roll!

May 1850 – Hartmann recalls the Carmelites to Bombay and appoints Fra Mauritius, Rector of the Seminary. The new Rector was fairly good and the Bishop was well-pleased. Unfortunately, Fra Mauritius’s services ended prematurely for he was deputed to Belgaum.

November 1850 – The situation worsens. The Seminary is exposed to the rebellious spirit of Fr. Braz Fernandes who had taken possession over the Salvation Church by simony. Within a few months, the Church moves over to the Padroado camp.

April 1851 – Amidst turmoil, Bishop Hartmann refused to shut down the Seminary. He appoints the Spanish Carmelite, Fr. Joseph Lopez, Rector, and Vicar of the loyal remnants of the Parish of Salvation Church.