The Jesuits, who had been in charge of thediocese from the time of its erection in 1923,handed over theadministration of the diocese tothe hands of the indigenous clergy in 1980. OnSeptember 7, 1980, Rt Rev. Dr Maxwell Noronhawas consecrated by Bishop PatroniS.J as the firstnative Bishop and as the fourth Bishop of thediocese. He was keen on the participation of thelaity in all the spheres of the ministry in the diocese. Commissionsand Boards were set up to help in the apostolic mission. Biblical,Catechetical and Liturgical Commissions were started in the diocese.The organization of the the Family Apostolate, Social ServiceCentre and Basic Christian Communities are worth mentioning. Thecelebration of Bible Convention on the day of the anniversary ofthe Episcopal Consecration of the Bishop was the first of its kind inChurch in India. In 2002 Bishop Maxwell retired from office after 22years of dedicated service in the diocese. He now spends his retiredlife at Marikkunnu, Calicut.