16 July 2025

His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ - Mathew 25:21

On June 29, 2025, Bishop Mrinal Jana received his retirement blessing from District Apostle Helper David Devaraj in Shadnagar, Hyderabad. This marked the close of a remarkable chapter of steadfast faith, quiet conviction, and tireless service in God’s vineyard.

Early Life and Encounter with the Faith

Bishop Jana was born on November 15, 1955, in East Midnapur, West Bengal. His spiritual roots trace back to the Assembly of God church. He was introduced to the New Apostolic faith through a friend. This became a defining moment in his life and set the course for his future ministry. Bishop Jana received the Holy Sealing from Apostle Robert Samuel Lyall on February 10, 1985.

He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree and also pursued theological studies, equipping himself for ministry. Before joining the New Apostolic Church, he served briefly as an evangelist in the Assembly of God church, gaining early ministerial experience.

A Turning Point and Recommitment

In 1990, Bishop Jana stepped away from ministry but remained rooted in the New Apostolic faith. His unwavering belief led him back in 1998, when he rejoined the ministry with renewed conviction.

Passion for Teaching and Doctrinal Integrity

He was inducted into the national teaching program in 1998 while serving as a Priest. From then on, he contributed deeply to the India teaching program, bringing theological insight and pastoral care into the lives of many. He spent the last five years actively teaching across West Bengal, Bihar, Jharkhand, Northern Odisha, and Bangladesh.

As a quiet yet deeply reflective individual, Bishop Jana embraced the New Apostolic doctrine earnestly. Despite coming from a different denominational background, he taught it with clarity and conviction.

Ministry Highlights and Regional Impact

Bishop Jana’s ministry extended far beyond his home state. He served faithfully in Orissa, Kolkata, Jharkhand, Bihar, and even as a missionary in Bhutan in 2013.

In 2017, he began assisting with translation work in Bangladesh and soon became an integral part of the team, respected as a reliable Bengali translator and proofreader. He was entrusted with the critical responsibility of reviewing and verifying all Bengali-language content, ensuring doctrinal purity and linguistic integrity. Two years later, in 2019, Bishop Jana officially took on ministerial responsibilities in the country.

Personal Life and Family Support

On November 22, 1990, Bishop Jana married Pratima Mondal. They were blessed with two daughters who have been a source of strength and joy throughout his ministry. His family bore many trials alongside him, offering steadfast support through every step of his journey.

A Life Marked by Integrity

Bishop Jana is known for his high standards of integrity; he could not tolerate doctrinal dilution or financial misuse. He quietly endured many trials during his service years, often bearing them alone to shield others.

His approach to church resources was marked by deep responsibility. He was extremely conscious of expenditure, consistently choosing the most cost-effective options for travel and ministry. His diligence frequently helped us go the extra mile.

A Lasting Legacy

Even amid health challenges, Bishop Jana’s passion for God’s work remained undiminished. He wholeheartedly supported his blessing bearers and stood as a model of faithfulness and dedication. We trust that his legacy of teaching will continue to grow as he remains connected to the teaching program.

As he steps into retirement, we honour his life well-lived in service to Christ. We thank him for the lives he touched and the legacy he leaves behind. May his retirement be filled with peace, joy, and the continued assurance of God’s nearness and grace.