The Diocese of Kottapuram was erected by the Papal Bull “Que Aptius” dated 3rd July 1987, and the solemn declaration of the same was made on 1st August 1987. His Excellency Rt. Rev. Dr. Francis Kallarakal was appointed the First Bishop of the New Born Babe by the Apostolic Letter “Romani et Pontificis” dated 3rd July 1987.