Our Pastors

Deacon:  John R. Hempen

Deacon Hempen has been a lifetime member of St. Teresa Parish, and a Catechist since 1990. He was ordained as a deacon on April 19, 1997.  He also serves as the Director of the Parish School of Religion and is presently a member of the Pastoral Council.

Adminstrator:  Fr. Devarajulu Ubbarapu  

Father Deva is a devoted Catholic priest of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cuddapah, committed to proclaiming the Gospel and serving God’s people through pastoral ministry, preaching, and the celebration of the Sacraments. 

He was born on June 1, 1981, in India to Joseph and Mariyamma and grew up in a faith-filled Christian family alongside his elder brother. From an early age, prayer, faith, and dedication to the Church were central parts of family life. The witness of his parents and the life of the parish community nurtured in him a deep love for God and gradually inspired his vocation to the priesthood. Father Deva received his early education at St. Joseph High School and continued his studies at St. Joseph Junior College, where he further deepened his faith and his desire to serve the Church. 

Responding to God’s call, he entered the seminary and began his priestly formation. He completed his philosophical studies at   St. John’s Major Seminary and later pursued theological studies at St. John’s Regional Seminary. During these years of formation, he was prepared both spiritually and academically for a life dedicated to priestly service. Father Deva was ordained to the priesthood on April 21, 2008, for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Cuddapah. Since his ordination, he has faithfully served in several parishes and schools, offering pastoral care, celebrating the Sacraments, preaching the Word of God, and guiding the faithful in their spiritual lives. 

Throughout his ministry, Father Deva has shown a special concern for youth and students, encouraging them to grow in faith and helping them encounter God’s mercy, especially through the Sacrament of Reconciliation. His preaching is known for being simple, heartfelt, and spiritually enriching, helping people connect the message of the Gospel with their daily lives. With a deep love for Christ and the Church, Father Deva continues to dedicate his priesthood to serving God’s people with humility, compassion, and faith. His mission remains clear. To lead people closer to Christ and help them experience the transforming power of God’s love and mercy.