[1] Once his theological studies were concluded, in October 1879, he went to Castelo Branco (seat of the Diocese) and prepared to receive religious orders, along with his brothers.

[1] In October 1888, he was appointed professor of ecclesiastical and preparatory studies, as well as spiritual director at the Colégio das Missões Ultramarinas (College of Overseas Missions) in Cernache do Bonjardim.

[1] In 1893, the Patriarch of the East Indies, D. António Sebastião Valente, returned to Portugal on sabbatical, in order to alleviate his failing health.

[1] D. António Sebastião Valente and the Minister of the Navy, Henrique de Barros Gomes, supported his nomination, which was confirmed on 11 October 1897 by Pope Leo XIII.

[1] Since the Papal bulls were slow to reach India, the episcopal consecration was only held on 30 January 1898, in the Sé Cathedral of Goa.

[1] It was re-opened for worship of the Te Deum marking the coronation of Pope Pius X on 9 August 1903, eventually solemnly consecrated on 19 November 1905, assisted by patriarch D. António Sebastião Valente, local and neighbouring bishops (a total of 11 prelates).