(KMZA)--A Catholic priest is dead, killed when shot Thursday in Seneca.

The fatal shooting of Father Arul Carasala, pastor Sts. Peter and Paul Church in Seneca, was confirmed in a social media post by Archbishop Joseph Naumann.

" This senseless act of violence has left us grieving the loss of a beloved priest, leader, and friend. Fr. Carasala was a devoted and zealous pastor who faithfully served our Archdiocese for over twenty years, including as dean of the Nemaha-Marshall region. His love for Christ and His Church was evident in how he ministered to his people with great generosity and care. His parishioners, friends, and brother priests will deeply miss him." said Archbishop Naumann.

MSC News is following this developing story and will bring you details as they become available.

According to the Sts. Peter and Paul website, Father Arul was ordained a priest on March 4, 1994, for the Diocese of Cuddapah, located on the southeast coast of India. Father Arul was invited to visit Kansas by Archbishop James P. Keleher to possibly serve in the Archdiocese. Father Arul agreed and has been in Kansas since 2004.

Father Arul briefly served as an associate pastor at Augustine Parish in Fidelity, Sacred Heart Parish in Sabetha and St. James Parish in Wetmore. He was then named Pastor of four parishes: St. Vincent de Paul in Onaga, St. Patrick Parish in Corning, St. Bede Parish in Kelly, and St. Columbkille in Blaine. Fr. Arul has served as pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul Church since July 2011.