Short Description
Indian priest George Jacob Koovakad has been appointed Cardinal by Pope Francis, marking a historic moment for India’s representation in the Holy Roman Catholic Church.
Read Time
4 minutes, 30 seconds
Main Article
In a remarkable ceremony held at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, George Jacob Koovakad, a 51-year-old priest from Kerala, was elevated to the rank of Cardinal by Pope Francis. This event is significant as Koovakad is the first Indian priest to be directly appointed as a cardinal, differing from previous cardinals who had to ascend from bishop or archbishop ranks. Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed pride in this milestone, calling it a "matter of great joy for India." The elevation of Koovakad highlights the growing representation of Indian clergy in the Catholic hierarchy, with the total number of Indian cardinals now standing at six.
George Cardinal Koovakad has dedicated his life to humanitarian service as a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, as noted by the Prime Minister in a heartfelt message shared on social media. The consistory, attended by dignitaries and clergy from across the globe, welcomed 21 new cardinals, emphasizing the Vatican’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity. Koovakad’s elevation underscores not only his personal achievements but also the prominence of the Indian Catholic community on a global platform. His longstanding connection with Pope Francis is evident, especially as he has been instrumental in organizing the Pope’s international travels since 2020.
Koovakad’s recent appointment as the titular archbishop of Nisibis in Turkey further solidifies his influential role within the Church. His personal connection to Pope Francis was showcased when the Pope made a video call to Koovakad’s grandmother, Sosamma Antony, during her recovery from Covid-19 earlier this year. This gesture not only highlights the warmth of their relationship but also reflects the compassionate nature of Koovakad’s vocation in the Church.
As the Catholic Church continues to evolve, appointments like that of Koovakad signal a turning tide towards broadening representation and recognizing diverse voices within its ranks. His elevation is particularly inspiring for those in the finance and humanitarian sectors, demonstrating the intersection of faith with social service and community development.
Short Summary
The appointment of George Jacob Koovakad as Cardinal by Pope Francis marks a historic moment for India’s representation in the Catholic Church. As the first Indian priest to achieve this status, Koovakad’s dedication to humanitarian service reflects the Church’s evolving inclusivity and the growing prominence of Indian clergy globally.
