In a moment of immense national pride for India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi offered his heartfelt congratulations to George Jacob Koovakad on his elevation to the rank of Cardinal by Pope Francis. The appointment, announced on Sunday, was hailed by Modi as a matter of “great joy and pride for India.”
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Modi lauded Cardinal Koovakad’s lifelong dedication to humanitarian service, describing him as an “ardent follower of Lord Jesus Christ.” He extended his best wishes for Koovakad’s future endeavors, underscoring the significance of this appointment for the nation.
The historic ceremony, held at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City on Saturday, saw Pope Francis elevate 21 new cardinals from diverse countries across the globe. The event, brimming with religious solemnity and international significance, witnessed a grand procession and the bestowing of the cardinal’s cap, ring, and certificate upon the newly appointed cardinals.
The newly appointed Cardinal, George Jacob Koovakad, hails from Chethipuzha, Kerala, India. Ordained a priest in 2004 in Changanacherry, his path led him to specialized training in diplomatic service at the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy. This rigorous preparation paved the way for a distinguished career in the Vatican’s diplomatic corps, serving in nunciatures across the world – Algeria, South Korea, Iran, Costa Rica, and Venezuela. Since 2020, he has held a key role within the Secretariat of State of the Holy See, overseeing the complex logistical arrangements for the Pope’s global travels.
In an interview with Vatican News, Cardinal Koovakad spoke eloquently about his origins, his connection to the Syro-Malabar Church (an Eastern Church in full communion with the Catholic Church), and the legacy of Saint Thomas the Apostle who brought Christianity to India in the first century. He highlighted India’s rich tradition of tolerance, emphasizing its historical role as a model of peaceful coexistence for the world, and its inherent spiritual nature promoting mutual respect and dialogue as pathways to peace.
Cardinal Koovakad’s appointment is particularly significant as it increases the number of Indian cardinals to six, strengthening India’s representation at the highest echelons of the Catholic Church. An Indian delegation was present in Vatican City to witness this momentous event, reflecting the deep significance of this appointment for the Indian Catholic community and the nation as a whole. The ceremony itself, with its profound religious rituals and global attendance, underscored the universal reach of the Catholic Church and the growing influence of India on the world stage.
