Kerala’s George Jacob Koovakad has been elevated as a cardinal, joining an elite group of six Indian cardinals in the Vatican. The ceremony, presided over by Pope Francis, celebrated Koovakad’s remarkable contributions, including his role as organiser of papal travels and his recent appointment as titular archbishop of Nisibis
By PC Bureau
In a historic ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica on Saturday, 51-year-old Keralite priest George Jacob Koovakad was elevated to the rank of cardinal by Pope Francis. Koovakad is the first Indian priest to be directly elevated to the cardinalate without first serving as a bishop or archbishop, marking a significant milestone in the history of the Catholic Church.
The grand consistory witnessed the induction of 21 new cardinals from around the globe, reflecting the Pope’s emphasis on diversity and inclusion within the Church hierarchy. Koovakad, hailing from the Archdiocese of Changanassery, now joins the ranks of six Indian cardinals, further enhancing India’s representation in the Vatican.
A Distinguished Career and Close Papal Connection
Koovakad has been serving as the organiser of Pope Francis’ international travels since 2020, a role that has brought him into close contact with the pontiff. His relationship with Pope Francis was highlighted last year when the Pope made a heartfelt video call to Koovakad’s 95-year-old grandmother, Sosamma Antony, after she suffered health complications due to COVID-19.
Before his elevation, Koovakad held the title of monsignor and was recently named the titular archbishop of Nisibis, an ancient city in modern-day Turkey. Reflecting on his journey, Koovakad said, “This is God’s will, which I never expected. When I was sent here in 2006, my seniors told me that studying the Bible could be done in Kerala itself, but being sent to the Vatican was to learn deeply.”
Koovakad’s career includes training at the prestigious Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy and diplomatic service beginning in 2006 at the apostolic nunciature, showcasing his extensive expertise in Church diplomacy.
National and Global Recognition
Cardinal George Alencherry, Major Archbishop Emeritus of the Syro-Malabar Church, expressed his joy over Koovakad’s elevation, calling it a moment of pride for the Indian Catholic community. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also congratulated Koovakad, posting on X: “It is a matter of immense pride for India that Archbishop George Koovakad will be created as a Cardinal by Pope Francis.”
Born on August 11, 1974, Koovakad was ordained as a priest on July 24, 2004. His journey from the small town of Changanassery to the Vatican underscores his unwavering dedication to the Church.
A Diverse and Inclusive Consistory
This consistory reflects Pope Francis’ commitment to expanding the global reach of the Catholic Church. The 21 new cardinals include representatives from regions such as South America, Africa, and Asia, emphasizing the Pope’s focus on geographic and cultural diversity.
With Koovakad’s historic elevation, the Indian Catholic community finds itself further intertwined with the Vatican’s core leadership, symbolizing a deepening relationship between India and the Holy See.
