In a monumental event, Kerala-born Archbishop Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad is set to be elevated to rank of cardinal by Pope Francis during a grand ceremony at St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City. Scheduled for Saturday, December 7, 2024, at 9 PM IST, event marks a historic moment not only for Kerala but also for global Catholic Church.
Koovakad, aged 51, will join 20 other new cardinals in a liturgical ceremony that emphasizes growing inclusivity and diversity of Catholic Church under Pope Francis.
Ceremony: A Historic Event in Making
ordination ceremony will witness new cardinals, including Koovakad, receiving red biretta, a symbol of their readiness to serve Church even unto martyrdom. Following ordination, they will proceed to Vatican Palace, where they will receive Pope’s blessing in a solemn act of dedication.
liturgical celebrations will continue on Sunday, December 8, 2024, at 1 PM IST, with newly appointed cardinals joining Pope Francis to offer Eucharist, marking their formal entry into College of Cardinals.
Koovakad’s Journey to Becoming Cardinal
Early Life and Priesthood
- Birth and Ordination: Born in Kerala, Koovakad was ordained a priest on July 24, 2004, after extensive theological training.
- Academic Excellence: He holds a doctorate in Canon Law, underscoring his intellectual contributions to Church.
- Early Ministry: Before joining Vatican’s diplomatic missions, Koovakad served as an assistant vicar in a parish in Kerala, fostering strong local connections.
Vatican Diplomatic Service
Koovakad’s career spans multiple continents, having served in Algeria, Korea, Iran, and Costa Rica as part of Vatican’s diplomatic corps. His dedication and expertise earned him recognition from highest echelons of Church.
In October 2024, Pope Francis appointed him as titular archbishop of Nisibis, a historic diocese in Turkey. On November 24, 2024, he received his episcopal consecration in Changanassery, Kerala, officiated by Major Archbishop Raphael Thattil.
Indian Delegation and Religious Dignitaries to Attend
elevation of George Koovakad has attracted significant attention in India, with several religious and political leaders set to attend ceremony.
Key Figures Attending
Religious Leaders
Prominent clergy from Kerala’s Syro-Malabar Church include:
- Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil
- Cardinal Mar George Alencherry
- Archbishop Thomas Tharayil
- Archbishop Mar Joseph Perumthottam
- Mar Thomas Padiyath
- Mar Stephen Chirappanath
Political Delegation
A seven-member Indian delegation led by Union Minister George Kurian, Minister of State for Minority Affairs, will also be present. Other members include:
- Former Union Minister Rajeev Chandrasekhar
- MP Kodikunnil Suresh
- Dr. Satnam Singh Sandhu
- BJP National Secretary Anil Antony
- Former Yuva Morcha National Secretary Anoop Antony
- Former BJP National Spokesperson Tom Vadakkan
This blend of religious and political representation highlights significance of event for both Church and India.
Impact on Catholic Church and India
Koovakad’s elevation signifies growing prominence of Indian clergy within global Catholic hierarchy. He becomes first Indian Catholic priest directly elevated to cardinal, further bridging connection between India and Vatican.
event is expected to foster deeper ties between Indian government and Catholic Church, especially with anticipation of Pope Francis’s visit to India, potentially after 2025.
Pope Francis’s India Visit: A Growing Anticipation
Union Minister George Kurian, speaking from Vatican City, shared insights into long-awaited visit of Pope Francis to India. Kurian revealed that visit might take place after 2025, designated as Jubilee Year of Jesus Christ’s Birth by Catholic Church.
“Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended an official invitation to Pope Francis during G7 Summit in Apulia, Italy earlier this year,” Kurian stated. Both Indian Christian community and Prime Minister Modi are looking forward to this historic visit.
Additionally, Goa Minister Mauvin Godinho recently hinted at possibility of an earlier visit, though official confirmations are awaited.
Major Details in Table
| Aspect | Details |
| Event | Elevation of George Jacob Koovakad to Cardinal |
| Date | December 7, 2024 |
| Time | 9 PM IST |
| Location | St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City |
| New Cardinals | 21 (including Koovakad) |
| Indian Delegation | 7 members, led by Union Minister George Kurian |
| Religious Leaders Attending | Major Archbishop Mar Raphael Thattil, Cardinal Mar George Alencherry, and others |
| Koovakad’s Previous Role | Titular Archbishop of Nisibis, Vatican Diplomat in Algeria, Korea, Iran, Costa Rica |
| Pope Francis’s India Visit | Expected post-2025, after Jubilee Year celebrations |
Significance of Koovakad’s Red Biretta
red biretta, conferred upon cardinals, symbolizes their commitment to Church, even unto martyrdom. Koovakad’s elevation reflects Pope Francis’s vision of inclusivity and recognition of talent within Church, irrespective of geography.
Conclusion
elevation of George Jacob Koovakad to cardinal marks a significant moment for Kerala, India, and global Catholic Church. His extensive service, academic prowess, and commitment to Church’s mission make him a fitting candidate for this esteemed position.
As world witnesses this historic ceremony, Koovakad’s journey inspires countless individuals, reaffirming universal nature of faith and dedication.
Disclaimer
information provided in this article is based on publicly available sources and official announcements. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, details may be subject to changes. This article is for informational purposes only, and any updates or corrections will be reflected as new information becomes available. Pratidin Time holds no responsibility for any discrepancies.
