George Kookad: In a grand ceremony held at the Vatican on Saturday (8 December 2024), Pope Francis appointed 51-year-old Indian priest George Jacob Koovakad as ‘Cardinal’. The ceremony, held at the famous St. Peter’s Basilica, was attended by clergy and dignitaries from all over the world.
On this occasion, new priests from 21 countries were also given the title of Cardinal. The ceremony began at 8:30 pm Indian time, in which a procession was taken out with the 21 cardinals named. The Pope then addressed the congregation and presented the traditional hat and ring to all the cardinals named, then were given certificates.
Meeting of PM Modi and Pope Francis
With the appointment of Pastor Koovakad of the Changanassery Archdiocese Church of Kerala, the number of Indian cardinals has now increased to six, which will further strengthen India’s representation in the Vatican. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, other senior leaders and heads of major churches in India have welcomed this historic decision with joy and pride.
PM Modi wrote on ‘X’ on Saturday, “It is a matter of great pride for India.” He said that the Government of India had sent a delegation led by Union Minister George Kurien to attend the event. Before the ceremony, the Indian delegation also met Pope Francis.
A matter of great joy and pride for India!
Delighted at His Eminence George Jacob Koovakad being created a Cardinal of the Holy Roman Catholic Church by His Holiness Pope Francis.
His Eminence George Cardinal Koovakad has devoted his life in service of humanity as an ardent… pic.twitter.com/CCq749PiZv
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 8, 2024
Achievements of George Couvacade
George Koovakad was born on 11 August 1973 in Thiruvananthapuram. He was appointed priest on 24 July 2004. Koovakad received training in diplomatic service from the prestigious Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy and subsequently played an important role in the diplomatic work of the Church in various countries. He has contributed to the church’s missions in countries such as Algeria, South Korea, Iran, Costa Rica and Venezuela. Currently, he has been organizing the Pope’s global visits at the Vatican Secretariat of State since 2020.
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