The red hat, or biretta, was bestowed upon Kerala-born George Jacob Koovakad by Pope Francis during a consistory ceremony at the Vatican on Saturday. | Photo Credit: AP
New Delhi: Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad, a 51-year-old priest from Kerala, has become the first Indian priest to be elevated directly to the rank of Cardinal. Pope Francis conferred the title during a grand ceremony held at St. Peter's Basilica, Vatican City, on Saturday.
The solemn event, attended by clergy and dignitaries from around the world, marked the induction of 21 new Cardinals into the Catholic Church. Koovakad’s elevation also makes him the sixth Indian to hold this esteemed office.
Born on August 11, 1973, in Thiruvananthapuram, Koovakad was ordained as a priest on July 24, 2004. He joined the Vatican Diplomatic Service in 2006 after completing his training at the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy. Over the years, he has served in Apostolic Nunciatures in Algeria, South Korea, Iran, Costa Rica, and Venezuela.
Currently based in the Vatican, Koovakad is responsible for organizing Pope Francis’ international travel schedule. He credited his seniors for encouraging him to pursue this path, emphasizing the deeper learning and service opportunities at the Vatican.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the PM’s Office hailed the elevation as “a matter of immense pride for India.” A delegation led by Union Minister George Kurian attended the ceremony, representing the Government of India.
Ahead of the ceremony, Koovakad, accompanied by his immediate family, described the elevation as a divine calling and a selection by God. Reflecting on his journey, he noted that his seniors, at the time of his transfer to the Vatican in 2006, had emphasized the depth of learning and global service that awaited him there.
Koovakad is now part of the elite group of 253 Cardinals worldwide who will elect the next Pope. His elevation not only highlights his personal achievements but also brings honor to the Catholic community in India.
With IANS inputs