Indian Delegation to Attend Ordination of Kerala Priest as Cardinal at Vatican

Prime Minister Modi has approved an Indian delegation’s attendance at the Vatican for Monsignor Koovakad’s elevation to cardinal. Led by Minister George Kurian, the delegation emphasizes India’s commitment to minority rights and aims to strengthen relationships with the Christian community. Koovakad, from Kerala, will become the sixth cardinal from the state during a ceremony presided over by Pope Francis.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sanctioned the travel of a high-level Indian delegation to Vatican City for the elevation of Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad to cardinal. This significant ceremony, presided over by Pope Francis, is scheduled for Saturday. The delegation, composed of seven members, is led by Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs, George Kurian, who expressed the government’s commitment to ensuring equal rights and opportunities for all religions, emphasizing India’s role as a safe haven for minorities.

Monsignor Koovakad, aged 51, originates from Kerala’s Syro-Malabar Catholic Archdiocese of Changanacherry. After his ordination in 2004, he completed his training at the Pontifical Ecclesiastical Academy and has been serving in various roles within the Vatican Diplomatic Service since 2006. His appointment as cardinal marks him as the sixth individual from Kerala and the third from his archdiocese to attain this prestigious rank. During the ceremony, twenty-one new cardinals will receive their titles, highlighting Koovakad’s significant achievement as he joins the ranks of these senior clergy members who serve as advisors to the Pope.

The delegation’s visit is seen as vital for bolstering both domestic and international relations, reinforcing Prime Minister Modi’s overarching philosophy of inclusivity, “Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas.” This visit comes at a time when, despite historical political misconceptions, there is an observable increase in support from the Christian community for the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

The elevation of Monsignor George Koovakad to the rank of cardinal represents a notable event in the Roman Catholic Church, particularly for the Christian community in India. Cardinals hold significant positions within the church, serving as advisors to the Pope, participating in governance, and voting for the next Pope during the vacancy of the Holy See. Koovakad’s background as a diplomat and his experience with the Vatican add to the importance of this appointment, as it underscores India’s growing influence within the Catholic Church.

The elevation of Monsignor George Koovakad to cardinal is a landmark event for both the individual and the broader Catholic community in India. The visit by the Indian delegation not only highlights the recognition of Koovakad’s contributions to the church but also serves to foster stronger ties between India’s government and religious communities. As the BJP continues to seek support from various groups, this gesture reflects a commitment to inclusivity and mutual respect across faiths.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com