Indian Delegation to Attend Kerala Priest’s Cardinal Elevation at Vatican
Prime Minister Modi has approved a high-level Indian delegation’s visit to Vatican City for the elevation of Kerala priest Monsignor George Koovakad to cardinal. The delegation, led by Union Minister George Kurian, will include prominent political figures and aims to strengthen ties with the Vatican and the global Christian community.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sanctioned the travel of a prominent Indian delegation to Vatican City to participate in the cardinal elevation ceremony of Monsignor George Jacob Koovakad, a priest from Kerala. This significant event, presided over by Pope Francis, is scheduled for Saturday. The delegation, led by Union Minister of State for Minority Affairs George Kurian, will depart on Friday and is set to meet with the Pope following the ceremony.
The delegation comprises six additional members, including Rajeev Chandrasekhar, a former minister; Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh; Rajya Sabha MP Satam Singh Sandhu; BJP leader Anil Antony; former head of Bharatiya Janata Yuva Morcha Anoop Antony; and BJP national spokesperson Tom Vadakkan. Minister Kurian emphasized the Prime Minister’s vision of equal rights for all religions, highlighting India as a secure nation for minorities.
Monsignor Koovakad, aged 51, holds a distinguished role in the Vatican, managing the Pope’s international travel agenda. A native of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Archdiocese of Changanacherry, Kerala, he was ordained in 2004 and has since served in various diplomatic positions within the Vatican across several countries. His elevation to cardinal marks him as the sixth from Kerala and the third from the Changanassery Archdiocese, following prominent cardinals Antony Padiyara and George Alencherry.
The visit of the Indian delegation is viewed as an initiative to enhance both national and international relationships. BJP leader Anil Antony stated that this engagement aligns with Prime Minister Modi’s philosophy of inclusion and development for all communities, despite historical tensions from political misunderstandings within the Christian community in India.
The elevation of Monsignor George Koovakad to cardinal is a historic event for the Syro-Malabar Catholic community and signifies increasing representation of Indian clergy within the Vatican. In the broader context, this delegation symbolizes diplomatic efforts to strengthen relations between the Indian government and religious communities. The appointment of new cardinals, especially from diverse global backgrounds, also reflects the Vatican’s commitment to inclusivity in decision-making within the Catholic Church.
In summary, the visit of the Indian delegation to Vatican City for Monsignor George Koovakad’s elevation to cardinal demonstrates India’s commitment to fostering interfaith dialogue and diplomatic engagement. As an important milestone for the Indian Christian community, this event underscores the increasing recognition of Indian clergy within the Vatican hierarchy. It further highlights Prime Minister Modi’s policy of inclusiveness and unity among diverse religious groups in India.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
