In a joyous announcement, Pope Francis has elevated Monsignor George Jacob Koovakkad, a priest from the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, to the rank of Cardinal. The news was revealed during a ceremony at the Vatican, where Pope named 21 new Cardinals, with the formal consistory to take place on December 8, 2024.
Hailing from Changanassery Archdiocese, Monsignor Koovakkad's elevation to Cardinal is a significant honor for the Syro-Malabar Catholic community. He is not a bishop, which makes his appointment particularly unique, as it is rare for a priest who has not served as a bishop to be directly elevated to the Cardinalate.
Monsignor Koovakkad is currently serving as an official in the Vatican's Secretariat of State and holds a key role in organizing Pope’s travels. His exemplary service and diplomatic acumen were pivotal in Pope Francis' decision to elevate him to this esteemed position.
The Changanassery Archdiocese, especially his home parish at Lourde Matha Church, Mammood, is celebrating the unexpected yet historic announcement with great pride and joy. Monsignor Koovakkad's appointment is seen as a recognition of the Syro-Malabar Church's growing global influence within the Catholic Church.
Pope Francis announced the consistory for the creation of the new Cardinals after the Angelus on Sunday. The event is set for December 8, 2024, in the Vatican, on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. This consistory comes shortly after the conclusion of the Synod on Synodality and just ahead of the opening of the 2025 Jubilee of Hope, making it a significant moment in the life of the global Catholic Church.
Representatives from across the world will attend, with the new Cardinals hailing from diverse regions such as Latin America, Asia, Africa, and Europe. Monsignor George Koovakkad's inclusion highlights the increasing prominence of Asian leaders in the Vatican.
The elevation of Monsignor Koovakkad marks a proud moment for Syro-Malabar Catholics, especially in Kerala, India. His appointment underscores the Vatican's recognition of the contributions of the Eastern Catholic Churches and their leaders.
Among the 21 newly appointed Cardinals are prominent leaders from various countries. Some of the names include:
1. Msgr. Angelo Acerbi - Apostolic Nuncio
2. Archbishop Carlos Gustavo Castillo Mattasoglio - Archbishop of Lima (Peru)
3. Archbishop Tarcisio Isao Kikuchi - Archbishop of Tokyo (Japan)
4. Msgr. Jaime Spengler - Archbishop of Porto Alegre (Brazil)
5. Msgr. George Jacob Koovakkad - Official of the Secretary of State, Responsible for Travel (India)
The consistory will be a grand occasion, bringing together representatives from various parts of the world to witness this important milestone for the Catholic Church, especially as it prepares for the Jubilee of Hope in 2025.