Kochi: As the world welcomes Pope Leo XIV, the newly elected 267th Successor of Saint Peter and Supreme Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, India celebrates a special connection with the Holy Father. The new Pope is no stranger to the country, having visited India twice in the early 2000s during his tenure as the General of the Order of St. Augustine — visits that left a deep impression on the clergy and faithful alike.
Pope Leo XIV first came to India in 2004, spending over a week in Kerala, where he stayed at the Augustinian houses in Mariyapuram, Aluva (Archdiocese of Verapoly) and Edakochi (Diocese of Cochin). During this time, he celebrated Holy Mass at Mary Queen of Help of Christians Parish in Mariyapuram and St. Antony’s Shrine in Edakochi. A highlight of the trip was his participation in the ordination of six Augustinian deacons at St. Francis Xavier’s Church, Kathrikadavu, Kaloor, concelebrated with the late Archbishop Daniel Acharuparambil on April 22, 2004.
He returned in October 2006, once again visiting the Mariyapuram residence to attend the Asia-Pacific Meeting of the Order of St. Augustine held in Aluva from 3 to 6 October. During this visit, he also made a short trip to Shenbagam School in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, which is run by the Augustinian Fathers under the Diocese of Coimbatore.
Pope Leo XVI during his visits to the Augustinian congregations on India.
Those who accompanied him during these visits recall his striking humility and simplicity. “He never asked for special treatment,” said Fr. Jacob Mullassery, O.S.A. “He travelled in small vehicles, stayed in modest rooms, and was always ready to adapt. His humility deeply touched all of us.” Fr. Metro Xavier, O.S.A., who had several personal interactions with the Pope, added, “He was a profoundly spiritual man, rooted in prayer and simplicity. He spent long hours in silent Eucharistic Adoration and had immense love for the Church and its Magisterium.”
Following his election, the Conference of Catholic Bishops of India (CCBI) issued a heartfelt message of welcome. In a statement released from Bangalore, Archbishop Peter Machado, Vice President of the CCBI, expressed joy and gratitude to God for the election of a new Shepherd for the Universal Church.
The CCBI highlighted Pope Leo XIV’s “pastoral experience, humility, and dedication to the Gospel,” affirming the bishops’ commitment to working in communion with him in evangelisation, justice, peace, and care for the poor and creation. They praised the College of Cardinals for their discernment during the conclave and entrusted the new pontificate to God’s providence.
Fr. Wilson Injerappu, O.S.A., Regional Vicar of the Augustinians in India, echoed this joy, calling the Pope’s election a “great blessing” and a moment of hope for the Church. “We are filled with immense joy and jubilation. It also reminds us of our responsibility to support his mission through our prayers and sacrifices.”
As the Holy Father begins his sacred ministry, the Indian Church joins the global faithful in prayer, confident that Pope Leo XIV’s leadership will be marked by grace, courage, and profound love for the Church and all humanity.
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