Vatican City: Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, has embarked on an official visit to India, aimed at enhancing the diplomatic and ecclesial rapport between the Holy See and the Republic of India.
According to a statement shared via the Holy See Secretariat of State’s official X account (@TerzaLoggia), Archbishop Gallagher arrived in India on Sunday, 13 July, and will remain in the country until Saturday, 19 July. The purpose of his journey is described as “consolidating and strengthening the bonds of friendship and collaboration” between the Vatican and India.
India, a Hindu-majority nation, is home to the largest Christian denomination in the country the Catholic Church. Though Catholics constitute less than two percent of the nation’s population, their presence is significant, with over 23 million adherents actively practicing their faith.
The Catholic community in India is richly diverse, encompassing the Latin Rite as well as the Eastern-rite Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara Churches, each with their own distinct heritage and liturgical traditions.
Archbishop Gallagher’s visit is expected to include meetings with Church leaders, government officials, and members of various religious communities, underscoring the Vatican’s commitment to fostering dialogue and interreligious cooperation in one of the world’s most populous and culturally diverse nations.