‘Great joy’: PM Modi on Kerala’s George Koovakad being installed as Cardinal
Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed “immense pride” on Saturday as Archbishop George Jacob Koovakad, hailing from Kerala, was elevated to the esteemed position of Cardinal by Pope Francis.
The elevation took place at a ceremony in St Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Along with Koovakad, Pope Francis also installed 21 new cardinals, many of whom are key figures in his reform agenda.
Francis’ 10th consistory to create new princes of the church was also the biggest infusion of voting-age cardinals in his 11-year pontificate, further cementing his imprint on the group of men who will one day elect his successor.
With Saturday’s additions, Pope Francis has created 110 of the 140 cardinals under 80, thus eligible to vote in a conclave.
PM Modi said that this was a moment of great joy and pride for India.
“A matter of great joy and pride for India! Delighted at His Eminence George Jacob Koovakad being created a Cardinal of the Holy Roman Catholic Church by His Holiness Pope Francis,” the PM said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
“His Eminence George Cardinal Koovakad has devoted his life in service of humanity as an ardent follower of Lord Jesus Christ. My best wishes for his future endeavours,” he added.