KOCHI, Dec 18: Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad, who was elevated to the rank of cardinal by Pope Francis on December 7, shared that Pope Francis’ visit to India is most likely to occur after 2025. The year 2025 has been designated as the “Jubilee Year” by the Catholic Church, marked by significant celebrations in Rome, leading Cardinal Koovakad to suggest that the Pope will likely remain in Rome for these festivities.
Cardinal Koovakad, 51, arrived in Kerala on Tuesday, where he was warmly greeted by well-wishers at the Cochin International Airport. Reflecting on his elevation, he expressed his gratitude for the prayers, love, and blessings he had received from the public.
When asked about Pope Francis’ potential visit to India, Koovakad explained that while the exact timing of the visit is unclear, it is expected to happen after the Jubilee Year celebrations in Rome. He added, “We can hope and pray for that,” signaling optimism about a future visit.
The 51-year-old Cardinal was one of the 21 new cardinals inducted into the Catholic Church during a special ceremony at St Peter’s Basilica on December 7, which was attended by clergy and dignitaries from around the world. Koovakad, who hails from the Archdiocese of Changanassery in Kerala, becomes the sixth Indian cardinal, strengthening India’s representation within the Vatican.
As part of his Vatican duties, Koovakad has been responsible for organizing Pope Francis’ international travels since 2020. Before becoming a cardinal, he held the title of Monsignor and was declared the Titular Archbishop of Nisibis in Turkey.
