New Delhi, Dec 8 (UNI) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday hailed the elevation of Indian Catholic priest George Jacob Koovakad to the rank of Cardinal in a ceremony held in the Vatican.
Terming it as a matter of great joy and pride for India, the PM extended his best wishes for his future endeavours.
“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.
“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.”
On Saturday, the PMO said that the Government of India has sent a delegation led by Union Minister George Kurian to witness the Ceremony.
Prior to the Ceremony, the Indian delegation also called on Pope Francis.
Along with Koovakad, 20 other priests from around the world were inducted as Cardinals in a ceremony held at St Peter's Basilica in the presence of the top Catholic clergy.
In the current setup, he is the sixth Indian Cardinal, a big boost to Indian representation in the Catholic Church’s hierarchy.
Koovakad, 51, has become the first priest from India to be directly promoted to the rank of Cardinal.
Previously, all other cardinals from India had held the positions of bishops or archbishops before receiving this honour, according to reports.
He is attached to the Syro-Malabar Catholic Archdiocese of Changanacherry.
UNI RN