Indian Delegation Heads to Vatican for Cardinal Ordination
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sanctioned a high-level delegation to attend the ordination of Father George Jacob Kakkad as a cardinal by Pope Francis in Vatican City this Saturday. This event marks a significant occasion for the Indian Catholic community as Kakkad, a 51-year-old priest from the Syro-Malabar Archdiocese in Kerala, is poised to receive this esteemed title.
The Indian delegation will be led by George Kurian, the Union Minister of State for Fisheries. The group comprises notable figures including former Minister of State Rajiv Chandrasekhar, Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh, and BJP leader Anil Anthony. They are set to depart for Vatican City on Friday, ahead of the cardinal's ceremonial ordination.
Father Kakkad has carved a prominent role within the church, notably being responsible for organizing Pope Francis's international engagements since 2020. His selection as one of 21 new cardinals highlights not only his unwavering dedication but also serves as a significant milestone for the Church in India. His elevation to this esteemed position underscores the contributions of the Indian clergy on a global scale.
The formal ceremony, known as a consistory, will take place on December 8th, where the new cardinals, including Kakkad, will receive their red hats—a symbol of their new responsibilities and commitment to the Catholic Church. This elevation contributes to Pope Francis's mission to expand the College of Cardinals and is indicative of a broader strategy to include diverse voices within the Church.
The Indian delegation's participation signifies the government's recognition of the church's role within the country and its ties to the global Catholic community. This ordination not only honors Father Kakkad's personal achievements but also reinforces the importance of the Indian Church's presence on the world stage.
As preparations unfold for the formal ceremony, the significance of this event resonates, not only within ecclesiastical lines but also across India's diverse cultural spectrum.
Part 1/5:
Indian Delegation Heads to Vatican for Cardinal Ordination
India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has sanctioned a high-level delegation to attend the ordination of Father George Jacob Kakkad as a cardinal by Pope Francis in Vatican City this Saturday. This event marks a significant occasion for the Indian Catholic community as Kakkad, a 51-year-old priest from the Syro-Malabar Archdiocese in Kerala, is poised to receive this esteemed title.
Delegation Details
Part 2/5:
The Indian delegation will be led by George Kurian, the Union Minister of State for Fisheries. The group comprises notable figures including former Minister of State Rajiv Chandrasekhar, Congress MP Kodikunnil Suresh, and BJP leader Anil Anthony. They are set to depart for Vatican City on Friday, ahead of the cardinal's ceremonial ordination.
Father George Jacob Kakkad's Background
Part 3/5:
Father Kakkad has carved a prominent role within the church, notably being responsible for organizing Pope Francis's international engagements since 2020. His selection as one of 21 new cardinals highlights not only his unwavering dedication but also serves as a significant milestone for the Church in India. His elevation to this esteemed position underscores the contributions of the Indian clergy on a global scale.
Significance of the Event
Part 4/5:
The formal ceremony, known as a consistory, will take place on December 8th, where the new cardinals, including Kakkad, will receive their red hats—a symbol of their new responsibilities and commitment to the Catholic Church. This elevation contributes to Pope Francis's mission to expand the College of Cardinals and is indicative of a broader strategy to include diverse voices within the Church.
The Indian delegation's participation signifies the government's recognition of the church's role within the country and its ties to the global Catholic community. This ordination not only honors Father Kakkad's personal achievements but also reinforces the importance of the Indian Church's presence on the world stage.
Part 5/5:
As preparations unfold for the formal ceremony, the significance of this event resonates, not only within ecclesiastical lines but also across India's diverse cultural spectrum.