| Quick summary |
| George Koovakad is the personal travel agent of Pope Francis. |
| He was named a cardinal during a ceremony at the Vatican scheduled for December. |
| Priest and diplomat, he organizes the Pope’s apostolic trips. |
| Originally from Kerala, India, he belongs to the Syro-Malabar Church. |
| His spiritual journey has been influenced by a strong Catholic upbringing. |
| He joined the Diplomatic Service of the Holy See in 2006. |
| His mission: to promote love for the poor and the marginalized. |
| He will be ordained archbishop before being made a cardinal. |
The Journey of George Koovakad
George Jacob Koovakad, priest of the Syro-Malabar Church, stands out with a fascinating and committed journey. Originally from Chethipuzha in Kerala, India, he was shaped by an inspiring Catholic environment. The daily practice of the Mass and evening prayers shared with his parents and grandparents have profoundly influenced his vocation.
Ordained a priest in 2004, he then moved to Rome, where he obtained a doctorate in canon law in 2006. His research work, focused on the obligation of poverty for secular clergy, reflects a palpable commitment to those most in need. This thesis represents his dedication to evangelical values.
Role within the Vatican
As the personal travel agent for Pope Francis, George Koovakad plays a central role in organizing papal trips. This prestigious position has seen him coordinate several historic visits around the world, including Indonesia and Singapore. His keen spirit and dedication have earned him praise from the Pope, who describes him as “always smiling.”
Starting in the summer of 2020, he joined the Secretariat of State of the Vatican, a key moment in his career that preceded his election as a cardinal. His role demands rigor and meticulous planning to ensure the security and logistics of papal travels.
Commitment to the Needy
George Koovakad’s sensitivity toward the poor stems from a vocation established early in his life. He expresses a deep symbiosis with Pope Francis’s teachings on marginalization. “I entered the seminary with the intention of helping those in need, where the privileged presence of Jesus Christ is manifested,” he emphasizes. His empathy for the underprivileged is also recognized by his peers.
Consecration and Recognition
The imminent appointment of George Koovakad to the cardinalate represents a recognition of his contributions within the Church. His consecration as a titular bishop will take place before the conferral of the cardinal’s hat. This moment will mark a milestone not only for his personal journey but also for the Syro-Malabar Church he represents.
With this elevation, his authority with ecclesiastical and civil authorities will increase, allowing him to more effectively advocate for the Church’s interests in India. According to sources close to Koovakad, his role as a cardinal will confer increased responsibilities, but he remains confident in his ability to face these challenges with strength and determination.
