Kochi: Cardinal George Jacob Koovakad stated on Tuesday that Pope Francis’s visit to India is likely to occur after 2025, following the "Jubilee Year" announced by the Catholic Church, due to the extensive celebrations in Rome that year.

Koovakad, 51, was appointed a cardinal by Pope Francis on December 7. Upon his arrival in Kerala on Tuesday, he expressed gratitude to all those who came to greet him at Cochin International Airport. Reflecting on the occasion, he noted that he deeply cherished the prayers, love, and blessings extended to him by everyone.

Pope's Visit and the Jubilee Year

When asked about the Pope’s visit, Koovakad explained that the exact timing of Pope Francis’s trip to India remained uncertain. "Chances are that it will be after 2025, which is the jubilee year. There are a lot of celebrations in Rome as it is the jubilee year, and therefore, the Pope will most likely be there that year," he said.

However, he added that a visit by Pope Francis in the near future could not be ruled out. "We can hope and pray for that," he remarked.

Koovakad's Journey to Cardinal

Koovakad was one of the 21 new cardinals inducted from various countries during a ceremony held at the iconic St Peter's Basilica on December 7. The event was attended by clergy and dignitaries from around the globe. Koovakad hails from the Archdiocese of Changanassery in Kerala. His elevation to cardinal raises the number of Indian cardinals to six, strengthening India’s representation in the Vatican.

Since 2020, Koovakad has been instrumental in organising Pope Francis’s international travels. Previously, he held the title of Monsignor and was declared the Titular Archbishop of Nisibis in Turkey. He is currently based in the Vatican.

With PTI inputs