On December 7, Mons. George Jacob Koovakad was created Cardinal in an Ordinary Public Consistory presided over by Pope Francis at St. Peter’s Basilica. The following day, Cardinal Koovakad, along with the College of Cardinals, participated in the Mass with Pope Francis. The event was attended by numerous dignitaries, including don Sergio Tapia, the current rector of Collegio Sedes Sapientiae, as well as the former rector don Pedro Huidobro and George Koovakad’s former spiritual director, Fr. Paul O'Callagan.
Cardinal Koovakad's consistory was a deeply meaningful event for the Syro-Malabar Church. During the ceremony, he was vested in traditional oriental vestments and head covering, signifying his cultural and ecclesial identity as a representative of the Syro-Malabar Catholic Church of India. The consistory brought together a large delegation from his home Archeparchy of Changanassery, including bishops, priests, religious, and laity.
Cardinal Koovakad’s journey has been one of profound dedication. He pursued his studies at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome, while he was seminarian of Sedes Sapientiae, from 1999 to 2004. During his time at the seminary, Don Sergio Tapia, the present rector, served as his vice rector. Once, during a visit to our College, Mgr. Koovakad mentioned that the academic and spiritual formation at the seminary laid the foundation for his future service to the Church. Over the years, Cardinal Koovakad has worked in several Vatican nunciatures and has held significant diplomatic roles. Currently, he serves as the Coordinator of Apostolic Journeys, collaborating closely with Pope Francis in facilitating the Pope's international travels.
As Cardinal George embarks on this new chapter, the community at Collegio Sedes Sapientiae offer their best wishes to the new Cardinal and for the fruits of his service to the Church and its mission of unity, peace, and evangelization, alongside the successor of Peter.
