As the Catholic world mourns the passing of Pope Francis, all eyes turn to the Vatican, where the College of Cardinals will soon convene for a historic conclave to elect the next pope. For India’s 20 million Catholics, this moment carries special significance, as Cardinal George Koovakkad, an Indian prelate, is set to play a pivotal role in the sacred process.

Cardinal Koovakkad, 51, serves as the Junior Cardinal Deacon in the College of Cardinals, a position that entrusts him with key ceremonial and procedural duties during the conclave. His responsibilities will include overseeing the solemn ritual of drawing lots to assign roles to nine cardinal electors: three Scrutineers to count votes, three Infirmarii to collect ballots from cardinals too ill to attend the Sistine Chapel, and three Revisers to ensure the accuracy of the vote count. This act, performed within the hallowed walls of the Sistine Chapel, formally initiates the voting process.

Beyond this, Cardinal Koovakkad will manage the opening and closing of the Sistine Chapel doors, a task symbolizing the conclave’s seclusion from the outside world. He will also supervise the burning of ballots after each vote, a ritual that produces the iconic white or black smoke signaling the outcome of the election. Upon the election of the new pope, it will be Koovakkad’s duty to summon the Secretary of the College of Cardinals and the Master of Papal Liturgical Celebrations to prepare for the global announcement of the new pontiff.

A Historic Elevation for India

Cardinal Koovakkad’s prominence in this conclave is a moment of pride for Indian Catholics. Elevated directly from priesthood to cardinal by Pope Francis on December 7, 2024, he became the first Indian to receive such an honor. As Prefect of the Vatican’s Dicastery for Interreligious Dialogue, Koovakkad has been a leading voice in fostering harmony among faiths—a mission that resonates deeply in India’s diverse society. His diplomatic efforts, including coordinating Pope Francis’ international journeys since 2021, have further strengthened the Holy See’s global outreach.

A Conclave in Context

The conclave comes at a time of global challenges, from ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East to rising climate concerns, issues Pope Francis frequently addressed. In India, recent floods in Kerala, Koovakkad’s home state, have displaced thousands, prompting Catholic communities to rally in relief efforts. Koovakkad’s role in the conclave underscores the Church’s call for unity and hope, themes echoed in recent Sunday homilies across Indian dioceses.

As the conclave begins, Indian Catholics are praying for a pope who will continue Pope Francis’ legacy of compassion and dialogue. For many, Cardinal Koovakkad’s involvement is a reminder of India’s growing influence within the universal Church. “It’s a blessing to see one of our own at the heart of this sacred moment,” said Maria D’Souza, a parishioner from Mumbai. “We trust the Holy Spirit will guide the cardinals, and we pray for Cardinal Koovakkad as he fulfills his duties.”

With the world watching, the Sistine Chapel’s doors will soon close, and Cardinal Koovakkad will help lead the Church into its next chapter.

  Catholic Church, Conclave, Koovakkad, Pope Francis