Pope Leo XIV’s India Link: A Look Back At His Visit To Kerala & Tamil Nadu

In April 2004, Pope Leo XIV spent time with the Augustinian communities in Kerala, visiting religious houses in Mariyapuram (Aluva, Archdiocese of Verapoly) and Edakochi (Diocese of Cochin).

Pope Leo XIV is known for his missionary work in Peru and most recently for his leadership of the Vatican’s influential Congregation for Bishops.

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Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Robert Francis Prevost, brings to the papacy not only a wealth of pastoral and administrative experience, but also a deep bond with India, forged through his visits to the southern states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu during his tenure as prior general of the Order of St. Augustine.

Pope Leo XIV’s Indian Connection

In April 2004, Prevost spent time with the Augustinian communities in Kerala, visiting religious houses in Mariyapuram (Aluva, Archdiocese of Verapoly) and Edakochi (Diocese of Cochin), as per a report on Manorama. His pastoral approach and warm presence left a lasting impression as he celebrated Mass at Mary Queen Help of Christians Parish in Mariyapuram and at St. Antony’s Shrine in Edakochi.

Two years later, in October 2006, he returned to Aluva to participate in the Asia-Pacific gathering of the Order of St. Augustine, further strengthening ties with the Augustinian network in the region.

Prevost's journey in India also took him to Tamil Nadu. On October 6, 2006, he visited Zamin Uthukuli near Pollachi in Coimbatore district, home to the Sancta Monica Community of Augustinian Fathers, reported Times of India. During this brief visit, he also stopped at Shenbagam Matriculation Higher Secondary School, an institution under the care of the Augustinian Fathers.

A Historic Election 

Now 69, Pope Leo XIV is known for his missionary work in Peru and most recently for his leadership of the Vatican’s influential Congregation for Bishops. His election as the new leader of the Catholic Church follows the death of Pope Francis last month, making him the second consecutive pontiff from the Americas.

The conclave’s decision was announced to the world in traditional fashion with plumes of white smoke rising above St. Peter’s Square as thousands gathered in anticipation.