Pope announces Archbishop George Alencherry as new cardinal

Mangalore Today News Network

Beltangady, Jan 11, 2012 : According to a papal announcement, George Alencherry, the major archbishop of Ernakulum – Angamaly of the Syro – Malabar Church of India, who had been nominated as the cardinal – designate in the past, is now thenew cardi nal. The priest, who was born on April 19, 1945, will administer the Bhadravathi, Belthangady, and Mandya Diocese of Karnataka.

In all, 22 new cardinals have been appointed all over the world. Cardinals, who are the confidantes of the Pope, have the power to choose a new Pope.

Mar Alancherry had served the Changanassery Archdiocese from 1976 – 78 in a number of capacities. In Feb 1997, he took over as the first bishop of the Diocese of Thakkala, formed in 1966.