Kochi/Coimbatore, May 9: Pope Leo XIV, formerly known as Robert Francis Prevost, shares a unique and warm connection with India, especially with the Augustinian communities in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. His two visits to India, in 2004 and 2006, as superior general of the Augustinian order, are fondly remembered for their spiritual depth, humility, and personal engagement.
A spiritual leader’s journey to India
As superior general of the Augustinians from 2004 to 2014, Pope Leo XIV made two significant trips to India. These visits were not mere formalities; they were marked by genuine interaction with local priests, seminarians, and lay faithful.
The first visit: 2004
In April 2004, Pope Leo XIV spent over a week at Augustinian houses in Mariyapuram (Aluva, Archdiocese of Verapoly) and Edakochi (Diocese of Cochin) in Kerala. He celebrated Mass at Mary Queen Help of Christians Parish in Mariyapuram and St Antony’s Shrine in Edakochi, where people remember his approachable and humble nature. On April 22, 2004, he presided over the ordination of six Augustinian deacons to the priesthood at St Francis Xavier’s Church in Kathrikadavu, Kaloor, along with Archbishop Daniel Acharuparambil. His presence left a lasting impression on the local community.
The second visit: 2006
In October 2006, Pope Leo XIV returned to Kerala to participate in the Asia-Pacific meeting of the Order of St Augustine in Aluva. He stayed at the Mariyapuram residence and visited Shenbagam School in Pollachi, Tamil Nadu, which is run by the Augustinian Fathers. He also celebrated Mass at St Thomas Parish in Thalapuzha, Kerala, and visited other Augustinian monasteries in Edakochi, Thalapuzha, and Kollam.
A lasting impact
Pope Leo XIV’s visits are remembered for their simplicity and spiritual focus. He was known for spending long hours in silent prayer before meetings and activities. He travelled in small cars, stayed in simple accommodations, and easily adapted to local customs. Indian Augustinians and parishioners recall his gentle smile, his willingness to listen, and his personal attention to everyone he met.
Fr Wilson, the provincial superior of the Augustinians in India, remembers his remarkable memory for people and his approachable leadership. His gestures of fraternity and support, especially towards new priests and young people, are still talked about in the community.
Legacy and hope
For the Augustinian community and the wider Catholic faithful in India, Pope Leo XIV’s visits were moments of inspiration and encouragement. His presence brought spiritual enrichment and strengthened the bond between the Indian Church and the global Augustinian family. Many in India now hope to welcome him again, this time as Pope, and look forward to deepening this special connection.
Pope Leo XIV’s visits to India are a testament to his humility, spiritual leadership, and lasting affection for the people and communities he encountered here.