Indian-Born Bishop Consecrated in Pioneering German Church Appointment

In a historic move, the German Catholic Church has consecrated Joshy George Pottackal, a religious brother born in India, as its first auxiliary bishop of non-European heritage. This appointment represents a significant milestone in the increasing diversity of the global Catholic Church, as it reaches the upper echelons of the German episcopate.

Pottackal, who previously served as a religious brother, will now take on the role of auxiliary bishop, assisting the diocesan bishop in his duties and responsibilities. His consecration ceremony, which took place in the city of Paderborn, was attended by high-ranking Church officials, as well as local dignitaries and community members.

The selection of Pottackal, a native of India, to this esteemed position is a testament to the Catholic Church's commitment to reflecting the global diversity of its faithful. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the Church has recognized the importance of embracing the cultural and ethnic backgrounds of its leaders, in order to better serve the needs of its diverse congregations.