Baselios Cleemis

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Records

Cardinal Baselios Cleemis's career is marked by historic firsts and dedicated service. He was the first cardinal from the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church, and at 53, the youngest cardinal at the time of his appointment. His leadership of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of India and the Kerala Catholic Bishops' Council has been instrumental in shaping the Church's response to social and political challenges in India.He has been a vocal advocate for religious freedom and has worked tirelessly to promote interreligious harmony. His commitment to dialogue and unity has earned him respect both within the Catholic Church and among other faith communities.

AwardsCardinal Baselios Cleemis has received several honors recognizing his leadership and service. His elevation to the College of Cardinals in 2012 is the most significant, a rare distinction for an Eastern Catholic hierarch. He has also been honored by various Catholic and interfaith organizations for his contributions to dialogue and social justice.

Honours & Distinctions

Cardinal of the Catholic Church

Pope Benedict XVI·2012

Elevated to the College of Cardinals, becoming the first cardinal from the Syro-Malankara tradition.

Records & Feats

First Cardinal from the Syro-Malankara Catholic Church

Historic First·2012

Elevated to the College of Cardinals in 2012, a historic first for his tradition.

Youngest Cardinal at the Time of Appointment

Career Milestone·2012

At age 53, he was the youngest member of the College of Cardinals in 2012.