Cardinal Poola Anthony is a prominent leader of the Catholic Church in India, known for his humble beginnings, strong pastoral commitment, and deep concern for the poor and marginalised. Rising through years of dedicated priestly and episcopal service, he became a powerful voice for faith, education, and social justice. As the first Dalit and the first Telugu Cardinal, he holds a historic place in the life of the Church. His ministry continues to inspire thousands through his leadership, simplicity, and missionary spirit.

Ordination

Consecration

Metropolitan Archbishop

Cardinal

Rank

His Eminence Cardinal Poola Anthony is an Indian Catholic prelate who serves as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad. He is widely respected for his pastoral approach, missionary zeal, and strong commitment to uplifting the poor and vulnerable. His life journey stands as a testimony of perseverance and faith, as he overcame early challenges and grew into one of the most influential Church leaders in the country.He has served the Church in multiple roles as priest, bishop, and archbishop, and has played an important part in regional and national Church leadership. His appointment as Cardinal marked a historic moment for the Catholic Church in India, reflecting the Church’s recognition of his service and the significance of representation and inclusion.

About

Cardinal Poola Anthony was born on 15 November 1961 in Chindhukur Village, Poluru Parish, Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh, to Late Mr. P. C. Anthony and Late Mrs. Arogyamma. Due to financial difficulties, he had to discontinue schooling after the seventh grade, but with the support of missionaries, he was able to continue his education.He completed his schooling at:<ul><li>Z.P. School, Chindhukur (1967–1972)</li><li>Z.P. High School, Gadivemula (1972–1975)</li><li>St. Mary’s High School, Kurnool (1977–1979)</li></ul>Responding to his vocation, he joined seminary formation in 1979 and pursued studies in commerce, philosophy, and theology through various institutions including:<ul><li>St. Pius X Seminary, Kurnool</li><li>Coles Memorial College, Kurnool</li><li>S.T.B.C. College, Prakash Nagar, Kurnool</li><li>St. Paul’s Seminary, Nuzvid</li></ul>St. Peter’s Pontifical Seminary, BangaloreHe later undertook specialized training in pastoral and theological studies in the United States.

Early Life & Education

Cardinal Poola Anthony was ordained a priest for the Diocese of Cuddapah on 20 February 1992 at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Mariapuram, Cuddapah.During his priestly ministry, he served in several pastoral roles including parish assignments and educational responsibilities such as:<ul><li>Assistant Parish Priest at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kadapa (1992–1993)</li><li>Assistant Parish Priest at Amagampalli (1993–1994)</li><li>Parish Priest at Tekurpet (1994–1995)</li><li>Parish Priest at Badvel and Director of St. Thomas Boarding Home (1995–2000)</li><li>Parish Priest at Veerapally and Director of boarding and school institutions (2000–2001)</li></ul>He also served as Diocesan Consultor, Secretary for Education, Deputy Administrator of diocesan schools, and Coordinator of sponsorship programs. He was also Director of the Christian Foundation for Children and Aging (CFCA) (2004–2008).Ministry Abroad and Specialized FormationCardinal Poola Anthony gained international pastoral experience during his ministry in the United States. He served as:<ul><li>Resident Priest at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, Kalamazoo Diocese (2001–2002)</li><li>Associate Pastor at St. Genevieve Catholic Church, Archdiocese of Chicago (2002–2003)</li></ul>He completed:<ul><li>Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) at Bronson Methodist Hospital, Kalamazoo (2001–2002)</li><li>A course on Religion and Theological Engagement at Loyola University, Chicago (2002–2003)</li><li>He is proficient in several languages including Telugu, English, Hindi, Tamil, Kannada, and Italian.</li></ul>&nbsp;

Priestly Ministry

Pope Benedict XVI appointed him the Bishop of Kurnool on 8 February 2008, and he received episcopal consecration on 19 April 2008 at Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral, Kurnool.As Bishop of Kurnool, his leadership was marked by a strong focus on evangelization, education, youth ministry, and social development. His episcopal motto was “Good News to the Poor”, and he gave special emphasis to ensuring that no child is deprived of education due to poverty.During his tenure, he:<ul><li>Established 11 new parishes and 3 quasi-parishes</li><li>Renovated major diocesan institutions including the cathedral, pastoral centre, and bishop’s house</li><li>Built new churches, presbyteries, schools, hostels, convents, and boarding homes</li><li>Constructed “Samarpana”, a home for retired priests</li><li>Promoted diocesan communication through the improved diocesan newsletter “Kurnool Vani”</li><li>Encouraged youth participation through conventions and regional programs</li></ul>He also served in important regional leadership roles including:<ul><li>Chairman, Youth Commission (Telugu Region) (2008–2015)</li><li>Chairman, SC/BC Commission (2008–2015)</li><li>Chairman, Andhra Pradesh Social Service Society (2008–2020)</li><li>Secretary General &amp; Treasurer, Telugu Catholic Bishops’ Conference (2014–2020)</li></ul>On 19 November 2020, Pope Francis appointed him as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Hyderabad, and he was installed on 3 January 2021, taking canonical possession of the archdiocese.

Episcopal Ministry

Cardinal Poola Anthony was elevated to the College of Cardinals by Pope Francis during the consistory held on 27 August 2022, becoming the first Dalit Cardinal and the first Telugu Cardinal in Church history. He was assigned the titular church Santi Protomartiri a Via Aurelia Antica in Rome.He is known for promoting faith formation, catechesis, and spiritual renewal through initiatives such as the diocesan “Panchasutra” development plan, which encouraged:<ul><li>Bible in every family</li><li>Family renewal</li><li>Catechism promotion in parishes and institutions</li><li>Parish development and community strengthening programs</li></ul>He is also recognized for his creative contributions to devotional life through Telugu Christian music, including writing lyrics, composing songs, and producing devotional audio collections.He has also served in national Church leadership, including his role as President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India (CBCI).

Cardinalate & Major Contributions

Synod Closing Ceremony Message | His Eminence Cardinal Dr Poola Anthony

जाgo 2025 | Stay Awake Stay Faithful | Cardinal Anthony Poola | Jaago 2025

Sermon by His Eminence Cardinal Dr Poola Anthony @ MazhaiMalai MadhaShrine Acharapakkam LOURDES TV

Cardinal Poola Anthony | Flag Hoisting of St. Anthony | Homily | 5-6-23

His Eminence Cardinal Anthony Poola

Metropolitan Archbishop of Metropolitan Archdiocese of Hyderabad