Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara

(1805-1871)

Born in Kerala in 1805, he was ordained priest in 1829. St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara wa a multifaceted personality, a pioneer in many fields of activity.

In the first place he was a man of God, a Yogi in the true traditions of India. His life was a blend of Karmayoga, Jnanayoga and Bhaktiyoga. He was the inspiration behind the founding of the first indigenous congregation for women- Congregation of the Mother of Carmel(CMC).

St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara was a product of his time, culture and country. He was a social reformer, an educationist, a writer and a mystic. He will be remembered as a great pioneer and champion of value oriented education. He is the pride not only of Kerala but of entire mankind.