St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara

Born: February 10, 1805
Died: January 3, 1871
Canonized: November 23, 2014

Early Life

Born in Kerala, India, Kuriakose Elias Chavara was deeply spiritual from childhood. He joined the seminary at age 13 and was ordained a priest in 1829.

Reformer and Founder

St. Chavara co-founded the first indigenous religious congregation for men in India, the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI), and later a congregation for women. He was a pioneer in education, starting the first Catholic printing press in India and establishing schools attached to every church.

Social Impact

He worked for the upliftment of the marginalized, promoted family prayer, and introduced the practice of Sunday school. His reforms had a lasting impact on the Church and society in Kerala.

Legacy

St. Chavara is remembered as a visionary leader, educator, and social reformer who combined deep faith with practical action.

"Trust in the Lord and move forward." - St. Chavara