Rose Maria Savio, 24CSEA28, Member of Writers’ Association
St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara, the founding father of the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI) and the Congregation of the Mother of Carmel (CMC), was a visionary dedicated to making quality education accessible for everyone irrespective of their religion, caste, sex, or creed.
His feast day is celebrated as Founders Day within the CMI and CMC congregations, filled with gratitude and remembrance of his significant contributions to the academic world and impact on community service. On January 3rd, 2025, the members of Chavara Youth, a group of vibrant young individuals from our college inspired by St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara's teachings, observed Founders Day.
The day was celebrated with a Holy Mass at the college chapel, led by Fr. Joshy Mathew, Director of the Library and Information Centre, Director of Human Resources, and Head of the Department of English. This solemn mass was followed by a candle-lit procession, symbolizing the guiding light that St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara was and blessings, all dedicated to St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara, honouring his efforts to ensure that everyone had access to proper education. St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara was an inspiring and motivating Figure, inspiring millions worldwide, including organizations such as Chavara Youth. Chavara Youth, through the celebratory solemness, remembered St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara for his vision and mission that has brought about many schools and colleges across India. It is the same vision that inspires Chavara Youth to focus on its members' holistic and spiritual development, resonating with the religious and social causes of the church and embodying in their members a sense of social responsibility through religious teachings.
Kristu Jayanti College, Autonomous, Bengaluru, embodies St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara's vision by enabling the students to nurture their spirituality and serve their communities with various opportunities and organizations, including Chavara Youth. Students are encouraged to explore and contribute positively by promoting education and social welfare, maintaining St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara's legacy.