Our Founder

St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara – Founder of the CMI Congregation

St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara (1805–1871) was a visionary priest, educationist, social reformer, and the founder of the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI) Congregation, the first indigenous religious congregation for men in India. Born on 10 February 1805 at Kainakary in Kerala, he dedicated his entire life to God and to the upliftment of society through faith, education, and selfless service.

Deeply rooted in prayer and holiness, St. Chavara combined spirituality with practical action for social transformation. His life became a shining example of how faith can inspire service, leadership, compassion, and justice.

One of his greatest contributions was in the field of education. St. Chavara firmly believed that education is the foundation for personal growth and social progress. He initiated schools attached to churches so that every child, regardless of background, could receive the light of knowledge. At a time when the education of girls was largely neglected, he strongly promoted equal educational opportunities, reflecting his farsighted vision for a just and progressive society.

His famous words, “Children are the treasure of a nation,” continue to inspire every CMI educational institution around the world.

St. Chavara also stood for Compassion and charity toward the poor and marginalized Discipline and moral integrity Family prayer and spiritual growth
Respect, harmony, and social responsibility His life was a living testimony to the power of combining faith with action. At Lisieux Matriculation Higher Secondary School, we proudly continue the rich legacy of St. Chavara. His vision guides us in shaping students into individuals of character, wisdom, leadership, and service. Inspired by his values, our students are encouraged to:

• Pursue academic excellence with dedication and hard work
• Cultivate compassion and empathy toward others
• Practice discipline and responsibility in daily life
• Grow in faith, moral strength, and leadership Become agents of positive change in society
  
  For our students, St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara is not merely a historical figure, but a role model who teaches that holiness and humanity go hand in hand. His life reminds us that true education is not only about gaining knowledge, but also about shaping the heart and character for the service of others.

Chavarul – Sayings of Saint Chavara to Children

• Children, you are God’s investment in the hands of your parents.
• Children who love and fear God will love and respect their parents.
• Trust your mother; God hears a mother’s prayer like the prayer of a child.
• Wisdom and purity should nourish the soul just as food nourishes the body.
• Go to school regularly and revise what is taught during the week.
• Laziness fosters evil habits.
• Let your friends be those who love God.
• Good friends will help you become good.
• Keeping bad books is like hiding fire in straw.
• Reading and meditating on good books will enlighten the mind.
• Develop punctuality through a regular timetable.
• Even angels can become devils if they fall into evil situations.
• Return home before evening and participate in family prayers.
• Your dress and conduct should be appropriate to your age.
• Immoderate attire can lead to harmful influences.
• Let your strength lie in piety and self-control.
• Love truth and justice.
• What is gained through deceit or theft will disappear like snow.
• Choose a profession suited to your knowledge and age.
• Let no day pass without doing good to others.
• Do not allow insults or quarrels to create hatred or enmity.
• Never insult or trouble the poor.
• God decides your vocation; you are called to choose it wisely.
• When choosing a life partner, choose one with good character and values.
• Even as adults, respect and obey your parents.
• Do not hate your brothers and sisters.
• It is the duty of children to care for their parents.
• Never become the cause of your parents’ tears.
• The humble person is the greatest among all.
• Since you belong to God, your life should lead back to God.