Fr Jose Kuriedath, a prolific writer and renowned sociologist, analyses the social vision of St Chavara which emerged in the social context of the 19th century which was characterized by casteism and ignorance. The foundation of a religious society which was envisioned by Fr Thomas Palackal, Fr Thomas Porookara and St Kuriakose Elias Chavara, the disciple of Thomas Palackal
Malpan, was the result of the strong thinking that the evil that existed in the society had its impact in the life of the Church and even of the priests. Therefore, the presence of a religious community could facilitate this radical transformation in the society of Kerala and the church. The social involvement of St Chavara who had to take up the leadership of the newly formed religious society after the death of the other two co-founders and to expedite the canonical foundation of the Congregation on 8th December 1855, evolved over the years through his reflection of God-experience and theological vision of Christian life and role of the Church in the society.
Social Transformation Through Spiritual Empowerment
Jose Kuriedath CMI