Saint Kuriakose Elias Chavara A Reformist with a Pastoral Heart

Abstract

The grace of salvation given through Christ is for the whole person. It touches the deeper part of the unconscious as well as the socio-economic context, so that the person may experience a holistic growth. To effect this kind of growth one is often challenged to make anguished decisions and to develop new paths. The core elements of life-giving ministry are compassion and forgiveness. Kuriakose Elias Chavara had a rich depository of these attributes and hence, he was able to exercise a wholesome ministry in his times. As a compassionate pastor, Chavara totally engaged in ministering to his people in creative ways.