Reinterpreting Kuriakose Elias Chavara: Taylor’s Dweller and Seeker Framework for Contemporary Pastoral Care

Abstract

This article examines the life of Kuriakose Elias Chavara through the lens of Charles Taylor’s dweller-seeker framework. In the context of the declining influence of traditional religion in the West, the paper explores Charles Taylor’s conceptualisation of the contemporary spiritual landscape using the framework of “dwellers” (those deeply committed to their established faith) and “seekers” (those actively searching for truth). The paper then applies Taylor’s framework to the life and mission of Chavara, arguing that he exemplified both dwelling and seeking while grounding firmly in the Church. Finally, the paper highlights the outcome of applying the dweller-seeker framework to Chavara’s life and its relevance to the Church in addressing the multifaceted challenges posed by dwellers and seekers in contemporary times.