St Kuriakose Elias Chavara was a key figure in the 19th-century Kerala Catholic Church. His contributions spanned both spiritual and social domains. He co-founded the Congregation of the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI) in 1831, which focused on education, evangelization, and pastoral care. Later, in 1866, he played a pivotal role in founding the Congregation of the Mother of Carmel (CMC), the first indigenous religious congregation for women in the Syro-Malabar Church, to empower women through education and spiritual formation.

           Chavara was a strong advocate of education, establishing schools adjacent to every church, known as "Pallikudams," and making education accessible to all, including marginalized communities. His efforts helped eradicate illiteracy in many regions. The first printing press started by an Indian priest, C.M. Press, was initiated under his leadership in Mannanam in 1846, producing religious literature and other publications in Malayalam.

          He was also instrumental in introducing reforms within the Church, such as the establishment of Christian ashrams, fostering a life of prayer and meditation. His emphasis on family prayer and unity through the "Eucharistic-centered" family system led to the creation of the Ettunombu (eight-day) prayer tradition, which still prevails in Kerala today. St Chavara's deep spirituality, coupled with his foresight in social and educational reforms, made him a trailblazer who left a lasting legacy in Kerala’s religious and social history. His canonization by Pope Francis in 2014 solidified his place as a revered saint in the Catholic Church.