Our Inspiration
Our Lady of Mount Carmel serves as the spiritual guide of the Carmelite Order, drawing her title from the biblical tradition of the Prophet Elijah, who famously defended the faith on the sacred heights of Mount Carmel. As a symbol of her motherly protection and care, the Brown Scapular remains a cherished sign of devotion for the faithful. Mary represents the ideal model of a life rooted in prayer, contemplation, and deep faith, inspiring the CMC Congregation to grow closer to Christ through a spirit of service. Today, she continues to lead and guide the management of St. Teresa’s Public School, Jalgaon, serving as the foundational inspiration for its educational and spiritual journey
Our Patroness & Founders
St. Teresa of Avila – Our Patroness
St. Teresa of Avila (1515–1582), the renowned Spanish mystic and reformer of the Carmelite Order, dedicated her life to the pursuit of prayer, contemplation, and spiritual renewal. As the co-founder of the Discalced Carmelites, she overcame significant personal trials to establish communities grounded in simplicity, discipline, and unwavering faith. Her profound writings, which describe prayer as a “close friendship with God,” remain a vital guide for spiritual seekers today. Her timeless wisdom is perhaps best captured in her famous assurance: “Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you. All things pass; God never changes. Whoever has God lacks nothing—God alone suffices.” As the patroness of St. Teresa’s Public School, Jalgaon, she serves as a constant inspiration, calling the community to a life of prayer, service, and a steadfast commitment to truth and holiness.
St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara – Our Founder
St. Kuriakose Elias Chavara (1805–1871), a visionary priest, great educationist, and transformative social reformer, founded the Carmelites of Mary Immaculate (CMI) and the Congregation of the Mother of Carmel (CMC). A pioneer of inclusive learning, he established the first free Sanskrit school open to all castes in 1864 and mandated that a school be attached to every church to ensure education reached the masses. Through the introduction of midday meals and uniforms, he removed barriers for the marginalized, viewing education as a primary tool for social liberation. His profound “Chavarul” (Testament) emphasizes that “the day in which you have not done some good to your fellowmen will not be recorded in the book of your life,” and he passionately advocated for constant reading and the pursuit of knowledge as essential for spiritual and intellectual growth. Canonized by Pope Francis in 2014, he remains the heavenly patron of all CMI and CMC institutions, including St. Teresa’s Public School, Jalgaon, inspiring a legacy of service, literacy and holistic excellence.
St. Euphrasia – Our Model of Holiness
St. Euphrasia (1877–1952), the first saint of the CMC Congregation, remains a radiant example of profound humility, interior prayer, and joyful service. Living by her spiritual conviction to “never forget, even after death,” she dedicated her life to penance, purity, and constant intercessory prayer. Known as the “Praying Mother,” her life was a testament to the power of silence and a deep connection with the Divine.Revered for her miracles and powerful heavenly intercession, she serves as a compassionate advocate for students and a guiding “signpost” of sanctity. Today, her legacy continues to spread mercy and devotion worldwide, inspiring the community at St. Teresa’s Public School, Jalgaon, to pursue a path of holiness and selfless service to others.