Elizabeth Kuruvilla: A Pioneer of Indian Ecumenism
Shibi Peter When the Mar Thoma Sevika Sangham celebrates its annual Sevika Sangham Day on September 8, it is also an occasion to remember the lives of many women whose sacrifices have defined the witness of the faith community—from Mrs. Kandamma Varghese to Dr. Annamma George, and many others. Yet, the mission and leadership of women have rarely been properly acknowledged in Indian Church history. From women who served in Christian missions to global ecumenical figures like Mrs. Sara Chacko, many remain forgotten. In this context, the extraordinary life of Mrs. Elizabeth Zachariah—later known as Elizabeth Kuruvilla—who served as the General Secretary of the Mar Thoma Sevika Sangham, deserves to be remembered. Born in 1894 in Kozhikode, Elizabeth Kuruvilla passed away in 1944 while serving as General Secretary of the Mar Thoma Sevika Sangham. This year marks her 130th birth anniversary and the 80th year of her passing. It is also the centenary of her election as Vice President of the W...