Main Stream: Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

The charism of the Congregation of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, commonly known as the Little Flower Congregation (CST Brothers), flows from the “Little Way” of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, emphasizing humility, simplicity, love, and service to the poor and marginalized. Members live out the merciful love of Christ with a particular dedication to serving the destitute, the youth, and those on the margins of society through compassionate presence, spiritual witness, and community outreach. Their spiritual inspiration comes from sharing God’s merciful love with all peoples, especially through devoted brotherly life and witness in daily mission.

The Congregation of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux was founded on 19 March 1931 in Mookkannur, Kerala, India, by Rev. Basilius Thomas Panat with permission from Mar Augustine Kandathil, the Archbishop of the Syro-Malabar Church, making it the first religious congregation of brothers in the Syro-Malabar tradition named for St. Thérèse of Lisieux. Originally focused on brotherhood and service, the community later expanded its ministries and received recognition as a religious institute of pontifical right under Pope John Paul II in 1995–1996. The CST Fathers have since grown globally, establishing provinces and ministries in education, pastoral work, and social outreach dedicated to living the “Little Way” in service to others.

Little Flower Generalate – CST Fathers (India) Address: Little Flower Generalate, Thrikkakara P.O., P.B. No. 1, Kochi – 682021, Kerala, India Email: lfcongregation@gmail.com Email: cstfathers@gmail.com