Bishop Chacko Mani was born on 3rd July 1928 in Modayil family of Central Travancore. His father was Dr. M.P. Chacko, a doctor working in Travancore Government Service and mother Mrs. Mary Chacko. Bishop had his schooling in various mission schools in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. He did his BA from Madras Christian College. While studying, he enjoyed life influenced by worthy things. But, after Jesus called him by his name to serve Jesus, things have changed for better.

From the very beginning, Sahithya Vilasini Library took special interest in nurturing the young minds in music, dance, drawing, essay writing, elocution etc. which helped them compete successfully in competitions held by local bodies and youth festivals. Regular discussions and debates on contemporary local, national and international events and developments have been an integral activity of the library. Over a period of time, this library gained a unique and enviable place in the minds of all, irrespective of their religion, caste, sex and politics. Today this is an ‘A’ Grade library under the Kerala State Library Council.

Rev M C Mani had his theological studies at United Theological College, Bangalore, St. George’s College, Jerusalem and Asbury Theological Seminary in Kentucky. He had his Doctoral Degree from United States. M C Mani was ordained Deacon in 1956 by Bishop Dr. C K Jacob and was ordained Presbyter by Bishop Michael Hollis. Rev M C Mani was consecrated as 9th Bishop of Madhya Kerala Diocese on 8th February 1981, by Most Rev Solomon Duraisamy.

Bishop Mani has worked as the president of the Healing Ministry & Mission and Evangelization Department of CSI Synod and secretary for Diocesan Council for three consecutive terms. While he served as corporate schools’ manager of the Diocese, his team has revived more than 200 schools, of which many were more than a century old. As an ecumenical leader, he served as the Secretary of Nilackal Ecumenical Trust for more than 10 years. During his period as bishop, the Madhya Kerala diocese was bifurcated to form East Kerala Diocese for the development of hilly areas and undeveloped communities.

Bishop has taken up large scale developmental activities for the weaker sections of the community. Bishop was called as the ‘Father of the Poor’ due to his concern and commitment for the social upliftment of poor and weaker sections. Bishop Mani was a champion in inter faith dialogue and ecumenical vigil. He redefined the term charity by exhibiting Christian love and by elaborating the vistas of social services. Bishop Mani also initiated a galaxy of secular endeavours.

After 12 years of eminent and unparalleled leadership, his Lordship retired from active service on 3rd July 1993 and led a very simple life dedicated exclusively for the marginalized and downtrodden. He died on 20th October 2015 and was laid rest at Holy Trinity Cathedral Kottayam.

Very Rev. T. O. Oommen, Vice Chairman, Bishop Mani Foundation