National Award-Winning Educationist and Papal Medal Recipient Harold Anthony Carver Passes Away

Chandigarh, September 16, 2026: A life marked by education, faith and service was remembered in Chandigarh as the Catholic community and people from across the region gathered for the Funeral Mass of Mr Harold Anthony Carver, founder of St Stephen’s School and recipient of the National Award to Teachers/Principals 2007. Mr Carver, who passed away recently, had also been conferred the Papal Bene Merenti Medal by Pope Leo XIV in recognition of his devoted service to the Christian cause.

The Funeral Mass was presided over by Bishop Sahaya Thatheus Thomas of Simla-Chandigarh and concelebrated by Archbishop Kuriakose Bharanikulangara of Faridabad, together with around 55 priests, 100 religious sisters and 1,000 lay faithful.

Born on August 8, 1946, in Bangalore to the late Mr Leslie Gordon Carver and the late Mrs Molly Carver, Harold was the sixth of 13 siblings. Raised in a devout Catholic family, he was nurtured in faith, discipline, integrity and service.

His vocation as an educationist began at St Joseph’s, Allahabad, and continued at St John’s School, Chandigarh, which he joined in 1968. In April 1982, he founded St Stephen’s School, with campuses at Sector 45, Chandigarh, and Togan, New Chandigarh. From a humble beginning with only a handful of students, the institution grew through his vision, sacrifice and perseverance into a leading educational institution.

His motto, Semper Sursum – Always Aim Higher – and his words, “Never give up, try again,” reflected his commitment to excellence and character formation. Generations remember him as a teacher, mentor, guide and friend. His contribution to education was recognised with the National Award to Teachers/Principals 2007, presented by the President of India in 2008.

His Catholic faith found expression in devoted service to the Church and humanity. He served the Catholic Church Choir, supported ecclesial and charitable initiatives, and contributed generously to the Diocese. His gift of Our Lady of Miracles Church remains a testimony to his faith and generosity. He also contributed to the renovation and development of the Christian cemetery in Sector 25, Chandigarh.

His compassion extended to people of every faith and background. He reached out to those affected by calamities and hardship and was known for his personal care and generosity towards those in need.

Mr Carver had recently been conferred the Papal Bene Merenti Medal by Pope Leo XIV in recognition of his devoted service to the Christian cause. During the Funeral Mass, Bishop Sahaya Thatheus Thomas reverently placed the medal upon his mortal remains. An Appreciation Award was also presented to the family and received by Mrs Diana and her family.

In his homily, Bishop Sahaya reflected on Mr Carver’s journey of faith, education and service, praying that the merciful Lord would grant His faithful servant eternal rest and the reward of everlasting life.

Archbishop Kuriakose Bharanikulangara also paid tribute to Mr Carver, recalling his life and service with gratitude. Mr Trevour paid tribute on behalf of the Diocese, expressing the Church’s appreciation for his generous contribution and enduring Christian witness.

Mr Carver’s legacy will live on in the students he inspired, the people he served, the values he imparted and the House of God he helped establish. The community remembered his life with sorrow, gratitude and hope in the Resurrection.

By Fr. John Maria Vianney 

Director, Diocesan Pastoral Centre

Chandigarh