Caritas Mauritius Celebrates Its Jubilee with the Launch of a Historical Book
Caritas Mauritius marked a significant milestone in its history on Thursday, December 4, by officially launching the commemorative book "Caritas Mauritius: 60 Years of Love and Service (1965–2025)" at a ceremony held at the Cardinal Jean Margéot Institute in Rose-Hill. The event, part of the organization's 60th anniversary jubilee, brought together Cardinal Maurice Piat, Caritas President Christiane Tadebois, Secretary-General Patricia Adèle-Félicité, authors Marie-Annick Savripène and Father Romain Subtil, as well as partners, volunteers, collaborators, and guests to celebrate this collective memory.
The ceremony began with a speech by Patricia Adèle-Félicité, who outlined the significance of this publication in Caritas's journey. She emphasized that this book arose from a need to pass on knowledge: "This work reflects a human adventure spanning six decades, a story shaped by dignity, solidarity, and creative loyalty. This written memory allows us to better understand the path taken and opens up perspectives for tomorrow."
The Cardinal shared reflections on Caritas's social mission and its importance in a rapidly changing context of precariousness. He then offered a pastoral meditation on the spiritual roots of Caritas's commitment, followed by a blessing of the editorial project.
The authors were invited to present their work. Marie-Annick Savripène described the experience as "In today's world, where darkness provides many reasons for despair, Caritas Mauritius stands out as a beacon in the night, one of the few barriers against rampant individualism, selfishness, and materialism. By accepting to co-author the book marking the 60 years of Caritas Mauritius, I delved into the heart of this organization and discovered a multitude of humanly rich individuals, focused on others, always ready to support and uplift the weak and unfortunate in life."
Father Romain Subtil explained that their approach was based on a dual requirement, both historical and human: "Discovering the history of Caritas, which emerged just two years before the country's independence, was a wonderful gift. I uncovered a work that has continuously questioned itself, showing inventiveness and creativity to best meet the needs of the most disadvantaged. Rooted in an international structure, Caritas Mauritius has managed to establish itself locally while considering the specifics of the territory, combining 'skills and dedication' in line with the vision of its founder, Mr. Gustave Rey. This is why it is now recognized as a 'model' Caritas on the African continent."
A recognition segment honored those who contributed to the project's realization, including the two authors, graphic designer Stéphano Bloquet, and Darish Ramtohul, Managing Partner at Maluti Communications. All four received a shield as a token of appreciation. Several guests also acknowledged the constant commitment of Caritas teams, often working quietly, close to the realities on the ground.
The key moment of the afternoon was the unveiling of the book. Patricia Adèle-Félicité, Marie-Annick Savripène, and Father Subtil lifted the veil covering the book before handing the first copies to the Cardinal and the Caritas President. This symbolic gesture marked the official entry of this book into the history of Caritas.
To bring the pages to life, President Christiane Tadebois read an excerpt from the book included within it. She reminded everyone that this book is "an act of transmission and a living testimony of what Caritas has represented for thousands of people over six decades." She also thanked Patricia Adèle-Félicité for making the documentation of Caritas's legacy possible, highlighting "a task that no one had succeeded in accomplishing before, essential for future generations."
The book traces the major milestones in Caritas's history, from its initial interventions following Cyclone Carol to contemporary challenges related to youth, housing, intergenerational solidarity, inclusion, and sustainable development. It also highlights the commitments of parish teams, volunteers, beneficiaries, and partners who have shaped this collective action.
The book "Caritas Mauritius: 60 Years of Love and Service" is now available at the Caritas headquarters in Port-Louis. Those interested can obtain their copy by calling 212 3405 or writing to email: [email protected].