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Such A Man Did Live

If there is anyone who I wish to meet, it would be none other than Paulose Mar Gregorios of blessed memory. He was indeed a great theologian, historian, orator, philosopher, public speaker, and the list could go on. Mar Gregorios was a cosmopolitan in letter and spirit with all the traits of a global citizen sustaining an abiding spirit for peace, freedom and the wellbeing of humanity. His speeches preserved today show the ease with which he manages languages and his clarity of thought in expression and thoughts.

It is through his writings he still continues to inspire people, through his writings and words. My first time reading Mar Gregorios was when I found a small book less than 100 pages from the app's book collection a few years ago. The book was a small book on early church fathers. This was just the start of an incredible journey through his books and writings. His books like The Secular Ideology: An Impotent Remedy for India's Communal Problem, Religion and Dialogue Quest for Certainty are all gems. His insight and knowledge can be seen in all of his works. Works of many, including KM George Achen, Joice Thottackad, and others, help to preserve the writings of this man of the century.

Reading his autobiography and other biographies about him opened my eyes to his life and how he came to the position where he was from a humble beginning. In his life, we can also see that though he was given tempting offers like that of advisor to the King of Ethiopia, work in WWC, and many more, he stuck to his vocation, which was a boon for the global church. A great ecumenist and a person who initiated inter-religious dialogue, he had a clear vision of how the globe church should be. He was also an active leader and an advocate for the disarmament movement. He was a person who advocated for the preservation of traditions and liturgical practices.

Thirumeni, your memories shall always be remembered, your pathways followed. The memories of the righteous are a blessing. We can say to the coming generations that such a man did live among us.

Joel Cherian Varghese



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