I was at a function recently when the children’s play area in the Christian Medical College, Vellore was dedicated and inaugurated by Bishop Mar Aprem of the Chaldean Church. After he cut the ribbon and offered the dedication prayer, he moved around the play area and sat in the swing to the delight of all of us who were watching him. Bishop Aprem is well know for his friendly and cheerful disposition so much so he looked younger than before, when I met him this time.
Bishop Aprem published about seventy books among which his collections of jokes are oft quoted and widely read. He has a gift to be original in narrating jokes. His jokes are a good blend of morals and humour.
Knowing him to be ‘set free’ in his spirit with joy and gladness, it was hilarious to see him in the swing.
While travelling after a meeting, I happened to be seated next to him in the train compartment. He narrated some lovely and stimulating experiences of his biography starting from his childhood. He started writing down jokes, he heard at the meetings, as an exercise to stay awake during the long deliberations of the meetings. He is a keen observer of human behaviour and advocates spirituality of integrity and contemplation. He relates to others easily and lovingly. He listens patiently and attentively.
I was glad to have met a Bishop, whose way of living corresponds to what Jesus challenged us to be: 'become like little children’.
M.C.Mathew.
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