Mar Aprem Metropolitan, the Archbishop of the Chaldean Syrian Church of the East, passed away on Monday (July 7, 2025). He was 85. He was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Thrissur.
His death marks the end of a remarkable era of spiritual leadership, scholarship, and cultural contribution that spanned over five decades.
A multifaceted personality, Mar Aprem was not just a spiritual leader but also a cultural icon, author, and researcher who guided the Chaldean Syrian Church for 56 years. Renowned for his sharp wit and infectious sense of humour, he authored an 68 books, many of them delightfully rooted in the genre of humour — an unusual but endearing trait for a Church patriarch. His legacy blends spirituality with intellect, laughter, and cultural richness.
Born as George Davis Mooken on June 13, 1940, in Thrissur, Mar Aprem was educated in India, England, and the United States. He specialised in Church History, a field in which he made significant scholarly contributions.
He was consecrated as a bishop on September 21, 1968, and just eight days later, elevated to the rank of Metropolitan. From that day onward, he led the Chaldean Syrian Church of the East in India, with his headquarters in Thrissur.
He served as the President of the Church History Association of India from 1976 to 1982, contributing significantly to the study and documentation of Christian heritage in the country. In addition, he was a founding member of the National Board of CASA (Church’s Auxiliary for Social Action), established in 1976 in New Delhi.
Mar Aprem’s books — primarily in English and a few in Malayalam — span genres such as biography, autobiography, travelogue, and Church history. He gained international attention with titles known for their humour such as Bishop’s Jokes and Laugh with the Bishop. He continued the series with books such as Laugh to Health, Holy Humour, Joy to the World, Holy Smile, and Not So Funny.
Lyricist of devotional songs
Mar Aprem was also a gifted lyricist of devotional songs, many of which were broadcast on All India Radio. His renowned hymn ‘Behold the Cross of Calvary’ was translated into 50 Indian and 50 foreign languages, reflecting its universal spiritual appeal. In 2007, he released an album titled Alaha (God), featuring 16 original compositions.
A respected linguist and speaker, Mar Aprem addressed audiences across India and abroad, further cementing his legacy as a voice of faith, culture, and scholarship.
Advocacy against alcoholism
Mar Aprem was a steadfast advocate against alcoholism, often using his platform to urge people to choose sobriety. “Alcohol never brings joy to your family. Giving it up— especially during church celebrations — is essential. It will strengthen your relationship with Jesus and with your loved ones,” he would often remind his faithful.
In his Christmas messages, he consistently stressed the true spirit of the season: celebrating the birth of Jesus with humility and compassion. He urged believers to focus on helping the poor and discouraged the use of alcohol during festivities, insisting that “Christmas is not a time for drinking, but for giving and reflecting on Christ’s love.”
