MALAYALAM
Spirit of Christianity
K. KUNHIKRISHNAN
EDAYAN — Novel: Chacko Kalarickal; Rainbow Book Publishers, Chengannur, Kerala-689124. Rs.110.
THIS NOVEL objectively profiles the current problems facing Syrian Christians in Kerala. Thomas Pympillil embodies all the qualities of an ideal priest. From a church, he is elevated to the position of a bishop.
The new bishop does not want a huge bungalow or car or properties and he visits all the churches under his charge and stays with them and shares their food. He faces stiff opposition but he is able to convince others of the true spirit of Christianity. He gets elevated to the position of an archbishop and there also simplicity of living and humanitarianism wins him over hearts, and of course, enmity. He does not deviate from his chosen path. He convinces others of the greatness of his life and becomes a cardinal. When the pope dies, he is unanimously chosen as the new pope.
The novel is highly informative on Christian theology, its history, and the rules of the canon and the system. It strongly urges for reforms in the church and closes with the dictum, “Times change and we change with them.”
The ideas in the novel sow the seeds of socio-religious change and the well-crafted novel is perhaps a trendsetter in calling for transformation.
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