In the ‘Foreword’ of this book Justice K. T. Thomas highlights the essential nature of this beautiful book by suggesting that it is more than an autobiography, it is a comprehensive record of events of later half of the twentieth century which contributed to mission and ministry of Revd Dr. M. J. Joseph who was a former principal of the ‘Mar Thoma Theological Seminary, Kottayam,’ and director of the ‘Ecumenical Christian Centre’ at Bangalore. The author has candidly outlined the twin movements of his faith journey: first, his journey with his family and through people and places opened to him through the agency of the Mar Thoma Church; and secondly, his flight on ‘the wings of wider ecumenism,’ ecological issues and eco-spirituality. It is this amazing journey which has given birth to this book. In that sense, it is a travel log with a difference; Achen’s style of writing has a compelling influence on making the readers become co-travelers with him and makes them share memorable experiences with achen. Our faith has a story telling tradition; it is in the same tradition that Achen has woven a beautiful tapestry of his life and mission with the fibers and fabric of other people who influenced him thus for in his life. Thus, it is not just an autobiography but it is a lived out authentic history of a crucial period of twentieth century, which we are invited to reminisce with him.

Structurally, the book is beautifully crafted: the first five chapters’ deals with his early life, education and ministry within the confines of the Mar Thoma Church. Chapters six to nine describe his post graduate studies, exposure to ‘World Council of Churches’, other ecumenical journeys and involvement in ecological issues. Chapter eleven is a section for expressing his gratitude to a large group distinguished church leaders, and laymen who influenced and helped him in his journey. Chapter eleven and twelve and fifteen deal with achen’s voluminous writings and interaction with other literary figures. Chapter 13 deals with achen’s contribution to the Ecumenical Christian centre at Bangalore. The final section, comprising chapter sixteen to twenty, is a summary and reflection on achen’s momentous journey so far.

I find this book highly original and engaging; it is a bold attempt in interpreting various events in Achen’s life as part of a divinely choreographed journey with his intimate family, spiritual guides and friends that he met on his way. Calling, commission and delegation are all part of this eventful journey. I highly recommend this book to people interested in pastoral ministry, ecumenism, social and ecological activists, and historians.

Dr. Zac Varghese
London
April 2011