Philipose A N

A.N. Philipose, dearly known as Papa, Appacha and Babychayan, was known by all as a gentle and caring person. He was faithful to God till the end, despite the many challenges he faced in life.

He was faithful and supportive of his family in the midst of trials, providing for all their needs through sacrificial and selfless love. He was a loving and devoted husband to our mother, Annamma Philipose. As children we fondly remember how Papa would help Mummy in the kitchen and many other ways in which he showed how much he loved and cared for her. He was a loving father and a proud parent, almost to a fault, bragging about our little achievements as if we were the President of the United States or the Queen of England.

His ability to connect with different kinds of people across age groups and cultures truly set him apart. He welcomed his daughters-in-law from different cultures with open arms. When there was a decision to adopt a child into the family, Papa was not only supportive, he went all out to show his joy in that family decision. His first daughter-in-law, Sudha, says "I will always remember the man with twinkling eyes and gentle ways who welcomed me into your family with a hot cup of fabulous chai."

He gave us all a rich heritage of trust and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ. One of his favourite songs was "Dukhatinte Panapathram" where one of the verses says

"Kashtanashtam erivannal bhagyavaanayi theerunnu njan Kashtametta Karthavodu, koottaliyaayi theerunnu njan"

It means our suffering is actually an opportunity for us to share in the suffering endured by Our Lord Jesus Christ, echoing the truth of Scripture.

He was gentle but influential in his workplace, through his diligent work ethic, his ability to win the trust of his seniors and the favour of God. He was a trailblazer, being the first in his family to leave the comfort zone of home and moving to a new land with a language he was not familiar with. Later, he helped many make that transition, helping them move from Kerala and tap job opportunities in the city of Pune.

He cultivated the culture of an open home, even with a small home. His home was open for all, and many have stayed there while finding their feet in a new city and culture.

Even on his death bed, he welcomed visitors. He was not consumed by his own suffering; he carried in his heart the many people God had put in his life. He prayed for everyone by name. When his nephew Joe asked him what is his message for the family, he said, "During this evening time, I praise you, My God. Bless all those who are dear to me." During his life, his eventide, his death, Papa showed us the way of trust, faithfulness and selfless love. We are so grateful for him. Thank you Papa!