Introduction

Roman Catholic Church frequently declares saints, which we know through

medias. Orthodox Church do not have such a tradition. Beginning from the apostles
martyrs, teachers who defended Orthodox (true) faith, monastic fathers etc. are
considered as saints in the Orthodox Churches. Regarding the history of Malankara
Orthodox Church it is different from that of other apostolic churches. Until the
westerners came here, this church had no connection with any foreign churches.
Therefore no canonisation of any saints occurred in this church like other early
churches. This has been changed in 2nd March 1945 when Geevarghese Mar
Gregorius Metropolitan otherwise called Parumala Kochuthirumeni was declared as a
saint by the then catholicos His Holiness Baselios Geevarghese II. Parumala
Thirumeni had already got a fame as saintly when he lived and after his death
hundreds of people began to come over his tomb for his intercession. Pilgrims had
been increasing year by year. Since believers of all churches as well as many non-
christians also believed in this saint’s intercession and finally church gave an approval
to the people’s faith and the declaration came out in that way. In this non-detailed we
are going to study about that saint.
Church had declared another Saint also. That is none other than Vattasseril
Geevarghese Mar Dionysius who is qualified as Malankara Sabha Bhasuran about
whom we have another book also to be studied.
One more word we have to know about holiness. We call God as Holy. The
same word Holiness is attributed to Saints also. It does not mean that Saints are
equal to God. We receive light from sun and moon. But we know that sun is self-
illuminating and then moon reflect the light received from the sun. Saints are also
like this. They receive Holiness from Jesus Christ our Lord and reflect God’s
glory to the whole creation. For the Saints no discrimination is there between
Christians and non-christians; they intercede for all creation; since they participate
in the divine nature of God. We also qualify our Catholicos with the word
Holiness which means he is the Supreme head of the Church and our reverence to
that position is expressed in that title and we do not mean to measure the personal
holiness of our supreme head. In brief Saint liness or Holiness is having different
meaning in different context.
 Saint Gregorios of Parumala

1. Childhood and Education

After his mother’s death ‘Kochaipora’ grew up under the loving care of his
father and his sister Mariam. Even during childhood, certain distinguishing
characteristics made him different from other children. He had no craze for costly
clothes and ornaments; but preferred simple dress. He was not much interested in
games, as is usual with children of his age. Instead he was deeply attracted
towards prayer, Bible reading, and listening to the life of Saints. He very carefully
observed ‘fasting’ even from his young days.
He began his formal education in the traditional village school. The teacher
was ‘Onakkavil Ayya’ from the Dalit (low) caste. The boy was very studious and
he completed his early education under another local teacher named ‘Mani.’ He
was a model for his friends in showing respect to his teachers, humility, obedience
and love. He never wasted his time, was very intelligent and hardworking and
enjoyed doing good to others.

Respect to Teachers
Whenever Mar Gregorios visited his native village(after becoming a church
dignitary)he would send for his ‘Guru’(teacher) and offer gifts to him. He used to respect
his guru to the extend that he would not even sit in the presence of the teacher!
Rev.Fr.Geevarghese Malpan of the Chathuruthy family was Geevarghese’s
uncle (father’s brother). The Malpan was an authority in Syriac language, and as
he recognized the outstanding and divine qualities of Kochaipora, decided to teach
the boy the Syriac language. Since the boy could sing very well , it was an
advantage in learning Syriac .Geevarghese Malpan saw in the young Kochaipora,
his successor(as a Malpan). So he started teaching the boy the Syriac language ,
and Kochipora very soon picked up the language and its music scheme.

2. Ordination
Kochaipora who grew up under the care of Geevarghese Malpan could attract
everybody towards him by his exemplary qualities. His interest in spiritual matters,
sincere devotion, great humility unquestioning obedience, and above all his ability
to sing Syriac devotional songs sweetly were greatly appreciated by Geevarghese
Malpan; and it was his desire to raise his illustrious disciple to priesthood. He
revealed this desire to Mathews Mar Athanasius of Palakkunnathu, the Malankara
Metropolitan of that time. He also ensured the willingness of the family members
of Kochaipora, for this purpose. Accordingly the boy Geevarghese was initiated
into priesthood, being ordained as “Korooyo” at Karingachira church on the 14th
of September 1858.

Student of Theology
In those days theological education was not organized as it is now. Students
used to stay with Malpans and undergo theological training. Deacon Geevarghese
following this tradition stayed with Geevarghese Malpan, along with other
students and continued his education. Printed books were few, and students used
to copy from books and learn. Deacon Geevarghese was in the forefront in
learning and devotion .As a disciple of the Malpan, the young deacon completed
his priestly education. But this exemplary teacher-disciple relationship was
destined to be short lived.
Small-pox was spreading at different parts of the country at that time
.Geevarghese Malpan also contracted the dreaded disease in 1865.When the
disease was confirmed, all the students were sent home, except Deacon
Geevarghese, who decided to stay on and nurse his teacher. All treatments failed
and the Malpan soon breathed his last.
Within a few days Deacon Geevarghese, who nursed the Malpan, also contracted
the epidemic. And it is said that the small pox which he contracted was a rare and
dangerous variety called “Kanakakalloori”. Having learnt about the deacon’s disease,
his mother’s sister, Mariam, came to nurse him; and it was a great relief to him.
However the deacon was praying all the time. When he was very ill and extremely
weak, he had a vision of St.Mary. He saw her standing near him .She assured him that
he would soon be well, and advised him to dedicate his life for God. Surprisingly
enough, the deacon become well very soon and did as St.Mary directed him to do.

3. Elevation to full monastic vow, ie Ramban

Monastic movement was not powerful at that time in Malankara Syrian Church.
It was this time when Malankara Metropolitan Pulikottil Mar Dionysius V giving
charismatic leadership to the Malankara Church with new vision and mission. He
wanted that church should have pious and noble monks to give new life in church.
He enquired about such people and this enquiry reached to Vettikkal Dayara where
Very Rev. Geevarghese Kor Episcopa Ramban led a pure monastic life. In April 7th
1872, Pulikkottil Thirumeni made Geevarghese Kor Episcopa, a Ramban, which is
the fullness of monastic vow. At that time this young priest had 24 years only.

Disciple of Mar Coorilose

There were allegations at that time that Mathews Mar Athanasius, then the
Malankara Metropolitan was spreading Protestant teachings in the church. About this
time one Bishop Mar Coorilose from Syria visited Travancore. He was deadly against
the “new” teachings of Mar Athanasius. Meanwhile, Deacon Geevarghese got
acquainted with Mar Coorilose, who was very much impressed by the deacon’s
scholarship in the Syriac language, wisdom and devotion. The deacon travelled with
Mar Coorilose as his translator and guide. Mar Coorilose ordained deacon
Geevarghese as full deacon. The deacon came into contact with many people in the
church and also increased his knowledge in Syriac, Biblical knowledge and theology.
Mar Coorilose who was well pleased with the deacon ordained him as a priest
and also as Cor-Episcopa. Father Geevarghese learnt about the great monks of the
Eastern Church, from Mar Coorilose. And naturally he was much attracted towards
them and it helped him in his resolve to follow the vocation of a monk in his life.
Though his fame has reached to all people, he did not want either popularity
or praise from the people. That is the real sign of a good monk. Even people of
other faith had great faith in his ascetic life.

4. Consecration as Metropolitan

The coming of Peter Patriarch and consecration

This visit of Patriarch Peter was a great historical event in the history of
Malankara church. He reached here in 1875. He wanted some body to translate his
sermons from Syriac to Vernacular (Malayalam). It was Geevarghese Ramban
who translated the Syriac sermon of Patriarch into Malayalam beautifully.
Attracted by the pious, humble, devotional and learned Ramban, Patriarch wanted
to ordain him bishop. Ramban wanted to lead a full time ascetic life and he first
refused to accept this offer. He was not that much interested in administration
matters which are essential for a bishop for fear that this will hinder his ascetic
practices. However he was ready to submit to the will of God expressed through
Patriarch and finally he became a bishop.
Monk of Parumala
Parumala was an island at that time. There were many superstitions about that
island. Korula Mathen of Arikupuram family had given a plot to Pulikkottil
Thirumeni to build a parish church in Parumala. A small house called Azhippura
was constructed there for teaching the deacons (we see that old building in the
premises of Parumala even now). The place where priest are trained are normally
called seminary. Gregorious Thirumeni who took charge of Niranam diocese
decided to live in this place and to serve the diocesan matters. Simultaneously
along with Diocesan administration Thirumeni found time to teach the deacons.
All great people have one thing in common ie discipline. When we watch closely
the life of Thirumeni, we will come to know this factors.

A Typical Day of Mar Gregorios

Kochu Thirumeni will be awake by 4 in the early morning. The inmates at the
Seminary also are to get up by then. Till 5 A. M. it is public Prayer. He teaches the
deacons from 5-7 A.M. which is followed by private prayers. If it is not a fasting
day breakfast will be served at 8.30. At 9 A.M. it is time for Terce, after which
classes for the deacons continue till 11 A.M. From 11 A.M. to 12, Thirumeni looks
after the administrative matters of the diocese. Lunch is served at 12 noon; after
which it is time for rest till 1.30 P.M. From 1.30-4 P.M., again Thirumeni engage
classes for the deacons, and the prayer of the 9 th hour is said during this time.
From4-5.30 P.M. again Thirumeni looks after Diocesan matters.
This is followed by evening prayer, bath and supper. After these again he
teaches the deacons Syriac liturgical songs. 9 P.M. is the time for Compline.
During the night, Thirumeni gets up many times for private prayers and devotions.
Fasting and devotions were regular parts of this routine.

No ‘Worry’ about Tomorrow

In those days, Parumala Seminary had no specific income of its own. The nearby
parishes used to send rice, coconut etc. to the Seminary. There were also occasional
contributions. The expenditure of the Seminary was being met by these. And there
were days when nothing was left for the next day. But on such occasions
Kochuthirumeni was not worried as he entrusted everything to God. And the results
were amazing. One day nothing was left in the seminary for the next day’s expenses
except 9 chakras (32 paise). There was no food, nothing. Thirumeni was informed
about the critical situation. But thirumeni was calm and unmoved, and said that the
Word of God says that we need not worry about tomorrow. The next morning, before
the prayers were over, a few people reached the seminary with bundles of
rice, fruits, sweets and many other things. A feast was being conducted in their
house and they had brought a portion of it to the seminary! The incident was
powerful enough to confirm the seminary inmates in faith and dependence on
God. Instances like this were numerous.

Parumala Church
A thatched shed owned by Arikupuram family was being used, as a Chapel. This
shed was near ‘Azhipura,’ where Parumala Thirumeni was staying. Thirumeni
decided to construct a church and a Seminary at Parumala. The Arikupuram family
agreed to give enough land to parumala Thirumeni for this purpose. Thirumeni got the
land registered not in his name, but in the name of the Malankara Metropolitan.
Money was collected from the people and Thirumeni constructed a beautiful church
and seminary building using more than 20,000 rupees which he collected for this
purpose. On St. Mary’s Festival in 1895, Mar Gregorios consecrated the new church
in the presence of Joseph Mar Dionysius of Pulikkottil, and celebrated the Holy
Qurbana. The Church is dedicated in the name of St. Peter and St. Paul. The church
had two more Altars one dedicated to St. Mary and the other to St. Thomas the
Apostle. It was by his unyielding faith and total dependence on God that Mar
Gregorios could successfully accomplish these projects.
Parumala Church was built by the will and pleasure of Parumala Thirumeni upto
that time worship was conducted in a small shed near Azhippura. Along with the
church, he constructed this seminary building also. Consecration of the church was
conducted under the leadership of Pulikkottil Mar Dionysius Vth. Parish church was
dedicated in the name of St. Peter and St. Paul. However the northern and southern
alters were dedicated to St. Mary and St. Thomas respectively. Thirumeni is presence
and worship in newly consecrated parish church was attracted by several people.
Crowd was growing day by day to worship there as well as to seek blessings from
Thirumeni directly. This old Church had been renewed and the new one was
consecrated on 28th July 2000. His Holiness The Catholicos Baselius Mathews II
gave leadership to the consecration. The old church building was later erected at the
present Parumala Seminary hospital premise.

5. Major events in Thirumeni’s life

Three Dioceses at a time
Thirumeni was in charge of Niranam Diocese. Later he had to take care of
Thumpamon and Kollam also. It paved the way for contact with more people, which
eventually influenced the lives of the believers. For instance, when there was wide
spread illness of small pox, a deadly dosease in Thumpamon, Thirumeni went and
stayed there. Because of his ardent prayer many were miraculously cured. “The
prayer f the righteous is great” and that was fulfilled in this event.

Church expansion
Though this church was very ancient it remained as a small community in the
south west corner of India. Its boundaries had been expanded at Thirumeni’s time.
It was unlikely that other people coming to our church. But at the reign of
Thirumeni, thousands of people from the strong Catholic Church and its leaders
joined to the Orthodox Church. It was merely because of their attraction towards
Orthodox faith and worship. Chief among them who joined to the Orthodox
Church was bishop Alwarees Mar Yulios Metropolitan. He was a priest when he
joined to the church along with his thousands of followers. His name was Fr.
Alwaris. Thirumeni made him a Ramban. In July 29th 1889, Thirumeni
consecrated him as bishop at Pazhaya (Old) Seminary and installed as the first
Metropolitan of outside Kerala Diocese. Today’s Brahmavar mission and diocese
is the continuation of the work of saintly Alwarees Mar Yulios Metropolitan.

Journey to Kolombo (Ceylon)

There were people in America who were fascinated to Orthodox faith. One
priest was there from among those people and he was Fr. Reny Vilathee. He was
consecrated as bishop in Kolombo on 21st May 1892. In this consecration
ceremony along with Parumala Kochu Thirumeni, Mar Athanasius Metropolitan
of Ankamaly Diocese and the aforesaid Alwarees Mar Yulios Metropolitan also
participated. Mar Yulios had great influence in Kolombo at that time and therefore
a great reception was given to all Metropolitans in Ceylon. When we look back
we have to self-examine the fact that the missionary zeal which was prevalent at
that time is considerably lost at this age.

Famous Jerusalem Pilgrim

Thirumeni made the Jerusalem pilgrim at a time the journey was very difficult.
There were no facilities available as we enjoy today for journey, stay and so on.
Besides the shortage of money was also there. Thirumeni moved around the parishes
to collect money for this purpose. For travel he had to depend car, bus, train, ship,
boat etc. and it took several weeks to finish the trip. Actually it was not a pilgrim cum
trip and he was not at all fascinated in sight seeing, all he wanted to have a deep
Christ experience. This journey resulted in writing a very good travelogue named
“Oorslem Yatra Vivaranam.” This book was well received in the literary field
of Kerala and once it was a text book in school. The literary style and language of this
book was appreciated by all learned people. All Sunday school students must read this
book. He expressed his deep spiritual experiences in the following words. “True
worship is always in spirit and truth. Therefore Christian can worship God anywhere.
However, while we acknowledge the sinful nature, we can grasp more spiritual things
through our sights to this sacred places where our Lord and saviour Jesus Christ lived,
worked, died, buried and resurrected. Whenever we prayed at all these sacred places,
we had some spiritual ecstasy which we never experienced anywhere. Certain times
we felt that our mind became one with Lord and felt that not to get away from that
place. I thought of lying there and pray unceasingly.”
(from the sermon preached at Parumala after his coming back)

Missionary Zeal
Thirumeni came back from Jerusalem after tremendous change in vision and
mission. He had got great insight in mission and social service. Listen to his words
again, “shall we think about what Christian can do for the society. There are so
many people in this land commit lot of sin due to illiteracy and poverty. There are
socially untouchables who were discriminated in many ways even they were
forbidden to travel through the public roads. Christians have to work for their
upliftment. We have to eradicate their poverty and hardships. They should be
allowed to join in our church and if needed separate parishes shall be constructed
for them in the beginning. When there status is changed they shall be given full
membership within the church without any discrimination. We have many more
things to do for them. We have to preach Gospel among them.”
(From the sermon given at Parumala after his journey to Oorslem, Bhakta
Vachanam)

Two disciples ordained

Thirumeni was a great guru (teacher) in all sense. Among the many deacons,
he taught, there were special attentions towards two deacons. One was deacon
Punnoose from Kurichy and the other was deacon Paulose from Kuttikattil family,
Ankamaly. Deacon Punnoose, later became a Catholicos named after His Holiness
Baselios Geevarghese II. He only made the declaration of Parumala Thirumeni as
Saint, later in 1945. Deacon Paulose became Metropolitan Poulose Mar
Athanasius of Ankamaly and entombed in Thrikkunnethu seminary, Alwaye.
When there was two fractions, both bishops mained in opposition; however both
were very good in keeping the noble things inherited from their great guru.
Cemetery of Arthattupally and schools
He lived for some time in Arthattu church, Kunnamkulam after his coming
back from Jerusalem. They have a huge cemetery in 4.5 acres and it had no
boundary walls. Thirumeni was very particular about the cemeteries to be kept
beautifully where the forefathers were buried. According to the desire of
Thirumeni, they built the compound wall and made it clean and tidy.
In order to raise the standard of the untouchable lower caste people Thirumeni
were very much aware of the needed education to that section. With that purpose
he started schools in Mulanthuruthy, Kunnamkulam and Thiruvalla.
Kunnamkulam School was later handed over to the Govt. and it was known as
Metran’s school even now. After the demise of Thirumeni, Thiruvalla School was
named as Mar Gregorious Memorial High School, one of the leading schools of
Malankara Orthodox Church.

Golden Jubilee of Pulikkottil Thirumeni is priestly ordination

As we have seen early Pulikkottil Mar Dionysius V th was the Malankara
Metropolitan during this period. Being the Malankara Metropolitan he had to face
many hardships including litigations in court. Therefore church wanted to honour him
and looked for an auspices occasion. It was decided to celebrate the 50th anniversary
of his priesthood at Kottayam in 1901. Climate was very adverse due to continuous
rain and organisers were very uncomfortable about it. On the previous day Parumala
Thirumeni, through his devine intuition proclaimed that climate will be nice on next
day. This meeting was very successful in its conduct and the people who gathered
there believed that the climate change was a miracle done by
Kochuthirumeni. There are lot of events like this by which people accepted the
saintliness of Thirumeni, even when he was alive.

6. Thirumeni Passes away

Thirumeni’s illness took a turn for the worse in September 1902. One of the
trusted disciples, Father Kochukoshy was in the seminary, One day when he casually
had come to the Seminary, Thirumeni told him that he was not feeling well, and he
should stay there; and Kochukoshy Kathanar stayed with Thirumeni and nursed him.
Vattasseril Geevarghese Kathanar, the prominent disciple of Thirumeni also came to
the seminary and stayed there looking after the well-being of Thirumeni. Every
possible indigenous medical treatment was tried, but Thirumeni was getting weaker
day by day. Thirumeni had foreknowledge of his death and told about it to those
around him. Pulikkottil Thirumeni, when he came to know about Kochu
Thirumeni’s illness reached the Seminary from Trivandrum. Pulikkottil
Thirumeni, who had filial love for Kochuthirumeni cried aloud with grief, when
he saw Kochu Thirumeni writhing in pain.Kochu Thirumeni had complaint of
ulcer even earlier. It aggravated and took a bad turn due to the severity of his
fasting and abstinence, and the result was severe pain.
The news of Parumala Thirumeni’s illness spread like wild fire, and people from
all the places in the north and south were virtually flowing in to Parumala. Thirumeni
was very particular that whoever came to the Seminary must be served food. People
living nearby brought the food articles for this purpose to the Seminary. Food
contributions were coming in such big quantities that twice daily a large number of
people were served food at the Seminary. Thirumeni’s body was slowly becoming
weak and numb. Thirumeni called Vattasseril Geevarghese Kathanar to his side and
entrusted to him the crosier and other insignia and the keys. After this Thirumeni was
lying still and silent for three days. On the third day, Thirumeni asked what date was
it. He was told that the date was 18 th (Malayama era), Thirumeni said: “O My Lord, I
must suffer this pain for two more days.” This showed that Thirumeni knew that his
end would come on the 20th. On the morning of the 20 th, “Kantheela” (The Sacrament
of anointing the sick) was conducted for Thirumeni and he received the Holy
Qurbana. By about midnight on the 20 th, Thirumeni was lying motionless, and in a
feeble voice he said “My Lord!” Punnoose Ramban (Later catholicos Baselios
Geevarghese II) who was standing near uttered the creed- “M hymenno” (ie. I
believe) The Priests who were standing around the bed followed: - “in the One True
God, The Father, The Son and the Holy Spirit.” This was said thrice. By this time the
Holy Father breathed his last. The Spirit of the Holy one was committed into the
hands of the Heavenly Father. The bells of the Parumala Seminary sang the wailing
tune and carried the message across River Pampa to the people of the country.
When Abraham Lincoln was assassinated one of his admirers said till
yesterday Lincoln belonged to the United States, today he belongs to the whole
world. He will be remembered for the generations to come.”
Parumala Kochu Thirumeni, who was considered as belonging to Malakara
Church, is today the saint par excellence of all people belonging to all religions;
and his blessed memory will live for ever.
The news of the passing away of Kochu Thirumeni was spreading fast and for the
people, all roads were leading to Parumala. People of all religions, rich and poor,
priests and laity were moving to Parumala to have a look at the mortal remains of the
Holy Father. They were moving all available means of transport- motor vehicles,
country boats and carts; and also by foot. The demise of Kochu Thirumeni was
unbearable to Pulikkottil Thirumeni, who was staying in the Seminary and nursing
Kochu Thirumeni. It was as though Pulikkottil Thirumeni had lost his “refuge”.
He firmly believed that Kochu Thirumeni’s Prayer was helping him, while he was
leading the Church through the stormy days of litigation. Every time a difficult
situation arose, Pulikkottil Thirumeni would reach to Parumala and pray with
Kochu Thirumeni, and would request him “please, continue to pray for me.” He
felt as though his only solace was there no more, and hence his grief. He used to
come to Parumala as a pilgrim till he passed away in 1909.
The body of the deceased Holy Father was adorned with all vestments and
insignia and was seated on a throne inside the church, following the ancient
custom in the Eastern Church.

Internment (Burial)
The Burial services started on Monday itself. Mar Ivanios Metropolitan led
the service, which was completed on Tuesday. Pulikkottil Thirumeni, could not
lead the services, since he could not bear the sight of the motionless body of the
Saint. The funeral procession (Nagari Kanikkal) followed in the presence of a
large multitude of people. Everywhere it was people wailing and crying, sighing
and beating their breasts. Before the entombment, it took about three hours for the
people to kiss the hand of Kochu Thirumeni. The location of the tomb was earlier
pointed out by the saint himself, on divine inspiration. The body was lowered into
the tomb and was filled up to the head with frankincense, which was offered by
the faithful. New clothes were distributed to the poor who attended the funeral.
The 30th day of demise was observed on a grand scale, with the co-operation of
the parishes in Malankara. 600 bushels of rice and 1300 rupees were spent for the
feast on that day.
On that same day the representatives of parish churches met at Parumala, with
Mar Dionysius in the chair. The assembly elected Kochuparampil paulose
Ramban and Vattasserril Geevargheese Kathanar to be Bishops. Another meeting
within a few days decided to name the new school at Thiruvalla as “Mar
Gregorios Memmorial High School” (M.G.M.)
The Metropolitan of Jerusalem sent a condolence message on the passing
away of Mar Gregorios which said, “really the lamp of our church is out.” Yes,
this great saintly person was the light house and Morning Star of the Church! As
the book of Daniel reads (12:3): “The wise leaders will shine with all the
brightness of the sky, and those who have taught many people to do what is right
will shine like the stars for ever.”
Canonization
On the 45th Anniversary of his demise; ie on 2 nd November 1947, Mar
Gregorios of Paruamala was officially canonized as a saint by the Holy Episcopal
Synod of the Malankara Church, Presided over by His Holiness Baselios
Geevarghees II, Catholicos of the East. From then on many Churches and altars
have been dedicated in the name of Parumala Mar Gregorios.

7. Contributions of Parumala Thirumeni

The history of today’s church is closely related to Parumala and Thirumeni.
Now Parumala is a pilgrim center for thousands of people of all denominations
and religions who experience great consolation to their problems. This is only one
side of Thirumeni’s life. There are many more contributions of Thirumeni to
church and society. We may list a few in the following lines.

1. A pure model of Eastern spirituality

There are certain special attributes to Orthodox spirituality. Chief among it is
THEOSIS or Deification, “Son of God has become son of man in order to make
Sons of men into Sons of God.” It was St. Athanasius who gave this axiom and
this is the core of eastern spirituality. Man Seek God not only for material
comforts, but ultimate aim is to participate in the divine nature of God (2 Pet. 1:4).
“Yee Seek first the kingdom of God and its righteousness and everything will be
added to it” (St. Mtt. 6:33). This denotes an experience to be united with God.
This is what Thirumeni stated about the blissful experience in Jerusalem about
which we had seen early.

2. Unseeing prayer and strict ascetic practices

Sin separates man away from God. It is satan who always tempts men to
commit sin. In order to overcome satanic temptation we need the grace of God
which we receive from prayer, lent and fasting. Thirumeni was not satisfied with
mere ritual observations. Communion with God and purity of heart were his main
objectives behind his ascetic practices. He taught “Those who pray daily will not
become untruthful, unrighteous, unbelievable, unpious, unloving and ungodly.
Prayer is joy for childhood, consolation for youth and happiness in old age.”
(Bhakta Vachanam)
3. He nurtured the church
Thirumeni lived at a time of the aggressive western missionaries. People who
always look for novelty were attracted by reformed faith and a few left the church
also. To their arguments, Thirumeni gave reply not by words but by actions. He
proved the credibility of Orthodox faith through his life. He believed that the
church is built by the people who are growing in purity of heart. His witness
helped thousands of believers to be firm in Orthodox faith then and now.

4. Anthonios (Antony) of Malankara Orthodox Church

St. Antony is the father of monasticism who lived in 3rd century. Many monks
lived in deserts and forests. Vettikkal and Parumala islands were deserted places
before one and half century. These places were very suitable to develop an ascetic
mind in Thirumeni. He did not submit to any worldly pleasures. He did not even
like to become a Metropolitan which he found a hindrance to his ascetic life.
However following the path of some of the early church fathers, for the sake of
the church he finally gave consent to the consecration. While we consider his
strict monastic rules, undoubtedly he could be considered as the St. Antony of
Malankara Orthodox Church.

5. Social Reformer
Holy people will not go always in seclusion. After discerning the will of God,
they try to reform the society in better ways. In the caste-ridden society, the
backward people like Pulaya, Paraya and several other delits had lot of hardships
at that time due to social discrimination. Thirumeni had got compassionate
affection towards them. He wrote, “The low caste people had no access to the
public roads and they are deprived of human relationships. It is our duty to give
them education, to eradicate their hardships and to deepen their faith in God so
that they may also lead a better life.” He believed that God is always with the poor
people and therefore those who love God should also love the poor people.

6. Emphasis given to English Education

He was not only a social reformer but also had radical ideas. Best example is his
special concern for English Education. Though Thirumeni opposed the reformed faith of
the western missionaries, he felt the need of English education which English people
brought here. He believed that English education will help the backward classes to come
up to the main stream of the society. In that perspective he was very progressive minded.
That is why he started English Schools in many places. In that venture neither
profit motive nor communal interest was his intention. His only intention was to
uplift the conditions of the poor who were systematically marginalised.

7. Gospel to the non-Christians

Jerusalem pilgrim changed a lot in Thirumeni’s outlook and vision. He
became more aware of the need to bring the Gospel to the non-Christians. He did
radical things like converting other caste people to our church in Chengannur. The
traditional Syrian Christians who uphold the brahminal racial continuity (which is
not true according to many historians) did not like it. But Thirumeni did not
favour the mentality of Syrian Christians. Numerical growth was not the intention
which Thirumeni aimed. He believed that if the lower caste people accept the faith
of Christian Church, it will indirectly help them to improve their social status also
in the caste-ridden society. Besides Christian faith will induce them to learn and
imitate the higher values of the kingdom of God whereby they will change their
life style accordingly. It was Parumala Thirumeni who took initiative to convert
people to our church which was later continued by late Patros Mar Osthathios
Thirumeni with strong vigour and commitment. Unfortunately this interest in
slowly lost is our church and we need to go back to the paths cleared before us by
these venerable fathers.

8. Good Shepherd
He began in Niranam Diocese as the good shepherd which later expanded to
Thumpamon and Kollam Dioceses. He travelled a lot to meet the sheep erp the
lost one. His pastoral interest was to make all believers to become closer to Christ
as well as to inculcate the value of the kingdom of God in them. He tried to solve
the problems in parishes not by authority but through love and fellowship. In all
these aspects he did not depend on his own abilities but on the grace of God. At
the same time he was not reluctant to scold whenever it is needed. He did not
expect any flattery from the people. But on the other hand always sought the will
of God. He laboured all day and night to lead the flock into more divinity.
Deification was his ultimate aim in his pastoral ministry.

9. Great Teacher (Guru)

Thirumeni moved from Vettikkal to Parumala only to teach deacons. There is a
saying that some people got knowledge not spiritual experience. And some have got
experience but not knowledge. But Thirumeni was a great teacher with knowledge
and experience. All his disciples have got his qualities in different measurements.
10. Writer and Orator
He was a great writes and orator. The famous travelogue on “Oorslem
Journey” itself is a remarkable evidence for his writing skills. When we go
through his available writings we could see his orating ability also. When people
believed him as a miracle does all other qualities were not given careful attention.

11. Great intercessor

In his life turns itself people believed in his spiritual power through which
he had done great things and miraculous healing. It was not publicity sake as it is
being done now a days. Like our Lord and master Jesus Christ he did everything
in privacy. His life is an example in the sense God works in this world through the
saints even after this earthly lives.

After the deduction of his Saint Lord

Many churches were built in and outside Kerala and India in the name of Mar
Gregorios. Many Saints who remember in our liturgies are not born and brought up in
our country. Being a Saint from our own lace, people of different denominations and
religions have great faith in his intercession. A lot of schools, colleges, orphanages
and similar institutions have been started in his name. There is a hospital in Parumala
and another specialized hospital for cancer care is coming up in Parumala. The feast
days are first and second of November every year in Parumala. But other Parish
Churches are also celebrating feast during that week. In spirit, this saint likes the
devotees to grown in spirituality with unceasing prayer, but, fasting worship purity of
life and concern for the needy and poor in society irrespective of caste or creed.
Imitate his saintly life as he imitated the life of Jesus Christ.

Appendix
SAYINGS FROM PARUMALA THIRUMENI
1. Prayer is the inspiration of childhood, the refuge of youth and peace during old age.
2. Prayer helps education to cultivate truth, morality, faith, devotion and mutual
respect among people.
3. He who prays to God everyday would never be without truth, morality, faith
and devotion, and would never turn against his master or society.
4. When we pray with a heart full of devotion, God accepts it and we receive
blessings in return.
5. If man does not raise his hands in prayer for himself and for the sake of his
people, even after knowing God, how can we say man is better than animals
which are not wise and cannot think about their future?
6. Prayer is, in many ways, the golden chain that binds this world to the feet of
God.
7. Pray earnestly to God during day and night. Such prayer is the best way to
remove the darkness and fatigue in us; and also the means to attain salvation
and the Kingdom of Heaven. Put your faith in God and pray to him.
8. God is on the side of the poor. Remember God in whatever you do; then
everything will turn out for good.
9. Whatever is due to the Church must be given forthwith. If your mind is pure
in that matter, your house will also be pure. If in such thing you think of any
gain or revenue, then you will lose that ten-fold. Therefore all of you be pure
in depending on God, in brotherly love and in loving your neighbours.
10. Don’t try to be smart, nor be foolish. Never love body more than spirit and
money more than God.
11. Forgiveness is strength. It gives a person good name. It is the distinguishing
feature of righteous people.
12. Love your enemies. Never make enemies of friends.
13. Consult God in everything; consult your father too. If your father abandons
you, God will also abandon you. Don’t be adamant in silly things, which will
bring in dislike-of both God and men.
14. Never be proud. Let God save you from every grave danger. Hold on to God
in everything. He will bless you abundantly.
15. Avoid arrogance, quarrel, and pride while dealing in Church matters; instead,
let your humility shine before others. Those who place their trust in God, and
satisfy the people are blessed. May God bless them?
16. Remember God in everything. Let no one grieve because of you. Never let go
an opportunity to do something good. Only those things will remain with you
till the end.
17. As far as possible never do evil to anyone; or it will ruin you, your children
and your house. Hold on steadfastly to prayer, fasting and works of charity.
Do them with faith and devotion.
18. If you are lazy, your learning cannot progress. Hold on to God tight. Humility
should be the best ornament for you.
19. Death is at everybody’s door. Keep that in mind.
20. You must regularly read the Holy Bible. You must obey your spiritual fathers
and increase their good name and honour before God and men by your
exemplary life.
21. Those who disobey their parents and join their enemies, are liable to be cursed
by them. They will not inherit the legacy of their parents and will be
disqualified for this world as well as the other.
22. Never be proud. Pride is followed by fall. Humility is followed by greatness.
23. If there is quarrel in the family, keep away from it. A quarrelsome house is the
haven of the devil; and God is no where near it.
24. Be rich in the love of man and love of God. Brothers should never cheat each
other. When you move away from unity you are sure to move away from God.
25. It is not spiritual wisdom to try to conquer the enemy with evil than with
virtue. If you depend on the God of Truth and go out with a truthful heart,
God will accomplish things for you.
26. Loss and difficulties come when God moves away. On such occasions, never
look for one reason or the other. Instead, know that God has kept away
because of your sins; then cling to God, he will show mercy upon you.
27. Be obedient in all your dealings. Identify the good and love it, throw away
laziness; be enthusiastic to do good things, day and night. St. Vattasseril Mar
Dionysius H. H. Baselios Geevarghese II Catholicos, Paulose Mar Athanasius
(Alwaye) are some of his great disciples.