Our Patron Saint
St. Gregorios Of Parumala
St. Gregorios Of Parumala
St. Gregorios of Parumala, born on June 15, 1848, in the Chathuruthy family in Mulanthuruthy, Kerala, India, was a distinguished figure in the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church. Baptized as Geevarghese, he displayed early signs of spiritual inclination. His journey into theological studies led him to the Old Seminary (Vettikkal Dayara) in Kottayam.
At the age of 10, Geevarghese was ordained as a deacon, and later, in 1858, he became a priest under the consecration of Metropolitan Mathews Mar Athanasius. Renowned for his ascetic life and commitment to community service, he played a significant role in the spiritual and educational advancement of the Malankara Church.
In 1876, he attained the position of Metropolitan Gregorios, consecrated by Malankara Metropolitan Pulikkottil Joseph Mar Dionysius II. Throughout his episcopal ministry, he continued to contribute to the church’s growth. Unfortunately, his later years were marked by severe illnesses.
On November 2, 1902, at the age of 54, St. Gregorios passed away due to typhoid. His final resting place became St. Peter’s and St. Paul’s Orthodox Valiyapally in Parumala, drawing pilgrims seeking solace and blessings.
In recognition of his holiness and the countless miracles associated with him, the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church canonized St. Gregorios of Parumala as a saint on November 2, 1947, precisely 45 years after his demise. His canonization ceremony marked the formal acknowledgment of his sanctity, and his memory is venerated annually on November 2nd in the Malankara Orthodox Church. The life and teachings of St. Gregorios continue to inspire and shape the spiritual journey of millions of believers, while his contributions to education, spirituality, and community service remain etched in the history of the church.
St.Paul's Orthodox Syrian Church, Parumala