Saint Gregorios of Parumala, affectionately known as Parumala Thirumeni, emerged as the first canonized saint of the Malankara Orthodox Church from Kerala, marking a significant milestone in its history. Born Geevarghese on June 15, 1848, in the Pallathetta family, he embarked on his spiritual journey early, facing the loss of his mother at two years old but finding guidance and love from his sister Mariam. His religious path began with his ordination as a deacon at the age of ten, leading to further education and ordination as a priest. Known for his devout ascetic life at Vettickal Dayara, he was consecrated as Metropolitan Geevarghese Mar Gregorios by the Antioch Patriarch in 1876, a role he embraced with fervor, focusing on diocesan administration, clergy education, and inclusive missionary work.

During his tenure, Mar Gregorios was instrumental in advancing the church's educational and missionary endeavors, founding schools and engaging in outreach to uplift the socially marginalized. His leadership in constructing a church and seminary at Parumala became a cornerstone of his legacy, alongside his pioneering efforts to publish a travelogue of his pilgrimage to the Holy Land, enriching Malayalam literature. After a life dedicated to spiritual service and the welfare of the community, Mar Gregorios passed away on November 2, 1902. His final resting place in Parumala evolved into a revered pilgrimage site, testament to his saintly intercession. In recognition of his enduring spiritual impact, the church canonized him in 1947, affirming his role as a luminary of hope and faith for generations.

St. Geevarghese Mar Dionysius Vattasseril, the Malankara Metropolitan, was a pivotal figure in the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church, guiding it through challenging times with unwavering faith and determination. Born on October 31, 1858, to Joseph Vattasseril and Eliamma Kolathu Kalathil, he embarked on his spiritual journey early, being ordained as a sub-deacon while still in high school. His deep theological understanding and scholarly pursuits, particularly in Syriac and church doctrine, earned him the designation of Malankara Malpan. Under the mentorship of St. Gregorios of Parumala, he became a formidable spiritual leader, contributing significantly to the liturgical and educational realms of the church. His consecration as H. G. Geevarghese Mar Dionysius Metropolitan in 1908 marked the beginning of a leadership tenure characterized by resilience against foreign oppression and dedication to church autonomy.

Vattasseril Thirumeni's legacy is a testament to his spiritual depth, administrative acumen, and visionary leadership. Comparisons to Moses highlight his lifelong commitment to the church's freedom, paralleling the biblical journey to the Promised Land. Despite facing severe adversities, including threats and physical attacks, his faith, bolstered by continuous prayer and fasting, remained unshaken. His intellectual contributions, humility, and devotion made him a beacon of holiness and a symbol of hope for many. Thirumeni's emphasis on private prayer and meditation, alongside his public endeavors, underscored a life of genuine piety and dedication to God's will, leaving an indelible mark on the Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church and its faithful.