Mar Mathew Pothanamuzhi

The first one called by God to guide His people of Kothamangalam was born at Nadukara, in Arakuzha parish, near Muvattupuzha, on December 22,1903. His primary and secondary education were at Infant Jesus High School Vazhakulam, Govt. High School Muvattupuzha, St.Joseph's School Pavaratty and St.Mary's High School Aluva. After finishing his school education he joined Sacred Heart Minor Seminary Aluva in 1923. His philosophical and theological studies were at Kandy Seminary, Ceylone. He was ordained a priest on October 2,1932 by Bishop G.Rocky of Tuticorin. Meantime he had obtained Ph.D and D.D. After returning to the diocese, he served his own home parish Arakuzha as Assistant Vicar for a short period. Later, he was appointed as the Rector of Malankara Minor Seminary, Trivandrum. He was also the Secretary to His Excellency Mar Ivanious at that time. Later he was appointed as the Vicar General of Ernakulam Archdiocese. He held the post for ten years. Later he was appointed as the parish priest of Vazhakulam Forane Church. On July 30,1956 he was chosen as the First Bishop of Kothamangalam diocese. His episcopal ordination was at Rome on 18 November 1956. After serving the diocese meritoriously for almost two decades, Mar Pothanamuzhi retired on April 24, 1977. He passed away on February 6,1982."