Philippose Yohannan Kathanar (6)

Yohannan Kathanar, the youngest son of Philippose Kathanar, moved from the Valiyamannil family house to the nearby Puthenpura which is known as Pazhamthottil. It is his descendants that belong to the Pazhamthottil sub-branch. Philippose Yohannan was born on the 5^th May 1879. He started learning Malayalam, Tamil and Mathematics, at the age of five and continued his studies in the third form at Manorama school. In Malayalam era 1071 (1895-96), he was ordained to brotherhood by Thrikkunathu Kadavil Mar Paulose Athanasyos Metropolitan. He married Aleyamma, daughter of Valiyaparet Mathachen’s daughter and the elder sister of Mathews Mar Ivanios, who was the Metropolitan of Kottayam Diocese. In Malayalam era 1076 (1900-01), he was ordained to priesthood by Athanasyos Metropolitan at Kottayam Cheriyapally. He was appointed as Vicar of Mar Aphrem church, Thottackad. In the meantime, he also served at Puthuppally Nilackal church and Vakathanam Ponganthanam church. He served as the Vicar of Mar Aphrem church for almost 49 years. Valiyamannil Achan was beloved by all the parishioners. Godliness and love of people were his characteristics. He was an excellent priest who did not deviate from the liturgical rules of the church. Aleyamma, his wife, used to manage the family affairs properly and gave peace advice to the differences of opinion and trouble that often arose in the church affairs. She organized a prayer meeting for women, on Sundays and held its charge for a long time. They had a son named Kawmos and daughters, Saramma and Achamma. Yohannan Kathanar passed away on 22^nd November 1949 at the age of 70. Aleyamma died on 4^th February 1942. Their mortal remains were cremated at Mar Aphrem Orthodox church, Thottackad.