MAR DIONYSIUS V
Pulikkottil Joseph Mar Dionysius (Pulikkottil II) was born on 12 November 1833 in the famous Pulikkottil family in Kunnamkulam. His mother Thadamma belonged to the Paigamukku “Kuthuru” family and father Tharu Kurien was the nephew of Mar Dionysius II, founder of the famous Old Seminary. Young Joseph started education at the age of five, becoming a disciple of his uncle Fr. Joseph in 1843.Joseph was ordained Koroyoo (Sub-deacon) by Cheppaud Mar Dionysius IV. at the Kothamangalam Marthoman Cheria Pally on 10 October 1846 at the age of 13. The Patriarchal delegate Sthephanos Mar Athanasious ordained him Samshono (full Deacon) at Kunnamkulam Arthat St. Mary's Church in 1849. He was ordained full Priest at Chalassery Church near Kunnamkulam by Yuyakkim Mar Koorilose on 23 August 1853.
The day before his consecration as Metropolitan, Fr. Joseph was elevated to the order of Ramban by the Patriarch. On Sunday early morning of 26 Medam A.D. 1865, Fr. Joseph was ordained at the famous Church of the Mother of God at Amida in Turkey.
During the historical Holy Synod held at Mulanthuruthy Mar Thoman Church 30 June 1876, Joseph Mar Dionysius was chosen as the Malankara Metropolitan and Head of the Synod. Thereupon he came to be known as Mar Dionysius V.
On 11 July 1907 Mar Dionysius breathed his last, and was entombed at Kottayam Old Seminary Church.
.