St. Athanasious Paulose, popularly known as 'Valiya Thirumeni', is one of the luminous stars of the Universal Syriac Orthodox Church, who as the head of the Church in India, successfully guided its destiny for nearly four decades. It was his firm faith, persistent efforts and ardent prayers that helped the Malankara Syrian community to maintain their ancient links with the Holy See of Antioch. Because of his strong determination to uphold the traditions and faith of the Holy Church, he is often described in the Church history as 'Sathya Viswasa Samrakshakan' (Defender of True Faith), a title conferred to him by the Patriarch Mor Ignatius Aphrem I. 

St. Athanasius Valiya Thirumeni is the founder father of many of the spiritual organizations in the Church like the Sunday School Association and the Marth Mariam Samajam. 'Mor Gregorios Students  Association', named after his mentor St. Gregorios Chathuruthil, happens to be the first students organization in Malankara that adopted the name of St. Gregorios of Parumala. The St. Antony's brotherhood and St. Mary's sisterhood, were started under his guidance and initiative. After serving the Church in Malankara for more than four decades, he passed away on 25th January 1953 at the age of 84 and was entombed the very next day in the room on northern side of the madbho of the St. Mary's church at Thrikkunnathu, Alwaye, confirming to his last wishes. The sacred tombs of the former Angamali diocesan Metropolitans Their Graces  Mor Athanasious Paulose Kadavil and Mor Gregorios Vayaliparambil are also situated by the side of Valiya Thirumeni's last resting place.