Pastor John completed his schooling at the Government High School, Thalavady and his graduate degree at U. C. College, Alwaye, with Physics and Mathematics as majors.
All Poonuthura family have a "Kalari" in Thalavady which is believed to be the Temporary seat for "Lord Ayaappa" of Anaprampal during the renovation of the temple.
Bishop Thomas K. Oommen was born on November 29, 1953 to an agrarian family at Thalavady in Alappuzha district.