P. T. Geevarghese Panikerveettil, (later known as Archbishop Mar Ivanios), who was the Principal of MD High School at the time, Jacob pursued a vocation in the priesthood.
[citation needed] Jacob was a key figure alongside Mar Ivanios in the establishment of Bethany Ashram and later in the Catholic Communion through the Malankara Reunion Movement.
Though other Bishops backtracked from the decision of the Synod of Parumala held in 1926, Mar Theophilos endorsed it with full conviction and commitment.
His residence, a modest two-story building named Cherupushpagiri, was located where Pushpagiri Medical College now stands.
[citation needed] Jacob, due to health issues, transferred the administration of the Eparchy to Mar Severios and withdrew from active duties.