The Archdiocese of Colombo is the Metropolitan See of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka, serving as the spiritual, pastoral, and administrative center of the faithful in the region. With a rich history spanning over centuries, the Archdiocese stands as a beacon of faith, evangelization, and service to the people of Sri Lanka.
History
The Archdiocese of Colombo traces its origins to the Diocese of Ceylon, established in 1834, later renamed the Diocese of Colombo in 1845 and elevated to an Archdiocese in 1886. Initially led by missionaries, it was entrusted to the Oblates of Mary Immaculate before transitioning to local clergy. Cardinal Thomas Cooray (1947–1976) was the first Sri Lankan Archbishop. His successors include Archbishops Oswald Gomis (2002–2009) and Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith (2009–present), Sri Lanka’s second Cardinal (2010).
Read More...Diocesan Administration
The Diocesan Administration of the Archdiocese of Colombo is responsible for the pastoral, spiritual, and administrative leadership of the local Church. Under the guidance of His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, alongside the Auxiliary Bishops and Episcopal Vicars, it ensures the effective governance of parishes, institutions, and apostolates.
With a commitment to fostering unity, faith, and service, the administration oversees clergy assignments, pastoral programs, liturgical functions, and the management of diocesan resources. It also provides direction for evangelization, catechesis, social outreach, and the promotion of Catholic values in education and society. Rooted in the mission of the Church, the administration works to strengthen the faith community and uphold the teachings of Christ in every aspect of diocesan life.
Read More...Geography of the Archdiocese of Colombo
The Archdiocese of Colombo is located in the Western Province of Sri Lanka, covering most of its territory, including the districts of Colombo, Gampaha, and Kalutara. It is bordered by the Diocese of Chilaw to the North, the Diocese of Ratnapura to the East, and the Diocese of Galle to the South.
The Archdiocese spans an area of 3,684 square kilometers (1,422 square miles) and has a total population of 6,224,540 people, of whom 693,483 are Catholics.
The Cathedral of St. Lucy in Colombo serves as the main church of the Archdiocese, while the Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka in Tewatta is a prominent Marian shrine.
Administrative Divisions
The Archdiocese is divided into Regions and Deaneries for pastoral administration:
Negombo Region Negombo Deanery, Katana Deanery, Negombo East Deanery
Ja-Ela Region Tudella Deanery, Pamunugama Deanery, Ragama Deanery, Wattala Deanery, Kandana Deanery
Colombo Region Colombo North Deanery, Colombo Centre Deanery, Colombo South Deanery, Kotte Deanery, Moratuwa Deanery
Missionary Region Kalutara Deanery, Gampaha Deanery, Gurubewila Deanery
The Archdiocese's geographical diversity includes coastal areas, urban centers, and rural missionary regions, making it a vibrant center for Catholic faith and mission in Sri Lanka.