The Archdiocese of Colombo joyfully celebrated the Sacerdotal Ordination of four deacons to the Sacred Priesthood on 25 July 2026 at St. Lucia's Cathedral, Kotahena. The solemn Eucharistic celebration was presided over by His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, Archbishop of Colombo, together with the Auxiliary Bishops, priests, religious and a large gathering of the faithful.
Responding generously to Christ's call, the newly ordained priests are:
Rev. Fr. Lasal Priyankara – Kattuwa, Negombo
Rev. Fr. Shalanka Madushan Perera – Dalugama
Rev. Fr. Asitha Sriyantha Lakmal – Wewala
Rev. Fr. Shehan Dilruk Senavirathne – Kirimatiyagara
The celebration was inspired by the words of Christ: "You did not choose me, but I chose you." John 15:16
The Archdiocese gives thanks to God for the gift of these new priests and prays that they may faithfully serve God's people with humility, holiness, and pastoral charity throughout their priestly ministry.
Following the ordination, the Archbishop announced the first pastoral appointments of the newly ordained priests as part of the Priestly Appointments 2026, entrusting them with their initial ministries in service of the faithful. Details of all priestly appointments for 2026 are available below.
Read the complete list of appointments: