Bishop Jayakody Aratchige Don Anthony Jayakody
Auxiliary Bishop of Colombo, Sri Lanka
Titular Bishop of Mulli
Bishop Jayakody Aratchige Don Anton Jayakody was born on 2 October 1958 in Pamunugama, Sri Lanka. He pursued theological studies in Rome, earning a Baccalaureate in Theology (B.Th.) and a Licentiate in Philosophy (L.Ph.). His deep commitment to the Church and academic formation has played a crucial role in his ministry as a priest and bishop.
Priestly Ministry
Ordained as a priest for the Archdiocese of Colombo on 27 July 1985, Bishop Anthony Jayakody began his ministry as Parish Priest of Wewala Parish. In 1987, he was assigned to Daham Sevana and later served as Parish Priest of Pannipitiya Parish in 1990.
In 1991, he traveled to Rome for further studies, deepening his knowledge in theology and philosophy. Upon his return, he joined the National Seminary in 1993 and took on pastoral responsibilities as Parish Priest of Halpe Parish in 1995 and Welivita Parish in 1996.
Service in Priesthood Formation
Recognized for his commitment to priestly formation, Bishop Anthony Jayakody returned to the National Seminary in 1998 and was appointed Director of the Philosophate in 2003. His leadership in theological education led to his appointment as Rector of the National Seminary in 2005. He continued serving as Vocations Director in 2011 and later as Rector of Joseph Vaz Seminary in 2016, guiding young men discerning the priesthood.
Episcopal Ministry
On 4 April 2018, Pope Francis appointed him as Auxiliary Bishop of Colombo and Titular Bishop of Mulli. His episcopal ordination took place on 23 June 2018 at St. Lucia’s Cathedral, Colombo, with Albert Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith as the principal consecrator.
Contributions and Legacy
As Auxiliary Bishop of Colombo, Bishop Anthony Jayakody has continued his lifelong dedication to pastoral ministry, priestly formation, and theological education. His leadership in seminary formation has shaped countless priests who serve the Church in Sri Lanka today. His commitment to spiritual development and priestly vocations ensures the continuity of faith and leadership within the Archdiocese of Colombo and beyond.