Auxiliary Bishops of Colombo
The Archdiocese of Colombo has been blessed with dedicated shepherds who have guided the faithful with wisdom and perseverance. Each bishop has left a unique legacy in the history of the Church in Sri Lanka, strengthening the faith, fostering education, and building communities. Below is a brief account of their service and contributions.
Anthony de Saram (1962-1965)
Born in Kochchikade, Negombo, Anthony de Saram was ordained a priest in 1941. He was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Colombo in 1962 and later became the Bishop of Galle in 1965. A strong advocate for Catholic education and seminary formation, he contributed significantly to pastoral care before his passing in 1982.
Frank Marcus Fernando (1965-1968)
Born in Tamita-Negombo, Frank Marcus Fernando was ordained in 1956 and became Auxiliary Bishop in 1965. His dedication led to his appointment as Coadjutor Bishop of Chilaw in 1968, where he later became the Bishop. He retired in 2006 and passed away in 2009.
Edmund Joseph Fernando, O.M.I. (1968-1983)
A member of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, Edmund Joseph Fernando was born in Pitipana and ordained in 1949. Appointed Auxiliary Bishop in 1968, he later served as Bishop of Badulla. His work focused on evangelization and pastoral outreach until his retirement in 1997. He passed away in 2004.
Oswald Thomas Colman Gomis (1968-1995)
Appointed Auxiliary Bishop in 1968, Gomis was a historian and educator known for modernizing the Archdiocese. He later served as Archbishop of Colombo from 2002 to 2009. His contributions to Catholic education and media were instrumental in shaping the Church’s outreach efforts. He passed away in 2023.
Albert Malcolm Ranjith Patabendige Don (1991-1995)
Ordained a priest in 1975, Malcolm Ranjith was appointed Auxiliary Bishop in 1991. After serving in key Vatican roles, he became Archbishop of Colombo in 2009. His tenure has been marked by a focus on liturgical renewal, social justice, and fostering peace and reconciliation in Sri Lanka.
Vincent Marius Joseph Peiris (2000-2018)
Born in Moratuwa, Peiris was ordained in 1972 and became Auxiliary Bishop in 2000. His work in pastoral ministry and catechesis greatly impacted the faithful. He retired in 2018 and passed away in 2024.
Fidelis Lionel Emmanuel Fernando (2011-2017)
Born in Jaffna, Fernando was ordained in 1973 and became Auxiliary Bishop of Colombo in 2011. In 2017, he was appointed Bishop of Mannar, where he continued his commitment to pastoral leadership and missionary work.