(Colombo, Sri Lanka) The Priestly Ordination of Ranmal Fernando took place on the same day as we celebrated the Feast of Our Mother of Perpetual Help on Wednesday, June 27, at the Redemptorist Parish of St. Theresa, Colombo. Bishop Maxwell Silva, an Auxiliary Bishop from the Archdiocese of Colombo, who was the main celebrant and ordained Fr. Ranmal. The Bishop celebrated the Holy Mass in the local Sinhala language and was assisted at the altar by Fr. Shiran Fonseka (Regional Superior), Fr. Chandana Perera (Vicar and Parish Priest of St Theresa’s) and Fr. Rohan Perera (Superior of Sancta Maria community – where Ranmal had been serving as a Deacon). Many of the Region’s seminarians were also present, and many actively helped out in the ceremony.
It was a joyful moment when our brother was ordained to the priesthood in the presence of family, loved ones, and friends. There were thirteen confreres present, including Edmond Nixon (Provincial – Oceania) during the ordination of Fr. Ranmal. It was indeed a blessed occasion for the Region. Fr. Ranmal is the first Sri Lankan Redemptorist to complete all his major formation stages in the Philippines, his Novitiate at Lipa, followed by his theological studies at SATMI – Davao.
Fr. Shiran, the Regional Superior described the ordination as a “memorable and grace-filled occasion; a testament to the faith, commitment, and sacrifice of Fr. Ranmal, his family and all who have accompanied Fr. Ranmal on his journey to priesthood.”
Fr. Shiran also acknowledged the presence of Fr. Edmond Nixon the Provincial Superior of the Province of Oceania with whom the Redemptorists in Sri Lanka are affiliated.Fr. Shiran said, “Fr. Edmond always shows great care and concern for us his brothers in Sri Lanka and he is ever ready to generously support and encourage us in our life and mission.”
Fr. Ranmal will celebrate Thanksgiving Mass in his home parish at St Joseph’s Church, Wennapuwa on Sunday 1st July. We wish God’s abundant blessings on all his ministry as he continues to Serve God and humanity as a Redemptorist.
David J. Hore, C.Ss.R.
