The President of the CBCSL and the bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Kurunegala
Bishop Harold Anthony Perera, born on June 9, 1951, in Pamunugama, Sri Lanka, is a prominent figure in the Roman Catholic Church of Sri Lanka. He was ordained a priest on July 5, 1980, by Archbishop Nicholas Marcus Fernando at St. Lucia’s Cathedral, Kotahena. Throughout his ecclesiastical career, Bishop Perera has held several significant positions:
Notably, Bishop Perera is the first Sri Lankan bishop to serve in three dioceses.
In addition to his diocesan responsibilities, Bishop Perera has been actively involved in the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Sri Lanka (CBCSL). He has served as Chairman of various commissions, including those for Inter-religious Dialogue and Ecumenism, Finance, and Justice, Peace, and Human Development.
Bishop Perera's leadership has been instrumental in addressing significant challenges, such as the aftermath of the 2004 tsunami during his tenure in Galle, where he spearheaded reconstruction efforts.
His commitment to interfaith dialogue and social justice continues to influence the Catholic Church's role in Sri Lanka's societal development.
The Vice President of the CBCSL and the bishop of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Trincomalee
Bishop Christian Noel Emmanuel, born on December 25, 1960, in Trincomalee, Sri Lanka, is a distinguished leader in the Roman Catholic Church of Sri Lanka. Ordained as a priest on May 21, 1986, he has dedicated his life to serving the Church and its faithful.
Bishop Emmanuel served in various capacities:
On June 3, 2015, he was appointed as the Bishop of Trincomalee by Pope Francis and took canonical possession of the diocese, becoming its shepherd. His leadership has been characterized by a focus on pastoral care, interfaith harmony, and the development of local communities. As of June 2022, he serves as Vice-President of the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Sri Lanka, contributing significantly to the Church's mission in the country.
The Secretary General of the CBCSL and an auxiliary bishop of Colombo
Bishop Jayakody Aratchige Don Anthony Jayakody, born on October 2, 1958, in Pamunugama, Sri Lanka, is a prominent figure in the Roman Catholic Church of Sri Lanka.
Bishop Jayakody began his education at St. Joseph’s Roman Catholic School and Gonsalves College in Pamunugama. In 1975, he entered St. Aloysius’ Minor Seminary, followed by philosophical and theological studies at the National Seminary in Ampitiya, Kandy. He was ordained a priest on July 27, 1985, for the Archdiocese of Colombo.
Throughout his ministry, Bishop Jayakody has held various positions:
The Assistant Secretary General of the CBCSL
Father Dilan Fernando, SSS, is a prominent member of the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament in Sri Lanka. He has served as the Provincial Superior of the Province of Christ the Bread of Life, overseeing the congregation's activities and guiding its members in their mission.
In addition to his leadership within the congregation, Fr. Dilan has been actively involved in the broader ecclesiastical community. He was elected President of the Conference of Major Religious Superiors (CMRS) of Sri Lanka, succeeding Fr. Jeyaraj Rasiah, SJ.
His role in the CMRS highlights his commitment to fostering collaboration among religious communities in the country.
Fr. Dilan has also contributed to the formation and spiritual growth of religious members. He has facilitated retreats and assemblies, such as the 30th Study Chapter of the Sisters of the Holy Cross in November 2023, where he served as the facilitator.
His involvement in these events underscores his dedication to nurturing the spiritual development of religious individuals.
Furthermore, Fr. Dilan has been associated with the Catholic Bishops' Conference of Sri Lanka (CBCSL), serving as the Assistant Secretary General. In this capacity, he has played a role in coordinating and supporting the activities of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka.
Through his various roles, Fr. Dilan Fernando has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to the Eucharistic mission of the Blessed Sacrament Congregation and to the broader spiritual and organizational needs of the Catholic Church in Sri Lanka.