Religious Congregations

History and Origins:

A monastic order with roots in the ancient Benedictine tradition, the Sylvestro-Benedictine Fathers prioritize prayer, work, and study. Active in Sri Lanka for over a century, their mission emphasizes pastoral care, education, and monastic spirituality.

Key Contributions:

• Education: They manage notable institutions like St. Anthony’s College in Kandy, a premier boys’ school known for academic and extracurricular excellence.
• Rural Pastoral Work: Their ministry extends to remote areas, where they serve underprivileged communities, offering spiritual guidance and support.
• Promotion of Monastic Values: Through their work, the Fathers inspire individuals to live a balanced life rooted in contemplation and action.

History and Origins:

Founded in 1868 in India by Mother Veronica of the Passion, the Apostolic Carmel Sisters arrived in Sri Lanka to address the need for quality Catholic education, especially for girls.

Key Contributions:

• Education: They manage several schools, including St. Mary’s College in Trincomalee, which provides students with a robust academic foundation and spiritual formation.
• Women Empowerment: Through their schools, they focus on empowering young women to become leaders and agents of positive change.
• Community Outreach: The Sisters also engage in vocational training and community programs aimed at uplifting disadvantaged women and children.

Legacy:

The Apostolic Carmel Sisters are revered for their dedication to nurturing both the intellectual and moral development of their students.

History and Origins:

Founded in the 17th century by Saint John Baptist de La Salle in France, the De La Salle Brothers are dedicated to Christian education, particularly for the poor. Their mission in Sri Lanka began in the 19th century, and they have since become a cornerstone of the country’s Catholic educational framework.

Key Contributions:

• Education: They manage several prestigious institutions, including St. Benedict’s College in Colombo, which focuses on values-based education.
• Inclusivity: Their schools are known for welcoming students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds, fostering unity and equality.
• Teacher Training: The Brothers also contribute to the professional development of educators, ensuring high standards in teaching.

Legacy:

The De La Salle Brothers have left an indelible mark on Sri Lanka’s education system, producing generations of well-rounded individuals.

History and Origins:

Founded in France in 1835 by Saint Mary Euphrasia Pelletier, the Good Shepherd Sisters are known worldwide for their commitment to social work, particularly for women and children. They began their mission in Sri Lanka to address pressing social issues, including poverty and domestic violence.

Key Contributions:

• Social Services: They run shelters for abused women, homes for abandoned children, and counseling centers that provide emotional and psychological support.
• Education: They manage several schools, emphasizing holistic education and moral development.
• Vocational Training: The Sisters equip marginalized women with skills such as sewing, cooking, and computer literacy to help them achieve financial independence.

Legacy:

Their unwavering commitment to serving the most vulnerable has made the Good Shepherd Sisters a beacon of hope in Sri Lanka.

History and Origins:

Founded in 1877 by Blessed Mary of the Passion, the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary are devoted to healthcare, education, and social outreach.

Key Contributions:

• Healthcare: They operate clinics and hospitals in underserved areas, offering medical care to those who cannot afford it.
• Community Outreach: Their programs include literacy classes, nutrition programs, and support for families in poverty.
• Pastoral Ministry: The Sisters work closely with parishes to assist in catechetical programs and spiritual guidance.

Legacy:

Their work in Sri Lanka reflects their charism of universal love and service to the marginalized.