𝐃𝐚𝐲 𝟑 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐞𝐬: 𝐀 𝐉𝐨𝐲𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐂𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐛𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐚𝐭 𝐒𝐭. 𝐉𝐨𝐬𝐞𝐩𝐡 𝐕𝐚𝐳 𝐂𝐡𝐮𝐫𝐜𝐡, 𝐁𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐞𝐤𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐰𝐚 – 𝐀 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐭 𝐌𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐔𝐩𝐜𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐫𝐲!

This marked a significant transition in the visit, as His Excellency moved from the lowland areas to the upcountry region, where estate communities live amidst daily challenges and rich cultural traditions.

In the bustling heart of Balleketuwa, the faithful offered a warm and colorful welcome, joined by Rt. Rev. Dr. Jude N. Silva, Bishop of Badulla. A marching band led a joyful parade to the church, followed by traditional dances, lighting of the oil lamp, and vibrant expressions of hospitality.

A special feature of the event was the presence of multi-cultural and interfaith leaders, including local police officials and social figures, highlighting the spirit of unity, peace, and cooperation.

A special highlight of the visit was the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by His Excellency at the church — a lasting sign of his pastoral presence and love for the upcountry faithful.

The event also marked the 10th Anniversary of the Canonisation of St. Joseph Vaz, Sri Lanka’s first saint. To commemorate this special milestone, a cake-cutting ceremony was held, symbolizing unity, joy, and gratitude for the saint's enduring legacy among the faithful.

It was a powerful and grace-filled moment — a celebration of faith, culture, and the deep bond between the Church and her people.

More updates are coming soon as His Excellency continues his journey across the beautiful highlands of the Diocese of Badulla. Stay tuned!

- Commission for Social Communication, Diocese of Badulla

(Apr 06, 2025)