The National Seminary joyfully celebrated the Feast of St. Joseph Vaz, the Apostle of Sri Lanka, on the 17th and 18th of January, in union with the faithful of neighbouring parishcommunities, at the Diocesan Shrine of St. Joseph Vaz, Ampitiya.
The celebrations commenced on the evening of 17th January with the solemn Vespers Service, which was prayerfully presided over by Very Rev. Fr. Quintus Fernando, Rector of the National Seminary. The Vespers invited the faithful to reflect on the life, mission, and heroic witness of St. Joseph Vaz, whose tireless pastoral zeal continues to inspire the Church in Sri Lanka.
The feast reached its spiritual climax on Sunday, 18th January with the Festive Holy Mass, graciously presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Valence Mendis, the Bishop of Kandy. In his homily, the Bishop highlighted the missionary spirit, deep faith, and sacrificial love of St. Joseph Vaz, encouraging the faithful and seminarians alike to imitate his commitment to Christ and the Church.
The celebration was marked by deep devotion, active participation of the seminary community and parishioners in a true spirit of unity and thanksgiving. Through this feast, the faithful renewed their dedication to live the Gospel courageously, following the example of St. Joseph Vaz, who remains a guiding light for the Church in Sri Lanka.
