On November 10, 2026, the Oblate family, alongside the local community, gathered at Subaseth Gedara in Buttala to solemnly commemorate the 39th anniversary of the martyrdom of Rev. Fr. Michael Rodrigo, OMI. The day was a profound tribute to a visionary priest whose life was a radical testament to social justice, inter-religious dialogue, and unwavering faith.
The Eucharistic Celebration The commemorative Holy Mass was uniquely presided over by three newly ordained Oblate priests: Rev. Fr. Akila Janith, OMI, and Rev. Fr. Gayan Pradeep, OMI, together with Rev. Fr. Srinath Thilina, OMI, who was ordained earlier this year in February. The sacred liturgy was beautifully animated by the harmonious singing of the Sacred Heart Novitiate community.
In a deeply moving homily, Fr. Akila Janith reflected on the spiritual foundation of Fr. Michael’s mission. He emphasized that Fr. Michael’s act of ultimate self-sacrifice was not merely a work of social justice, but a profound expression of his deep-rooted Christian faith.
Words of Encouragement and Support The occasion was graced by His Lordship, Rt. Rev. Dr. Jude Nishantha, the Bishop of Badulla. Addressing the gathering, the Bishop shared uplifting news, stating that the cause for Fr. Michael’s sainthood is well-supported by the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Sri Lanka (CBCSL) and that he is personally convinced of the cause. Echoing Fr. Akila’s homily, Bishop Jude stressed that what truly matters is not just the martyrdom itself, but the deep faith and conviction that drew Fr. Michael to that point. He challenged those present to let their lives be a witness to society without ever losing the identity of their Christian vocation.
The event also marked a significant milestone as it was the first official visit of the newly appointed Provincial Superior, Very Rev. Fr. Dilan Perera, OMI, to Subaseth Gedara.
Tributes, Rituals, and Ongoing Mission Reflecting Fr. Michael’s lifelong commitment to inter-religious harmony, the post-Mass felicitation program included traditional Buddhist rituals performed to pay tribute to his memory.
Rev. Fr. Rohan delivered the memorial oration, recalling the powerful words of Fr. Michael: “When the time comes, we should be ready to sacrifice ourselves to the people of God.” Fr. Rohan noted that Fr. Michael lived this reality every day of his life.
The gathering also featured moving testimonies from local children who shared their life experiences regarding the inter-religious dialogue projects currently carried out by Subaseth Gedara in collaboration with CSR. Today, the Subaseth Gedara community continues Fr. Michael’s legacy by serving immensely in the education and upliftment of children and youth in the surrounding areas.
The commemoration was attended by a diverse and united crowd, including villagers, government officials, visiting well-wishers, the relatives of Fr. Michael, Reverend Sisters, Brothers, and the Oblate Fathers.
About Fr. Michael Rodrigo, OMI: A Prophetic Witness
Rev. Fr. Michael Paul Rodrigo, OMI, born on June 30, 1927, and ordained on July 7, 1954, was a Sri Lankan Catholic priest widely remembered for his radical commitment to the poor, ecological awareness, and inter-religious dialogue. Despite holding doctorates in Philosophy and Theology, he chose the margins over an academic career.
In the 1980s, he established his ministry at Suba Seth Gedara (“House of Good Wishes”) in the predominantly Buddhist rural village of Buttala. Immersing himself in the local culture, he and his companions adopted local attire (the sarong and banyan) to truly identify with the people. He organized adult literacy programs, health clinics, and agricultural initiatives while building a deep, respectful dialogue with Buddhist monks and laypeople. He famously remarked, “I am Christian by faith, but Buddhist by culture.”
Deeply inspired by liberation theology, Fr. Michael constantly asked, “Why are people poor?” He believed that the Church must be present where voices are often forgotten. Despite facing severe threats urging him to abandon the village, he remained steadfast, writing: “Why should we fear death? Fleeing from a crisis is not bearing witness. We must live with the people and never abandon them.”
On November 10, 1987, while celebrating Holy Mass at Subaseth Gedara, Father Michael was brutally assassinated. His life and martyrdom remain a powerful testament to selfless service, spiritual courage, and unwavering solidarity with the oppressed. As he once noted, the cross is not a decoration but a symbol of sacrifice: “Jesus was the first to be nailed to it. When the time comes, we too must be ready to die for our brothers and sisters.”
