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ST. EUGENE DE MAZENOD “QUASI” PARISH

POTHANEGAMA

The Church of St. Eugene de Mazenod at Pothanegama, within the Diocese of Anuradhapura, occupies a highly significant position. Situated along the main Puttalam-Anuradhapura Road, this sacred space stands right at the gateway to the historic, sacred city of Anuradhapura.

A Symbol of Dedicated Service

At the time of its construction, this church structure held the unique distinction of being the very first in Sri Lanka to be dedicated to the Oblate founder, Saint Eugene de Mazenod. Today, the church building stands as a powerful symbol of the long-standing, collaborative, and deeply dedicated service rendered to the local Catholic community by both the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate and the diocesan clergy of Anuradhapura.

Missionary Vision and Community Outreach

Over the years, successive Oblate fathers, brothers, and pastoral animators have guided the Catholic families scattered across the surrounding villages. Faithful to the core Oblate charism, their mission centers on a deep closeness to the people, characterized by:

  • Sacramental Care: Cultivating a vibrant faith life through regular Eucharistic celebrations and liturgical services.

  • Holistic Education: Nurturing the next generation by actively promoting the education of local children and introducing new skill-development programs.

  • Interfaith Solidarity: Reaching out beyond the boundaries of the Catholic flock to engage with people of other faiths, working hand-in-hand to respond to the community's immediate human needs.

  • Environmental Improvement: Giving continuous facelifts to the physical structures and the surrounding environment of the church grounds, creating a welcoming oasis of peace for travelers and locals alike.

The Parish Today

The "Quasi" Parish of Pothanegama is a compact yet highly active faith community, home to 68 registered Catholic families and a thriving Sunday School attended by approximately 60 children.

Reflecting the versatile nature of Oblate ministries, the pastoral work here extends far beyond the parish boundaries. The resident priest oversees a multi-faceted apostolate that actively serves the wider diocese through:

  • The La.Kri.Vī. children's movement.

  • Dedicated Hospital Chaplaincy services.

  • A compassionate Prison Apostolate to the incarcerated.

  • Direct involvement in regional education, with the priest also serving concurrently as the Vice-Rector of Mazenod College, Anuradhapura.

ST. EUGENE DE MAZENOD “QUASI” PARISH - POTHANEGAMA