EDUCATION

HOSPITAL CHAPLAINCY

"Are any among you suffering? They should pray. Are any cheerful? They should sing songs of praise. Are any among you sick? They should call for the elders of the Church and have them pray over them, anointing them with oil in the name of the Lord. The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up; and anyone who has committed sins will be forgiven."

— James 5:13-15

The Hospital Chaplaincy is a profound continuation of the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Participating in the very process of healing that the Lord commissioned to His disciples, the Oblates are dedicated to bringing spiritual comfort, grace, and dignity to those who are suffering.

Our Active Ministry

Currently, a dedicated team of Oblate priests—including Rev. Fr. Jude Roshan, OMI, Rev. Fr. Gihan Senadeera, OMI, and Rev. Fr. Charuka Namal, OMI—visits eight government hospitals in and around the vicinity of Colombo to cater to the spiritual needs of the sick.

Within the hospital wards, these chaplains provide vital pastoral care through:

  • The Sacraments: Administering the Sacrament of Reconciliation, the Anointing of the Sick, and providing the Viaticum for those nearing the end of their earthly journey.

  • Empathetic Listening: Providing a compassionate, non-judgmental space for patients to share their fears, stories, and hopes.

The Ministry of Presence

An indispensable cornerstone of the Hospital Chaplaincy is the "ministry of presence"—being steadfastly available and walking alongside patients in their moments of greatest vulnerability and need.

Witnessing the continuous suffering of patients day in and day out can be emotionally taxing. However, the chaplains draw immense inspiration, strength, and encouragement from the daily celebration of the Holy Eucharist at the hospital chapel dedicated to St. Peter. Empowered by God’s abundant blessings, the Oblates step out of this chapel each day spiritually renewed, ready to care for the needs of the patients and bring the light of Christ to the darkest of hospital corridors.

Mass & Confession Times

Please note: Particularly outside of university term times, it is advisable to get in touch with the Chaplain beforehand to confirm the schedule.

  • Sunday Mass: Benediction followed by Holy Mass at 4:15 PM

  • Weekday Mass: Benediction followed by Holy Mass at 5:15 PM

  • Confession: Sunday and Wednesday evenings