EDUCATION

SCHOOL CHAPLAINCY: HOLY CROSS COLLEGE & LISIEUX CONVENT

GAMPAHA

The Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) are deeply committed to the spiritual, emotional, and psychological well-being of young people. As part of our Children & Youth Ministry, the Oblates provide dedicated service as Chaplains, Counselors, and Spiritual Animators to the vibrant communities of Holy Cross College and the adjoining Lisieux Convent in Gampaha.

This ministry is a beautiful collaboration with the Apostolic Carmel (AC) Sisters and the dedicated school staff, ensuring that students and educators alike have a steadfast source of spiritual nourishment and compassionate guidance.

Ministry at Lisieux Convent

The Oblate chaplaincy at the convent is rooted in daily sacramental life and spiritual accompaniment for the Sisters, novices, and the wider school community.

  • Daily Liturgy: Every school day begins with the celebration of the Holy Mass at 6:00 am, welcoming the AC Sisters, novices, students, and teachers.

  • A Ministry of Presence: Following Mass, the chaplain remains present in the chapel for morning prayer, providing a welcoming environment for the large number of students and teachers who come to pray before the school day begins.

  • Spiritual Direction: The chaplain is consistently available for confessions and spiritual direction. Additionally, a special evening is dedicated once a month exclusively for the spiritual direction and sacramental needs of the Sisters of Lisieux Convent.

Counseling and Spiritual Animation at Holy Cross College

Within Holy Cross College, the Oblate fathers take on the vital roles of Counselor and Spiritual Animator, guiding the student body through their formative years.

  • Whole-School Liturgies: On the first Friday of every month, an inspiring outdoor Holy Mass is celebrated on the playground for the entire school. This massive gathering brings together approximately 3,500 students and teachers—including those of other faiths—fostering a profound sense of unity and shared blessing.

  • Class-Led Worship: On the remaining Fridays of the month, a more intimate Mass is held in the Convent Chapel at 7:30 am. Organized and conducted by individual classes, these liturgies gather around 350 students at a time, allowing them to take an active role in their faith formation.

  • Dedicated Pastoral Counseling: To ensure every student has access to emotional and psychological support, the Oblate counselor maintains a structured weekly schedule, visiting the Primary School on Monday mornings and the Upper School on Wednesday mornings.

  • Crisis and Staff Support: Beyond scheduled visits, the chaplain remains openly available during all school hours to tend to the urgent needs of both students and teachers. The chaplain also actively collaborates with the school staff to oversee the spiritual dimensions of all major college functions.