The Diocese of Jaffna is blessed with a new Bishop, as Rev. Dr. Anton Ranjith officially assumes office as the new shepherd of the Diocese.
The installation ceremony of the newly appointed Bishop was held on the 26th of August at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Jaffna.
The newly appointed Bishop was warmly welcomed at the entrance of St. Martin’s Minor Seminary by Rev. Msgr. Roberto Lucchini, Chargé d’Affaires of the Apostolic Nunciature in Sri Lanka, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, Bishops from dioceses across Sri Lanka, religious and interfaith leaders, and the faithful.
Following the welcome ceremony, Bishop Anton Ranjith proceeded to St. Mary’s Cathedral in a solemn procession, where the Eucharistic celebration was held.
During the Holy Mass, Bishop Anton Ranjith officially assumed his responsibilities as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Jaffna.
The ceremony was attended by Rev. Msgr. Roberto Lucchini, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, Bishops from across the country, religious and interfaith leaders, priests, religious men and women, political representatives, and a large gathering of the faithful.
Born in Jaffna in 1966, Bishop Anton Ranjith was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Colombo in 2000. Since then, he has served the Church in various pastoral, educational, and administrative capacities.
He pursued higher studies in theology in Rome and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from the University of Jaffna, a Diploma in Education from Colombo, and a Master’s degree in Education from the United Kingdom. He has also obtained postgraduate qualifications from the University of Jaffna.
On the 13th of July 2020, Pope Francis appointed him Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Colombo, and he was ordained a Bishop on the 29th of August that same year.
Later, on the 19th of August 2024, he was appointed Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Batticaloa, a ministry in which he continues to serve.
With his official assumption of office as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Jaffna, Bishop Anton Ranjith begins a new chapter in the spiritual and social mission of the Diocese, bringing with him extensive experience in pastoral, educational, and administrative service.
