On 31st August, the Archdiocese of Colombo solemnly celebrated the Annual Sick Day Blessing at the Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka, Tewatta. The sacred grounds of the Basilica were filled with thousands of faithful, who came in faith and hope to seek the Lord’s healing grace and the maternal intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

This year’s celebration was graced by the presence of His Eminence Arthur Cardinal Roche, Prefect of the Dicastery for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, who presided over the solemn liturgy. He was joined by His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, Archbishop of Colombo, together with the Auxiliary Bishops and clergy of the Archdiocese.

The theme chosen for the day, “Help us to become Synodal, O Mother of God,” reflected the Church’s ongoing journey of communion, participation, and mission. The faithful prayed fervently for healing of body and soul, and for the grace to walk together as a united Church under the loving protection of Our Lady of Lanka.

The Sick Day Blessing at Tewatta continues to be a profound moment of faith and consolation, drawing the sick, the elderly, and their families from across the country to experience the mercy of Christ and the comfort of Mary’s maternal care.