The Archdiocesan Pastoral Convention was held on the 18th and 19th of July 2025 at the Archbishop’s House Auditorium under the patronage of His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, Archbishop of Colombo. Lay delegates from all parishes within the archdiocese, representatives of religious communities, and special invitees were present at the assembly.

The aim of the convention was to explore pathways for implementing synodal guidelines within the archdiocese, under the general theme “The Heart of Synodality.” The keynote address was delivered by His Eminence Mario Cardinal Grech, Secretary General of the Synod of Bishops in Rome.

Twelve presentations were delivered by designated clergy and lay faithful on key themes related to various aspects of Church life. These included the training of lay leaders, parish visitations, formation of youth in schools, Basic Christian Communities (BCC), the shared mission of clergy, religious, and laity, adult catechesis, Bible circles, social justice, evangelization through mass communication, the family apostolate and youth ministry, synodal formation, and decision-making at both parish and diocesan levels.

The presentations, spread over the two days of the convention, were followed by interventions and discussions, culminating in the compilation of a final document that was unanimously approved by the delegates.

A special highlight of the convention was the concelebrated Holy Mass on the morning of the second day, presided over by His Eminence Cardinal Mario Grech. The liturgy offered additional spiritual insight into synodality as the way forward for the Universal Church.

Photography: T Sunil Fernando