Kachchativu feast draws curtains and Navy lauded for impeccable service

The annual feast of the historic St. Anthony’s Church in Kachchativu was celebrated on a high note on 27 and 28 Feb 26, drawing a vast number of devotees from both Sri Lanka and India. Bringing the event to a successful end, the Sri Lanka Navy earned widespread acclaim for its instrumental role in the proceedings.

The Main Mass was conducted by the Vicar General of the Jaffna Diocese, Very Revd. Fr. P.J. Jebaratnam. He was joined by several distinguished clergy members, including: Rt. Revd. Msgr. Arul Joseph, Vicar General of the Sivagangai Diocese, India; Revd. Fr. Sampath from the Colombo Arch Diocese; Revd. Fr. Thomas Paribalan, Parish Priest of Rameswaram, India and Revd. Fr. Anton Amaladas, Parish Priest of Delft. Spearheaded by Jaffna District Secretary Mr. Maruthalingam Piratheepan, the event was propelled to success by the full spectrum of expertise, resources, and community spirit of the Sri Lanka Navy.

The final service was attended by a distinguished gathering, including the Minister of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Hon. Ramalingam Chandrasekar, the Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Kanchana Banagoda, President of the Navy Seva Vanitha Unit, Mrs. Anusha Banagoda and the Indian Consul General in Jaffna. In a moment of high praise before 13,600 devotees, Very Revd. Fr. P.J. Jebaratnam spotlighted the Sri Lanka Navy’s praiseworthy contribution, underscoring their strength and service for the festival’s spectacular success.

Steered by the Ministry of Defence and under the directives of the Navy Commander, the Northern Naval Command orchestrated the logistical framework for the event. In a seamless partnership with the Jaffna District Secretariat and the Delft Divisional Secretariat, the Navy delivered an extensive support network that ensured the well-being and security of all pilgrims. This included providing vital amenities, safeguarding lives through water safety measures, establishing comprehensive sanitary and medical facilities, and deploying communication systems.

Speaking to local and international media at the conclusion of the feast, the Commander of the Navy remarked that this culturally significant event, which draws devotees from both India and Sri Lanka was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Navy, the Jaffna Diocese, the District Secretariat, government institutions and the Police.

The Navy Commander further emphasized the collective responsibility of protecting maritime resources and biodiversity for future generations. He noted that respecting international and state laws is essential for every individual. He also took the opportunity to appreciate the Indian Navy and the Indian Coast Guard for their constant cooperation in maintaining regional maritime security and stability. Concluding his remarks, the Navy Chief highlighted the vital role of environmentalists, educators, and journalists in raising awareness about marine conservation. He extended gratitude to the members of the media for their accurate and professional coverage of this significant religious event.