Annual feast of St. Anthony’s Church in Kachchativu concludes with participation of limited devotees

The annual feast of St. Anthony’s Church in Kachchativu concluded with the participation of a limited number of devotees today (12th March 2022). The historic St. Anthony's Church in Kachchativu is located near the Indo – Sri Lanka maritime boundary line and is revered by Catholics with great devotion. As it has been the practice, Sri Lanka Navy rendered assistance for the successful conduct of the festival this year as well.

The main mass of the church feast, held in accordance with COVID-19 protocols, was conducted by the Vicar General of the Jaffna Diocese Very Rev. Fr. Joseph Jebarathnam. A limited number of devotees from Sri Lanka and India as well as a group of reverent fathers and priestesses attended this spiritual event.

Following the directives and guidance of Commander of the Navy, Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne, the Northern Naval Command ensured facilitation of the annual feast, under the supervision of Commander Northern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Priyantha Perera. As such, the Northern Naval Command worked in coordination with the Jaffna District Secretariat to provide food and drink, sanitary facilities, put up temporary roads and jetties, make available electricity and deployed lifesaving teams and medical teams for the safety and convenience of devotees.

Political representatives of the locality, retired senior naval officers, Commander Northern Naval Area, senior officers of the Tri-Forces and the Police, officials of government agencies and representatives of the Indian High Commission in Sri Lanka were also present on this occasion.