History of St.Anthony's Church

St. Anthony of Padua

St. Anthony is a world known saint of God and sought by many without any racial or religious differences. Sri Lanka being a small country consists many catholic churches dedicated to the saint, St. Anthony of Padua. The Anthony’s church constructed at Kochichikadai, Colombo is known by all the Catholics in Sri Lanka. Then Pope John Paul II, during his visit to Sri Lanka, apart from the Cathedral of Colombo, the Arch diocese, Kochichikadai St. Anthony’s church was the other church that he visited. So much the saint is loved by all. Thus Pottuvil St. Anthony’s church is also known by many of the diocese of Trincomalee Batticaloa as well as other part of the country. Pottuvil St. Anthony’s church is one of the oldest churches in Sri Lanka. The history of the Church at Pottuvil goes back to 1910 A.D.

Pottuvil is a developing village situated in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka. It is a border village in the southern part of the Province. The world famous beach of Arugambay and the Ulla sea coast bring many tourists to Pottuvil as these two tourist spots are situated near the village. The officials of the British Government, which ruled the country up to our independence in the year 1948, choose Arugambay as their resting place because of beautiful sea beaches around the area.

First Catholic Church in Pottuvil

The regular monthly Eucharist celebrated at houses and Rest House led the Catholic Community, in Pottuvil to feel the need for a church. And with the help of the Diocesan Bishop the foundation stone was laid on 15, September 1941. Since the Priest in Charge, Fr. Lambert was unable to be present for the event, Mr. S. Francis, the clerk, headed the event. The Catholics’ continued effort and hard labour made their dream come true.


More>>> Read/Download