Bishop, priests, religious and faithful from the Diocese of Batticaloa on July 03 celebrated the diocese’s 1st anniversary in a special thanksgiving mass held at Mary’s Cathedral in Batticaloa. Hundreds of jubilant Catholic and some priests from Trinco diocese attended the event.
Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Ponniah , who became the first bishop of Batticaloa in 3 july 2012, said the anniversary coincided with the "Year of Faith" declared last October by Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. "We have a multitude of reasons to rejoice in God's goodness to us throughout this anniversary year, this year of faith," he said.

Bishop Joseph further said, “This is a significant moment in the life of the Diocese of Batticaloa. It’s an opportunity not only to look back with thanks to all those who have contributed to make the Catholic Church in Batticaloa to be where it is today.

The first bishop of the diocese, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Ponniah, described it as a “momentous” occasion. “It’s one of the most wonderful moments of the diocese,” he said. “It’s a fulfillment of a dream to see the diocese thriving as it is; my heart is overflowing with joy and thanksgiving to see the cathedral filled with people from all parts of the diocese.”

Episcopal Vicar for Trincomalee diocese also joined other congregation in congratulating Batticaloa diocese. “It’s a great joy for us to join you in the great celebration of the 1st Anniversary of this diocese. We thank God for your ministry and missions.”

May the Diocese of Batticaloa continue to grow from strength to strength.