The annual feast of the historic St. Cross Church Kirimundalama, part of the Kalpitiya Island cluster, was celebrated with great devotion and festivity on Sunday, September 28, 2025.
The island is located within the Dutch Bay Grama Niladhari Division and under the Kalpitiya Divisional secretariat, home to nearly 150 families who make their living from the sea.
With a history of over 215 years, the island drew devotees from neighboring islands, who arrived in their fishing boats to take part in the celebration.
The festive Mass commenced at 8.00 a.m., presided over by Rev. Fr. Michael Fernando, Priest of the church of Mampuri, together with Rev. Fr. Antony Niroshan, the Priest of the church Kalpitiya.
Following the offering of ‘Paduru’ (traditional gifts) and ‘Sath Prasada Danaya’ (offering of seven blessings) the statue of the Holy Cross was carried in a grand procession around the island, blessing the community.
Thousands of Catholic devotees from the island villages participated in the event, adding to the spiritual and cultural vibrancy of the occasion.
By Padma Kumari Kankanamge - Kalpitiya
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