Nearly 300 Sri Lankan Catholics from across NSW, including the Diocese of Parramatta, came together for a highly anticipated Annual Christmas gathering called ‘The Star That Found Christmas’, hosted by the Sri Lankan NSW Catholic Association (SLNSWCA).
A community celebration. Image: supplied/Roy Grafix.
Held on 7 December 2025 at Our Lady of Czestochowa Church and Hall in Marayong, the celebration was a joyful expression of faith, culture and fellowship, uniting families, friends and guests in a warm and prayerful Christmas atmosphere.
The Diocese of Parramatta has the highest number of Sri Lankan Catholics in NSW, with over 2,600 Sri Lankan-born Catholics from across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains, followed closely by Sydney.
The Diocese of Parramatta has the largest number of Sri Lankan Catholics in NSW. Image: supplied/Roy Grafix.
In his homily, Sri Lankan Chaplain Fr Treesen Silva highlighted how John the Baptist not only called others to repentance but also prepared himself for the coming of Christ through a life of penance, humility and simplicity.
“I invite you to thank the Lord for the many blessings received throughout the year, especially for His protection, guidance and constant love,” Fr Treesen said.
“I would like to encourage you all to cultivate gratitude as you continue your Advent journey.”
Fr Treesen also reminded the faithful that Advent is a time of repentance and spiritual renewal.
Image: supplied/Roy Grafix.
“During this Advent season, prepare to receive Christ into your hearts,” he said.
A joyous Nativity play followed Mass, which has been a centrepiece of SLNSWCA’s annual celebration for the last 15 years.
“The Nativity Play is a cherished tradition in Sri Lankan Christmas celebrations, especially involving children and families,” Fr Treesen shared.
Community reflections
One of the organisation’s most senior members, Claude Perera further added, “The Christmas Mass and Nativity play by the kids has been a popular event since the inception of the Association.
“This lets the younger (children) members gain an understanding of the spiritual values of Christmas. The camaraderie that builds between young parents during rehearsals and the event is of great value to make a viable ethnic congregation.
Claude said the SLNSWCA’s committee has had an influx of young parents who originally only took part in the event.
“Now they are part of the production team.”
SLNSWCA President Fidel Moldrich said the Christmas Mass and celebration are always particularly meaningful for our community as it’s the most significant event of the Association’s Calendar.
“Despite the recent devastating floods in Sri Lanka, we held this event to honour the birth of Christ our saviour reaffirming hope & faith amidst adversity,” he said.
“We also took this opportunity to advise the community the support we have provided & will be providing our mother land during these challenging times & emphasising the need for solidarity.”
Music, food and cultural performances
Traditional Christmas Carols were performed by the SLNSWCA and Guildford Tongan choirs, with hymns in both English and Sinhala – reflecting the community’s rich cultural identity.
Choir performances. Image: supplied/Diocese of Parramatta.
“The inclusion of music adds to the festive atmosphere and reflects the lively and communal nature of Sri Lankan Christmas celebrations where faith, culture and community are deeply intertwined,” Fr Treesen said.
With a sumptuous Sri Lankan inspired buffet dinner served by Flavour of Ceylon, a restaurant in Pennant Hills owned by Aquinas Fernando, a Catholic Sri Lankan, guests enjoyed traditional Sri Lankan savoury rice and noodles, various Sri Lankan Curries (fish, eggplant and Cadju), devilled beef, salads, fruits and Pappadam – in addition to traditional Christmas Ham.
Santa Claus also appeared, delighting the youngest members of the community and adding to the joyful spirit of the occasion.
Image: supplied/Roy Grafix.
Fr Treesen thanked the SLNSW Catholic Association for its care and support.
“What has meant the most to me is the genuine sense of brotherly affection shown by the members – not only in practical support, but also in encouragement, understanding, and companionship.”
As the year draws to a close, the Annual Christmas Mass and Celebration once again served as a reminder of the community’s unity, faith, and commitment to fellowship. The SLNSWCA looks forward to continuing this tradition in the years to come.
This celebration reflects the Diocesan Pastoral Plan priority of Community and our call to be an inclusive and welcoming Church, as well as one renewed in spirit and prayer. Visit Synodality to learn more.
