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Catholic students’ Movement The University of Colombo

Written by Colombo Beacon

As the oldest university in Sri Lanka, the University of Colombo has become a benchmark in the Colombo region catholic student’s movement.  It is not clear when, or by whom the unit was first established. But there is evidence that the unit was active in the period of the late 70’s.  After that   unfortunately the unit was not active for more than two decades. However the activities of the Colombo unit were revived around the year 2004.

From there onwards the unit has grown to the position where it stands today. The members who have been with the unit from the beginning has contributed immensely towards achieving the present situation where the CSM of the Colombo unit not  only means a gathering ground for the catholic students, but also a vital service provider to the ones in need.

There are 4 regions when considered the structure of CSM Srilanka. They are namely Colombo Region, Jaffna Region, Peradeniya Region and Batticalo Region. Each region falls under the guidance of a separate Chaplin.  The Colombo region consists with 6 different units. Which are:

  • CSM – University of Colombo
  • CSM – University of Kelaniya
  • CSM – University of Moratuwa
  • CSM – University of SriJayawaradanapura
  • CSM – Faculty of Medicine – Colombo
  • CSM – Faculty of Medicine – Ragama

The holy mass will be held at the university premises at least once a month. It has always been the culture of the Colombo unit to mark the lent with the mass on Ash Wednesday and the way of the cross which will be conducted with the help of the regional Chaplin.

During the year members of the unit take part in various religious as well as social activities. The retreat organized annually represents the break the members have from the outside world to remind them about what our Lord expects from them as students of a prestigious university in Sri Lanka.

As many Christians celebrate Christmas in a blissful manner, the unit has looked to celebrate Christmas in a more meaningful manner. The unit has always looked to give the message of love not only to the Catholics, but also to the non-Catholic students of the Colombo University. 

The Sabbath day programme is also another event which marks the presence of the Colombo unit in the region.  Although silent in most occasions the unit has never avoided the responsibilities it has towards the Colombo region. It has played a very supportive role towards all the other units all the places where possible.

The Colombo unit CSM has been the common ground for the members to share their experiences, happiness as well as grieve with others. Love and belief in our good lord has been the driving force and the motivation which has driven the members throughout the years. It has been and also hopes to be the family where the students unite in the name of Jesus

Year President Secretary 
2004 Kenneth Fernando Kalani Apsara Medagoda
2005 Hasitha Mahabaduge P. Swarna
2006 Channa Kumarage Maheshi Pieries
2007 Deric Jeewan Marie Fernando
2008 Avinesh Munasinghe Merari Jayakodi
2009 Asitha Perera Prasadika Fernando
2010 Danushka Peiris Lalithi Perera
2011 Harshana Fernando Harshi Mendis
2012 Amila Perera Pearl Lucratia
2013 Shamindra Fernandopulle Nilendri Senanayake

Our presidents and secretaries throughout the years.

  • Fascinated
  • Happy
  • Sad
  • Angry
  • Bored
  • Afraid

About the author

Colombo Beacon

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