Father Anthony Sylvester OMI
Father Anthony Sylvester OMI was born on October 17, 1969, in Urkavalthurai, Jaffna, as the eldest child of Sebastri Anthony and Anthony Rita. He was a devoted member of St. Anthony’s Parish and completed his early education at St. Anthony’s College, Urkavalthurai (1975–1987).
With a deep calling to the priesthood, he joined the Minor Seminary of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate (OMI) in 1994 and made his first religious profession in 1995. He pursued philosophy at St. Xavier’s Seminary and theology at Kandy National Seminary, later continuing his higher education in Rome.
On April 24, 2000, he made his perpetual profession, and on October 19, 2002, he was ordained as a priest at the Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu, Mannar.
Pastoral and Ministerial Journey
- 2002: Began his ministry as Assistant Parish Priest at Palaiyuttu Parish, Trincomalee.
- 2003: Served as Assistant Administrator at the Oblate Pre-Novitiate, Gnanothayam, Mannar.
- 2004–2006: Worked as Financial Administrator at Vasanta Higher Seminary (OMI).
- 2006–2009: Served as Assistant Parish Priest at St. Paul’s Church, Haputale.
- 2009–2014: Took on the roles of Director of Annai Illam, Kilinochchi, and Director of the Social Services Wing of OMI.
- 2014: Appointed Superior of Thodarpaham.
- 2015–2017: Served as Rector of the Minor Seminary of OMI.
- 2017: Became Spiritual Director at Kandy National Seminary.
- 2020: Appointed Parish Priest of the Sacred Heart Church, Iruthayapuram.
- 2021: Served at Amathiyagam.
- 2023 until his passing: Dedicated his life to prayer and contemplation at Amalautpavam.
A Life of Dedication and Grace
Father Anthony Sylvester OMI was a man of deep faith, wisdom, and humility. Gifted in multiple languages, he was an eloquent speaker and a compassionate guide to many. His unwavering commitment to his priestly mission and his ability to embrace life’s challenges with a gentle smile made him a source of inspiration. Through his words and actions, he touched countless hearts and souls.
We pray for the eternal rest of Father Anthony Sylvester OMI’s soul, cherishing his legacy of love and service