Patrick’s College, Jaffna, launched its 175th anniversary celebrations with a grand event on March 14th, led by Rev. Fr. Thirumagan, the Rector of the college.
The celebrations began with the hoisting of the college flag, flower offerings at the statue of St. Patrick, and a unique tribute where the college flag was flown via drone.
A vibrant procession followed, traveling through key streets of Jaffna, including St. Patrick’s Road, Bastian Junction, Hospital Road, and Clock Tower Road. The procession culminated at the Jaffna Public Library, where a floral tribute was made at the statue of Rev. Fr. Long, with another drone-delivered tribute. Rev. Fr. Louis Ponnaiya, senior priest of the OMI congregation, garlanded the statue.
The procession also paid homage at the statue of Tamil scholar Thaninayagam at Madathady Junction before returning to the college.
Cultural performances, including the college’s traditional march-past, student performances, sports teams, themed floats, and bands, added to the celebration.
Over 3,500 participants, including students, alumni, parents, and well-wishers, joined the event.
At the college grounds, Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin Gnanapragasam, Bishop of Jaffna and Manager of the College, officially inaugurated the 175th anniversary celebrations and released a commemorative souvenir.
The theme “Awareness of Non-Infectious Diseases” was highlighted, and alumni participated in a street cleanup along the procession route.
The celebration continued with the 175th College Day on March 17th, featuring a Thanksgiving Mass at St. Mary’s Cathedral, presided over by Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin Gnanapragasam. The event was attended by Rt. Rev. Dr. Antonypillai Gnanapragasam, Bishop of Mannar, Rt. Rev. Dr. Anton Ranjith Pillainayagam, the Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Batticaloa, as well as dignitaries, clergy, teachers, students, and alumni.
