News

The Diocese of Kurunegala joins the Diocese of Colombo and the wider Church of Ceylon in mourning the passing of The Right Reverend Kenneth Michael James Fernando, former Bishop of Colombo, who was called to rest on 3rd September 2025, surrounded by his beloved wife, Mrs. Chitra Fernando, and family.

Born on 25th July 1932 in Moratuwa, Bishop Kenneth was educated at Prince of Wales’ College, Moratuwa, Royal College, Colombo, the University of Peradeniya, and later pursued further studies at the University of Oxford, UK. Before his consecration as Bishop of Colombo, he served faithfully as Secretary of the Diocese.

Bishop Kenneth was widely respected for his spiritual leadership, pastoral heart, and unwavering commitment to the mission of the Church. He leaves behind his wife, a retired school principal, and their two sons, both established medical practitioners. He is also remembered with love by his siblings Quinta and Colin.

The funeral arrangements are as follows:

• Sunday, 7th September 2025 – The late Bishop’s body will be received into the Cathedral of Christ the Living Saviour, Colombo, at 10.30 a.m., where the faithful will have an opportunity to pay their respects in the Unity Chapel.

• Monday, 8th September 2025 (Feast of Mary, the Mother of our Lord) – A Requiem Service will be held at the Cathedral at 2.30 p.m., followed by cremation at the General Cemetery, Borella.

As a Diocesan family, and on behalf of the Church of Ceylon, we extend our deepest sympathies to Mrs. Chitra Fernando, their sons, and the entire family. We give thanks to God for the life and ministry of Bishop Kenneth, who served with humility, wisdom, and grace.