Founder
Servant of God, His Eminence Thomas Cardinal Cooray, O.M.I.
The Servant of God, His Eminence Thomas Cardinal Cooray, O.M.I., was the visionary founder who established the National Catechetical Centre in 1965 under the guidance of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Sri Lanka. Inspired by the spirit of the Second Vatican Council, he recognized the need for a national institution dedicated to the systematic formation of catechists and the renewal of faith education. Through his pastoral foresight and missionary zeal, the Cardinal laid the foundation for a vibrant catechetical movement in Sri Lanka, one that continues to enlighten minds and strengthen the faith of generations.
1965 – 1982
His Lordship Don Sylvester
First National Director of the Centre; laid the foundation for catechetical formation in Sri Lanka, introducing structured training programs and establishing diocesan coordination under the Bishops’ Conference.
1982 – 1995
Rev. Fr. Alex Dassanayake
Expanded the Centre’s outreach and teacher formation; developed national-level training programs and standardized catechetical materials across dioceses.
1995 – 2001
Rev. Fr. Merl Mendis
Renewed catechetical approaches through Scripture-based methods; encouraged creativity in teaching and strengthened collaboration among diocesan catechetical offices.
2001 – 2007
Rev. Fr. Cyril Perera
Promoted faith formation among lay catechists and parish leaders; emphasized pastoral accompaniment and the spirituality of teaching.
2007 – 2011
Rev. Fr. Nicholas Low
Advanced publication and resource development; initiated new formation courses and enhanced parish-level catechetical engagement.
2011 – 2019
Rev. Fr. Piyal Janaka
Consolidated national catechetical structures and modernized teacher training; deepened integration of Scripture and doctrine.
2019 – 2024
Rev. Fr. Benet Shantha
Guided the Centre through a time of transformation; sustained catechetical ministry during the pandemic.
2025 – Present
Rev. Fr. Pradeep Kumar Niroshan Fernando
Current National Director; leading the Centre into a renewed era of mission with multilingual faith formation, technology integration, and the 60th Anniversary initiatives.