SSS Sri Lanka

Father Peter Julian Eymard, the esteemed Founder of the Blessed Sacrament Congregation, was widely renowned for his profound love and concern for his fellow priests (Rule of Life #44). His memorable quote, “I would leave everything for priests,” stands as a powerful testament to his unwavering dedication. Many of the early companions who joined the Congregation were diocesan priests, attracted by Father Eymard’s profound Eucharistic vision. The Congregation has consistently prioritized ministering to priests on an international scale. In Sri Lanka, it has likewise extended its ministry to priests through various means, including the sacrament of confession, counseling services, retreats, seminars, and acts of hospitality. It was in this context that the establishment of the Eymard House of Priests (EHOP) in Nuwara Eliya came to fruition.

The EHOP primarily serves as a serene and prayerful haven for priests and their families, offering them an opportunity to spend quality time together in a restful and rejuvenating environment. Additionally, it aims to foster closer collaboration between the SSS and diocesan clergy, as well as other religious institutes.

During the Provincial Chapter of the “Christ the Bread of Life” Province held from September 12 to 16, 2005, the concept of the “Eymard House of Priests” was embraced as an integral expression of the SSS Charism, dedicated to ministering to ministers. This momentous occasion also marked the inauguration of a new ministry to commemorate the Golden Jubilee of the SSS presence in Sri Lanka (1956-2006). The EHOP project was subsequently initiated in 2007.

In January 2012, the EHOP expanded its offerings with the gracious support of the Bishop of Kandy, who agreed to lease a Colonial Bungalow in Nuwara Eliya. This expansion provided additional space to continue serving priests and their families.

Father Sunil Rupasinghe, SSS, tirelessly champions the Ministry of the Blessed Sacrament Congregation of the Province of Christ, the Bread of Life (Sri Lanka). Collaborating closely with the Laity of the EHOP Association (Colombo/Chicago), he extends an earnest invitation to both diocesan and religious priests to embrace the “Eymard House of Priests” as a tangible embodiment of their shared aspiration to witness emotionally healthy, spiritually resilient, and deeply human priests within the Church. They are warmly encouraged to become genuine “Friends of Priests.”

The ministry’s primary objective revolves around establishing a welcoming “Come and Rest Awhile House” for priests and their families. This cherished initiative aims to provide priests with dedicated moments of respite, allowing them to recharge, reconnect with their loved ones, and engage in meaningful activities together.

Furthermore, the ministry seeks to immerse priests in various facets of spiritual enrichment, encompassing prayer, Eucharistic literature, Eucharistic spirituality, the SSS charism, and the transformative experience of living according to the teachings of Christ. These invaluable encounters facilitate the deepening of priests’ spiritual journey and foster a stronger connection to their vocation.

In addition, the ministry places significant emphasis on delivering essential psychological services to priests, including counseling, conflict resolution, decision-making support, discernment guidance, and reaffirmation of vocation. These indispensable services address the unique challenges priests may face, offering guidance and wisdom as they navigate personal and professional complexities.

Through the combined efforts of the ministry, a comprehensive and nurturing environment is created, one that promotes the emotional well-being, spiritual growth, and overall fulfillment of priests and their families in their sacred calling.