On Saturday, 8 November our Diocese gathered for the ordination of Fr Anton Perera in a packed cathedral.

Find out more about Fr Anton’s background and journey to ordination.

1. Can you tell us a little about where you grew up and what your childhood was like? 
I was born in Negombo, Sri Lanka, and grew up in Wennappuwa, in St Joseph’s Parish, part of the Diocese of Chilaw. I’m the youngest of five children, with two older brothers and two older sisters. My parents were devoted Catholics, and daily family prayer, especially the Rosary before dinner, was a central part of our life together. 

During my childhood, our family faced financial hardship after my father’s business collapsed. He went to the Middle East for work, while my mother cared for us at home. Despite the challenges, my parents always made sure we had what we needed and gave us a strong foundation in faith, discipline and education. 

2. When did you first feel called to the priesthood? 
Even as a young child, I was fascinated by the Mass. I would often “celebrate” it at home with my siblings, imitating what I saw the priest do at church. My call deepened after my Confirmation retreat in 1998. That was when I first truly felt drawn to enter the seminary. 

3. What inspired or encouraged you to follow that call? 
I was inspired by two priests from my home parish, the late Fr Francis Laus Fernando and Fr Niranjan Fernando. Their humility and simplicity as well as their dedication to serving others showed me what it meant to live a holy life. Later, when I was a seminarian, Fr Niranjan became Vice-Rector at the National Seminary of Our Lady of Lanka, where I studied. His example and encouragement strengthened my calling. 

4. How did your journey lead you to the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle? 
I began my formation in a religious institute in Sri Lanka but faced some difficulties with language and cultural misunderstandings. After prayer, I decided to seek another path. I reached out to the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle, and then-Diocesan Administrator Fr Greg Barker welcomed me to continue my formation here in Australia. 

5. What was your formation like in the lead-up to ordination? 
I undertook a two-year pastoral placement in the Diocese while completing a Master of Theological Studies through BBI. I spent 18 months at St Benedict’s Parish, Inner Newcastle, and another 18 months at MacKillop Parish. These experiences helped me adapt to Australian culture and parish life, supported by parishioners, religious, and school communities who guided and encouraged me along the way. 

6. How did you feel when you found out you’d be ordained here in Newcastle? 
I was overjoyed, though I missed my parents desperately. My journey to the priesthood took 16 years, which is twice as long as most, so it was a moment of profound gratitude and fulfilment. I thank God for seeing me through it all. 

7. What does this moment mean to you personally and spiritually? 
Being ordained feels like coming out of a long exile and finally entering the promised land. I was ordained a deacon at 40 and a priest at 41, after many years of perseverance and prayer. Through my own suffering I want to serve the community with commitment and love. I want to be a “wounded healer”, after the heart of Jesus the Good Shepherd. 

8. What are you most looking forward to in your ministry as a priest? 
I’ve always had a heart for service, especially for those who are poor or struggling. I want to bring hope to the people. I’m also passionate about youth ministry and would love to help young people rediscover their faith and connection to the Church. 

9. How do you hope to serve and connect with the local community? 
I am ready to serve wherever Bishop Michael Kennedy and my parish leaders send me. I am here to serve the people of God.  

10. Outside of your ministry, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time? 
I enjoy watching science fiction and horror films, reading, and spending time in nature, especially birdwatching or visiting the beach. I also love playing cricket, volleyball, and badminton, and I’m a fan of classical music and talkback radio.