St. Joseph Vaz Shrine

The Kandy Diocesan Shrine at Ampitiya, which is the old Parish Church of Ampitiya, now dedicated to St. Joseph Vaz Shrine Chapel and its also known as "Gal Palliya" this is because the Church is constructed with 'cut stones.' The Annual Feast is celebrated in January, most probably the 2nd Sunday. Almost a week prior to the Feast, Kandy Diocese take turn to conduct prayers and fellowship, which actually starts around 4.30pm... Weekdays Masses are conducted on Thursday's at 5.00pm. (Not during lent) ST. Joseph Vaz arrived in Ceylon during the Dutch occupation, when the Dutch were imposing  Calvinism as the official religion after taking over from the Portuguese. He travelled throughout the island bringing the Eucharist and the sacraments to clandestine groups of Catholics. Later in his mission, he found shelter in Kandy where he was able to work freely. As a result of his labors, St. Joseph Vaz is known as the Apostle of Ceylon. He was canonized on 14 January 2015 by Pope Francis.

The national seminary.cross of josephvaz visited the national shrine of josephvaz@ampitiya.