The Church of the Epiphany in Doha rejoiced in the inauguration of its Sinhala-language Service of Holy Communion this month, on 3 July 2026—the feast of St Thomas the Apostle.

The service, led by Rector the Venerable Mark Derry with Associate Priest the Revd M D Johnson and Deacon Douglas, brought together lay leaders, families and members of the Sri Lankan community in Qatar, in a joyful celebration of thanksgiving.

“Worship in the Sinhala language enabled many to experience the liturgy in a deeply personal way,” says Joyaline Rajamani, “recalling cherished memories of worship back in their local churches and communities. The fellowship shared after the service reflected the warmth and unity that characterize the family of God.”

St Thomas carried the gospel to India and other parts of Asia, establishing Christian communities that continue to flourish after nearly two thousand years.

“St Thomas’s life of faithful witness reminds us that the mission of Christ transcends geographical boundaries, languages and cultures,” says Joyaline. “The inauguration of a Sinhala-speaking congregation on the day of this feast beautifully reflects the continuing work of God in drawing people of every nation into his kingdom.”

The new Sinhala service marks an important milestone in the life and ministry of the Church of the Epiphany, creating a spiritual home for Sinhala-speaking Anglicans in Qatar to worship, receive the sacraments, hear God’s word and grow together in faith within the Anglican tradition.

“This congregation also offers a place of belonging where language, culture and Christian faith are joyfully united,” says Joyaline. “It is a ministry born out of prayer, nurtured by faithful service, and sustained by the grace of God. In the rich diversity of the Diocese of Cyprus and the Gulf, the Sinhala congregation is another expression of the unity of Christ’s church, where people from many nations worship together as one body.”

The congregation expressed its thanks to Bishop Sean, Archdeacon Mark and Revd MD Johnson for their support and encouragement, as well as to clergy and lay members of the Sri Lankan community whose faithful service has been instrumental to this important mission—the fruition of God’s divine purpose and direction.

Bishop Sean joins the people of Epiphany in celebrating this joyful beginning for its Sinhala congregation.

“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labour in vain.” – Psalm 127:1