Tynwald has contributed to facilitating links between the Diocese of Sodor and Man and the Church of Ceylon in Sri Lanka, after the President of Tynwald, the Hon Clare Christian, hosted a visit by the church’s Barbara Praesoody, who was accompanied by the Bishop of Sodor and Man, the Right Rev Robert Paterson.

The visit was prompted by the Bishop’s leadership team exploring a companion link with Sri Lanka and subsequently inviting Mrs Praesoody, who lives in Kandy, to the Isle of Man for a week-long study visit.

The Bishop explained: ‘I have had the privilege of visiting Sri Lanka on a couple of occasions in the last 18 months on behalf of the Archbishop of Canterbury, and made many new friends there. When we in the diocese were looking for a second companion link - the other is in Ireland - we thought of Sri Lanka. Barbara, who is secretary of the Church of Ceylon General Assembly, was invited to come and discuss the possibilities with us. I think we may have rushed her off her feet but I know that her visit to Tynwald with Madam President was a highlight.’

Photo - Barbara Praesoody is pictured with the President of Tynwald, the Hon Clare Christian, the Bishop of Sodor and Man, the Right Rev Robert Paterson, and diocesan mission adviser Gill Poole. Picture Paul Dougherty, Tynwald Seneschal.