sentences:  During his time at the Biblical Institute, he studied under Carlo Martini and Albert Vanhoye (both future cardinals), He also attended the Hebrew University of Jerusalem where he undertook scriptural research as a postgraduate student.Upon his return to Sri Lanka, Ranjith became an assistant parish priest in Pamunugama in 1978, later serving as a parish priest in Payagala and Kalutara.His pastoral work among the poor but religious people in these fishing villages led him to become involved with social justice.