The annual Christmas Carols of the Sri Lanka Army, coordinated by the Army Christian Fellowship was held at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre on Tuesday evening (10) before a gathering of distinguished guests, Christian clergy and military families. His Eminence Rev (Dr) Malcom Cardinal Ranjith, Archbishop of Colombo was the Guest of Honour and Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva, Commander of the Army was the Chief Guest for a blissful night of yuletide carols presented by the Army Choir with music by the Army Band. The Army Christian Fellowship extended a red carpet welcome to the Archbishop of Colombo.
Major General Jayashantha Gamage, Chairman, Army Christian Fellowship delivered the welcome note before the opening prayer by Army Chaplain Rev Fr. Benedict Joseph. His Eminence Malcom Cardinal Ranjith proclaimed the gospel reading and Christmas message as the chief celebrant.
The Army Choir was trained by Eshantha de Andrado, who has done a great service in coaching these young soldiers for the past 15 years. It is commendable that within the 60 choristers some were Buddhist, but came together to celebrate Christmas in the true essence of brotherhood, showing the nation that our strength is in our cultural diversity. Renowned vocalists including Corrine Almeida, Dammika Walpola, Mariazelle Goonathilake, De Lanerolle brothers, Anil Bharathi, Eshantha De Andrado and several Army vocalists sang Christmas hymns which held the audience spell bound. This year a few school choirs also gave melodious renditions of yuletide songs. The background lighting and choreography further enhanced this spectacular event.
The Army Band enriched the singing with their well balanced music, with the brass section adding that beautiful aura of a military Christmas event. Another feature at the event was the presence of disabled war heroes, who enjoyed the musical prowess of their comrades in service. The Army carol service attended by a representative gathering of Army personnel and their families is an annual feature in the Army calendar of events to coincide with Christmas.
The Army Choir was trained by Eshantha de Andrado, who has done a great task in coaching these young soldiers for the past 15 years. It is commendable that within the 60 choristers some were Buddhist, but came together to celebrate Christmas in the true essence of brotherhood
