Colombo Uni carols bring cheer
View(s):‘Venite Adoremus,’ the annual carol service organised by the Catholic Students’ Movement (CSM), University of Colombo was held last week at its New Arts Theater. Auxiliary Bishop, Archdiocese of Colombo, the Rt Rev Dr J D Anthony Jayakody graced the occasion as chief guest. The opening prayer was recited by Brother Kavindu Perera, and Ruklan Kularatne, President, CSM welcomed the gathering.
The harmonious rendering of carols by the choristers raised a spiritual zeal in every heart in the audience. A latin masterpiece ‘Adeste Fideles’; a Christmas call to worship, embarked the beginning of the carol service. Traditional hymns and classical compositions, along with modern and traditional Sinhala, English and Tamil carols were sung, adding more colour and vibrato to the event.
Regardless of religion and ethnicity, about 40 enthusiastic and talented choristers from different faculties of the University, together with undergraduates from the University of Visual and Performing Arts, engaged in this choral celebration. Their vocal skills and linguistic talents presented for both English and Sinhala versions of the original lyrics, were astounding. Their truly professional staging won the accolades of the charmed audience.
The Rt Rev Dr J D Anthony Jayakody shared a meaningful Christmas message which enlightened the gathering: “We need to rediscover the spirit of the original Christmas. It is not just the birth of a child, it’s the birth of God’s love. It is the beginning of a new world where sinners, poor and disabled are accepted.”
This spectacular yearly event sailed smoothly with much elegance under the patronage of distinguished invitees, staff and students of the university, their families, past undergrads and well-wishers marking another memorable CSM event. The carol service concluded with a Christmas medley where the audience joined the choir in singing.
-Ramalka Kasige.
Pix by Gamitha Senanayake of FOS media