Exemplary life that proclaimed the virtues of Christian teachings

Cyril Perera

Cyril Callistus Perera, the third of three brothers who served the Catholic Church with total dedication and commitment (in particular the Diocese of Kandy) was called to his eternal rest on December 3, 2006 at the age of 87 years.

God blessed him with long life exceeding the biblical lifespan of three score and ten. He was laid to rest at Mahaiyawa Cemetery on December 6, 2006 after Holy Mass was offered by Bishop Vianney Fernando with several priests. The funeral rites for the late Mr. Perera were a public manifestation of the very high regard the Bishop and the priests of the Kandy Diocese had for him.

In a very moving homily, Bishop Vianney Fernando extolled the virtues of Mr. Perera who served as his Secretary for 20 long years from the beginning of his Episcopate in 1982 up to 2002, and summed up saying that Mr. Perera truly believed in and practised the saying, “Hear no evil, speak no evil, see no evil”.

Mr. Perera was a faithful and loving husband, dutiful and caring father, trustworthy and dedicated employee, trusted friend and thorough gentleman. He touched the hearts of many by his simplicity and unassuming ways.

I am sure his two elder brothers, the late Rt. Revd. Dr. Paul Perera (former Bishop of Kandy) and the late Revd. Fr. Lucien Perera would have been at the gate of heaven to welcome their younger brother.

Goodbye Cyril Perera. Yours was an exemplary life that proclaimed the virtues of Christian life. May you enjoy eternal happiness as a reward for the faithful service you rendered to Christ, His Church and the people.

By Victor Silva, Kandy