Batticaloa’s ‘Christmas Angelic Eve - 2017’ Draws Huge Crowds

The Christian community of Batticaloa, along with the full backing of the 231 Brigade Headquarters on Friday (22) conducted a special Christmas programme, themed 'Christmas Angelic Eve - 2017' at Gandhi Park, Batticaloa with the objective of promoting cross cultural harmony and goodwill among all ethnicities in the area.

His Lordship Bishop of Batticaloa, Rt Rev. Dr. Joseph Ponniah, Governor of the Eastern Province Hon. Rohitha Bogollagama, Commander, Security Forces - East (SF-E), Major General Santhusitha Pananwala, District Secretary for Batticaloa, Mr M. Uthyakumar, General Officer Commanding, 22 Division, Major General Aruna Jayasekara, General Officer Commanding, 24 Division, Major General Mahinda Mudalige, General Officer Commanding, 23 Division, Brigadier Chula Abenayake, Brigade Commander, 231 Brigade, Brigadier Senarath Niwunhella, Brigade Commander, 232 Brigade, Colonel Roshan Jayamanna, Commissioner, Municipal Council, Batticaloa, Mr N. Manivannan by their distinguished presence honoured the programme in the company of a huge gathering of invitees and devotees.

The spectacle began with a welcome note readout by Rev. Fr. Sulaxan, followed by a welcome dance which added festive atmosphere to the occasion.

The day’s event turned more solemn with religious observances and Christmas message delivered by His Lordship Bishop of Batticaloa, Rt Rev. Dr. Joseph Ponniah, reminding the gathering of the eternal message of peace.

The Choirs of Ampara Church, Navatkudah Church, Soori Kalmunai Church, St. Cecilia College, together with the Army Choir recited odes and hymns jointly to the Prince of Peace, Jesus Christ as several variety performances symbolized the birth of Jesus Christ.

Major General Santhusitha Pananwala, Commander, SF-E in a brief message of greetings to the occasion highlighted the importance of the spirit of sharing and caring.

The occasion was also coloured with various decorations bringing the birth of Jesus Christ to memory of Batticaloa people and all Sri Lankans.