AFTER THE 30 year long war, all Sri Lankans in Jaffna together commemorated Christmas this time on 27th December night in Doraiappa grounds, Jaffna. The 51 Division under the guidance of Major General L.B.R. Mark, Commander Security Forces Jaffna, organized those Christmas carols, a feature that re-commenced after a long absence. It was witnessed by over 100,000 people including children, who thronged the ground.
Chief Guest for the event was the Bishop of Jaffna Rev Dr. Thomas Saundranayagam with the attendance of Mr. Douglas Devananda (MP), Minister of Social Services and Social Welfare, Major General (Retd) G.A. Chandrasiri, Governor for Northern Province, Major General L.B.R. Mark, Commander Security Forces Jaffna, Rear Admiral J.S.K. Kolambage, Commander Northern Naval Area, Brigadier A.P.Z. De Wickremaratne, Commander 51 Division, Mr. K. Ganesh, District Secretary for Jaffna, Mr. R.T. Vignaraja, Jaffna High Court Judge, Mayor of Jaffna Mrs. Yogeshvari Sathkunaraja, Senior Officers of the Armed Forces serving Jaffna and several members of the clergy from the area.
The event started following lighting of the traditional oil lamp by the Chief Guest and other dignitaries. The prayers were conducted by Sister Aneeta of Colombothurai Elders’ Home, Sister Rani of Navaththurai Convent and Father Thesa Kumar of St. John’s Vidyalaya. After the prayers the Christmas message was read out by the Bishop of Jaffna Rev Dr Thomas Saundranayagam.
Christmas carols were sung by sisters and dances were performed by school children, teachers, elders and students from aesthetic students' centres. Fire display at the end made the event more colourful. The invitees gave awards to the school children and others who performed at the event. A Santa Claus was also there providing educational items to the small children present as gifts.
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