2006-12-22
The Christmas Carols service initiated and executed by the Hon. Speaker for the last two years took a different turn in the year 2006. This time a special name was given for this event as “Diyawanna Naththal Gee Mihira 2006”, and this year’s programme was organized by the Ministry of Mass Media and Information together with the Parliament, which really was a fulfilment of a need of our times.
As usual, the Christmas religious service preceded the main carol service held outdoors. His Grace the Arch Bishop Dr. Oswald Gomis together with catholic priests and religious dignitaries along with Ministers and Members of the Parliament graced the moment. The main guest of honour was the first lady Mrs. Shiranthi Rajapaksa, while it was also significant the Hon. Speaker Mr. W. J. M. Lokubandara, Hon. Anura Priyadarshana Yapa the Minister of Mass Media and Information and a host of other distinguished guests participated. Staff of the Parliament Secretariat together with their families were also present.
At the first half of the programme, a religious service was held with meaningful and very renowned Sinhala and Tamil carols. Then special prayers were offered and the live crib was a fascinating feature that received attraction of the ones present.
One other special feature during this year was the release of the book “Naththal Siritha Samagin Catholika Sabhawe Heta Dawasa” written by Fr. Benedict Joseph who was awarded a special national literary award. During the service, the books were distributed among the distinguished guests. After the religious service was over, a colourful carols service commenced and it was truly the realization of the title “Diyawanna Naththal Gee Mihira”.
The Christmas dinner held as a gesture of appreciation for the tireless service rendered by the Parliamentary staff during the budget period was noteworthy. All those who participated were given a very enjoyable time with hoppers, short eats and other sweet treats. When 'Santa Claus' came to the venue there was so much of happiness and joy that touched the lives of children in particular. In addition, children of the staff members received worthy gifts from Mrs. Lokubandara. Everyone felt that it was a worthy celebration of Christmas with a touch of piety, joy and air of peace.
The entire proceedings of the day were recorded on video and telecast over the National Rupavahini and the Independent Television Network on Christmas night and the following day.
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