The ambiance was truly one of Christmas on the evening of Friday the 09th of December, as it was the day of the annual Carol Service of Royal College. The College Main Hall and its surroundings were glittering with light and festive decorations, with the traditional Christmas crib as well as a natural Christmas tree standing high near the Main Hall entrance. It was a prestigious occasion for the Student Christian Movement and the Catholic Student Union, as well as the respective chairmen Yashen Dhanapala and Nalin Ramanayake who worked tirelessly to make this event a success.

The Senior Choir entered from the back entrance of the main hall, walking in unison with strict discipline, traditionally singing “Once in Royal David’s City” while the congregation stood. The Senior Choir should be commended for their powerful performances year in and year out, and I should also mention Miss. Sureka Amarasinghe for the tireless and selfless effort she rendered towards training this talented choir.

Later the opening prayer was said by Yashen Dhanapala, chairman of the SCM. Later on Principal Mr. B.A. Abeyrathne delivered the first reading. Our principal must be recognized for his encouragement and generous support. As the service carried on, bible readings were done by the students and office bearers of the SCM and CSU. The message was given by Bishop Emeritus Rev. Duleep de Chikera, who honored us by his presence as chief guest. The Senior Choir sang many hymns throughout, with the congregation joining in with them for many. The closing prayer was delivered by Nalin Ramanayake, Chairman of the Catholic Students Union. The senior choir left the stage afterwards with a rendition of “O Come all ye Faithful” and thus the Carol Service of Royal College ended for this year, although this great tradition will continue for generations to come.