For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.
Romans 12:4-5
The annual Bishop’s visit and feast of the Holy Trinity Chapel was observed on the 13th of June, 2023. The most significant aspect of this holy day is the confirmation of candidates as they enter into the sacramental body of Christ, making a firm commitment to live and work as a disciple of Jesus Christ.
The service commenced with the traditional processional “Holy, Holy, Holy” by Bishop Reginald Herber, where he perfectly describes the beauty of the Trinity without encroaching upon its mystery. Interestingly the tune of this hymn, “Nicaea” by J. B. Dykes reminds us of the Council of Nicaea, where the nature of the Trinity was shaped theologically.
The service was presided over by Rt. Rev. Nishantha Fernando: the new Bishop of the Diocese of Kurunagala of the Church of Ceylon. Former and present Archdeacons of the Diocese of Kurunagala Ven. George Melder and Ven. Anton Williams and Rev. Jayanath Pandithratne a former Chaplain of Trinity College graced the occasion with their presence. While the Bishop led the acceptance of candidates for confirmation, the choir sang අති ශුද්ධ (Athi Shudda), and the confirmation candidates dipped their hands in the water in the font and made their foreheads symbolically as a sign of their baptism.
The Old Testament reading was done by a confirmation candidate and was followed by a sung “Psalm 8” and Epistle reading. The Bishop delivered the homily where he elaborated on the meaning of the Trinity based on three points.
Trinity – complete equality of persons
Though we say three persons, Father, Son and Holy Spirit, work equally. Therefore, as the Triune God teaches us, respect each other, respect others and accept others’ dignity.
Trinity – teaches us unity in diversity
God the Father has one task, God the Son has another task, and God the Holy Spirit has a different task. Trinity College has practised the concept of plurality from its very inception. As Trinitians, unity in diversity should be a part of your daily life.
Trinity – teaches us fellowship and self-giving
There is a great fellowship among the Trinity. Practicing equality and unity in diversity leads to greater fellowship through self-giving. My dear Trinitians, when you are around there must be fellowship and friendship. That should be the hallmark of Trinitian quality.
The clergy fulfilled the rite of Confirmation and affirmation of faith. The choir sang the invocation of the holy spirit, “Come Holy Ghost, our souls inspire” and the confirmed students were greeted by the principal and lay officers.
The clerical procession recessed towards the West door as the final hymn, “Lead us Heavenly Father Lead Us” was sung in unison by the Choir and congregation.
The annual Bishop’s visit and service of confirmation allowed us to offer our praises and thanksgiving to God almighty for his grace and providence and keep alive the memory of the sacrificial mission of our missionary forefathers who ministered to establish our Church to build Christ’s Kingdom in this heathen land. The service manifested the pinnacle of the vision of Trinity, which is to bring the good news of Jesus Christ into the lives of Trinitians so that they may become Christ-like and harvest the riches of salvation and grace through a life in Christ.
Review by Samiru Bandara (Web Content Team)
