Historic Sinhala Prayer Resounds at Divar's Hilltop Church
In a remarkable spiritual gathering at the scenic Divar hilltop, islanders experienced a rare musical rendition of the Lord's prayer composed in the Sinhala language. This unique composition was originally set to music by Divar priest Fr Jacome Gonsalves during the 17th century, creating an uncommon and soulful experience for all present.
A Moment of Spiritual Communion
The visiting Sri Lankan bishops, Joseph Vianney Fernando and Devasritha Valence Mendis, created an atmosphere of wonder and expectancy as they prepared to perform this historic prayer. In an unusual departure from traditional liturgy, Bishop Mendis of Candy alighted from the altar at Our Lady of Piety Church after Mass and crossed the aisle to join the choir area.
Meanwhile, Bishop Emeritus Fernando prepared to render "Our Father" as lyricised by Gonsalves centuries earlier. Though the islanders did not understand the Sinhala language, they found Fernando's singing deeply prayerful and spiritually uplifting.
"It was an uplifting experience that drew everyone into a moment of quiet communion with God," remarked Fr Leslie Gomes, assistant parish priest of the church. "The prayer flowed with beauty and reverence, showing Gonsalves' deep understanding of the language and the people he served."
Musical Legacy of a Pioneering Priest
As Bishop Mendis played the keyboard accompaniment, the former Candy bishop demonstrated remarkable vitality despite his decades of service. Parishioner Freddy Ferrao noted the exceptional nature of the composition: "In an age when music must have been in its infancy, a composition like this shows that Gonsalves was truly ahead of his times."
The prayer's performance followed a Eucharistic service celebrated by both bishops alongside Fr Eremito Rebello, former vice-postulator for the cause of canonisation of St Joseph Vaz. This connection highlighted the historical ties between the religious figures.
Gonsalves: Father of Catholic Literature in Sri Lanka
Fr Jacome Gonsalves, often referred to as the 'Father of Catholic Literature' in Sri Lanka, played a crucial role in reviving Catholic faith on the island as a missionary of the Congregation of Oratory of the Holy Miraculous Cross. During his 37 years of missionary work until his death in 1714, this multilingual priest produced an impressive body of work:
- 22 books in Sinhala language
- 15 books in Tamil language
- 4 books in Portuguese language
- 1 book in Dutch language
Bishop Fernando emphasized the enduring quality of Gonsalves' composition: "His lyrics and the music set by Gonsalves to render 'Our Father' has never been matched for 300 years."
Transcending Language Through Sacred Music
Fr Gomes reflected on the power of the musical performance to transcend linguistic barriers: "The melody lifted hearts beyond language and made the prayer truly meaningful, reminding us that sacred music can unite souls and lead them to God." This experience demonstrated how spiritual expression can communicate across cultural and linguistic divides.
Path Toward Canonisation
During the gathering, Bishop Mendis briefed islanders about the canonisation process for Gonsalves, revealing that preliminary procedures have already begun. He also mentioned that Sister Helena, a lay person from Bolawatte where Gonsalves' tomb is located, has been declared Servant of God and awaits sainthood.
"The Divar priest's process will also be pursued," assured Bishop Mendis, indicating continued efforts to recognize Gonsalves' spiritual contributions. This historic moment at Divar's hilltop church thus connected past religious heritage with present spiritual practice and future recognition of holy figures.
