HNB ushers in Christmas with Annual Carol Service

Keeping up to the old tradition and to usher in the Christmas season, staff of HNB PLC got together to perform at the annual carol service. Chief guest Rt Rev Dr Harold Anthony Perera, Bishop of Kurunegala, graced the occasion, which was held at the HNB auditorium.

The event was attended by HNB’s Chairman Dinesh Weerakkody, Board of Directors, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jonathan Alles and religious dignitaries’ including Bishop Asiri Priyalal Perera, Rev. Fr. Anton Ranjith, Rector, St. Sebastians College, Moratuwa, and the Bank’s corporate management, former and current staff, together with their families.

The evening commenced with a Christmas message by Managing Director and Chief Executive, Jonathan Alles, followed by a prayer and blessing by the chief guest and quickly moved to fill the hall with the joyous echo of evergreen carols,.

“Christmas is not only celebrated by Christians but also by men and women of goodwill in this world. Because the message of the new born child is peace and peace is universal. If Christmas celebrations are to be meaningful then everyone is called to be the messenger of peace.

What is essential at this moment is a conversion of heart and attitudes towards others. More than any external celebrations there is a need to have a meaningful Christmas, if not it remains as just another celebration. If peace and harmony are achieved then Christmas can be celebrated every day of the year. Therefore it is the responsibility of every citizen of our country to strive for this goal and experience the joy of Christmas every day,” the Bishop of Kurunegala said.

The audience was also privy to a special treat with Sri Lankan born singer-songwriter Alston Koch’s rendition of Christmas classic “So this is Christmas”.

Led by choirmaster Nicole Liyanage and organist Nirmal Madasekara, the HNB choristers presented a range of Christmas carols in English, Sinhala, Tamil and Latin captivating the audience.

The auditorium filled with colour, festive cheer and songs was a true celebration of Christmas as HNB choristers of all ages from all the departments and branches performed to the audience.