The Best of all is God with us

  Rev. Benjamin Clough: Pioneer missionary of Methodist School-Education in Ceylon and Asia When Rev. Benjamin Clough arrived in Galle, Ceylon on 29 June 1814, he carried with him the Methodist mission’s vision of combining faith with school-education. Within weeks, on 25 July 1814, he inaugurated the first Methodist Day-School of Ceylon   at Doonberg Walawwa in Galle. This modest beginning marked the launch of the Methodist educational enterprise in Asia, and this Galle School would eventually grow into one of Sri Lanka’s most enduring and prestigious institutions, which is the Richmond College. Benjamin Clough was only twenty‑three years old when he arrived in Ceylon. The school he established in Galle was remarkable for its inclusivity. After serving nine months in Galle, he was transferred to Colombo, while his Galle School flourished, expanding into several vernacular and Anglo-vernacular branch schools This ensured that children could learn in their own language while ...

  🌹 Tribute to Mariazell Gunatilleke 🌹 Today I pause to honour the memory of the late Mariazell Gunatilleke , a beloved Sinhala pop artist of our generation. Her unforgettable hit “Kandy Lamissi” was always on our lips, a song that carried joy and rhythm into everyday life. My first personal encounter with her was about twelve years ago at a Sri Lanka Air Force Anniversary Christian Service , where she sang with grace and power. From that day, I discovered that Mariazell was not only a voice for lively baila songs, but also a soul who poured herself into spiritual and devotional music . Those songs touched hearts deeply and inspired many. She was even invited as a guest artist at the Christmas Programme of the President’s House , a testimony to her wide recognition and the respect she commanded. The last time I met her was in December 2025 at the Winsetha Hospital Christmas event in Punchi Borella , where I shared a Christmas message and she entertained the staff with her...