DABAL – Christmas Carol Service Zoom Meeting

DABAL – Christmas Carol Service Zoom Meeting

Join Us for a Meaningful Celebration

Carol Service in Support of Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka

Experience an evening of unity and joy as we gather to support a noble cause. Our upcoming Carol Service promises to be a heartwarming event filled with music, community, and compassion.

Meeting Recap

Productive Discussions for a Purposeful Event

On October 20, 2024, we held a Zoom meeting that was both productive and inspiring. The primary focus was on organizing the upcoming Carol Service, an event dedicated to supporting Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka. Attendees collaborated effectively, ensuring that every detail was meticulously planned to create a memorable experience for all involved.

Event Running Order

Hodie Processional

Opening the service with a traditional processional hymn.

Gaudate Christus Est Natus

A joyful choral piece celebrating the birth of Christ.

Opening Prayer and Welcome

Led by a representative from Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka.

Come Thou Long Expected Jesus

A congregational hymn inviting participation from all attendees.

Sinhala Carol 1

A beautiful carol sung in Sinhala, adding cultural richness to the service.

Tamil Carol 1

A traditional Tamil carol, enhancing the diversity of the event.

Scripture Readings

Passages from Isaiah 9:2 and Isaiah 60:1-3 will be read.

Once in Royal David City

A beloved hymn that tells the story of the nativity.

Music Arrangements

Event Music Roles

The music arrangements for the upcoming Carol Service have been meticulously planned to ensure a harmonious and uplifting experience. Alan will take on the role of organist for the pieces ‘I Wander as I Wonder’ and ‘Glory to God’, bringing his expertise to these beautiful compositions. Jason will lend his tenor voice to the choir and also serve as the organist for ‘Candlelight Carol’, where Alan will switch roles to sing bass due to the dual bass parts. The congregational carols will be selected from the established running order, ensuring a seamless flow of music throughout the event.

Event Dress Code

The dress code for the Carol Service has been thoughtfully designed to reflect the solemnity and joy of the occasion. Participants are requested to wear black skirts or trousers paired with white tops, complemented by black coats. To incorporate the spirit of Advent, touches of purple are encouraged through accessories such as scarves, cravats, ties, and hair bands. For those choosing to wear ethnic attire, please adhere to the specified color scheme to maintain uniformity and elegance.

Dress Code Details

Attendees are encouraged to express their individuality while adhering to the event’s color scheme. The combination of black and white with accents of purple will create a visually cohesive and festive atmosphere, enhancing the overall experience for everyone involved.

Meeting Summary

The recent Zoom meeting was a resounding success, with all participants contributing to the detailed planning of the Carol Service. Key decisions were made regarding the event’s running order, music selections, and attire guidelines. The collaborative spirit and shared enthusiasm were evident, setting a positive tone for the upcoming event. We are excited to see these plans come to fruition and look forward to a memorable gathering that will support Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka.

We extend our gratitude to everyone who participated in the meeting and contributed their ideas and expertise. The anticipation for the Carol Service is building, and we are confident that it will be a meaningful and joyous occasion for all involved.

Stay Tuned for More Updates

We are excited to share more details and music arrangements for the upcoming Carol Service. Your participation is key to making this event a success. Stay connected for further updates!

2024 – DABAL Annual General Meeting

2024 – DABAL Annual General Meeting

Reflecting on Our 19th Annual General Meeting

DABAL - AGM 2024 October

Join us as we celebrate the achievements and community spirit showcased at our 19th Annual General Meeting, held at the historic St Michaels Church.

Event Overview

A Successful Gathering

On the 19th of October 2024, the 19th Annual General Meeting of Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka was held at St Michaels Church in Chiswick. The event was marked by a significant turnout and was filled with engaging activities and heartfelt moments. Attendees enjoyed a delightful lunch, musical entertainment, and inspiring speeches that highlighted the progress and future plans of our organisation.

Heartfelt Gratitude

Acknowledging Our Supporters

The 19th Annual General Meeting was a delightful event, filled with joyous moments and engaging activities. Attendees were treated to a delicious lunch prepared by Bilal, whose culinary skills never fail to impress. The atmosphere was further enlivened by Nanda’s musical talents, creating a harmonious backdrop for the day’s proceedings.

Sarath Weerasinghe, a cornerstone of our community, expertly compered the event, ensuring everything ran smoothly. His professionalism shone through, especially during the lively karaoke sessions, where he and Shehan Pinidiya entertained everyone with their spirited performances. We are thrilled to introduce the new members of our committee, who bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm to our organization. Gaz Hameed joins us as the newly elected Secretary, ready to contribute his skills and dedication.

Ruvini Ranatunga steps into the role of Treasurer, bringing her expertise to our financial oversight. We also welcome Leilani Arambepola as our Publicity Officer, Shehan Pinidiya, and Nanda Sandagiri as committee members. Additionally, Bhuminda Karunathilaka has taken on the role of Membership Secretary. Their involvement is eagerly anticipated, and we are confident that their contributions will greatly benefit our mission and community.
Additionally, Rev. Jamiee Summer delivered a beautiful speech about ‘kindness’. Everyone was deeply impressed by her words, adding a heartfelt touch to the event.
The 19th AGM was a true testament to our community’s spirit and dedication, and we look forward to another year of progress and collaboration.

2024 – October – Shanti Jayasekera

2024 – October – Shanti Jayasekera

Honoring a Cherished Life

In Memory of Shanti Jayasekera

Join us in celebrating the life and legacy of Shanti Jayasekera, a devoted advocate for the Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka community.

A Tribute to Shanti Jayasekera

Shanti Jayasekera was a beacon of hope and compassion within the Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka charity. His tireless dedication and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of those in need have left an indelible mark on our community. 

Shanti Jayasekera provided essential support and resources to the deaf and blind communities in the UK. His passion for advocacy and his ability to connect with people from all walks of life made his an invaluable member of our organisation.

Funeral Service for Shanti Jayasekera

Friday, 18th October

We invite you to join us in paying respects to Shanti Jayasekera at her funeral service. The service will be held at St Pauls Church, Ruislip, HA4 0BP, at 12:15 pm. Following the service, a gathering will take place at Middlesex Stadium, Breakspear Road, HA4 7SB. Please note that the crematorium will be reserved for immediate family only. We appreciate your understanding and respect for the family’s wishes during this time.

Committee Meeting – Victoria

Committee Meeting – Victoria

DABAL Committee Meeting – 08.06.24

Deaf and Blind Aid Lanka trustees had a face to face meeting at the Victoria Place. Discussed future events including below subjects.

  • Donations for Just Giving
  • South London Tamil Church 
  • CAF Cheques
  • 20th Anniversary Concert
  • Other regular Donations
  • Grants to schools

Trustees visited to five schools in Sri Lanka April – May 2024 with grants.

1.Sri Sudarshi Special School for The Deaf & Blind, Ella, Bandarawela
2. Moratuwa
– Sri Chandrasekara School for the Deaf.
3.
School for the Deaf and Blind, Kumbukkana, Saubagya Vidyalaya, Monaragala.
4.
Islamic Centre for the Physically Handicapped
5.
Riyanzie Alagiyawanna Special (Deaf Blind) School, Anuradhapura

 

DABAL 20th Anniversary – 11- 05 – 2024

DABAL 20th Anniversary – 11- 05 – 2024

DABAL-20th anniversary

DABAL 20th Anniversary Musical Event had on Saturday 11th May 2024 at 6.30pm, at St Michael & All Angels Church, Bedford Park, Bath Road, London W4 1TT. The concert started at 7pm. Our Patron, Lord Low of Dalston and newly appointed patron Dr. Chris Nonis presented. The event is organised by Mr Alan Durham who has put together many successful musical events for us and is an experienced musician himself. We have the pleasure of performances by very talented musicians – soprano Gayathrie Peiris Patrick,pianists Chaturika Rajapakse and Elizabeth Jones. Last but not least the stunning Emma Callister Quintet plays jazz.