The Chapel of the Transfiguration under threat of deterioration

The Chapel of the Transfiguration which has stood as a monumental edifice on the grounds of S. Thomas’ College, Mt. Lavinia for the past 8 decades, is now in need of urgent renovation. Generations of Thomians, both Christian and non-Christian have drawn inspiration from the towering Chapel and have grown from boys to men in its shadow. The Chapel was contructed originally through the unique commitment of the then Sub Warden, Rev. G. M. Withers, who personally travelled across the length and breath of Sri Lanka to collect cash contributions from all living Old Thomians in order to build the Chapel.. The Chapel was consecrated by Bishop Mark R. Carpenter-Garnier in February 1927 and dedicated to the event of the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ. The renowned mural depicting the Transfiguration of Jesus Christ was completed in 1968 by David Paynter. It stands to date as a unique masterpiece that inspires awe from those who are fortunate to feast their eyes on it.

The Chapel is a place where many lives have been transfigured and challenged. As the 80th year is celebrated, the dire need to renovate the Chapel including the replacement of the 80 year old roof has become a necessity. The leaks due to the decayed roof are causing further problems to the interior of the Chapel and need urgent attention, particularly as the mural can be damaged by the damp. A study of the structure has revealed that the architecture is of the most pristine quality and special cement has to be imported from England for the restoration while retaining the original impression. The estimated cost of all renovations is prohibitive amounting to over Rs. 25 million. A group of Old Thomians, the Special Events team of the Old Boys Association has been invited by the Warden to come forward to spearhead the Fund raising effort. It is anticipated that old boys, parents, well wishers and every person who appreciates the aesthetic and cultural value of this heritage site, will contribute towards this worthy cause.

A series of fund raising events have now  been organized, mainly showcasing the diverse talents of past and present Thomians in the fields of song, music and drama. A special service to launch the Fund raising efforts, in keeping with the age old College traditions will be held at the Chapel on 17th June, 2007. The project will be officially launched with a Media Conference on the famous Chapel steps on 19th, June. The fund raiser will kick off with ‘Revelations in Concert’, an evening of a capella music featuring a group of Old Boys who are some of Sri Lanka’s finest voices on 1st July at the Lionel Wendt. The other main events to follow are: Sale of College Bonds – 19th June onwards & SMS contributions via Dialog – 19th June onwards; Combined Schools Choir performance – 30th September; Sunday Fair at College grounds – 28th October;  A sing-a- long of old favourites in November; A special Christmas Tree programme across the  24 days leading upto Christmas; Dinner Theatre by Drama Society – January 2008;  The Fund raising initiatives will be many and will be spread out over a period of months leading up to Old Boys week in 2008. These will be unique opportunities for the entire extended Thomian community including parents and well wishers to experience high quality entertainment and thereby contribute towards the Chapel Renovation Fund.

This site will be linked to the main College website. Old Boys and well wishers overseas will be able to download songs sung by the College Choir and purchase special souvenirs online, including replicas of the mural. They can link up with the activities as well as contribute funding through the Payment Gateway that will be set up on this website. 156 years of tradition hinge on the restoration of the Chapel. It must be preserved so it can continue its silent service and inspire many generations of Thomians and others in the future.