Father James Ratnanayagam

so sad to hear about Father Ratnanayagam. He spoke so well and I remember his prayers for my mother when she was sick. My sympathies Prasadini. Please convey to your mum as well.

Our deepest sympathies to Lathika, Prasadini, Devishta & David on the loss of your dear father Father James who has been a very close friend of our family from the time he was vicar at St. Michael 's. He has been a great support in my personal life specially after I left the convent May his soul rest in peace. From Elsie and Ben

So sorry to hear about your dear father. I have such fond memories of him from school and then later on. He will always hold a special place in our hearts. Take comfort in the fact that he was a generous, loving and Inspirational soul. My love to your mom, sister, brother and your close family that grieve with you. Give my love to Ricky too. Our prayers are with you. Loads of love, kisses and hugs. Gayoshi and Hiranjan.

Dear Lathika, Prasadini and the rest of your lovely family members - I was so saddened when I received news that Father James has passed away. I cannot remember the last time I met Father James but what I do remember most vividly is Father James’s unmistakable voice and gentleness that gave a feeling of peace to the listener.

Dear Mrs Ratnanayagam, Prasadini, Deveshta and David. So sorry to hear about the loss of your husband/ father. May God give you the strength to get through this sad and difficult time. May Father James rest in Peace

Dearest Mrs Ratnanayagam, Prasadini & Rikki, Deveshta, David & Helen We are so saddened to hear about the loss of your Fr James. We hope the good memories you have of him will comfort you in the days ahead. Please accept our heartfelt sympathies during this difficult time. May you all find comfort in God’s infinite graces. We pray for your healing and strength through this time of loss. Love Mayanthi & Steve

The passing of Father James, marks the end of the earthly tenure of one who has been a kindly and comforting soul to thousands of people. He devoted himself to the tasks of his pastoral undertakings with a devotion and care that have inspired many. I recall listening to him many times, as a child in church and at the Thomian Chapel, which he loved very much. He mesmerised me with his excellent diction. His manner of articulation was truly exceptional, and I'd dare say many would have learnt good English (albeit incidentally and not by design) as much as they learnt scripture by listening to his sermons. He was a warm, kindly soul with excellent taste - especially for good music and drama, which he has bestowed on his three children. So much so, that his son David (Jayadeva to his friends at S. Thomas' College) has made it very much a part of his own life mission. Although his work on earth is done, the gratitude of those who benefitted from his selflessness and Christian service live on. He will be missed, because he's not one that can easily be forgotten, as he rests now, in the arms of Jesus.

Dear Lathika, please accept our deepest sympathies for your loss. Of,course Fr James played such an important part in our lives as chaplain, which is when I knew himbest. He was so kind and such a strength to my mother, Seelia Wickramasinghe, and my beloved aunt, Ranee Krisnaratne, over so many lonely years. It was Fr.James who prepared David and me for marriage, which has now lasted since 1959- my husband has never forgotten his sage advice “ Always remember, David, when you marry a Sri Lankan, you marry not just a person but a family!”. Our love to you,Lathika, and to your family God Bless - you are all in our prayers. Shan wickramasinghe Radcliffe