Public speaking is an art, but the goal of this skill is to inspire rather than to portray

Lighting of the special lamps

St. Benedict’s College created history on December 14th as the Gavel Club of St. Benedict’s College held its inaugural Charter Installation Ceremony in the college auditorium. Distinguished toastmasters, teachers, parents, and gavelliers were present to witness this memorable occasion, along with the distinguished Chief Guest Dr. Kishu Gomes, Rev. Bro. Director Dr. Pubudu Rajapaksha, the Provincial Visitor Rev. Bro. Bertram Perera, Student Coordinator Rev. Bro. Anton Piumal, and the Teacher in Charge TM Ms Theja Gamage.
The board of representatives escorted the Chief Guest to the auditorium after Gv. Aaron Johnpillai, St. Benedict’s College Gavel Club President, had garlanded him at the entrance to begin the proceedings. Besides, the teachers, special invitees, and parents were present in the auditorium to welcome the chief guest.

The entire auditorium went black as soon as the chief guest, Rev. Bro. Director, distinguished guests and special invitees took their seats. Gv. Ryan Patternot and Gv. Raphael Perera, our two eminent emcees, commenced the event with an excellent introduction. The ceremony was ignited by offering the unique gifts God had given the gavelliers by lighting the special lamps at the beginning, following Sri Lankan rituals. The Sergeant-at-arms, Gv. Harish Praveen subsequently led us in opening prayers. Rev. Bro. Director Dr. Pubudu Rajapaksha extended a heartfelt welcome to everyone present at the Charter Installation Ceremony, and his inspiring words motivated all of the young gavelliers.
The Installing Officer of the day, D.T.M. Sarma Mahalingam, then called each gavellier onstage and gave a captivating introduction of each one of them. Above and beyond, the gavelliers gladly swore to vow their commitment to the Club and its future as they were inducted officially.

The ceremony was ignited by offering the unique gifts God had given the gavelliers by lighting the special lamps at the beginning, following Sri Lankan rituals

Additionally, a board video was presented featuring the executive members showcasing their talents under the theme of “be the change you want to be.” The President, Gv. Aaron Johnpillai, the Vice President of Education, Gv. Ryan Patternot, the Vice President of Membership, Gv. Rafael Perera, the Vice President of Public Relations, Gv. Sai Thanaruban, Secretary, Gv. Leathan Morris, Treasurer Gv. Dineth Perera, Sergeant-at-arms Gv. Harish Praveen took the oath to certify them as authorities after being installed and given their duties.
The newly elected President of the SBC Gavel Club Gv. Aaron Johnpillai delivered an overview of his objectives for the year 2022/23 and emphasized the need for communication and leadership training for young Benedictines, so they may confidently assume their positions on the national and international stage. He highlighted that the Club’s theme for the upcoming year, “Be the change you want to be,” was fitting in light of the College’s new visual identity and current aspirations.

One of the most spectacular moments of the installation was when the new executive committee and the teacher in charge came up on stage to host a fantastic entertainment item with some Christmas spirit

Distinguished Chief Guest, Dr Kishu Gomes, delivered an inspirational speech while insisting that all young gavelliers significantly enhance their communication and public speaking skills.
However, seeing the executive committee and team members’ efforts, sweat, and tears crowned with such a captivating installation ceremony was unbelievable. Further, one of the most spectacular moments of the installation was when the new executive committee and the teacher in charge came up on stage to host a fantastic entertainment item with some Christmas spirit.

Finally, Gv. Leathan Morris, the Secretary of the Gavel Club, gave the vote of thanks on behalf of the SBC Gavel Club to appreciate all who contributed to making this event a resounding success. The college anthem was then played to conclude the event, yet, the theme reverberated in everyone’s heart “Be the change you want to be.” It was undoubtedly a vibrant display made possible by the extraordinary work, sacrifice, and dedication of the members of the SBC Gavel Club.
The Gavel Club of St. Benedicts College is genuinely grateful who came forward to help: Maxicon INS, Cargills, Sai Sangeetha, Hamka Shipping, Matheesha W, Ceylinco Life, Eagle Group, ASB Logistics, for their valuable contribution to making this event an echoing success.