Rev'd Malinda Priyadeva De Mel

A Live Called to Serve

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart.”  
– Jeremiah 1:5

From the very beginning, I believe my life has been shaped by God's divine purpose. Even before I was born, my parents dedicated me to His service, and that sacred commitment throughout my life. As an only child, this calling became deeply personal, nurtured with love, faith, and a strong spiritual foundation.

I hail from Holy Emmanuel Church, Moratuwa - the largest church in the Diocese of Colombo - where my journey of faith first began. My early years were further shaped at S. Thomas' College, Mount Lavinia, one of the finest Anglican schools, where discipline, faith, and character were instilled in me.

From the age of five. I began singing in the church choir, and from that moment, music became an inseparable part of my life. It has not only been a passion but also a powerful ministry that has supported and strengthened my priesthood over the years.

I have been blessed to serve the Diocese of Colombo for 21 years as a Priest under three Bishops. Throughout this time, I have sought to serve faithfully and wholeheartedly, offering my gifts for the glory of God. My love for music has enriched my ministry and helped create meaningful worship experiences.

I have always had a deep love for working with young people and exploring creative expressions of worship. I believe in thinking beyond traditional boundaries, embracing new and engaging ways to bring people closer to God. My calling is centered on building God's Kingdom - bringing the scattered under one roof and going in search of the lost sheep.

I am deeply blessed with a wonderful family. My wife, Menaka, has been my greatest strength throughout the years and my most honest evaluator. Her support has been invaluable in my journey. Together, we are blessed with our daughter Mareesha and our son Meshaak, along with his beloved Shalomi. Their love and encouragement continue to sustain me.

Today, I am deeply thankful to God for His unfailing faithfulness and for the loving family at St. Oswald's Anglican Church, Glen Iris, who welcomed me with open arms and embraced me as their own.

With a grateful heart, I remain committed to serving God faithfully and will continue to give my utmost best until my last breath on this earth.

All Praise to God.

– Fr. Mal