Ivan Corea - St. Luke's Church Borella

St. Luke's Church Borella

He was Vicar of St. Luke's Church Borella for over 25 years (1929–1954). Canon Ivan Corea and his wife Ouida Corea played a key role in re-building St. Luke's Church in Borella. The edifice was designed by Canon Corea, including the designs on each pillar, the octagonal tower of the sanctuary, the doors and windows, and all decorative motifs within the church. The foundation stone for the extension was laid on October 17, 1938 by the Commissary of the Bishop of Colombo, Ven. F.L.Beven.

Archdeacon Beven wrote of the architecture of St. Luke's Church, Borella: 'It is an example how an unattractive old Church, which needs re-building, can be re-built in stages, with functional structure for all liturgical needs, in Sinhalese style, and provide attractive exterior and interior in a Church.'

The Church celebrated its Diamond Jubilee during the time of Reverend Ivan Corea. The Bishop of Colombo, Bishop Horsley, consecrated the church on the day of its diamond jubilee on June 30, 1941.

This was a time of great revival and several missionary activities took place at St. Luke's Church, Borella. The church attracted a huge congregation, one of the largest in Colombo, hence the need for the extension.