Cinnamon Gardens Baptist Church

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Ferguson Memorial Hall of Cinnamon Gardens Baptist Church in the late 19th century

Located by the busy Lipton Roundabout in Colombo, built in 1883, Cinnamon Gardens Baptist Church is a welcoming and supportive Christian community known for its warm and inclusive atmosphere. The church conducts services in Tamil, Sinhala, and English every Sunday, along with a trilingual Sunday school.

Early Origins

The origins of the church can be traced to Rev. J. Chater, the first agent of the Baptist Missionary Society, who arrived in Colombo in 1812. Initially, the English-speaking congregation gathered in a large warehouse in Pettah, which was later purchased and converted into a chapel.

By the mid-nineteenth century, this original chapel had become inadequate—being too small and poorly ventilated, with conditions described as “at times almost intolerable.” As a result, the congregation decided to construct a new chapel on the same site. This replacement building was completed within six months and was described as a “neat, unassuming, substantial, and convenient building.”

Establishment in Cinnamon Gardens

In June 1875, a committee was appointed to oversee the construction of a new sanctuary in the more airy Cinnamon Gardens area. A block of land exceeding one acre was purchased from the government for LKR 4,181.

The Memorial Stone was laid on 4 April 1876, and the church was formally opened for worship on 18 October 1877. By October 1883, all services were transferred to this new location, and the earlier chapel in Pettah was relinquished.

The Pettah building continued to function for some time as a Sunday school before being closed in 1905. At that point, historical memorials—such as the tablet for Rev. Ebenezer Daniel—were relocated to the Cinnamon Gardens church.

Architectural Features

The church stands as a notable example of Gothic architecture in Colombo. It was designed by Rev. F. D. Waldock, who served as the Honorary Architect and Superintendent of Building.

The structure was originally designed to accommodate around 400 worshippers. The total cost of land acquisition and construction amounted to LKR 27,007.96, funded through subscriptions, donations, and a loan that was fully repaid by 1887.

A pastoral residence, known as the Manse, was added to the property in 1891, also designed by Rev. Waldock. In 1898, the church grounds were enclosed with a wall, railing, and iron gates to secure the premises.

Memorials and Historical Significance

For those interested in missionary history, the church contains several memorial tablets commemorating the dedication and service of its early leaders.

A tablet honors Rev. Ebenezer Daniel, often referred to as the “Apostle of Ceylon,” who served for 14 years before his death in 1844. Another monument commemorates Rev. Jacob Davies for his “eminent piety and learning” during his service in the 1840s.

Dr. Christopher Elliott, a deacon and noted philanthropist, is also remembered through a memorial tablet recognizing his contributions as a “skilful physician” and an “enlightened citizen.”

The Ferguson Memorial Hall, constructed in 1895–1896, stands as a tribute to A. M. Ferguson, C.M.G., and his wife, who were devoted members of the church community for nearly 50 years.

References

Bennett, J. W. (1843). Ceylon and Its Capabilities : an Account of Its Natural Resources, Indigenous Productions, and Commercial Facilities ; to which are Added Details of Its Statistics, Pilotage, and Sailing Directions, and an Appendix . . . W.H. Allen and Co.
Lewis, J. (1913). List of Inscriptions on Tombstones and Monuments in Ceylon, of Historical or Local Interest, With an Obituary of Persons Uncommemorated. H. C. COTTLE.
Stockley, T. I. (1898). Cinnamon Gardens English-speaking Baptist Church, Colombo: Brief Account of Its Formation & History with Report of 4 1/2 Years of Pastorate (1st ed.). Observer Printing Works.

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