Goodness and wisdom of pastor’s wife will live on like a legacy of love

My dear friend Rathi Selvaratnam passed away three months ago, after a full life well lived, giving generously of her time and attention to not only her three children, daughter Sulochana and sons Peter and John, but also her relations, friends and many others.

A God-fearing woman, Rathi followed Jesus Christ. She was a very dear friend to our family. We miss her charming ways of love and affection.

The Selvaratnams lived in Mount Lavinia, where her husband, Rev. Father A. J. C. Selvaratnam, was parish priest for many years, and later Warden of S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia. I first came to know Rathi in 1950, when I was teaching at Christian College, Kotte. We became close friends, and our friendship continued to the end.

We interacted closely, serving in the Mothers’ Union of the Mount Lavinia church and the parish choir. She and her husband Rev. Fr. Selvaratnam frequently visited the parish to inquire into the needs of the poor and those in distress.

She was a wonderful pastor’s wife. She was an enthusiastic organist, and also sang with the choir, her face beaming. She was a lovable and caring person, with pleasing ways. I had the privilege to spend a week or two with her whenever I visited Australia. This year too, in January, I spent a holiday with her.

Rathi helped all those who came to her seeking spiritual or material relief.

Rathi died after a brief illness. She was 86 years. The funeral took place at St. Stephen’s Church, Melbourne. Seven pastors conducted the funeral service before a congregation of some 700 mourners. Rathi’s children and grandchildren took part in the service.

Losing a dear friend is a great sorrow. But Rathi’s goodness and wisdom will live on like a legacy of love that will always be with us.