History
We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed.
[Corinthians 4:8-9 (NIV)]
history of Christ's Gospel Church
Rev. Wanigasinghe Arachchige Don Kingsley, popularly known as Pastor W. A. D. Kingsley, was born and raised in Sedawatte, Hambantota District, in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Despite his roots, his love for the region of Polonnaruwa has been unwavering.
At the age of 18, he embraced Jesus Christ as his Savior and dedicated his life completely to God’s ministry. He became a member of the Four Square Gospel Church in Sri Lanka and pursued theological studies, obtaining a Diploma in Theology from the Life Bible School in Nugegoda between 1993 and 1995.
His journey was not without challenges. During his studies, Pastor Kingsley faced both ridicule and hardship, yet his dedication to God’s calling never wavered. Despite wearing the same two sets of clothes throughout his two years of studies, he persevered with faith and humility.
Following his theological training, Rev. Kingsley began serving as an evangelist with the Four Square Gospel Church in Polonnaruwa District, an unfamiliar and difficult region. Armed only with faith, a few books, and a small bag of clothes, he ventured into Polonnaruwa to spread the Gospel. His early days were marked by significant hardships, including nights spent at bus stands and rejection from authorities who mistook him for a vagrant. Yet, with the support of the Holy Spirit, he overcame these trials and began his ministry under a tree with a small group of people.
Over time, Rev. Kingsley faced severe persecution. He was repeatedly attacked, tortured, and nearly killed on several occasions by those opposing his mission. Despite these terrifying experiences, including being left for dead in the Habarana jungle and facing threats on his life, he remained resolute in his faith. The divine presence continually protected him, allowing him to survive numerous assassination attempts.
In 2009, after years of dedicated service, Rev. Kingsley felt a powerful message from the Holy Spirit, urging him to leave the Four Square Gospel Church and pursue God’s vision independently. Alongside his wife, Dulani, he embraced this new calling, despite the emotional challenges it brought. Together, they sacrificed everything for God’s will.
Rev. Kingsley's unwavering commitment to his ministry has continued to this day, withstanding physical, emotional, and spiritual trials. Even amidst war-torn areas like Menikdeniya, where terrorist attacks were rampant, his faith never faltered. He preached under the threat of daily gunfire and bombings, relying solely on the protection and guidance of God.
“This man of God, called Kingsley, was accomplishing the divine vision received by him, risking his own life and completely committing himself to the omnipotent God.”
Through his persistence and trust in the Almighty, Rev. Kingsley has accomplished the vision that God laid upon his heart. His dedication to spreading the Gospel remains a testament to his faith, courage, and unwavering love for Christ.
