The story of Hope church is a testimony to the faithfulness of God and the obedience of His servant, Rev. Joel Perera. In 1984, Rev. Perera came to Ratnapura as a young Bible School student, carrying nothing more than a clear call from God and a heart filled with faith.
He began his ministry in a small rural area called Mahavala, working among just a few families. With no financial stability, and no external resources, he stepped into the field depending solely on the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The church was birthed not by human effort, but by the glory of God and the unmistakable leading of the Spirit.
Rev. Perera served faithfully for 41 years, walking from house to house, visiting families, praying for people, and reaching deep into rural communities around Ratnapura. He launched prayer meetings in various villages at the same time, sowing seeds of the gospel wherever the Lord opened doors. His ministry began small, but the impact was great—God honoured his faithfulness, and the church began to grow steadily and then rapidly.
As the congregation increased, the church felt God calling them to take a bold step of faith. They decided to purchase a new land in Ratnapura and build a sanctuary for the growing body of believers. Though they had limited financial strength, the believers supported the vision wholeheartedly—with their funds, their prayers, and their faith. Together, they witnessed the hand of God provide miraculously.
Over the years, the church continued to flourish. Many people found salvation, families were transformed, and countless individuals entered into ministry. Hope Church became a place where workers for God were raised, and many went on to serve as pastors and ministers both locally and beyond.
Today, Hope Church, Ratnapura stands as a living testimony to God’s grace, the faith of His people, and the unwavering obedience of His servant, Rev. Joel Perera—a pioneer who planted, watered, and believed, and God gave the increase.
- Rev. Joel Perera
Rev. Shadrach Sharron Perera serves as the leading pastor of Hope Church, carrying a deep passion for ministry, discipleship, and strengthening leadership across Sri Lanka. His theological journey began in 2009, when he commenced studies and completed both his Diploma and Bachelor’s Degree in Theology. He is currently pursuing his Master of Divinity (M.Div.) at Southern Asia Bible College (SABC), Bangalore, further equipping himself for advanced ministry leadership.
He received his official ministerial credentials from the Assemblies of God of Ceylon in 2012, affirming his calling into full-time ministry. Rev. Shadrach served faithfully for ten years as an Assistant Pastor and Youth Pastor, mentoring young people and supporting various church ministries.
He is also actively working in the National Youth ministry of the Assemblies of God of Ceylon, contributing to youth development, leadership training, and nationwide youth programs.
In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, Rev. Shadrach is deeply involved in worship ministry. He also teaches as a Bible School teacher, investing in students and training future workers for the Kingdom of God.
Beyond the church, he is pioneering ministry in several rural villages and communities, carrying the gospel to unreached areas and strengthening believers in places with great need.
With dedication, compassion, and a strong commitment to God’s call, Rev. Shadrach Sharron Perera continues to lead Hope Church with vision and faithfulness, impacting lives for the glory of God.
- Rev. Shadrach Sharron Perera – Leading Pastor of Hope Church