SINCE Feb 11,1869 The Catholic weekly o f Sri Lanka National Laity Sunday 1st May

St. Joseph Divine Mercy The Worker "Registered in the Department of Posts of Sri Lanka under No. QD / 17/ News / 2011" May 1 Sunday 01 May 2011 Vol 144 No 17 16 Pages Rs: 20.00 Registered as a newspaper

“Re-entry of Church Beatifies Worker-Pope on May Day God into atican City (CNS) - history….” VThe Vatican has the deceased pope’s praised his predecessor Christ’s death on the released a three-day Vaticanremains spokesman, will be in the said Benedict XVI warmly cross was not so much schedule of events for address, holding him up as physical death as much the beatification of Pope originally was buried in Popea example John ofPaul faith II in amid an as death to one’s self love, John Paul II and warned casket2005 and in which will not he be Western indifference to Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith people against buying visible. Christianity. said in his Good Friday counterfeit tickets to the Homily. “Indeed what Je- beatification liturgy, sus did was exactly that – reinterred in the Chapel of “For all the shame we feel which is free and open to die on the wood of the St TheSebastian casket on will the be main overPope our Benedict failings, saidthe that, to all. Cross in order to cause world must not forget the the death of death itself. in a “private” ceremony, radiant examples of faith.” preside over the levelwhich of will St Peter’s occur onlyBasilica after “His self abnegation Pope Benedict XVI will the large crowds have - stopped coming to pay tive re-entry of God into The Pope cited John beatificationSquare. Immediately Mass at 10after their respects, Fr historygives way and to of the eternity. defini Paul after reflecting in his a.m.,Mass, May the 1,faithful in St Peter’s can pray Lombardi said. - homilyWest seemed in St. Peter’s tired of their ter that sprouted from He said that a prayer faith, bored with their mortal remains, which Basilica that people in the His“The pierced Blood and side the [cfr. Wa Jn. vigil will be held the night Christian traditions “and beforewill be Popeset in John front Paul’s of the - tism and the Holy Eucha- faith in Jesus Christ.” The morning after the rist,19:34], the symbolisesacraments Bap that before the beatification. no longer wish to know main altar in St Peter’s The veneration “will Basilica. in us life and love to their beatification, Cardinal “When Pope John Paul II stimulate us to make real- Tarcisiowill celebrate Bertone, a Mass the of is beatified on May 1, we sion. continuesaid. until the flow of Vatican secretary of state, shallas a great think witness of him withto God Waterfullest and symbolising finest expres life faithful ends,” the Vatican Distributing the Square. heartsand Jesus full Christ of thankfulness in our and blood symbolisng programme, Jesuit Fr thanksgiving in St Peter’s love. Life and love are in- Federico Lombardi, the tertwined on the Cross. day,” Pope Benedict said. On Holy Thursday, Pope O Sacred Wood of the Cross, which bore our “Religious leaders doing Blessed Saviour, “Resurrection is the Take us to Him, our life their best under the and salvation. Amen. hope of everlasting joy” circumstances” Editor, Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith at Easter Triduum Daily News fter all, the Cross “A was not the end of cause” of the world, be- the story. Indeed it was causewho is Hisnot a only-begottenremote “first the beginning of a new Son has become man and History – the dawn of an of Him everyone can say: era of hope. The new com- “I live by faith in the Son munity of those called to of God, who loved me and discipleship in Christ, in gave Himself for me” [Gal. spite of the many suffer- 2:20]. ings and depravation it “In other words had to undergo became - God’s merciful love for is Eminence, Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith a community of hope, be- dict’s encyclical on hope Haddressing the Inter-religious Council of cause in the resurrection Spereflected Salvi, on where Pope the Bene Holy suffered and died is that Jaffna, on a recent visit to the North, as part of a ynn Ockersz assumed of Jesus, there was hope Father states, “Through whichus which gives assumed us a true sense flesh, delegation from the Congress of Religions said, Lduties recently as Editor of the Daily News. Ockersz of an everlasting joy.” Him (Jesus) we have be- of hope. Else life itself that religious leaders were doing their best who counts almost 30 years This was stated come certain of God, a God under the circumstances to perform their duties (Continued on pg. 3) as a print journalist holds a by His Eminence Malcolm to the people with whatever freedom for action BA Special Degree in English Cardinal Ranjith presiding Prayerful greetings ! that was bestowed on them. with Sinhala as his at the Easter Triduum, last Subsidiary subject from the Sunday at St. Lucia’s Ca- After having listened to complaints from University of Kelaniya. thedral Kotahena. several displaced persons, families and members of He also holds a “It does not mat- the Council, His Eminence expressed that though he ter if the Christians lost ev- International Affairs from erything here on earth in- Post-graduate Diploma in cluding life itself but Jesus’ issuescould not raised make by any the promises different as groups the situation met by was the for International Studies, delegationcomplex, he with would the however, relevant take up authorities the different in the Bandaranaike Centre the South. Fellow of Wolfson College evil and death re-assured Colomboof the and University is a Press. of them,definitive of a new overcoming and eternal of Prayerful greetings on We record the Episcopal The delegation consisted of His Eminence, Cambridge. hope of something great, the Patronal Feast of Ordination of His Lordship Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, Most Rev. Dr. Ittapane greater even than anything His Lordship Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. J. Kingsley website Emeritus, Rt. Rev. Dr. Elmo Swampillai Bishop of Emeritus, Most Rev. Dr. Oswald Gomis and members www.colombocatholicpress.lk earth, because Jesus, their Joseph Noel Perera Trincomalee/ Batticaloa ofDhammalankara the Muslim, Hindu Anunayake religions Thero, and the Archbishop Methodist belovedone could Lord find over and here Master on on 1st May. on 7th May. Email: had shown it to them.” (Continued on pg. 3) [email protected] Ad Multos Annos! [email protected] His Eminence then Church of Sri Lanka. The Messenger 01 May 2011 2

New Eight fishers of men for the shores of Colombo Cistercian In the year of his primary education born on 23 June 1981, and Hingurakdamana charist at St. Anne's the Eucharist, nine at Christ the King, Col- and educated at the Maha Vidyalaya. He Church, Weligampitiya Priest new priests will be or- lege, Tudella and his Pitipana Maha Vidya- joined St. Aloysius on Sunday 8 May 2011, dained from the Arch- secondary education laya. Seminary, Borella in at 8.00 a.m. diocese of Colombo. at De Mazenod College He joined St. 1999 and completed Aloysius Seminary, Out of the nine Rev. Kandana. his philosophical and Borella in 1996 and theological studies at Brothers, eight are He joined St. completed his philo- deacons from the Co- Aloysius Seminary, sophical and theo- the National Seminary, lombo Archdiocese. Borella in 1997. He logical studies at the Ampitiya. One other Brother is completed his philo- National Seminary, He will cel- from the Cistercian sophical and theo- Ampitiya. ebrate the First Eu- Order. logical studies at the He will cel- charist at St. Mary's They will be National Seminary ebrate the First Eu- Church, Matugama on ordained by His Emi- Ampitiya. charist at St. Mary's Sunday, 8 May 2011, at nence, Malcolm Car- He will cel- Church, Pitipana on 8.30 a.m. dinal Ranjith, at St. ebrate his First Eu- Sunday, 8 May 2011 at 5.00 p.m. Lucia's Cathedral, Ko- charist at St. Mary's Rev. Bro. Lawrence tahena on 7 May 2011, Church, Tudella on Lynslie Dileep at 9.00 a.m. Sunday, 8 May 2011, Rev. Bro. Don Terrance Edirisinghe at 8.30 a.m. Prasangaviraj Is the son of Is the son of late Prins Edirisinghe Kariyawasam Athuko- and Anasta Ediris- ralege Don John Jo- inghe of Dalugama. seph and Gamage Mary He was born on 21 Brenda of Hanwella. October 1976. He He was born on 13 Oc- obtained his prima- tober 1982. ry education at St. He obtained his Benedict's College, primary education at Kotahena and his Rev. Bro. Indunil the Roman Catholic Rev. Bro. Don Sajith Sampath Perera secondary education School, Pahathgama, Aruna at Royal College, Co- Hanwella and his sec- Is the son of Li- lombo. Rev. Bro. Priyanal Is the son of ondary education at yanage Joseph Michael In 2001 he Asantha Fernando Don Noel Linus and Constantine Perera and the John Bosco Col- joined the Holy Cross Rev. Bro. Ruwantha Sangapala Arachchi- Vitharanage Francis lege, Hanwella. Is the son of Kumara Fernando lage Dona Marie Swar- Fernando of Ja-ela. He He joined St. Cistercian Monas- Hettiyakandage Wil- nakanthi of Enderam- was born on 27 Febru- Aloysius Seminary, tery, Austria. In 2003 ulla. He was born on 3 fred Harold Fernando Is the son of ary 1982. He is an old Borella in 1998. He he took his First October 1983. and Muttuthanthrige Dodampahalage Alson boy of De Mazenod Col- completed his philo- vows. He completed He is an old lege, Kandana. Mary Margaret Fernan- Joseph Fernando and sophical and theo- his philosophical and boy of St. Anthony's He joined St. do of Kadalana Mor- logical studies at the Dedigamuwage Janet Maha Vidyalaya, Wat- Aloysius Seminary, theological studies National Seminary, atuwa. He was born on Malini of Kadalana, tala and St. Joseph's Borella in 1998 and at Pope Benedict XVI, 27 April 1983. Moratuwa. He was born College, Maradana. completed his philo- Ampitiya. University, Austria. He obtained on 11 November 1983. He joined St. sophical and theo- He will cel- He will celebrate his his primary educa- He obtained his prima- Aloysius Seminary, logical studies at the ebrate his First Eu- First Eucharist at tion at St. Anthony's ry education at the Ro- Borella in the year National Seminary charist at St. Joseph's St. Francis de Sale, College, Kadalana and man Catholic School, 2000. He completed Ampitiya. Church, Pahathgama, Church Dalugama on his secondary educa- Rawathawatte and his his philosophical and He will cel- Hanwella on Sunday, 8 Sunday 8 May 2011 theological studies at tion at Prince of Wales secondary education ebrate the First Eu- May 2011, at 8.00 a.m. at 8.30 a.m. the National Seminary, College, Moratuwa. He at St. Sebastian's Col- Amptiiya. joined St. Aloysius lege, Moratuwa. He will cele- Let us pray that these nine new shepherds will be blessed Seminary, Borella in He joined St. brate his First Eucha- with many years of fruitful service in the Lord’s vineyard the year 2000, and Aloysius' Seminary, rist at St. Sebastian's completed his philo- Borella in the year Church Enderamulla sophical and theo- 2000. He completed on Sunday 8 May 2011 logical studies at the his philosophical and at 4.00 p.m. Child protection - a priority Caritas program National Seminary, theological studies An awareness program Ampitiya. at the National Semi- was held recently for a group He will cele- nary, Ampitiya. of 35 teachers and principals brate his First Eucha- He will cele- who comprise the main tar- rist at St. Anthony's brate his First Eucha- get group in the Caritas Child Church, Kadalana on rist at St. Anthony's Protection Policy (CPP) Pro- Sunday, 8 May 2011 at Church, Kadalana on gram from the dioceses of 8.30 a.m. Sunday, 8 May 2011 at Jaffna, Mannar and Trincoma- 8.30 a.m. lee / Batticaloa. The sessions were held on thi Ranasinghe, Program Officer 12th March at Sewa Lanka Centre for CPP in SEDEC. in Vavuniya and were arranged un- (SEDEC Communication Unit) der the guidance of Rev. Sr. Nilan- Rev. Bro. Tyronne Ajith Subasinghe English day at St. Patrick's College, Talawakelle Is the son Shakespeare of late Subasinghe English Associa- Arachchilage Amaras- tion of St. Pat- inghe and Samarak- rick's College, kody Arachchilage Talawakelle, cel- Rev. Bro. Malintha Philomena Pieris of ebrated the Eng- Chathuranga Rev. Bro. Ranjan Matugama. He was lish Day recent- Is the son of Priyadharshana born on 12 January 1975. ly. Very Rev. Fr. Henegama Banage- Fernando He obtained Milroy Fonseka, waththegedera Chan- his primary educa- drasiri and Warnakula Is the son of tion at Bothalawa Vicar General and General Manager of Private Schools of the Diocese of Weerasooriya Fedrica Anthony Seetus Dami- Junior School and Kandy, was the Chief Guest. Octavia of Tudella. He an Fernando and Jane his secondary educa- A number of officials from the Department of Education and was born on 9, Novem- Beatrice Mabel Fonse- tion at Meegahatenna Principals of neighbouring schools were present. ber 1982. He obtained ka of Pitipana. He was Vidyarathna College K. Suresh The Messenger 01 May 2011 3 Ensure Safe Migration and New Priest for the Prevent Human Trafficking Five new priests for Institute Voluntas Del the Province of Jaffna Seminary in 2002. He completed his philo- pu Joseph, the Bishop sophical and theo- of Mannar, on 28 April logical studies at the 2011 at 9.00 am at St. National Seminary, Sebastian’s Cathedral, Ampitiya, Kandy. He Mannar. was ordained as a Deacon on 7 October 2010 and served as a Rev. Bro. Davin deacon at IVD Scho- Coonghe IVD lasicate, Kandy and Rev.Bro. Jegan Rev. Bro. Davin Sacred Heart Church Kumar Coonghe A group of 33 community leaders from Coonghe IVD was born Kirulapana, Colombo. to Michael Coonghe the dioceses of Jaffna, Trincomalee/Batticaloa, He will be ordained by and Atputhamary on Born to Mi- Mannar and Badulla participated in a one-day His Lordship Rayappu 7 January 1984 in chael Connghe and program held on 24th February to create pub- Joseph, the Bishop of lic awareness on the many issues faced by mi- Pesalai, Mannar. He Atputhamary on 5 De- Mannar, on 28 of April grant workers due to their ignorance of safe mi- was educated at Fati- cember 1980 in Pe- Rev. Bro. Lebourn 2011 at 9.00 am at St. gration measures, and also to draw attention to ma Maha Vidhyalaya, salai, Mannar. He is Seuthan OMI Sebastian’s Cathedral, the dangers of human trafficking taking place Pesalai, Mannar. He an Old Boy of Fatima Mannar. both within Sri Lanka and outside. joined the IVD Minor Maha Vidyalaya, Pes- Born to Jesu- The Tamil language program held in alai and at St Patrick’s thasan and Elizabeth Anuradhapura was later followed by a second Resurrection is...... College, Jaffna. He Rani on 28 June 1981 one conducted in Sinhala on 23rd March at the Contd. from p. 1 joined the oblate Ju- in Nallur,Jaffna. He is SEDEC auditorium in Borella where 27 commu- niorate in 1998. an Old Boy of St. Bene- nity leaders from the dioceses of Anuradhapura, would end in an empty limbo. States the Pope dict’s School, Nallur Ratnapura, Chilaw and Badulla participated. further “God’s love alone gives us the possibil- and St. Patrick’s Col- (SEDEC Communications Unit) lege, Jaffna. He joined ity of soberly persevering day by day, without the oblate Juniorate in ceasing to be spurred on by hope in a world 1997. Religious leaders.... which by its very nature is imperfect. We only Contd. from p.1 vaguely sense and which nevertheless in our A warm reception was accorded to the delega- deepest self, we await: a life that is “truly life” tion by the AGA for Mullaituwa. During the re- [ibid 31]. ception a number of issues were discussed in Quoting Romano Guardini, “For Jesus relation to missing persons, lack of information the arch of existence does not begin with His Rev.Bro. Jeno about detainees in camps and the inability of birth, but reaches far behind it into eternity: Harance these people to get back to their original places “… before Abraham came to be, I Am” [Jn. 8:58], of residence. Several of those present gave the His Eminence said, “A tomb could not contain Born to The- delegation hand written accounts of their prob- varasa and Bernadette the author of life. He had to rise and rise to the lems. on 13 June 1978 in Rev. Bro. Philip pristine glory He shed voluntarily as the Son of The delegation also visited displaced Semamadhu, Vavuni- Ranjana Kumar OMI persons belonging to the Muslim community God in order to die in obedience to the Father ya. He is an old boy from Puttalum and Jaffna. Some of them had on the Cross. Thus, in the case of Jesus it was of Sanmuhanandha Born to Santhi- found shelter in an abandoned railway station. not just the mission of a deliverer like Moses. Maha Vidyalaya , Se- yapillai and Rosalin on There were pathetic complaints made about the His was the mission of God’s own Son [cfr. He- mamadhu and St. Pat- 17, January 1980 in rick’s College, Jaffna. non delivery of food rations and His Eminence brews 3: 1-6] which convinced the apostles that Marisankoodal, lIava- He joined the Oblate immediately directed Caritas Jaffna –HUDEC to lai, Jaffna. He received indeed humanity’s expectations of redemption Juniorate in 1997. look into this. had finally been fulfilled in Him.” his primary educa- While visiting the Commander of Civil “The Resurrection therefore, this victory tion at Marisankoodal Administration of the Army in Jaffna, His Emi- over sin, death and temporality makes us Chris- R.C.T. Vidhyalayam nence made inquiries about the army occupa- and at St. Henry’s Col- tian men and women of hope – a hope which tion of the Tholagatty monastery. lege lIavalai, Jaffna. He we are called upon to share with others thereby The Commanding Officer explained to received his secondary working to remove all despair and pessimism the delegation that the situation in the North education at Puthu- was complex but once the landmines were re- from humanity. For us even if everything and kudiyuruppu Central moved owners of houses could go back to oc- everyone else fails there is God’s never ending College, Mullaitivu. He cupy them. love on which we can bank.” joined the Oblate Ju- niorate in 1999. These two Rev. Bro. Mathanraj brothers made their Born to Paul perpetual profession and Elizabeth on 28 in the Congregation September 1978 in of the Oblates of Mary Periya Navatkulam, Immaculate on 1 Sep- Mannar. He received tember 2010, and were his primary education ordained Deacons on at Periyanavatkulam, the 2nd of September Mannar and secondary 2010 at St. Joseph’s education at Periya Church, Columbuthu- Pandivirichan, Mannar. rai, Jaffna. They will be He joined the Oblate Ordained by His Lord- Juniorate in 1997. These three ship Thomas Savun- brothers made their daranayagam, Bishop perpetual profession of Jaffna, on the 18 in the Congregation of May 2011 at 9.30 am at the Oblates of Mary Im- St. Mary’s Cathedral, maculate on 1 of Sep- Jaffna. tember 2010, and were ordained Deacons on 2 Let us pray that these September 2010 at St. five Oblates will be Joseph’s Church, Co- blessed with many lumbuthurai, Jaffna. years of service in the They will be Ordained Lord’s vineyard by His Lordship Rayap- The Messenger 01 May 2011 4 Beatification of a Pole and Catholic Social Teaching

Karel Józef Wojtyla, Cardinal respectively. Annus’ on 1st May Editorial known famously as On 16th of Sep- 1991. Within a period of Pope John Paul II, was tember, 1978 Cardinal one hundred years the May 01 2011 born on 18 May 1920 Wojtyla was elected to reigning Pontiffs have and lived through Nazi the Papacy as the 266th issued a series of 14 occupation of Poland. Successor of St. Peter, Catholic Social Encyc- Liberty must be protected He was the youngest of the first non-Italian licals pertaining to the three children and his after 456 years, and Social Doctrine of the under the Law mother died when he the first ever Pontiff Church alone. was eight-years-old and from Poland, a country Solidarity Movement his elder brother when behind the Iron Cur- The story begins with the burning down of the Lanka tain under Communist and Lech Walesa he was twelve-years-old. E. News press. The Police said that it was an inside job and dictatorship. The Pope In 1979 his first These two deaths left that it had been carried out by an underworld figure. They ar- elect assumed the trip to Poland uplifted an indelible mark on rested an underworld suspect and remanded him. Then they name of John Paul II the whole nation's arrested Bennet Rupasinghe, the Editor on the charge that he his growing up years. and became popular as spirit and sparked had contacted the suspect’s brother on his mobile telephone the “Worker Pope.” the formation of the and threatened him not to inform against him. Bennet Ru- Priesthood and Solidarity movement pasinghe was remanded by the Magistrate on a report by the Quarry Work Social Doctrine of in 1980,in the Gdask Wellampitiya Police. But this week the same magistrate grant- In 1939 the the Church Lenin Shipyard under ed bail to Bennet Rupasinghe stating that the Police had not Nazi occupation forces A very important the leadership of Lech furnished sufficient reasons to justify withholding of bail. closed the university Papal Encyclical on Walesa, an electrician The Free media movement and those concerned with where young Karel was the Social Doctrine of employed in the ship- protecting the media personnel protested outside the Mag- studying and this the Church, ‘Laborem yard. – A devout Catho- istrate’s Court in Kaduwela. They feel the arrest of Bennet forced him to work Rupasinghe is another attempt at repressing the free media. in a quarry (1940- While comment is not desirable when the matter is 1944) and then in "Travelling in sub judice, we think it is time that the Police regained the the Solvay chemical confidence of the people by showing that they are acting in factory to avoid being the footsteps the interests of the general public and not in the interest of deported to Germany. the authorities. During colonial times the employees in the In 1942, aware of his government were called public servants and not government call to the priesthood, of His Master" servants. The distinction is important since the police are the he began courses police of the public and not the police force of the govern- in the clandestine ment. The Police are not expected to misuse the processes of seminary of Krakow, the courts to remand suspects. The Police are there to serve run by Cardinal Adam the people. In colonial times public servants addressed let- Stefan Sapieha, Arch- ters to the members of the public as “your obedient servant.” bishop of Krakow. At Have the government employees in the Police and the other the same time, Karel departments of the state ceased to be public servants and be- Wojtyła was one of come servants of the government of the day? the pioneers of the In Communist states and during the time of Musso- ‘Rhapsodic Theatre’, lini, the police became the police of the ruler. It is always so in also clandestine. He was ordained dictatorial regimes. But in our country, even in colonial times Exercens’, issued by lic who took inspiration to the priesthood by Pope John Paul lI, and strength from his the police did not look upon themselves as the police of the Archbishop Sapieha 14th September, 1981 religion. He closely State but of the public. In the Bracegirdle case an Australian in Krakow on Novem- to commemorate the followed the worker citizen who showed sympathy for the independence struggle ber 1, 1946, All Saints’ 90th Anniversary ot the principles as laid down of the Sri Lankan people was disliked by the colonial admin- Day. Shortly after- epoch-making first ever by Pope John Paul II. istration and the governor issued an order for his immedi- wards, he was sent to Social Encyclical ‘Re- In September ate deportation. This was challenged in the courts. The court Rome where he worked rum Novarum’ issued 1981 at Solidarity's first not only vacated the governor general’s order and nullified it under the guidance of by Pope Leo XIII embod- national congress elect- the French Dominican, but also stated the obligation of court to intervene when the ies the vision and ex- ed Lech Walesa as a Garrigou-Lagrange. He periences of Pope John president and adopted a liberties of the individual are curtailed as a right of the court finished his doctorate Paul II on sweat and toil republican program, the which is not limited even during the conditions of war. in theology in 1948 of man; right and duty This power of the court was restricted under the Pre- with a thesis on the to work; dignity of work vention of Terrorism Act of 1987 and the Emergency Regula- subject of faith in the and that of the worker; tions. Vast powers were conferred on the executive by these works of St. John of the primary basis of the val- laws under which rights of individual liberty were severely Cross (Doctrina de fide ue of work is man; that curtailed. Suspected persons were deprived of their liberty apud Sanctum Ioannem work is for man and legally but more or less arbitrarily on grounds of suspicion a Cruce). At that time, not man for work; that of LTTE connections or inclinations, and the movements of during his vacations, man who serves the foreigners were severely-restricted and supervised: A com- he exercised his pas- society through work, plete change was effected in the security of personal rights toral ministry among works for himself as of people particularly those dissenting with the government. the Polish immigrants well; redemptive value But now that the war is over people would like their personal of France, Belgium and of work; exploitation rights safeguarded under the normal law. Holland. of worker resulting in Compare the situation during colonial rule when there In 1948 he re- the degradation of the turned to Poland and was greater protection for individual liberty. A case in point is human family; Cross was vicar of various the Bracegirdle judgment which was based on the principles of suffering entwined parishes in Krakow as of the Magna Carta. As stated by Abraham CJ, “There can be with daily work; Gospel Lech Walesa well as chaplain to uni- of Work; the need and no doubt that in British territory there is the fundamental versity students. This importance of Worker ‘Self-governing Repub- principle of law enshrined in the Magna Carta that no person period lasted until 1951 Solidarity; the Church lic’. The government can be deprived of his liberty except by judicial process. when he again took up of the Poor; the Pontiff attempted to destroy A close examination would show that the extent of the his studies in philoso- has placed before all the union with the enjoyment of civil liberties as individuals, by Sri Lankans now phy and theology. men of goodwill irre- martial law of 1981 and is much less than those they enjoyed under the British. Civil spective of Christians several years of repres- liberties have been reduced particularly since the adoption of The ‘Worker’ Pope and non-Christians for sion, but in the end it the 1978 Constitution. Fr. Karel Józef their consideration and had to start negotiating We hope and pray that our learned Judges will con- Wojtyla who willingly action. with the union. Eventu- tinue this hallowed judicial tradition and protect the rights traversed the footsteps In commemo- ally it led to the Eastern of the people to be tried according to the due process of the of his beloved Master, rating the Centenary Bloc's effective disman- law. We hope the police which is the police of the people, will carrying the weight of of first ever Catholic So- tling, and contributing not abuse the process of court or act in an oppressive manner his daily crosses for the cial Encyclical, ‘Rerum to the dissolution of towards suspects. We hope and pray that the Police would act liberation and salvation Novarum’ issued by the Soviet Union, in the impartially with due diligence to ascertain the truth and noth- of the flock entrusted Pope Leo XIII on 15th early 1990s. ing but the truth. him was successively May 1891, it devolved elevated to the ranks of upon Pope John Paul (Contd. on p. 15) Bishop, Archbishop and II to issue ‘Centesimus The Messenger 01 May 2011 5

26:12; Mark 14:8; 16:1). Since oil he altar was absolutely marked joyful occasions, it was essential for worship What's not normally applied during times Tin ancient Israel, so What’s of mourning or fasting (2 Sam it is no surprise that it is mentioned quite frequently 14:2; Jdt 10:3; Dan.10:3). in the Bible (460 x in the Biblical In ancient Israel oil NAB). The Hebrew word was also poured over the for altar is mizbeah (400x), Biblical head of certain political and which is derived from the about.... religious leaders as a sign of root zbh, which means their office and to mark them “to slaughter”. However, about… as special persons. The Bible normally the slaughter of Anointing rarely mentions the anointing sacrificial victims did not take of prophets (1 Kgs 19:16; Isa place on the altar itself but 61:1), but anointing with oil somewhere nearby. Some Altar ? the Sick? was an important feature of the of the blood of the sacrifices was splashed on the altar or consecration of the king, who was placed on its horns; the rest even called “the Lord’s anointed” was poured out at the base (1 Sam 2:10;10:1; 12:3; 16:13; of the altar (Exod 24:6;29:12, 24:7, 11;26:9, 11, 16; 2 Sam 2:4; 16; Lev 1:11, 15;3:2, 8, 13; 5:3; 1 Kgs 1:39: 2 Kgs 11:12; Ps 4:7, 18). The sacrifices were 45:8). Priests were also anointed then burned on the altar with oil (Exod 28:41; 30:30; 40:15; (Exod 29:18, 25; Lev 1:12- Lev 7:36; 8:12; 16:32). 13; 3:11, 16; 4:10, 19,26,31). Since olive oil was often Thus the altar was more of used to cleanse and protect the a fireplace than a table, and body, it was associated with one of the tasks of the priests was to keep a fire burning good health. At the same time it constantly on it (Lev 6:2, served as a natural base for some 5-6). For this reason the altar medicines. So it is no surprise of sacrifice was not located that oil was used in the healing inside the Temple building, only exceptions are Acts 17:23 of wounds and diseases (Isa 1:6; but outside in the courtyard. It (where Paul mentions the altar Luke 10:34; see also Talmud Jer. also explains why the altar was dedicated “To an Unknown God”) live trees are plentiful in Ber. 1, 3a, 9: Mishnah Shabb. normally built of stone (Exod and Heb 13:10 (a much disputed the countries bordering the 23:5). 20:25; Deut 27:5-6; Josh 8:31) passage that could possibly refer O or earth (Exod 20:24) or covered Mediterranean Sea – including Jesus had a special to a Christian altar). with bronze (Exod 38:2: 1 Kgs the Holy Land. Here olives have concern for the sick and often Altars in Christian healed their ills (Matt 4:23-24; 8:64). A special altar, used only been especially prized because for burning incense, was covered churches are still places of 8:16; 14:35-36; Mark 1:32-34; of the high-quality oil that can be with gold and placed within the encounter with the divine, but pressed from them. Olive oil was 6:55-56; Luke 5:40-41). The New Temple itself (Exod 37:25-28; they are no longer associated common in acient Israel, and it Testament does not record Jesus 40:5). with the fire and blood of Old was considered to be one of the ever using oil in His healing The altar was a sign of Testament times. The Christian blessings of the land provided ministry. However, He often laid the divine presence, a place altar has inherited the notion by God (Deut 7:13; 11:14; 33:24; His hands on the sick (Matt 8:3, where Israel encountered God of sacrifice, since the Eucharist 2 Kgs 20:13; 2 Chr 2:9; 31:5; 14; 9:18, 25,29; Mark 1:41), and (Exod 29:42). In the earliest celebrated there represents not Jer 31:12; Joel 2:19). Before on occasion He “anointed” a sick period of Israel’s history altars only Christ’s presence but also often marked places where the discovery of petroleum or person with spittle or with a mud His self-giving to the Father. But God had appeared to one of the electricity, olive oil was the most made with His spittle (Mark 7:33; ancestors (Gen12:7; 26:24-25). since the Lord’s Supper was important fuel for nighttime 8:23; John 9:6-7). When Jesus originally celebrated at tables sent His disciples out on mission The sacrifices offered on the illumination (Lev 24:2; Matt 25:3-4 he commanded them to heal the altar were transferred from the in private homes, the Christian ,8) – as attested by the numerous sick (Matt 10:1, 8: Mark 6:7; 16:18; profane world of human beings altar was also viewed as the oil lamps that have survived from Luke 9:1-2). In their healing to the sacred world of the divine. table of the paschal banquet. antiquity. Olive oil was used in ministry the disciples anointed This connection with the divine When the liturgy was moved made the altar sacred (Exod cooking and in the preparation many with oil (Mark 6:13) After from homes to basilicas there of food; it was even considered Jesus’ death and resurrection 29:37; 30:10). Only priests could was a development of both essential for life (Num 11:8; 1 this anointing of the sick with oil approach it, and even they had to ritual and theology, and greater Kgs 17:12; Sir 39:26; Ezek 16:13, continued: “Are any among you take special precautions (Exod 19). It formed part of certain sick? They should call for the 30:20, Lev 21:23; Num 18:3,7). emphasis was placed on the However, the altar also served temple sacrifices, especially cereal elders (Presbyters) of the church table as an altar. The Eucharist as a place of refuge, for there was understood as the unbloody offerings (Num 6:15). Religious and have them pray over them, God protected those who had objects were also sometimes anointing them with oil in the unwittingly committed a crime representation of Christ’s bloody marked with oil (Gen 28:18; 31:13; name of the Lord. The prayer (Exod 21:12-14; 1 Kgs 1:50-53; sacrifice on the Cross. Thus Exod 29:36; 30:26-28; 40:9-11; Lev of faith will save the sick, and 2:28). the sense of sacred space and 8:10-11; Num 7:1,10). the Lord will raise them up; and The word “altar” occurs divine presence represented by Unlike most other food, anyone who has committed sins only twenty-three times in the the biblical altar was transferred olive oil was poured over or will be forgiven” (Jas 5:14). The New Testament, where normally to the altar located in Christian rubbed on the body for various sick person was thus anointed it refers to (1) some event or churches. In fact, the altar itself purposes. It was used in bathing and prayed over by the church’s place in the Old Testament (Matt became a symbol of Christ, who (Ruth 3:3; 2 Sam 12:20; Dan minister. That prayer and 23:35; Luke 11:51; Rome 11:3, is at the same time priest, altar, Heb 9:4; Jas 2:21); (2) the Temple 13:17) and as an ingredient or anointing is still practiced by the and lamb of sacrifice. in Jerusalem (Matt5:23-24; base for perfumes and cosmetics church in the sacrament of the 23:18-20; Luke 1:11; 1 Cor 9:13; (Jdt 16:7; Ps 104:15; Isa 57:9); anointing of the sick. 10:18; Heb 7:13; Rev 11:1); or (3) (Courtesy: Koinonia - Amos 6:6; Mark 14:3-4; Luke 7: (Courtesy: Koinonia - the heavenly sanctuary (Rev 6:9; Archdiocese, Bulletin 46; John 12:3). It was also used to Archdiocese, Bulletin) 8:3, 5; 9:13; 14:18; 16:7). The Timothy A. Lenchak, S.V.D.) prepare a corpse for burial (Matt

ONLY AT THE FOOT OF THE CROSS Only at the foot of the Cross Only at the foot of the Cross Only at the foot of the Cross Can I leave my cares behind, Can His precious blood shed for me, Can I accept the gift of His Mother, So let’s stand DAILY at the foot of the And at the feet of my Saviour Cleanse me from all my sins And in Her deep sorrow console Her Cross True happiness and peace find. So that my heart may sinless be. And wipe away Her tears. And experience Christ’s love and agony, And readily respond to His tender plea: Only at the foot of the Cross Only at the foot of the Cross Only at the foot of the Cross “Come, come my child, and follow Me!” Can I see His bitter agony, Can I experience His love for me. Can I know how much He loves me, As He hung between two thieves And know He’s paid the price of my sins And surrender my whole life to Him On that lonely hill at Calvary. So that I may live eternally. In return for all He has done for me.

Only at the foot of the Cross Only at the foot of the Cross Only at the foot of the Cross Can I know what my sins have done, Can I realise life’s futility, Do I wish my whole life to stay, To my sweet Saviour, the Lamb of God, That all this world’s wealth and pleasures Close to His sacred bleeding Heart The Holy-and-Sinless One. Are for a fleeting time only. And never, never from Him to stray.

Only at the foot of the Cross Only at the foot of the Cross Only at the foot of the Cross In the silence of my heart, Can I accept the cross given to me, Can I from war and strife secure, Can I seek Christ’s mercy and pardon And willingly carry it daily And in my Risen Lord and Saviour And from my sinful ways depart. On the same road to Calvary. Believe in etemal life hereafter. Lilian Ferdinands The Messenger 01 May 2011 6 The Sacred Turned into a Mockery

Rev. Fr. Michael Payyappilly VC God. And Jesus saw that problem as being so important (Courtesy: Divine Voice) thatso important He would that even she do atook miracle the problemfor them beforeto the time.Son of

ecently a priest was describing to me how he had Jesus enters into families and helps them solve their Rgone for a house blessing. The family had given problems. In the He Bible approached we read of families many withinstances a sense when of him a time which was not suitable to him and so he” had to postpone his visit, to which the family reluctantly agreed. He reached the house at the time that he had approachedthe sacred. In that Luke family 4:38 ff, problem when Peter with had intensity a problem and said he would get there. in his family with his mother-in-law being sick, Jesus The family invited him in but the reception seemed rather cold. The members of the family, did not withhealed so her.much In ofLuke sacredness 8:40 onwards, that He when did not Jairus even hadallow a have much of a smile on their faces nor were they, happy everyonedaughter whointo thatwas roomsick, Jesus except approached the three disciples the problem and when the whole family sits down to watch a reality blessing soon and he was getting annoyed at this behav- “It is relevant and good to see how to see him. All of them kept pushing him to start the Jesus looked at family life and love as show on TV. house blessing and then as is customary he sat down “They changed their glory into shame” Hos 4:7) being sacred and important. So much foriour that that ‘one they cup were of tea’.meting In a outhurried to him. way He he finished was served the This is the new fad of the day - reality shows. It tea and he got the feeling that they just wanted him to, has captured audiences all over. It has become so addic- so, He would carry out His first mir- leave as soon as possible. That is when the youngest tive that people eat their food sitting in front of it. What acle even before time to safeguard the sacredness of marriage and fam- “Mama, by the time Father goes will the show get over?” blunt way ‘A chance to peep into other people’s homes.’ ily. Will we allow our next generation child in the house, in a loud voice, asked his mother, do most of these shows give the audience? Putting it in a The priest did not understand, but he could see the It is sad but it is the truth. to get a perverted idea of such sa- mother suddenly hold the little one’s mouth shut with Today many families along with their little cred gifts of God?” ither out. hand. She saidThe thatpriest the asked priest them had comewhat showthere theat a childtime ones are busy looking through hidden cameras at the was talking about. Very reluctantly the mother brought way peoplevery scary.are living The theirconversations lives on a in TV the show. house The are way all peopleabout and families these shows are gettingand analysing hooked the on characters to this is that problem. He saw the family problem as sacred and St. Joseph Guardian in the show. The lives and behavioural pattern the parents. He did not want to make a spectacle with- ily problem, Jesus wept with them. He did not see it as of the Child Jesus busy spending our money on the mobile phone somethingprivate. In Johnto be 11 discussed when Martha and projected and Mary to hadthe aworld. fam of people are analysed and talked about. We are St. Joseph a to try to oust people from that ‘home’ by vot- He respected it all. member of the Royal family of David was “For God did not call us to impurity but in holiness” ing them out. If I hate or don’t like a person on leading the obscure life against them and get them out. Is this what we (I Thess 4:7) that show and I don’t like their behaviour I vote of an ordinary manual We live in a world that is increasingly more ca- labourer, a village car- what we are showing our children today? The sual towards love, marriage and family life. These three ideaand ourthat families we give are our hooked young oneson to is today? that if Is there this are a gift of God and is to be dealt with delicately. It is him to be the spouse of is a problematic member of the family that per- not something to be made a spectacle of. It is not some- penter. But God chose son should be got rid off. Maybe we do not openly thing to be sold over the television. The sacredness of and the Foster-father of give this advice but this is what they learn from love, marriage and family life cannot be played around the BlessedIncarnate Virgin Word. Mary The love of shows like this. The privacy of the human being the young Joseph for the eyes of the world. intowith. a When drama. we And watch let usprogrammes not forget thatlike thisour welittle end ones up is being taken away and everything is left open to aremaking getting these a very sacred negative gifts as idea big ofspectacles family life which and love.turn was strong, pure and “In order that we may share His holiness” They are going to see marriage and family life in the faithful.Blessed Yet Virgin God had Mary to (Heb 12:10) enlighten it even more our next generation to get a perverted idea of such sa- if it was to last. It is this credwake gifts of what of God? they watch on television. Will we allow enlightenment which the sacrament of marriage con- love as beingIn the sacred wake and of this,important. it is relevant So much and so, good to see how Jesus looked at family life and crowd and act on what we believe in. If we do want to It takes a monumental effort to stand up in a creative as was the love of Joseph for Mother Mary and time to safeguard the sacredness of marriage respect these sacred gifts of love, marriage and family, herfers Son.on human love; it makes it enduring, patient, and andHe would family. carry In John out 2 His we first read miracle about the even wedding before - Scripture tells us that Joseph was pure, just, at Cana. A couple was starting their life together. it is time we made a decision not to watch the mock prudent, gentle and a love of holy silence. Above all, It was a moment of love. It was the start of their fashionable to watch and discuss such programmes but ery that television channels make out of it. It might be this humble guardian of the Child Jesus was righteous, dreams together. Jesus was there with Mary and let us stand up and respect these wonderful gifts of the His unfailing: obedience to the divine will of God proved the disciples. When the wine gives out, there is a his righteousness. St. Joseph was duty conscience he problem and a situation. It was not a situation to that we will not allow the cheapening of such sacred and Lord. Let us be able to make a statement to the world always did what God wanted him to do, even when in discuss or to gossip about. It was a situation that blessed gifts. Let us have the heart to do it, so that we do doubt. was delicate and important to that couple. Mary recognised the delicacy of the situation and she marriage and family as dramas or reality programmes. not have to see the day when our children look at love, Emilda S. Douglas approached the Son of God with it. She thought of St. Joseph patron saint of workers pray for us. the marriage and the relationship of the couple St. Benedict’s 2010 Basketball Champs telling a deliberate lie or hitting someone. I lied to my motherwe have saying done. Those I went are for the a show Sins ofwith Commission, a girl when like I - St. Benedict’s College, Kotahena became the- - winners of the All Island Under-19 Boys’ Basketball ingwent things with whichmy boyfriend are part Paul.”confessed of being a true Christian.”Erica, add Championship 2010, held recently at St. Joseph’s Col ing ‘’There are also many Sins of Omission, like do lege Grounds, Colombo 10. St. Benedict’s beat Maris “It is the positive part of being one with Christ. Show- Stella College, Negombo by 73 points to 45. 40 “What are they?”asked Derek. Akila Jayawardena of Maris Stella was - awarded Best Defensive Player and Kanishka Perera By: Sirohmi Gunesekera ing love to a neighbour and saying a kind word to of St. Benedict’s was adjudged Best Offensive Player. someone, especially someone who is in distress. Be The award for the Most Valuable Player was received Erica.ing extra kind and caring to people is as important as by Udayanga Perera of St. Benedict’s College. “Yes,making sometimes The Way we of canthe beCross so devouton Good that Friday!”said we forget “Holy Week” the social niceties or reaching out to others. The Sins Take time for a minute of of Omission mean omitting to do a good deed or per- humour - smile! A priest received this “Today is Palm Sunday. It is the beginning of Holy “Or going that extra mile to do something for thank-you card from a Week. How can we reflect on the Lord’s Passion?” someone.”addedform an act of charity.” Erica. said Derek. bridegroom he had mar- ourasked sins Erica. that caused Jesus to die so painfully on the - ried “Dear Father, I want Cross.Well, first So we of all,should we must say, “Mea accept culpa, our sinfulMea culpa, state. MeaIt is out to do things for people and not just family mem- to thank you sincerely Maxima Culpa.”(Through my fault, Through my fault, “So Holy Week means that one is always on the look for the beautiful way you brought my happiness to a conclusion.” Easter.”concludedbers but strangers Erica. too. “said Derek. Rev. Fr. Fraccid Anthony Fernando O.M.I. Through my Most Grievous Fault) observed Derek. “Yes, then we can really look forward to a rebirth at “I think that we should not confine our sins to things The Messenger 01 May 2011 7 The Cross of Anuradhapura

By Archbishop Emeritus, Most Rev. Dr Oswald Gomis Compiled by: Kishani S. Fernando

he Cross is the primary symbol of the Christian faith representing the cross on which Jesus Christ died. It the futile attempts made by the Portuguese on the orders is the most venerated symbol among them. In describes how he later got all the information about of the King of Portugal to discover Anuradhapura, and T Anuradhapura from Fr. Negrao fact every Catholic commences prayer, both public and .

The second reason for the erroneous supposition of Hocart this symbol is a very ancient devotion among Christians private, making the ‘Sign of the Cross.’ The veneration of and this veneration reaches a climax during the Holy he compared the cross discovered in Anuradhapura, was is the fact that the ‘Portuguese Cross’ of Kotte, to which perhaps, of this symbol on stone, is attributed in our part Week on Good Friday. The most ancient representation of the world, to an Apostle of Jesus Himself who came to in fact not a Portuguese cross but a second cross of St. India in 52 A.D. Thomas origin, which was already here in Sri Lanka, and discovered by the Portuguese on their arrival. It is a fact clearly admitted that Christianity entered the South Asian region through India. In a recent article Besides the Cross in Anuradhapura there had been two other crosses of St. Thomas origin in Sri Lanka. Fernao Conquest of Ceylon” has recorded this as follows - “In the de Queyroz in his book “The Spiritual and Temporal published in India Perspectives - Vol 24 No. 4/2010 suburb of Colombo the church of the Apostle St. Thomas, where resided the father of the Christians...... there was Balmiki Prasad Singh, currently Governor of Sikkim and quoted writing Christianity came to India well before it preserved a Cross on a small column stone; one of those a distinguished scholar, thinker and public servant is went to several European countries. He writes further - and it was the second which they had in Ceylon.” (The The sculpture of the Cross taken from the original stone which the glorious apostle worked with his own hands,

Both Judaism and Christianity came to India in the first pillar now exhibited at the museum in Anuradhapura. century itself. (Pgs 40-41)Unusual Find Spiritual and Temporal Conquest of Ceylon - p. 715) and China. H. W. Codrington, well-known for his intimate knowledge positive that the Anuradhapura Cross belonged to the boundless territories of Central Asia, from Persia to India A symbol of a Cross attributed to this Apostle is the of Sri Lankan history and matters Syriac, was very These communities are somewhat hastily described as most ancient symbol of Christianity found so far, in Sri Nestorian because at the time of the Council of Ephesus Persian Christians of St. Thomas. He says that this is really “a Persian Christian Cross” and is almost identical with Lanka too. It is the Cross discovered during archeological Constantinople, they remained faithful to the theological the cross of St. Thomas discovered by the Portuguese (431), which condemned Nestorius, Patriarch of excavations in Anuradhapura. This was discovered in 1912 India. tradition of Antioch, from where Nestorius came, against in 1547 on the Mount of St. Thomas in Mylapore, South first by the then chief draughtsman of the Archeological the radicalization of the Alexandrian theological current Department Muhandiram P. D. A. Wickremasuriya. Speculation (with foresight since, it must be said it was leading to Commissioner at the time E. R. Ayrton of this unusual Wickremasuriya quickly informed the Archeological the Council of Ephesus, they aimed to distance themselves During the early period after the discovery of the Monophysite distortions). But also because, even before Anuradhapura Cross there was much discussion and find. Ayrton who examined the object hastily concluded died soon and was succeeded by A. M. Hocart. Hocart doubt as to whether this was a symbol of the Catholic that this was a Portuguese Cross, and said so. Ayrton from the Roman State Church.” (pg 36 - 37). was more careful in examining the object and made community or whether this was something of the Remarkable Resemblance reference to it in his publication the Archeological Survey Nestorian sect. In fact some of our eminent historians level, was a fragment of a rectangular column on which it as the Nestorian Cross of Anuradhapura. This is quite found in Anuradhapura could also be easily attributed of Ceylon dated 1924. He wrote - In F,7, lying on the floor like His Lordship Bishop Edmund Peiris OMI described In this background one could well imagine that the cross understandable because much of the research that has to a Nestorian community that lived at that time in Sri a stepped pedestal from which emanate two fronds on been done in recent times was not available to them in is cut in sunk relief, a cross of a floreate type standing on their time. Lanka. However, Bishop Edmund Peiris OMI admitted each side of the cross like horns. (A frond is an organ-like that there was a remarkable resemblance between the Thomas, in the ancient chapel of St. Thomas’ Mount Heleaf adds usually further bearing - It fructification.) is extremely improbable that this to political expediency than ignorance, presumed any ‘Anuradhapura Cross’ and the ‘Bleeding Cross’ of St. It has to be remembered that the Portuguese, due more near Madras (now Chennai). (Ref: Catholic Christmas column belongs to the house, rather I should suppose that Christian community that preceded them in these parts it, and four fragments in room 2, were carried off from of the world to be heretical and branded them so. The some ruined building in the vicinity and that building most convenient brand at hand in this region at the time Annual - 1956 pg. 5) probably a church. (Archeological Survey of Ceylon, was the ‘heretical Nestorian.’ The clearest case of such also made reference to this Cross. He says - “The more Fr S G Perera S.J., the renowned Sri Lankan historian, has Christians (St. Thomas Christians) in Kerala. 1912 - 13, pg. 5) branding was with the Syro-Malabar and Syro-Malankara satisfactory confirmation of the presence of Christians Hocart too was of the opinion that this Cross belonged by the Archeological Department while excavating the in Anuradhapura is the Persian cross found in 1912 citadel of Anuradhapura.” Having described the format to the Portuguese period because of the similarity that Ronald Roberson, CSP, who holds a doctorate from the it had to a Cross discovered in Kotte (Kingdom). Because Pontifical Oriental Institute in Rome and was a member as the foundation of a house and probably belonged to penetrated Anuradhapura at the time, and that the of the Cross Fr. Perera states further - “It had been used of this similarity he concluded that the Portuguese had of the Vatican’s Pontifical Council for promoting Christian some ruined Christian building in the neighbourhood. ancient citadel was then largely inhabited. Survey, dealing directly about The Thomas Christians, Unity, in his book The Eastern Christian Church - a Brief to the crosses found in the Syrian churches of Malabar. Hocart had been completely wrong in this latter sad history of forced latinization that caused unrest and The cross is undoubtedly Persian, and is very similar writes “Portuguese colonization was the beginning of a schisms...... Today their descendants, who number about Thomas, was found at Mutwal, a suburb of Colombo, at reason to prove his presumption erroneous is the fact Another cross, described by the Portuguese a cross of St. presumption and this could be easily proved. The first As the Kelani was the outlet for the produce of the Kelani 800,000, are divided into five churches.....” (pg. 18) the mouth of the Kelani River, in early Portuguese times. that the Portuguese could not locate Anuradhapura Lorenzo Cappelletti contributing an article “From valley, and as the ancient township of Kolamba also stood records clearly indicate. A Franciscan missionary named until the beginning of the 17th century as our historical

Mesopotamia to China” to the journal ‘30 Days’ - In the at the mouth of a flood-outlet of the Kelani and was the Fr. Francisco Negrao, who worked in Sri Lanka from 1610 the carrying trade of Ceylon, it is not improbable that Anuradhapura. Church and the World - N. 12 Year 2010 writes - “Marco chief mart of the Moors who succeeded the Persians in - 1629, was the first European to mention the ruins of far off lands of China is matched today by that of the Polo’s surprise when he came across Christians in the majority of Christians in the West when they hear of the Mutwal cross is also a relic of the presence of Persian the existence of Christian communities surviving from . traders in Ceylon.” (Fr S G Perera SJ, Historical Sketches Fr. Negrao was the first European to count the 1,600 very early times to the east of the Roman Empire, in the (To be continued next week ) pillars of the Brazen Palace. The famous historian of the - Ceylon Church History - pgs. 10 - 11) Portuguese period Fernao De Queyroz himself mentions 8 The Messenger The Messenger01 May 2011 01 May 2011 8 The Messenger 01 May 2011 9 8 {kdF:_ m%§mh Our contemporary 9 he new book by Ratzinger- helps us to read fragments of the TBenedict XVI, makes Jesus of mystery of evil and suffering that Nazareth a contemporary of ours. are no longer invincible after His In the great disarray that prevails agony in the Garden of Olives and under the heavens the arrival of His surrender on the Cross. such an impassioned book sparks The Resurrection of Jesus questions that plumb the depths is not a sudden belated change of of our anxieties. In this book each course made by His disappointed and everyone can find the light disciples who, unable to forget to help resolve them. The author Him,turned Him into a myth. tells of the three crucial days of It is a real event that Jesus’ life, the last hours, marked truly happened, on a par with His by His Passion and death; the Crucifixion and death. However, beginning of the new epoch, the while we have an experiential Resurrection, a true watershed of knowledge of suffering and death history which gives rise to an al- that make up history, we have ternative idea of the world’s future knowledge of the Resurrection and of human hopes. through faith. It is reasonable faith, but always faith. Indeed The author is convinced In the style of the Fathers between good. and evil in the that the positive encounter with Pope Ratzinger reminds us that the Christian faith is founded of the Church, Pope Ratzinger night of Gethsemane rouses emo- Jesus of Nazareth may be a solu- does not write out of pure intel- tion, when Jesus. “elevates our tion rather than a problem for on the Resurrection. Since it is closely linked to the Cross, the lectual enjoyment, but offers a recalcitrant nature to become its humanity. His investigation is memory of the Resurrection is book for life. Reading it immerses real self’ and “holds up to God convincing, reasonable and re- equally dangerous for human wis- us in the depths of the Christian the anguish of human existence." spectful of different cultures and dom. For the disciples who were mystery, revealing to us how little The Ascension is expressed as a· viewpoints. To take an interest in expecting a royal and victorious it is known and savoured. With “continuing closeness” of Je- Jesus makes sense - perceptible sus with us, an “entry into the Messiah, the death of Jesus was the choice of an interpretation to us between the lines because mystery of God” and on another overwhelming. The Resurrection, of the narratives of the Passion He is the only Risen One in his- dimension of being. once it had been proven, changed based on history and on faith that tory, the Living One immersed Lastly the Resurrection is their outlook, and led them to fol- are not opposed but complemen- in every epoch, hence also in described as a totally new phe- low He Teacher whom at last they tary, the author confirms the Con- our own; a trustworthy travelling nomenon, a new dimension of understood. ciliar theology and puts an end to companion who introduces us to being human, a decisive mutation, In the mystery of the Pas- prejudice with regard to Jewish unknown horizons of life beyond a leap in quality; a new’ kind of sion, death and Resurrection - the people, accused down the ages of death. future for man, a new dimension author reminds us - are contained deicide. Anyone who wants to of human existence, also in the some of the profound existential In the various events understand this mysterious Lord act of giving life. questions. And inherent in Je- examined, from the entrance may steep themselves in the final Love and the Resurrection- sus’ trial is the radical criticism into Jerusalem to Resurrection, the author insists - are the two days of His earthly life. of policies based on deception Benedict XVI chooses a new and distinct reasons for being Chris- Page after page, from the and violence rather than on truth. accessible language without los- tian. The Resurrection as a ge- words and behaviour of Jesus, the The world’s destiny is staked on ing depth. netic “evolutionary leap” brought theologian-become-Pope pieces truth, not on force, which re- He calls the Church “the about by God in Jesus and prom- together the elements of a Chris- mains an illusory solution. Being company of the disciples of Jesus ised to all; love as a method of life tian identity card. On the one concerned with Jesus is being Christ,” he defines caritas “care that distinguishes God’s children hand he welds the experiences of concered with this destiny, for He for the other”, not a second class and that for the cosmos is al- suffering, anguish and tenderness came to bear the most authorita- Christianity in comparison with ready, at this moment, unfolding a of the Nazarene with the untold tive witness to the truth which the worship, “rather, it is rooted in it future of hope. weeping and grief of the victims of Christian outlook identifies with and forms part of it”. The struggle (Courtesy:L’Osservatore Romano) every epoch, and, on the other, he God. Hail Mary Queen of May

Who can doubt the real The grace-filled month of May has dawned to hail the Queen of presence? May On the evening of the tention to the chapel where the enthusing young and old devotees last day of his October 1995 Pope would be praying. For this of Mary visit to the United States, Pope purpose, highly trained dogs to pray, embracing the Holy Rosary. John Paul II was scheduled were used to detect any persons to greet the seminarians at St. who might be present. Fragrant flowers of multi-colour Marys's Seminary in Baltimore. The dogs are trained to are in full bloom hither and thither It had been a full day, beginning locate living people in collapsed to adorn Mary's feet and to with Mass, followed by a parade buildings after earthquakes and garland her neck through downtown streets, a other disasters. These intel- with fervent devotion for peace visit to the Basilica of the As- ligent and eager canines went sake. sumption, lunch at a local soup through their rounds in the kitchen, a prayer service at the halls, offices and classrooms Let us meditate on the twenty Cathedral in North Baltimore, quickly, and then were sent to mysteries and finally a quick stop at St. the chapel where the Blessed humbly praying the Most Holy Mary's Seminary. Sacrament is reserved. Rosary The schedule was tight Upon reaching the tab- Mary, the Mediatrix of all graces so the plan was simply to greet ernacle, the dogs sniffed and is all out to succour us graciously. the seminarians while they whined and pointed, refusing to stood outside on the steps. But leave; they were convinced that We invoke you Virgin Mother of Grace Pope John Paul II made his way they had discovered Someone with songs of unending praise through their ranks and into there and firmly remained with yearning to hear your words of endearment the building. His plan was first their attention riveted to the cherishing your requests made of - our spiritual nourishment. to make a visit to the Blessed tabernacle, until called out by Sacrament. When his wishes the handlers. Catholics know Let us be near and dear to Mary were made known, security that they were right; they found to obtain her overwhelming abundance of mercy personnel quickly flew into a real living person in the imploring her intercession, lest we go astray action ahead of the Pope. Their tabernacle! and perish disobeying the commandments of Almighty activities included a sweep of the building, paying closest at- (Courtesy: Fraternity - Sent by Leonard Wijesiri Catholic Diocese of Kurunegala) The Messenger 01 May 2011 The Messenger 01 May 2011 8 The Messenger Dec. 12, 2010The Messenger 01 May 2011 9 9 Devotions (s) the Spirit - and the “spiritual epicurism”) and the Spirit in a given age or “consecrating” oneself to {kdF:_ m%§mh spiritual attraction that ignores the essential, the need. her in order to consecrate 8 1. Devotion accompanies it. desire to service God and oneself to Christ and to 9 A devotion also fellow humans. 2. Devotion and God – fundamentally what signifies a spiritual Nevertheless, and all this means is that we In the first Devotions to Mary attraction, an attachment because devotion without “devote” ourselves with sense (and always in of love both to its object devotions languishes, joy to the service of God the singular) devotion Devotion to Mary is the and to the acts or we must not prejudge and the Church. means ardour to serve ardour to serve her, the “practices” by which it any devotions, however “After the Synod God. It is the interior act better to serve God, is expressed. Hence a ingenuous or “populous”. of Ephesus the cult of the of the will giving itself whereas “devotions” are devotion (whether created A simple gesture like people of God toward Mary to God with generosity the acts by which this for oneself, or adopted wearing or reciting a wonderfully increased in and fervour; the interior devotion is expressed. from some existing one) favourite prayer formula veneration and love, in dispositions correspond Mary, the Woman, includes a “personal” can be an act of true invocation and imitation” to this will and maintain the Virgin, and the Mother element, a choice and devotion. It is the pastoral (LG 66). the soul in it. Devotion most blessed of God, decision by the self - but function of the Church to Veneration and leads to exterior acts, but associated by Him in the Holy Spirit must not watch over and, if need be, love for Mary lead to God essentially it is interior. the work of the Son to be absent. to reform and redirect the and redound His glory: Although based on an extraordinary degree, Devotions are fundamental tendency of “Blessed are You, O Lord, faith, it has its principal and even now sharing in legitimate. Indeed, devotions of the faithful. in the honour that we source in theological love His risen glory – Mary is devotion (in the generic Judgement con- render to the Blessed and sometimes can be for us a “sign”, because sense) affects the whole cerning devotions lies Virgin Mary” (Cl. Rozier). identified with it. our relationship to Mary The invocation of Mary Saint Thomas acknowledges that within Aquinas deals with The invocation of “devotion” in the Summa Mary acknowledges that Theologica (II-II, q.82) within the Communion of where he writes that Saints she “occupies, after “Devotion is an act of Month Christ, the highest place the virtue of religion.” It and the one that is closest is readiness of the will to us” (LG 54) and also to serve God, readiness unites herself to Christ that comes from the will of May Who is “forever living to (hence the whole person) make intercession for us” offering itself for the (Heb7:25). service and worship of The imitation of God. Saint Thomas points Mary leads not to abject out that devotion is a gift is the servitude but to the praise of God but also a work of and joyous service of God human beings, particularly (and others for love of as exhorted to pray, to God). meditate, to contemplate, Month of “True devotion consists all of which inspires love neither in sterile or and engenders devotion. transitory affection nor in Devotion should mark our a certain vain credulity. It whole life, and constantly. Mary proceeds from true faith, And where it does, it by which we are led to radiates interior joy. know the excellence of In sum, devotion is the Mother of God, and the joyous dedication of we are moved to a filial the whole self to God (and person, and “the spiritual within the authority of love toward our Mother to others for the sake of says something about itself is fleshly, as Peguy the Church. It approves, and to the imitation of her God); in living response God, and something said. The multiplicity of virtues” (LG 67). to the gift He makes of corrects, and sometimes about ourselves. Our devotions is explained Misguided feelings Himself. must condemn them. contemporaries have come by the “unfathomable Saint Louis-Marie de to recognise this. and “vain credulity” are richness” of the one the pitfalls of devotion, 2. Devotion Montfort notes that a The Church very God, Whom we discover early kept the “memory” manifested in bizarre “true” Marian devotion through successive and practices or attachment Devotions are the of Mary, and was led to ever partial approaches. must be: (a) interior to unfounded traditions exterior acts of devotion say something about Mary But the diversity more in the heart than in unrecognised apparitions, (in the first or generic (e.g. at Ephesus) in the also comes from the practices; (b) steadfast, for example). Excesses sense, spoken of above). intent to say something differences among people have led some people to Customarily, however, based on faith and about Christ: Moreover, and even from differences frown on devotion and “a devotion” or a special not fluctuating with the Church very soon in individuals according to devotions alike. But a devotion means a body of moods and feelings; (c) placed itself under the the times of their human devotion to Mary drawn religious acts proposed disinterested, more intent protection of Mary, calling and spiritual development. upon her in its needs from the Bible and the or at least authorised by on God than the graces Devotions are the Church acts inspired (by the prayer Sub tuum, Liturgy could, as Paul judged by their fruit. A to be obtained (though by a special object (that in the early part of the 3rd VI observed, find ready devotion without devotion the prayers of petition to which the devotion is century). acceptance among all (in the generic sense) and thanksgiving are directed). Like wise the Throughout the (even among “separated invites adverse judgement important elements in history of the Church, it is attachment. brethren”) and lift the on the “devotee”. A A devotion consists the general devotion that Mary who has summoned devotion implies devotion. faithful to total “practice” of acts. In their beginning moves us to serve God); all to give praise (Lk Its purpose must be to of the Christian life. at least, devotions serve (d) oriented toward Christ, 1:46-55) and to practise serve God and grow to “the devotion (Jn.2:5). She is To sum up, there as means of giving oneself in Whom we are “brought full maturity of Christ” are these hortatory words totally to God (which is also the one who at the (Eph 4:15-16). to the Father”; and (e) devotion in the generic foot of the Cross shows of the Council: “The A devotion, or confident and heartfelt, sense). the heights that fidelity Virgin in her own life devotions, spring up and since in us the spiritual A devotion requires must reach. Finally, she lived an example of that grow, and can deviate itself is fleshly, i.e., a special “object”’ This is the one who in the maternal love by which all and die. A devotion may be a Mystery of communicates through Upper Room indicates how should be animated who deviates when it tends to God, a definite person the flesh. prayer tends above all to cooperate in the apostolic superstition the quest of (the Saints), sometimes These earmarks ask for the Spirit and to mission of the Church for magical efficacy rather things (images, places, represent the ground gather the community of the regeneration of human than conversion of the believers. etc.). Centring around rules of “good usage” on beings” (LG 65). heart.’’ It also deviates this object are both the Wearing a medal when it focuses on which the Church relies spiritual activity of the of Mary, praying to her, (Courtesy: Koinonia - gratification of the self for helping the faithful to devotion - whose origin making pilgrimages to Archdiocese, Bulletin (the old authors spoke of recognise the working of must be attributed to her or, more generally, Dictionary of Mary) The Messenger 01 May 2011 10

A True The return of Jesus Christ - Testimony of Faith My narration “Faith in itself has only a technical meaning. The vehicle of worship gives it life. It is something that has to be fter browsing through the contents of i m p re s s i o n , lived every single day of our lives. That is why faith is Athree of the articles that were published that Jesus is intertwined with life itself.” - Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, 6 February, 2011. and 27th of March pertaining to the above revenge from in “The Catholic Messenger” on 13th, 20th sure to take y daughter and I are presently living in Colombo after subject, I am prompted to present my version him, since as regards this vital issue. Obviously, that Jesus is well M there is not even an iota of doubt regarding aware, that he toldmy me mother that he passed had felt away a lumpto take on care the ofright my sidefather. on Myhis the “Return of Jesus Christ”, because this is Satan was ribshusband and Mohanit was causing works in pain Abu on Dhabi pressing and while and talkinga doctor to had me the most anticipated “Meritorious Scripture” the only per- of Christians. son who had

rejoiced at Lord’s Coming surgeon.asked him to see a surgeon and do a check. I told him not to His death on worry about it but to praise and thank the Lord and see the As an Octogenarian with minimum “Mount Cal- vary”. Assur- doSoon not after care speaking what the todoctor him Ihas prayed to say to but our I Lordbelieve Jesus in your and common sense, let me convince the readers edly now, the said, “Thank you Jesus and I praise you for healing Mohan, I withknowledge regard in to Theology, this verity:- but with God given one and only a) It has been stated in the “Apostles God, the me- word.” Romans 10:10 it says, “For one who believes with Creed”: - that after Jesus’ death; on the third ticulous plan- the heart and so he justifies and the one that confesses with- day He rose again; then He ascended into ner who can ceivedthe mouth and itand will so be is yours.” saved.” My Mark Loving 11:24 Father tells it isus, your “So wordI tell heaven and is seated at the Right Hand of give life to the you what ever you ask in prayer believe that you have re The Father: He shall come again to judge the dead; who can times. living and the dead: and Thank you Jesus and Praise you Jesus. I said this many b) Immediately after the “Elevation Of old the Holy Mass” the members of the congrega- womanmake a tovirgin conceive and deliver a child during her My husband saw the surgeon who checked him and found a tion mutter: Christ has died; Christ is risen by “His Word” to conceive; who can make an whetherlump on hishe hadright lost side weight and even etc. The put doctormy husband’s thought finger the situ on- and Christ will come again: it to show him. He asked my husband about his appetite and tomenopausal be very much period; perturbed who can because make the of Sun the tocunning stand “Earthly ministry of Jesus of Nazareth” when attitudestill and ofwho Satan. can make Now a indeed, sexy man Heavenly impotent Father seems is ation was serious and wanted my husband to get an X-ray c) The Holy Bible says: - During the- truly in need of the prayers of the faithful. Hedone has and already test his healed blood him. and urine. Before the tests I sent him a message asking him to thank and praise the Lord because Divine Mercy - the apostlesend of times? Peter Jesusand James; had answered: John and AnNa- tor said it was not clear and wanted a scan of the right lower drew had privately requested Jesus! regarding Therefore, considering the prevailing com- chestThe tests done. and The the doctor X-ray suspecteddid not show something anything serious. and the doc plicated issue, I sincerely feel that the recitation of The night before my husband went for the scan I prayed tion shall rise against nation; kingdom against “the chaplet of Divine Mercy” with sublime intention thekingdom; moon shallthere not shall give be her natural light disastersand the stars and is sure to expedite “The second coming of Jesus”. me. “Jesus forgive me for all my sins which I have done with shallafter bethat falling affliction, from theheaven. Sun willAt that be darkened,time they with him on Skype and told him to repeat these words with shall see “The Son of Man coming in clouds” had performed her truthful duty as “Secretary of My praise you Jesus for healing me. I am the body of Christ, in with great power and glory to subdue “The Mercy”In 1934, was when able Rev. to Sr.compose Faustina this (now chaplet she is witha saint) the themy knowledgename of Jesus. and satan without get my out knowledge. from my body Thank and you my Jesus fam- help of Jesus and Saint Joseph. Once in a vision Jesus Kingdom of Justice”. However, as regards the had revealed to her, that Sr. Faustina will accomplish nothing in the Scan. Boastful Satan” and ultimately establish ‘His the most vital role for “His second coming”. ily. As in Mark 11:24, I believe with my whole heart there is the angels in heaven nor yet the Son but only

Mother Mary for interceding for us. I was all the time going “Theday or Father”. the hour no man knoweth; not even “Heavenly Father” will get certainly activated and We said the family Rosary together on Skype and thanked- His Word Verily, through the merits of this rosary;- through the scriptures of the Bible and thanking and prais mant and to induce the “The Leader of Israel” to needed. hence device an ideal formula to make Satan dor ing the Lord. I know my Lord had already done what was commit the sin of disobedience, had boastfully Later I received a call from Mohan saying that the doctor - demandedSatan God after to atonemaking fully our firstfor that parents griev to- allow “The President of Palestine” to declare “East- ous sin. Hence God was compelled to send husband to show him the place where the lump was my hus- ingJerusalem” of Jerusalem” as the “Capital would beof Palestine”.possible and If the hence “Paletin Jesus could not find any lump. When the doctor had asked my isian sure President” to be lowered prefers with “Conflict warrior to Peace”, angels theand “Burn saints - thing.band foundThe blood it difficult and urine to find reports it but too he were put hisnormal finger and there the theHis Only two Begottenfriends commenced Son Jesus foron this that claimed miser- to suppress “boastful Satan” and cast him down into painand the has doctor gone. scanned again but said he could not find any ableexpiation day for by “souls”. Satan. NowVerily, Satan the seemsfight between to have theover deep “Burning pit for Jerusalem” him to lie with inactive full power there, and with glory his gained more souls than God mainly because of his deceiving tactics. However, he trembles period Jesus will establish “His Kingdom of Justice” Mypraising husband Him said all the he dayshad gone of our through life because a very He difficult is a loving time - inlegion “New and Jerusalem” gained souls and for hence 1,000 in years. the near During future this duringGod. This those helped few us days. build Weup our shall faith continue and trust thanking and begin and a strong personal relationship with the Lord. gainedlike a guilty more culprit souls to than come God out and with wonhis “Sec the Nirmala John Anandappa ond Boasting” that is to proclaim that he hast there will be but “One flock and one shepherd”. Ratmalana Anthony G.V. Peries fight. Most probably Satan may be under the

(Q11N0102) The Messenger 01 May 2011 131111

English Lessons Specially for students appearing for G C E (O/L), (A/L) examinations

General English - Grammar Lessons by courtesy of ➠

May 01, 2011 Lesson no : 15 of . Answers to last week’s under the tree. Exercise on Pronouns (14 ) He sent me a box withbooks a stone. ( 15 ) He sat I my family. 2. My mum’s name is Angela. She (16 ) He killed the bird 1. My name is Nihal. He am a Srilankan. And this is We use individual prepositions more frequently than other individual He is isfrom my Bandarawela.brother. words.OK..Now we know that ‘Prepositions’ do a very important job in a sentence. 3. Boniface is my dad. is a clerk. 5. They ( Sunil and Anil ) are twins. In fact, the positions ‘of’, ‘to’ and ‘in’ are among the ten most frequent 4. On the left you canIt issee two Simon. years old. 7. Kamal, Nihal and Nelum are my friends. They live close to my home. words in English. 6. We have a dog It is not far from Wattala. They often come and see us. 8. Colombo isyou the tell capital me about of Srilanka. our / my family? 9. My grandparents live in Negambo. your Prepositions are classified into two groups. 10. What can him/her/them to come? (2)compound prepositions. 11. You must come tomorrow. We need They help.!! They are (1) simple prepositions and 12. Can you please ask him. Simple prepositions 13. The policemen stopped all theIt is cars. full of holes. looked for a terrorist. Simple prepositions are single word prepositions. 14. Where was he? The teacherShe asked even for shouted at him. 15. The road must be repaired myself. Examples: 16. The Queen was veryhim angry.? Why does he cry? 17. You don’t need to help me. I can do itthem about above across after against 18. What’s wrong with 20. This isn’t our around at near of off 19. Where are they now? I alreadyThey miss !! problem!my We didn’t do it!! underneath until within without. beneath 21. The fish are in the aquarium. need food now! beside besides between beyond along 22. The doctor checked heart. I asked It if something was wrong. She(The doctor) said that everything was youro.k. future. among but on out outside 23. The carme driver nearly hit Tommy! was very lucky. over since through throughout 24. Give me yourhim hand. I want to tell you about 25. Take to your boss. I must talk to him. them? till to despite onto past 26. Please wake . He is too late! it. since throughout below toward under 27. The men were lookingme for Johnny. Can you help 28. Berlin youris the capital of Germany. Three million people live in up upon with without before 29. Don’t do that to !! I am really hurt. by down during except for 30. Is this We car?were You discussing have parked in abouta no-parking-zone. Prepositions…. - behind Through tant area specially for GCE students. from in inside into like Let’s continue to learn more about PREPPOSITIONS, because this is a very impor to show the relation between this noun or pronoun and some other word in the Compound prepositions sentence.As we saw earlier, a Preposition is placed before a noun or pronoun Compound prepositions are made up of two or more words. Now note this also carefully : Examples: according to because of by way of The noun or pronoun placed after the preposition is in addition to in front of on account of called its Object. out of in between on behalf of Look at the following Examples : in place of in regard to in spite of instead of As of Next to Prior to on the table. Some prepositions in the form of diagrams to him. 1. Put his book In the 2. above Give sentences, this book table” is the object of the preposition “on” ; and 2.the pronoun “him” is the object of the preposition “to”. 1. the noun “ (We will be learning about ‘Object’ in detail later)

noun or pronoun placed after the preposition is called its Object. For the time being just keep in mind that the the prepositions in italics. Here are some more examples.above my The head underlined. words are the ‘OBJECTS’ of ( 2 ) He sailed across the sea. ( 1) A lamp is hungafter many days. at home just now. ( 5)3) He standsreturned before the door. (4 ) He is not behind its master. ( 7) He stood below me in the class. ( 6) The dogbeside ran him. besides a table. ( 8 ) I sat by four ( 9 ) There is nothing in the room for his calssmate. Lessons prepared and presented by ( ( l2) 10) HeYou came must from be back school . o’clock. Michael Angelo Fernando ( 11) He intodoes the this garden sum . [email protected], Mobile - 0724477915

(13) Go The Messenger 01 May 2011 1412 A Way of Life for the Young Catholic Things to Avoid is to use the name of Jesus. Simply pray, ‘Jesus, help 3. Bad ‘friends’ - me’ - and the power of his Holy Name will protect you We are not saints We shouldn’t think too much about negative things. from evil. ourselves, and we But here is a quick list of five things that a Christian should not expect 1.should The keepDevil away - Don’t from. play with the Devil. He has been 2. Worry - Of course we get worried and afraid some- all our friends to - great harm in the world and in our spiritual lives. come a habit, or an obsession, or a superstition. Deep defeated by the Blood of Christ, but he can still cause times - it happens quite naturally. But worry can be be saints. If they have difficulties or weaknesses, we - down, we do not need to be worried or anxious as friends- if they are living very bad lives, and if they are should stay by them. But some ‘friends’ are not really tions come, run away from them; turn your mind to Christians. God loves us; Christ has saved us; and he drawing us into things that are not good. We should otherAvoid things;sin. Don’t get make out of excuses this bad for situation your sins. that If temptais caus- never abandon someone just because we disagree with has promised to be with us and to guide us at every ing them. Don’t waste time considering what is caus- moment in our lives. Worry is often a sign that we do ing them. Don’t waste time considering the temptation certain ‘friendships’ are having on us. If they are actu- and weighing it up - you will only get drawn in. Avoid not trust God, or that we are clinging to our own hopes them. But we need to be honest about the effect thathe the occult: Don’t get drawn into Ouija boards, seances, wants us to live, then we should see less of them, since - this; “Lord , I trust you it, and I believe in your good- theally ‘friendship’taking us away is not from doing Christ us or and them from any thegood. life and plans. When you are worried, pray a prayer like ness and power. I give you my worries. Give me your dangertarrot cards, or temptation, fortune telling, the best or the and like. simplest Don’t beresponse super peace, and help me to trust you more.” (Fr. Stephen Wang) stitious. If you are in any kind of spiritual difficulty or

The Angelus Bell It has been an age-old tradition ‘Angelus’ does not mean did not pray for this. of the Catholic Church to ring the that it is any angel’s prayer. We Mary was an ordinary girl call this ‘Angelus’ because God re- from an ordinary village, Nazareth. evening. In fact, when God revealed the mes- Angelus Bell at morning, noon and through His Angel Gabriel. The an- The Angelus bell reminds - gelvealed announced the first God’smystery message of Salvation to the us of one of the greatest mysteries wassage theshe will herself of God, was she taken bowed by surand her part willingly accepted this mes- sent His only Son, Jesus to save us prise! And when she knew that it sageBlessed and Virginthus became Mary. Andthe Mother Mary onof in the history of mankind that God- our Saviour. said, “Yes-LetNo wonder, God’s will Mary be done! later ex- claims her joy through the ‘Magni- lifeall.’ on The earth. bell It chimes is still in 33 practice times re in St. NicholasBryan International Antony College, minding us of the 33 years of Christ’s could receive this great privilege Grade 1. One may think, how Mary rings the Catholics, wherever they from God, Did she pray for this? In- ficat’ glorifying God’s greatness. are,most they of the pray Parishes. the ‘Angelus’. When the bell deed, it is a great privilege but Mary (Courtesy : Divine Voice) Ward Place, Colombo

Sandaru Abeydeera Grade 5 Trevor Jeremy Pate. Grade 6 St. Joseph’s College, Colombo 14. St.Joseph College, Colombo 10 Our Lady of Lanka Tewatte, Parish Gospel The Messenger 01 May 2011 1513 What it says ..... in the Readings Second Sunday of Easter

Jesus said: 'You believe because you can Faith and community little pools. Soon the pools joined up to form see me. Happy are those who have not seen streams. Near the church the streams became and yet believe." (Jn. 20:29) It seems that after Good Friday a river. They came in ones, twos, and larger Thomas had cut himself off from the other groups. Every age group was represented. Liturgical - Calendar Year A apostles, and walked alone. This was a big It was a heartening sight. God’s scattered 1st May - 8th May 2011 mistake. But we must remember that he was children were being gathered together. God’s in deep grief. People who are grieving have fragmented family was being ·reunited.

Suddenly the power of example came Sun: second sunday of easter a tendency to isolate themselves. While it is home to me. We create a current that makes Acts. 5, 12-16, Rev. 1 9-11a, 12-13, understandable it is not helpful. In cutting himself off from the other apostles, Thomas it easier for one another to go to the house of 17-19, Jn. 20, 19-31 made things more difficult for himself. God. This week my faith may be weak. I may Mon: Memorial of St. Athanasius, Bishop However, it seems that he hadn’t cut be feeling apathetic. In that case, let me not & Doctor himself off completely. Whenever he met be ashamed to yield myself to the current, Acts 4, 23-31, Jn. 3, 1-8 them, he would have noticed a difference in and allow myself to be carried. Next week Tue: Feast of SS. Philip & James, Apostles them. Their fear was largely gone, and had (Who knows?) my faith may be strong, and I may be feeling enthusiastic. Then I will help 1 Cor 15, 1-8, Jn. 14, 6-14 been replaced by joy and peace. It was clear that someone had breathed new life into to carry someone else. Wed: Acts 5, 17-26, Jn. 3, 16-21 them. They claimed that they had seen Jesus. It was only when he rejoined the com- Thu: Acts 5, 27-33, Jn. 3, 31-36 But Thomas refused to take their word munity that Thomas encountered the risen Fri: Acts 5, 34-42, Jn. 6, 1-15 for it. He had to be sure. We can sympathise Jesus, and so found faith again. Sat: Acts 6, 1-7, Jn. 6, 16-21 with Thomas. He was merely echoing the hu- To be a believer, or just a spiritual Sun: third sunday of easter man cry for certainty. However, here on earth person, in today’s world can be a lonely business. We need support. Here is where Acts 2, 14, 22-33, 1 Pt 1, 17-21, there is no such thing as absolute certainty about spiritual things. If there was, faith the community comes in. It is only with the Lk. 24, 13-35 would not be necessary. help of the community that we can resolve But Thomas was being stubborn too. our doubts and sustain our faith. We live as However, he did one good thing. He rejoined members of a community of believers whose PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL the apostles. Now he had the support of the common faith strengthens the faith of each community. individual. Response:This is the day that we rise The great power of the community was We see the kind of community the with him, let us rejoice and be glad in brought home to me very vividly one Sun- first Christians enjoyed. They supported one Him. day morning a couple of years ago. It was a another by praying and worshipping together, sunny morning in early April. The snowdrops and by a loving service of one another. Our For all who celebrate the Eucharist; had handed over the torch of spring to the ministry to one another consists not so much that they may experience the presence of primroses. On my way into Dublin I passed in doing things for one another, as in travel- Christ among them as the apostles did on through a small town. Trickles of people were ling together, listening to and learning from Easter Day. We pray to the Lord. filtering from every street and forming into one another. esponse:This is the day that we rise with Him, let us rejoice and be glad in Him. Feast of SAINTS PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES - 3 May

For our leaders; that Christ may chosen disciples of Christ. On touch their minds and hearts, and so enable the wayPhilip from Judeawas one to Galilee,of the first them to build a human society based on love, justice and peace.We pray to the Lord. Response:This is the day that we rise our Lord found Philip, and said, with Him, let us rejoice and be glad in obeyed; and then in his zeal and “Follow Me.” Philip straightway Him. charity sought to win Nathaniel also, saying, “We have found Him For Christians; that they may see of whom Moses and the prophets the face of Christ in the faces of their broth- did write, Jesus of Nazareth;” and ers and sisters, especially those in pain and need. We pray to the Lord. “Can any good come out of Naza- Response:This is the day that we rise when Nathaniel in wonder asked, with Him, let us rejoice and be glad in “Come and see,” and brought him Him. toreth?” Jesus. Philip Another simply characteristic answered, us that he was favoured by a special apparition of saying of this Apostle is preserved for us by St. That we may be able to see Christ in Christ after the Resurrection. On the dispersion of the signs that He left us; giving us life in Bap- the Apostles among the nations, St. James was left tism, forgiving in Penance, and nourishing ofJohn. his Christthirst forin His God, last “ Lord, discourse show had us the spoken Father, of us in the Eucharist. We pray to the Lord. andHis Father;it is enough.” and Philip exclaimed, in the fervour Response:This is the day that we rise prayer,as Bishop that of they Jerusalem; named andhim even the Just. the JewsThe earli held- in with Him, let us rejoice and be glad in estsuch of high Church veneration historians his has purity, handed mortification, down many and St. James the Less, the author of an inspired Him. traditions of St. James’s sanctity. He was conse-

on his feet, and but a single garment on his body. Beatification of... Epistle,Following was also one extract of the of Twelve. a letter St. dated Paul 30thtells Contd. from p. 4 October, 1982 despatched from the Secretar- Hecrated prostrated to God. Hehimself drank so no much wine, in wore prayer no that sandals the In April 1990 at Solidarity's second na- iat of State, Vatican, on the occasion of the tional congress, Walesa was elected chairman celebration of the ‘Centenary of Birth of Cardi- hoof. The Jews, it is said, used out of respect to with 77.5% of the votes. In December 1990 in a jn’ in Brussels, written by Augustino Cardinal touchskin of the his hem knees of washis garment. hardened He like was a camel’s indeed a general ballot he was elected President of the Cassoroli, at the personal request of His Holi- living proof of his own words, “ The wisdom that Republic of Poland. He served until defeated in ness Pope John Paul II states : the election of November 1995. "We cannot celebrate the life and work - of this model servant of the Gospel who gave able, modest, full of mercy and good fruits.” He sat Worker-apostle Joseph Cardijn his whole life to the salvation of the humble is from above first indeed is chaste, then peace - Pope John Paul II in his time did not fail and the oppressed, without underlining how to pay his homage to another world renowned happy he would have been while reading the thebeside fury St. of Peter the Jews and bySt. appealingPaul at the to Council Caesar, of the Jeru worker-apostle Cardinal Joseph Cardijn, Encyclical ‘Laborem Exercens’ published to salem; and when St. Paul at a later time escaped Founder of the Young Christian Workers (YCW) commemorate the 90th Anniversary of ‘Rerum Movement. The Pontiff rechoed~Cardijn’s very Novarum’.” just one hath erred,” stoned him to death. words in his homily at St. Dennis addressing All what the Holy Father reminds us in its people took vengeance on James, and crying, “The the working class people in the outskirts of Chapters: II, III & IV would have received cer- REFLECTION. --The Church commemorates Paris, in July 1980: tainly Joseph Cardijn’s approval. “If man is subordinate to production, if "From it emerged the wealth of Chris- bodies lie side by side at Rome. They represent he becomes merely its instrument, the work, tian truth, especially the very message of the on the same day Saints Philip and James, whose human work, is deprived of its dignity and its GOSPEL OF WORK" thus creating the basis specific meaning. We are happy to remember- for a new way of - THINKING - JUDGING AND to us two aspects of Christian holiness. The first here, Cardijn's famous words – ‘A young worker ACTING." (L.E.) aspirations, the other purity of heart. is worth more than all the gold in the world." (Prepared by Vivian Silva) preaches faith, the second works; the one holy