Celebrating

67 THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY OF SRI LANKA Years of “REGISTERED IN THE DEPARTMENT OF POSTS OF SRI LANKA” UNDER NO. QD / 19 / NEWS / 2015 Independence Sunday, February 1, 2015 Vol 146 No 05 20 Pages Rs: 25.00 Registered as a newspaper Why Francis is so focused on Asia “Following Francis” is a monthly blog on the latest happenings of . It is prepared exclusively for The World Post by Sébastien Maillard, Vatican Correspondent for La Croix, .

ROME -- Pope Francis flew back on January 19, from the Philippines, ending a week-long trip to North AmericaAsia that he had started in Sri Lanka. Last August, nor back to his native Argentina and he he travelled to Korea. He has not yet been to Africa, to

Buthas barely been to Europe outside (except a one- he has chosen to visit the Far East twice in less than day journey in Albania and four hours in Strasbourg). six months. The official reason is that his predecessor did “not have time” to go to Asia. Invitations were pending. Jorge Bergoglio found time immediately. “At an inter-religious meeting in Colombo, he wore Hindu clothing that was offered to him.” missionary There may be some personal reasons for this. in Japan but his lung problem was considered evangelize China in the late 16th century and who is tooWhen high still a risk a young to allow Jesuit, him to he leave dreamt Argentina. of becoming Now that a very dear to Pope Francis. he is over 78, he is willing to travel more than 14 hours percent of the hundred million inhabitants are Catholics? “Asia is the future of the Church,” Pope Francis evangelist is to respect and adopt the local culture and crowdsaid to the young Archbishop of Manila, Cardinal Luis all along the streets. For a Jesuit like Bergoglio, the first duty of an from Manila - despite a tropical storm - to reach the Antonio Tagle, while receiving wild cheers from the and in the Philippines, Pope Francis, who only speaks former typhoon-devastated town of Tacloban and, in Sri language, not impose from the outside. In Sri Lanka anotherLanka, to make a two hour helicopter ride all the way to two hours that same day. On the very last day of his journey in the English, the most common language in both countries. a Tamil zone severely hurt by the civil war, then fly back Philippines, he celebrated Holy Mass in front of 6 to 7 Spanish and Italian, made efforts to express himself in million people, setting a record in the history of Papal - which was then translated into English - to speak Why is Francis expending so much effort to visit Mass rallies. He extolled Filipinos to evangelize Asia as Jesuits have a special approach when it comes At times, he asked the crowd permission to use Spanish timea country like Sri Lanka where Catholics represent only and energy in the Philippines where his Church their mission in life. assembled crowds. already6 percent of the population? Why did he invest so much enjoys an overwhelming position, where 85 going back to Matteo Ricci - a Jesuit who tried to from the heart and communicate more openly with the Contd on Pg. 3 to evangelization in Asia. They have a long experience Holy Father’s Prayer Intentions for February Universal: Prisoners That prisoners, especially the young, may be able to rebuild lives of dignity For Evangelization: Separated Spouse That married people who are separated may fi nd welcome and support in the Christian community. Minister of Christian A airs assumes duties Feast of Our Lady Stalwart Sri Lankan Church Historian and of Writer, meets the Holy Father Lanka The centurion , Rev. Fr. Vito Perniola S.J. was rewarded for his work as Holy Mass at a historian and writer when he met the Holy Father, Pope Francis on his visit Basilica of Our to Sri Lanka. The Archbishop of Colombo, His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith is also seen, showing his appreciation for the invaluable contribution Lady of Lanka on made by Fr. Perniola to the Church in Sri Lanka. (Pic by: Clifford Murray) Sunday, February 8, at 7.30 a.m., M presided by His inister of Public Peace, Disaster Management Benedictine’s Walk to Mark 150 Years and Christian Affairs, John Amaratunga assumed t. Benedict’s College, Colombo celebrates 150 years this Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel duties of the Christian Affairs Ministry at the Auditorium of Archbishop’s House, Colombo last Monday morning. Fernando, Here, the Archbishop of Colombo His Eminence year. The College run by the De La Salle Community, was assuming duties. Mrs. Hyacinth Amaratunga is also in Auxiliary Bishop theMalcolm Cardinal Ranjith, wishes Mr. Amaratunga after picture. inaugurated in 1865. It is one of the oldest Catholic Private of Colombo. Institution in the country. “A Benedictine Walk” will be held on Nimal Perera SSaturday, February 7 to mark the event. 2 The Messenger February 1, 2015 Release of 'Uduvap Mihira' True charity is profoundly divine and profoundly human: His Eminence - The inauguration this program along with to be motivated by love; lombo His Eminence Car- ceremony took place at the l dinal Malcolm Archbishop Ranjith, of wasCo - all those whom we meet. sessions were conducted several funding Partners ove of the Lord and love of Concelebrated Eucharistic BMICH and the conference from the Caritas Interna overwhelms us has to be the Chief Celebrant at the- - tional Confederation. complemented"This love of Godwith whicha love in the SEDEC Auditorium organizations Speaking like Caritas,about yearService tsunami held remembranceat the com for two days. Caritas del theHis charitable Eminence works Malcolm of has to make us reach out eventmencement organised of bythe Caritas 10th egates from four tsunami Cardinal Ranjith in his toof ourall the neighbour others." or rather affected countries - India, homily said that they are Anislie Indonesia, Thailand and SriCertificate Lanka SEDEC recently. AwardingSri Lanka - participated Ceremony in at Don Bosco Civil 'Uduvap Mihira' Engineering Institute Metiyagane The release of the magazine was held at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Ja-ela. Picture show Rev. Fr. Sagara Hettiarachchi,- awarded with the National Voca- - Thirty six students were were awarded certificates by the the occasion in the presence of the Editor,emony. Gnanartha Pradeepaya who was the Chief Guest - gane. Hon. Niroshan Perera, Minister of Salesian Community of Metiya lighting the oil lamp at the commencement of the cer- andtional 86 Qualificationsstudents who have(NVQ) success Level- Youth affairs recently, at the Prem 4 Certificates in Civil Engineering ises of Don Bosco Civil Engineering Metiyagane The wasnew declaredWeb Site open of Don by The first copy of the magazine whichH.A. Caldera is pub lished annually was presented to Fr. Sagara. DynEd English training programme Institute, Metiyagane. Rev. Fr. Dixon, Boscothe Minister. Civil Engineering Institute fully completed the computer based the Vice Superior of the Salesian Feast of the Immaculate Vice Province of Sri Lanka graced 170th Feast of St. Sebastian's Catholic MP to join Jesuit Conception at Maggona Church, Diyalagoda Refugee Service

Liberal Democrat MP and former Education Minister Sarah- Teather is to join the Jesuit Refugee Service (JRS)Teather, as an a advocacy Roman Cathoadvis- licer, thewho JRS has has clashed announced. with her party

marriage, has said that she will leave over issues including same-sex - Brent Central. - - Parliament at the next election after 12 years as MP for- The annual Feast of the Immaculate Concep ebrant at The the Festive170th MassAnnual was Feast Rev. Fr.of Thusith St. Sebastian's Pradeep tion,Kumar. Maggona was celebrated last month. The chief cel Church,Fernando, Diyalagoda Parish Priest was Balagala. held recently. The Chief Cel In her new role at JRS, she will focus on educa ebrant at the Festive Mass was Rev. Fr. Freddie ShanthiD.A.F. D. Anselm Fernando tion for refugee children in the Middle East and South Sudan. 3 The Messenger February 1, 2015 Pope Francis asks, “Do you discern 's will before making a decision?”

EWTN - Pope Francis ded- icated his homily at Mass which we handle things … last Tuesday to the theme therethat I mustare so take; many the things.” way in actEden of “brought disobedience evil to theto - First, he said, God in the Garden of ing a Christian should there is the need to pray Pope noted, saying their haveof obeying a heart God’s like will, Mary, say to know God’s will, then whole of humanity,” the who was open and obedi- not doing God’s will. ent to all that God asked primary Theresin was is no that other of haveto pray these for things, the desire we pray to path to heaven than obe- do it, and finally when we- of her. - low it. To carry out that that “it begins with Jesus “Do I pray that “forwill, thewhich third is nottime, my to own, fol dience,in Heaven, he said, in his explaining desire to the Lord gives me the de- it is His will. And all this is obey the Father. But here sire to do His will, or do I not easy.” on earth it begins with look for compromises be Pope Francis causethe attendees I’m afraid at theof God’s Holy centered his homily on told the Angel , will?”Mass, heldthe inPope the Chapelasked the day’s First Reading Our Lady.” When Mary- - cording to your word,” tha guesthouse. the Hebrews, in which the “Letshe allowedit be done God’s to mewill ac to of the Vatican’s Mar- from St. Paul’s letter to- be carried out through couraged those present - her and with her ‘Yes’ to to pray in The order Pontiff “to know en apostle affirms that rath ing God’s will is “not easy,” temptations in the des- desireser than anseeking obedient burnt heart. of journey amongst us.” - ferings andAdam sacrifices, and Eve’s God God “our Lord began his- public ministry, as well asdeath. in the Garden of Olives God’s will for me and my the Pontiff observed, not ert before beginning His before His passion and life, concerning a decision However, follow Blessed Odoardo Focherini, the fathering how even Christ of faced seven who saved 100 Jewish lives EWTN - As Pope Francis 14 years and had seven death by the Nazis. children. observe the 70th anniver- of them “Auschwitz – were put cries to - tweeted on January 27 to - dren have only a vague Auschwitz, it is worth re- Most of his chil sarymembering of the Blessedliberation Odo of- out with the pain of im- ardo Focherini, who died spect,mense peacesuffering and encoun and- memory of their father. a to rescue Jews terpleads among for apeoples,” future ofPope re daughterOn March Olga 11, was 1944, 13. the Francis tweeted. day of hisBorn arrest, in his Carpi eldest in When he was from Nazi persecution. arrested over his inolve- worked with L'Osservatore Last Tuesday marked Romano1907, Blessed and was Focherini Manag- the anniverary of the - where1945 liberation some 1.1 by million Soviet ment in the salvation of lic newspaper L'Avvenire peopletroops –of the the vast death majority camp 100was 37,Jews had from been a married similar ingd'Italia. Director of the Catho fate, Blessed Focherini Contd. from Pg. 1 - Whether Catholics stand as a minority, as al- most everywhere in Asia, or whether they represent Why Pope... for the Roman not to look too, well, Ro the vast majority, as in the Philippines, the Pope wants man; not to be associated with a form of Westernization- them to go out where they can contribute to the har- Overall, he did everything he could in order of the culture; not to be Eurocentric anymore. not to behave as a European - which he is not. At an in- This is why he prefers Asians, such as the Fili ter-religious meeting in Colombo, he wore Hindu cloth- pinos, to evangelize other areas of the continent and mony of society.ant He them wants out them helping out the building street childrenbridges host trainingHe is foralso other opening Asians up therather central than governmentleave these orbetween typhoon the survivors, Sinhalese as and in theTamil Philippines, communities, where as hein tasks to outsiders from the West. - warnedSri Lanka. the He local w clergy and bishops against the "danger inglanguages. that was offered to him. He later entered a Buddhist Temple. ThePope Holy Francis Masses understands he headed it used is essential all of the in localAsia of the Church to the whole of Asia and the Pacific, nam Church must not grow by proselytization, but by attrac- ing cardinals from countries of this region for the very of materialism and staying in their comfort zones." The first time, such as Myanmar or the Tonga Islands. But making two journeys in a row throughout tion, he often says.

These days are the whole continent (from Korea to the Philippines and not like our times. Sri Lanka), Pope Francis also means to display that his brides wear ChurchChristian. deserves a place in Asia, even if only 3 percent of their honeymoon the total Hepopulation nonetheless of the wants whole Catholics region isto known play a toposi be- dress to the tive role as active, good-willing participants in the local wedding mass society without threatening political powers.

Above all, this is an important message for wasChina, in whichRome lastalways December. remains China, on his which mind. runs The itsPontiff own has carefully avoided meeting with the Dalai Lama, who-

so-called "patriotic Church" for declared Catholics, re mains a black hole in the Holy See's diplomatic ties. But, as the Pope clearly understands, the future of the Catholic Church in Asia cannot omit China, where Christians (including Protestants) are estimated to be- tryas manyin the asworld. 100 million people. Some predict that, by 2030, China could even become the first Christian coun who is looking beyond the West and the European his- That potential future is not lost on this Pope the Church. tory of Catholicism to fulfill St. Peter's mission and build 4 The Messenger February 1, 2015

Reflection on National Independence In the Light of the Message Editorial Email:[email protected] Telephone: 011 2695984 of Pope Francis February 1, 2015 By Rev. Fr. Elmo Dias

Independence Day: e will celebrate the 67th National Let’s walk the talk WDay of Independence on February 4. As we celebrate the 67th For us Catholics it is also the Feast of Our Lady of Lanka, who protected the country- Independence Day on February from harm during the Second World War. This 4,resurrection, in this new theera Newof good Testament governance tells and us thesocial disciples justice, were we need sad year’s Independence Day is significant for an- tobecause remember He was that going when away. Jesus But Jesus ascended told them to theyHeaven should after not His be other reason; as it is followed by the calm after a political whirlwind and a change of govern ment and thereafter by the soothing and grace- whilesad because turning He the was world going upside away down. and He would send the Holy Spirit filled visit of Pope Francis and of which would give them the power to totally transform themselves Blessed Joseph Vaz, the Apostle of Sri Lanka. months, Withwe may many say memories even to decades of many and events cen- Similarly we also were sad when Pope Francis went away that happened in the past few weeks and on January 15, after a spectacular and spell-binding visit which civil strife, and is now seeking to consolidate drew moreBut than Jesus 2 would million tell people us also - thenot largestto be sad ever because, crowd through for any turies, there are certain facts that come to the event in Sri Lanka’s history. fore when we look at them in the light of faith peace and to heal the scars of those years. It is- Secondin the God coming of history. of Fr. Joseph Vaz no easy task to overcome the bitter legacy of injustices, hostility and mistrust left by the con GospelPope Francis where HeJesus left tells behind us that a newjust asPentecost He abides with in us the we spirit need toof Fr. Joseph Vaz, whose canonization ‘Abide in Love’, the theme of the Pope’s visit. This comes from John’s flict. It can only be done by overcoming evil with good (cf. Rom 12:21) and by cultivating those will abide in Him or connect ourselves to Him when we obey the virtues which foster reconciliation, solidarity abide in Him so that we will bear much fruit. Jesus tells us that we grantedCeylon under us the Dutch first rule,Saint when and thereApostle was of per Sri- Lanka and Pride of Goa, arrived from India in openingand peace. old The wounds, process but of ratherhealing as also a necessary needs to include the pursuit of truth, not for the sake of main commandments He gives us - “love one another as I love you” These were the words the Holy Father spoke on talk,(John as 15:12). Pope Francis regularly says is getting involved in poverty means of promoting justice, healing and unity.” One of the main dimensions of love in action or walking the alleviation. The solution to poverty is not more wealth but justice. - arrival in Sri Lanka. whether This we havesurely truly is anand invitation sincerely tomade exam an AnotherFrancis is major living. step We forneed poverty to learn alleviation to be content is a commitmentwith basic needs to a ine our own Sri Lankan consciences and see simple and humble lifestyle just as the Lord Jesus lived and as Pope effortwhich to Pope bring Francis about reconciliation presently heads, and we healing. need instead of desiring luxuries or extravagance. Particularly as members of the Catholic Church,- As hundreds of billionaires and politicians met for the World Economic Forum (WEF) at Davos in last week, weto sincerely not need “cultivate to motivate those the virtues political which leaders fos the social justice movement Oxfam, reported that by next year 1% ter reconciliation, solidarity and peace.” Should of the world’s population would own more wealth than the other - 99%. Demanding urgent action to narrow the gap between the rich towounds” begin aas “process Pope said, of “buthealing rather which as includesa neces- and the poor, Oxfam said the share of the world’s wealth owned by secution of Catholics and a ban on the Catho the pursuit of truth, not for the sake of opening the best-off 1% had increased from 44% in 2009 to 48% in 2014, landedlic faith. into Unknown, an empty uncertain, yet hostile disguised area, in in 1687. fear while the least well-off 80%, currently owned just 5.5%. Oxfam, the ofThe getting Dutch caught, army andfrom its the local Port secretof Mannar, services he saryin our means nation of wounded promoting by justice,war, in healing every puband- Oxford Committee for Famine Relief, said that on current trends unity.” He called for reconciliation and healing the richest 1% would own more than 50% of the world’s wealth next year. were looking for anyone who would stand for visit.lic utterance since his arrival on our beautiful Oxfam International’s Executive Director Winnie Byaniyma Catholic faith and most of all for the presence island. It was the leitmotiv of his grace-filled one of the six co-chairs of this year’s WEF, said the increased of any Catholic priest. But now after 328 years, - National Day thoughts and feelings concentration of wealth seen since the deep recession of 2008- Facein 2015, Green Joseph near Vaz the visits Colombo Sri Lanka port once to be again, wel- Pope Francis is among the world leaders warning that the must embrace all peoples, particularly the suf 2009 was dangerous and needed to be reversed. spiritually now, as a Saint, this time at Galle- - fering people, of a land. The Pope, becoming a comed by over a half million people in the pres- Sri Lankan for a moment, said with lot of emo- rising inequality will destroy the world economy if left unchecked. tion, what we did not like to hear for a long He has urged that the structures of the globalised capitalist market ence of the Holy Father Pope Francis, number of Cardinals, and many Bishops, and re time. It was so strikingly presented as obser economic system needs to be dismantled and a human face must and resources. ligious; government leaders, hosts of local and vations of a person who loved this Resplendent- be given to it to bring about a more equitable distribution of wealth foreign dignitaries; with the security provided Isle and its people. He said at the Madhu Shrine for the occasion by the armed and police forces that, “There are families here today which suf Prime Minister It is inspiring Ranil Wickremesinghethat in Sri Lanka, the is also New giving Democratic top priority Front of the Sri Lankan Government. In the light of fered greatly in the long conflict which tore- (NDF) administration led by President Maithripala Sirisena and faith these are miracles; miracles that bear fruit open the heart of Sri Lanka. Many people, from aftermiracles many in historyyears of that genuine show labourus that andthe powertoil in North and South alike, were killed in the ter- to poverty alleviation. Last Wednesday “the Maithripalanaya” building God’s kingdom silently and faithfully;- ribleed with violence this very and place, bloodshed or the ofsad those day whenyears. theNo Sri Lankan can forget the tragic events associat kerosenegovernment by Rs.took 16. a The major Power step and towards Energy reducing Minister the Patali cost Champika of living by slashing the price of petrol by Rs. 33 a litre, diesel by Rs. 16 and Josephof God winsVaz haveover anynot evilabandoned power and a people human who ob stacle; miracles to assure that Our Lady, Saint- venerable statue of Mary, dating to the arrival of the earliest Christians in Sri Lanka, was taken marketsaid these prices reductions was worked were out. made At bypresent, slashing the taxesworld and market promised price suffered under a long war, suppression of jus away from her shrine.” He reminded us of the there would be further reductions whende a oil,formula while based last year on worldit was tice and basic human freedoms; miracles that pain and suffering we inflicted on each other, confirm the power of prayer of the innocent, forgetting even of our common religious beliefs is less than 50 US dollars a barrel of cru and faith experiences. “Just as her statue came Popesuffering Francis: people. In Solidarity with - more than 100 US dollars a barrel. backters may to her come shrine home of to Madhu God in aftera renewed the war, spirit so essential Further items were substantial announced relief whenincluding the salarynew Finance increases Minister for all Victims of War at Madhu we pray that all her Sri Lankan sons and daugh workers,Ravi Karunanayake other facilities presented and subsidies an interim and Budget a cut in on the Thursday. prices of ten As the Bible says, the earth and all its resources belong to toof reconciliation God needs courage, and fellowship” sincerity, was repentance the Holy It is a fact that though Sri Lanka’s 30 God. All the people are God’s children and entitled to an equal share Fathers’ wish and prayer for us. To come home year war ended in 2009, the reconciliation and elimination of root causes of war are yet to take and forgiveness. He asked Our Lady at Madhu of the resources, that is God’s will. The scandal of 1% comprising place. Therefore, the visit of Pope Francis to the “to implore for us the grace of God’s mercy” and Shrine of Madhu was of great significance, not the rich and the ruling elite owning 99% of the wealth is a page - “forThis theis no grace easy to task make he reparationadmitted, but for itour is onlysins only because it was the first ever visit of a Pope from hell. We need to co-operate with God and Pope Francis in - and for all the evil which this land has known.” to the Shrine, but also it facilitated the visit rebuilding a new earth and a new Sri Lanka of love, justice and mensely during the devastating thirty year war. ing and blessing of a people who suffered im Contd. on Pg. 5 equality, to mark Independence Day. “in the light of the Cross” that we can come to “Sri Lanka for many years knew the horrors of 5 The Messenger February 1, 2015 "The Holy Shroud - Why we Believe" Seeking God in silence following Some Highlights of the Shroud Book By Fr. Louis - Marie Navaratne, O.S.B (Available in Catholic Bookshops, Claretian Bookshops & the example of St. Scholastica The Ceylon Bible Society Bookshop)

Feast of St. Scholastica 10th - * Complete texts and commentaries of Talks/ of February clear.God St. directly Scholastica instead re Messages on the Holy Shroud by all the recent peated the request from -Including Pope Francis, (pages 17-26; Appendix 2,3,4: pages 625 - 641, Pages 765-775) - thunder and lightning * The transfer of ownership of The Holy Shroud Benedictines remember St. ofoccurred her brother. immediately A fierce in to the Pope in 1983. Presently Pope Francis is the legal Scholastica as she was being conse response to her prayer. owner (Pages 563 - 567) crated as the mother of Benedictine * Supportive evidence of the Gospel Truth of the Nuns.us how More to translate than that the her word life is and a - Church's Faith in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from model of a discipleship of showing Now St. Benedict was annoyedyou but youbut wereSt. Scho un- the dead, (pages 94 - 147) lastica told him "I asked * Scientific evidence pointing to the presence of- inspireactions usof Christto a deeper into our message daily lives. that Mary, the Mother of Jesus (and the holy women) at the- isSt. moreScholastica's than simply life and history virtue or can bi- willingGod, He to answered listen to me, me." I burial of Christ, (pages 251 - 260) asked my Lord and my * Compelling article by Barrie Schwortz, (sci challenging us to become virtuous, Then they remained the entific photographer and author of the website www. ography. Her example issues a call heavenly things togeth- *shroud.com): Credible, "The though Shroud still of hypothetical, Turin changed evidence my Life" on (pages 618 - 624) to live in faith and love. St. Benedict whole night speaking of and his twin sister St. Scholastica heard by God because er. St. Scholastica was the truth of the Holy Shroud being also the Table Cloth- awere monastery born into in a wealthy Montecassino family in of the Last Supper (the intimate connection between Rome.Nursia. AsSt. well Benedict he inaugurated established an- of her affection towards Shroud, The Last Supper, The Altar Cloth and the Cor- Him. On the following poral) (pages 148 - 190) * The Holy Shroud as the original source of Devo other monasterial way of life for the goingday St. upBenedict to heaven saw the in tion to the Holy Face of Jesus; and the Face images of Nuns under the leadership of his pure soul of her sister Christ (pages 40-66; 80-93; 406-412 ) own sister St. Scholastica. We are the * How the Shroud and its image can be used for St. Scholastica dedicated the form of a dove. Recommendations / Messages from Evangelization & Ecumenism (pages 191 -212) herselfis shown to to God be willingfrom her to assessyouth. situ She- cite yama Yaduma and they come to sisters who follow the Bishop Joseph Vianney Fernando wasations strong, in new holy ways and and prayerful. take risks. She meeting God Almighty by prayer do the "Holy Hour" with us. We all path of St. Scholastica, Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith (Colombo) According to tradition every year (imprimatur) people. We live in a simple way as (Kandy) in silence. As St. Scholastica loved Bishop Cletus Perera, O.S.B. (Ratnapura) used to meet outside the monastery wepray try together to glor for the needs of the Abbot General Kelly, O.S.B. (Nihil Obstat) (Rome) St. Benedict and St. Scholastica solitudewho need we divine too live help the come prayerful and solidarity of life in cloister. People Con. Prior: Fr. Shamindra Jayawardene, O.S.B. (Kandy) Once when they met each other at ify the Lord seeking better part opposing her sister Mar- Con. Prior: Fr. Michael Green, O.S.B. (Oxford USA) for holy conversation and prayer.- Him as Mary of Bethany chose the priestsrequest andfor prayers. religious. We For are our always own tha. Our cloistered Superior: Fr. Bernard Schinn, O.S.B. (New Jersey, USA) interceding for the needs of the means to live in the world and being Late Fr. Leonard Ranasinghe, O.S.B. thestay latter with herpart and of thecontinue day St.to speakScho living we make candles, vestments with God to bring themonastorial world to God. life lastica requested of her brother to Preface by - John Jackson, Ph.D (Physicist) Communion. There are lay people Rebecca Jackson, MBA (Textile Expert) of God, but St. Benedict rejected her and things needed for first Holy Benedictine Sisters (Shroud Scientists and Directors, Turin Shroud Center Nainamadama Thatrequest day saying the that weather he couldn't was verystay - Colorado - U.S.A.) out of the monastery at that time. who join our Benedictine way of This book is also useful reading for pilgrimages life, we call them 'Oblates.' They re Contd. from Pg. 4 Rev.to Turin F this year. Where The Original Shroud will be Holydisplayed Face fromMonastery 19 April- 24 June 2015. In the light of ..... Looking at the national life from the point of r. Louis - Marie can be contacted at: unders view of religion alone, we see how religious extremists wereto tread, given these a free sinister hand toelements disseminate were disharmonydisplaying gym and- 1697, Route 3 - Clifton, NJ 07012 - USA tand “the evil we are capable of, and have even antipathynastics. The towards country other watched religions. aghast! Where True angels national feared re- Email: Imnavausa @ gmail.com ligious leaders were not consulted or simply ignored Mobile: 1-9739555343 “webeen can a part receive of” and the “experiencegrace to approach true remorse one another and true in rally round them to work hard and build a strong and repentance.” It is only when this happens, he said, that or even opposed on rebuilding the nation, healing the - a developed ties. A political leadership may win some religious men talent, innovation and vision; in adults we have com- true contrition, offering and seeking true forgiveness.” nation. In our young people we have the If the Holy Father was humble enough to go in wounds of war and reconciling the fractured communi - genuine leaders who would put the country and its peo- turnsearch to makeof the a suffering genuine soul-searchingand the abandoned in concrete (as done terms by mitment, experience and tradition; we only need the Bishops of the Conference some moons ago) now it is our for their needs and keep them as yes-men for some time. But the real religious power lies in the hearts of the peo ple first in order to tap these resources for the greater by moving out from the ghettos of the South and the ple, in the churches, temples, kovils and mosques. It is good of the country. As Vatican II Document “Church in God,North to “to the come Church home and to to God” the nation. to meet a fellow brother a power of faith in the divine and the supernatural. Sri authority, both in the community and in the representa- and a sister from the North and the South. We owe it to whatLankans even are amazed still a believingthe visiting and Pope. a religious He said people answering and the Modern World” taught, “It follows also that political Political Winds of Change tothey a question do not generally by a journalist mix religion on his and visit politics. to a Buddhist That is This National Day celebration is organised by tive bodies of the state, must always be exercised within the limits of the moral order and directed toward the Catholicstemple, “Yesterday they weren’t I saw even something the majority. I never There thought were according to the juridical order legitimately established common good—with a dynamic concept of that good—- a new government under a new Executive President. Buddhists,that I’d see…at Muslims, the Shrine Hindus. of the They Madonna. all go there It wasn’t to pray just and they say they receive graces. There’s something in Though the writer is least qualified to make expert or due to be estabslished. When authority is so exer political comments, being a citizen of a country gives the people there that unites them…… it makes us un- - cised, citizens are bound in conscience to obey.” (No.74) us a sense of belonging to and a feeling for it. So let enuine leaders who re- - Onespect may moral suggest order asand a diversitygood Independence in the nation, Day when resolu the derstand the sense of inter-religiosity that is lived in tion that Sri Lankans choose g Sri Lanka” A visiting religious leader like Pope Fran cis, who feels the pulse of the ordinary people and the opportunities open in the future. smell of a nation, could see through within 48 hours, To be a Re-awakened Church the secret that really keeps Sri Lanka together; what- he saw, some political leaders failed to see even after Joseph Vaz let us continue to commit ourselves to con- As Catholics, invigorated by the spirit of Saint amany believer years thereof governing is an inspiration the people. and It ais power true that that his is tribute to nation building, promote religious harmony, tory is written and enacted by human beings but for

divine, that can undo what is evil and confirm what is and actively become bridges that unite the nation. Let - Towardstrue, good and an beautifulUnknown in history. Future: usand thank reconciling God for our Pope people Francis divided who reiterated on ethnic, toreligious us the tions, values and customs that were inherited at and To be Servant Leaders urgent need to search for the truth, work for healing us sincerely accept the fact, that the democratic tradi to whom His Holiness once again entrusted our Nation being eroded, dramatically and systematically. Over the - and political lines. Let us rally round Our Lady of Lanka nurtured after Independence from the British, were- After the gigantic gale of grace we received from 13-15 January 2015, lets move forward deter- saying, “Today we thank her for protecting the people of years, Executive Presidency became more and more au mined to rebuild our nation again. Independence Day Sri Lanka from so many dangers, past and present. Mary thoritarian,all can agree. divisive and self-centred and less and less simplicityshould have and a meaningservant leadership to all Sri Lankans. then the Ifpeople our lead will never forgot her children on this resplendent island. Just democratic, uniting and benevolent. This fact I believe ers could emulate the example of Pope Francis in his as she never left the side of her Son on the Cross, so she never left the side of her suffering Sri Lankan children.” 6 The Messenger February 1, 2015 When the children leave the nest ... father’s blessing systems. You can talk to strengthens the your dear ones seeing A houses of the chil- them. Don’t think that dren, but a mother’s curse you are too old to use uproots their foundations (Si 3:9). These days we these modern facilities. commonly see in many theirIf you use. try a They bit, are you user- too can become an expert in get educated and then hard to operate. theyfamilies go abroad that and children work friendly and they are not there, earning money and more cordial relations living there. We also see 2. Establish parents who are worried and neighbours. Partake about the precarious na- with relatives, friends sorrows, with greater in- jobs, their inadequate tensityin their and affairs, commitment. joys and salary,ture of and their their children’s marital the time at home, go out to 70 year old Mr. Tommy andInstead take of part spending in public all problems. When I talked pened to think about a where you are welcome. and his wife Lissy, I hap- Thisactivities, or visit families will reduce your nored, or not taken seri- loneliness and boredom. ously,problem by most that is people. often ig- 3. There should Mr. Tommy and be a schedule which will unhappy and unenthu- help you to spend your siastichis wife today. Lissy The are reason quite used to come every year In reality, the parents are lonely now. They want to see during the Initially annual vaca- they their children and grandchildren. should be regular prayers. tion. But when they had Householdtime meaningfully. There chores likes dren,for their sorrow is neither nor they being edu- children, their coming quite envious when they ents get reconciled to this who are in the same pre- cooking, cleaning, kitchen, catedpoverty, properly, nor lack nor of chil- lack was reduced to once in see their peers taking and inevitable truth. But in two years or even three bringing their grandchil- the domestic animals etc. dicament like that of Tom- nor the delay in their years. They have their dren to school or walking that the children who are gardening, taking care of India the situation is quite my and Lissy? Can we say marriage.of employment for them, God gave them and playing with them. working abroad should quite some time. Physical different. Here the centre- two healthy and diligent include problems in the children. For the sunset return home to make the should keep you busy for point of the parents’ life is children. The daughter workreasons places, for that, education which busy with their children’s visiting the sick etc, could became a nurse; got mar- In the past they were beexercises, included watching in your daily TV, days of their life, most life of their parents hap- ried and currently she is and work related to their There is no other schedule. Avoid the situ- parents in India dream py? Is it practical? in the UK with her hus- myof their children and such has a hearing problem, education, search for jobs of a life which they can band. The boy chose the theother things. Since Tom- telephone won’t help. they have nothing to do. their loving children and is nothing to be done. grandchildren,spend in the company partaking of way except a change in Formarriage. whom, Now why, they should feel ation where you feel there 4. Take up some in their joys and sorrows, the attitude of the people , got married and is lonely now. They want leadership roles. There computer field. He got a toIn reality, the parents are see their children and triumphs and tragedies. when circumstances of they live? There is a hol- That is what they want - a life change. It would be better for parents not to tunities to contribute living with his wife in the low, empty feeling!The Empty Nest old age with their chil- will definitely be oppor- Gulf. grandchildren. They feel beloved ones. Parents drendream and of spending grandchildren their life surrounded by their partaking in their joys social and spiritual ser- your efforts in various When I heard the and sorrows. They should childrenhere do not and think grandchil- of a prepare themselves in ad- time, energy and talents phenomenonexperience of this old cou- called Empty vices. Make use of your ple I was reminded of the dren,style of unlike life without in the their west vance with certain plans where they spend their so that they can spend for the benefit of the soci- triesNest Syndrome by psychi- adult children do not old age indulging in their someety, for doing good to oth- responsibility and stayatrists. with In western their parents. coun- hobbies or doing things ly, creatively and happily. By Sirohmi Gunasekera Heretheir old age meaningful- are some practical doers. your It is best good to to carry accept it out. No person is meant of their choice. Therefore New emptinessEmpty Nest and Syndrome despair is and grandchildren at the by Psychologists. the feeling of loneliness, the absence of children suggestions put forward and children. Each per- solely for his/her family their grown up children causes loneliness, empti- son should realize that So the Pope has come and gone, leaving be- which parents feel when nesssunset and days sorrow. of their life 1. Learn to make hind memories of a scramble to Galle Face Green for souse that of the you modern can keep com- in munication facilities God wants each of us to the Holy Mass and Blessing. We also have a new Saint thisgo away is normal from in their western nest, Attitudes that have touch with your children outside our immediate be of use to others, even whom we can ask to intercede on our behalf. countries,from their parents home. thereSince to be changed and grand children who “It is also a new year and we have a new Gov- make themselves men- How to bring guided with such a mis- ernment. What do you think?” said Marie. some joy and enthusiasm revolutionary changes in families. We should be “Well, we can hope for new things in the New modernlive far away. communication There are (Courtesy: “Vachanolsavam”) Year. It is already the end of January and the begin- tally ready to face such a sion of benevolence. ning of February. Are you going to celebrate Valen- situation. So, most par- to the lives of the people tine’s Day which falls on the fourteenth?”asked John. 136th ANNIVERSARY OF THE ASSOCIATION “Well, I don’t have a lover but I entrust ev- someoneerything to God’s loving care. I know He looks after who needs a kind word or a hug,” replied OF THE TENTH MARCH MADHU LENTEN FESTIVAL me and I can spare a thought on Valentine’s Day for Marie. The above feast will be celebrated at the “Yes, we should not limit Valentine’s Day just The “Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu” by the parishioners of St. James Church, Mutwal for lovers. Every single one of us has known what MESSENGER and their associates on Tuesday 10th of March 2015. love is if only for a short while. It may have been the Novenas commence on 6th March 2015. cuddle of a mother when you were small or the kiss Pilgrims who wish to reserve their houses, for EVERY Please write to administrator, Madhu Shrine, Madhu. crossingof a classmate while in school. Or it may have been the road!”commented John. the protective arm of a neighbour when you were before the 15th of February. T. Phone :- 0232280001 / 0233230248 Catholic Festive High Mass at 6.15 a.m. tine’s Day! “I think that we should celebrate love every But there is no harm in giving a call and day of the year and not confine ourselves to Valen- Please Contact : saying “Happy Valentine’s Day” to someone you know Home Train Services are availabe from Mr. Mervyn Abeynayake Mr. Ashley Mendis Colombo Fort to Madawachchiya some chocolates and distribute them to orphans or President. Secretary -to Madhu Road. Further details evenwho is in an Elders’ Home. Or if you can afford it, buy your neighbour’s little ones,”said Marie. Tel : 0115652918, Tel : 0777799466 contact Railway Inquiries. 0716929643, No. 0112434215, 0112421281 John. 0771174606 “Let’s have a new thought today,” concluded (N5912) February 1, 2015 Messenger 7 7 The Messenger February 1, 2015 A Church built by a Sinhala Prince in Portugal of Our Lady of the Gate of Heaven, Tel- heiras. By studying Compiled by: Kishani S. Fernando the evolvement of he Church of Our Lady of the Gate of Heaven architecture since in Telheiras, Lisbon, Portugal also known as its inception one Tthe Black Prince’s Chapel goes down in history can trace the socio as the one and only building erected in Portugal by a cultural history and member of a Sri Lankan royal family. the interpretations It is a fascinating Church with an even more of religious art and fascinating history says Archt. Sagara Jayasinghe who architecture as well as the interpreta- tions made by a �irst visited the site while on a tour in Portugal. He also non-European in a foreign land far away from his native Kingdom from the religious base of Christianity. The book further highlights a historically unique situation in relation to the political and religio- the son of Yamasinha Bandara who was placed on the cultural affairs of Sri Lanka and Portugal during the throne of the Kandyan kingdom in 1592 by the Portu- guese. After Yamasinha’s sudden death his 12 year-old It is interesting to note that this chapter in our son Dom Joao, was proclaimed as the king. But due to overseas expansions of 16th and 17th centuries. political instability in the region, he was forced to leave by historians like Don Peter, S.G. Perera and Paul Peiris. the kingdom and seek protection from the Portuguese church history has been very brie�ly if at all mentioned in Colombo. He was entrusted to the care of the Por- the life and times of Dom Joao. tuguese Franciscan missionaries. Subsequently, Dom This then is the �irst comprehensive record we have of- cluding a set of architecturally measured drawings later he was ordained as sub deacon priest, was called have beenIt madeis also on the the �irst architectural time a formal style documentof the Church in Joao was sent to Goa, where he lived for �ifteen years, built by Dom Joao. 1625 he built this Church and a Convent in apprecia- tionto Lisbon of what and the �inally Franciscans settled down had done at Telheiras. for him. Around The book is available at Vijitha Yapa Publications. Jayasinghe writes that one of the objectives of his book is to trace Dom Joao’s ancestry and through About the author which reveal the political and religio-cultural back- The author Sagara Jayasinghe is a practicing ground of ancient Sri Lanka and Portugal. The biogra- architect and senior lecturer attached to the Faculty phy of Dom Joao is unique as it traces the political and of Architecture at the University of Moratuwa. He has cultural back ground of a bygone era. The book describes also served the Sri Lanka Institute of Architects (SLIA) life in ancient Sri Lanka and Portugal, records the terms in diverse capacities. As an Associate Member of SLIA of trade in the East, the he has served SLIA as a member of its Board of Archi- arrival in the island of the tectural Publications (BAP, 2008-to date), Editor of the Franciscans missionar- “Vasthu” journal (2008-2012) and Chairman of the ies and their missionary BAP’s Graphics Committee (2012-to date). came across many chronicles and documentations on work with evidence gath- Architect Jayasinghe’s mind set is amply evi- the political and religious affairs between Portugal and ered from historical refer- denced by the multifaceted nature of his creative en- Sri Lanka. He says that the visit compelled him to un- ences. dertake a study on the Church. Subsequently in 2014 Another objec- the art and architecture of Sri Lanka’s ecclesiastical tive of the book is to con- heritageterprise. notwithstanding, His authorship of Sagara two signi�icanthas won several works de on- Jayasinghe was able to engage in a research study about sider architecture as a liv- as a bene�iciary of the scholarship programme, Sagara ing record and a positive which resulted in his book: The Black Prince’s Chapel. sign awards of excellence at the SLIA’s Annual Sessions. contribution of creative use of colour in architecture and the presti- the historyThe and Church architectural was built signi�icance by Dom of Joao, the Church known These include the “Dulux Colour Award” (2006) for the our transnational gious “Young Architect of the Year Award” (2008). He identity that had O Principe Negro) who was the last male heir of the spread over four award for Architectural Publications in 2008 and 2013 oldas the Kandyan Black Princedynasty (identi�ied in Sri Lanka. in Portuguese Dom Joao’s texts ances as- is also a proli�ic writer who has won the SLIA’s annual hundred years respectively, whilst contributing regularly to both for- try can be traced back to the fall of the Kotte kingdom - eign and local journals on architecture. and the emergence of the Kandyan kingdom. He was tence of the Church through the exis Evolution of Sri Lanka’s National Flag

- TheIt is time National to hoist Flag the of National Sri Lanka �lag has to beenmark deSri- Thus on the 4th of February 1948 at the �irst Independence Day signedLanka’s to 67th represent Independence the country Day. and her people and is Lionceremony Flag taken the �irst down Prime in 1815 Minister and broughtof Independent back from Ceylon Chelsea. Hon. D.S. Sena a rallying device that integrates the minority races with nayake, hoistedThereon the the Lion Hon. Flag. D.S.Senanayake, This �lag was the appointed same design a committee as the original to ad- the majority race. The Flag we see today has a long history. It is the forerunner of the Lion Flag which was the civil standard Januaryvice the 1948.government The members on a design of the and Advisory formulation Committee of a new national �lag, of the last king of Sri Lanka, Sri Wickrama Rajasingha. werefollowing Mr. S.W.R.D. a lengthy Bandaranaike debate about (Chairman), the national Sir �lag, John in ParliamentKo- on 16th talawela, Mr. J.R. Jayewardene, Mr. T.B. Jayah, Dr. L.A. Ra- Convention in 1815, proclaiming King George III as King japakse, Mr. G.G. Ponnambalam, Senator S. Nadesan, and ofThis Ceylon. �lag was Thereon taken thedown Lion on Flagthe signingwas replaced of the Kandyanwith the Dr. Senarath Paranavithana (Secretary). As a proposal of Union Flag. The Lion Flag was taken to England and kept this committee the Lion Flag was amended by adding two at the Royal Hospital Chelsea and with time was forgot- vertical stripes of green and orange of equal size to de- pict the other communities - Tamil, Muslim, Burger, Ma- lion holding a sword in the right hand, facing the hoist, onten aby dark the Sri red Lankan background, public. with This a�lag yellow depicted border, a yellow with the direction of J.D.A. Perera, head of Government Art and four pinnacles of a Buddhist dagaba in the four corners. lay or other. The �lag was illustrated by S.P.Charles under Then, as the independence movement in Sri Lanka gained strength in the early 20th century, E. W. BuildingDesign College. on 31 March This �lag 1951. was hoisted for the �irst time on a �lag post which was situated in front of the Parliament- independence movement discovered the original Lion ernment the National Flag was also amended including FlagPerera kept of Kotte, at the a Christian Royal Hospital, and a prominent Chelsea and �igure brought of the four Bo-leavesIn 1972, instead when Sriof Lankathe four became pinnacles a Republic in the Govfour it back to Ceylon. Thereafter with the help of D. R. Wi- corners of the deep red/maroon or crimson rectangle. The jewardene, owner of the Sinhala newspaper ‘Dinamina’ National Flag was thereon incorporated in Section 6 Sec- a picture of it was published in a special edition of the ond Schedule of the Constitution of the Democratic Social- Dinamina newspaper to mark 100 years since the end of Sri Lankan independence - awakening in the people was also registered at the Sri Lanka Standard Institution a yearning for a National Flag representing their culture ist Republic of Sri Lanka of September 09 1978. The �lag and land. under SLS 693 on 7th May 1985. 8 The Messenger February 1, 2015 Journeying towards the Fifth Centenary of the birth of St. Teresa of Jesus (of Avila) - 28th March 2015 he Carmelite Order, world-

wide is preparing for the fifth Tcentenary of the birth of St. Teresa of Jesus, who is the- foundress of the Discalced Carmelites. She corresponded to the graces show ered on her by Our Lord, to fulfill this Herculean task, and was faithful to the charism, she received from Him, and whichIn God's was Companyunfolded to Always!her in stages. "Come aside to a lonely place" call to devote themselves totally to being withsaid JesusJesus toin hisHis apostles.prayer to Some the Father. feel the A new apostolate opens out to them and prayer becomes an attractive and pow- all human-kind. - erful means of serving the Church and meals and recreate together. Their prac- tic activities. Is it possible to live like this? cital of the Divine Office, and take their by persevering in fidelity to the monas at heart, longing for souls to be saved This experience became real in by our prayer and sacrifice. Our love for theshe life wanted of St. Teresa. to live Having in greater lived silencethe life tical love for the community and mutual Yes,burdens, when withtrue sisterly determination, love prevails, humility for Jesus and for our sisters, leads us to the of a Carmelite, for about twenty years, collaboration helps them to fulfill the it helps them to carry out one another's love of souls that have to be saved. Our purpose for which God has brought them The Carmelite nun is aware that practicelife is one that of purely all the supernatural little things values which toWith search a determined for the preciousdetermination, pearl called- together - to live a life of prayer. and a sense of humour! and of faith, the firm belief put into daily prayer, for friendship with the Lord. St. Teresa wanted every sister- - St. Te other,to be a all sister must to be the cherished other. She and wrote: all must "All it is the grace and power of the Lord, that makeary at heart.up our life, are of real apostolic thatresa, without returned prayer, to the Carmel pure and is nothing. profound must be friends, all must love one an enables her to keep unbroken faith with value, forOur every mission Carmelite in Carmel is a ismission prayer. experience of God, for she understood atmosphere to prevail in Carmel, an at- the Lord,Church. remembering He has called that her she to belongsCarmel, - mospherehelp one another." that accords She with wanted the "sisterlya joyful toHe the upholds Lord herand andto His gives Mystical her His Body, joy, At the command of Our Lord, strength and peace! St. Teresa wanted the Carmelite Con she founded the first monastery of the in common." "Can one recreate inside the ventsChurch, to withbe strongholds spiritual weapons, of prayer, namely where Discalced Carmelites, in Avila, Spain in style of life and recreation that we have Apostolic out-reach! the sisters will fight the battles of the prayer1562. and recollection. - The life in Carmel is one of cloister?" St. Teresa gives the assurance prayer and sacrifice. wordsthat the have Lord proved will give true some not theonly grace in the to destroying When Churches news reached and treating St. Teresa, the Speaking of sacrifices, St. Ther- intervals The during Divine the Office day. This is the is Church'sour obli- 15provide monasteries, recreation she for established, the others. but Her in that the Lutherans and others were ese of the Child Jesus, a faithful daughter official prayer and the sisters recite it at of St. Teresa, wrote that she will scat personal prayer, each sister communes Blessedmany enemies, Sacrament then, with her disrespect,sisters and she ter flowers, before the throne of God, as gation and privilege. In our two hours of the 890 Allmonasteries, the sisters existing share in today, the do in- wept over it. She thought, if the Lord had- she was aware of her inability to preach her. 98 countries. made.the Gospel Now, or she shed is hernot bloodonly the for Patron Christ.- with the Lord, in the way the Spirit leads cleaning, washing and cooking. There would be His friends. They will be faith These flowers, were the sacrifices she mestic chores of the house - sweeping, ful to Jesus and to the Church. With this the Church! Spiritual Reading too plays a sew our own clothes. The sisters use intention firmly grounded in her mind ess of the Missions, but also a Doctor of vital role in the life of a Carmelite, as it is work in the sewing rooms too, for we and heart, she formed the College of assists her in her life of prayer. The Holy adept at embroidery, painting, knitting Christ, centred on love for the Lord, and- St. Teresa, on her death-bed Scriptures, the writings of St. Teresa, St. etc.their when God-given time permits.talents to There the full, are and some are entered into the apostolic life, praying was glad to declare: "I die a daughter of , St. Therese of the Child- for the Holy Father, preachers and theo the Church." Another daughter of hers, Jesus, the 'philosopher Saint' - St. Teresa logians, who defend the faith, for priests Blessed Elizabeth of the Trinity, who died Benedicta, the biography of the youth assignments, like cooking, for which the and for all mankind. of a painful illness in 1906, at the age of ful Saint - St. Teresa of the Andes, and a sisters take turns. St. Teresa asked the St. Teresa had an unexpected- 26 wrote,Do "I youwish wish to spend to give my all substance, to Jesus hostCarmelite. of other Needless Carmelite to say, the writingsprovide wesisters see to the remember sisters, not that only the prayingLord walks to- visitor one day (when she was in the drop by drop for the Church." a rich spiritual legacy for the 'thirsty' "among the pots and pans!" Therefore,- first Discalced Monastery) - it was Pa gies and their talents and when it is es- drewere Maldanado, being lost there,who was because returning there from was - your life, your energy, your service, of the Fathers of the Church, and Saints gether, but sharing their life, their ener the Indies. He told her that many souls- withinMother the Prioress, walls of Corpus the convent, Christi orCarmel, as an sermonsof the Universal and retreats Church, and also talks enrich on casher- together as a team. extern41 Farm sister? Rd., Colombo Then please 15. contact: Rev. life.settes. Other spiritual activities include sential, prayerfullyJesus came and into lovingly our midst, working seek- no one to preach to them. This fact dis tressed her greatly. She wept before the situation. Jesus consoled her by saying, Corpus Christ Carmel - "WaitLord, anda little besought daughter, Him you to will remedy see great the "live alone St. withTeresa God wanted alone," her - in daughters intimate ing our love. In our community life, we - Is calling for you to live an enclosed life, where they could show our love for Jesus, by accepting ev - Why do you tarry? ery "call" from the Lord. So, everything things." A few months later, there was an - The time is nigh! friendship with Him and thus obtain ingthe thesisters garden, do, becomeswashing thean actaltar-linen, of love: other unexpected visitor - it was the Fa graces for the Church and for the world. the recital of the Divine Office, water Generalsther General always of the resided Carmelites. in Rome St. Teresa and It is with the help of the Extern Sisters,- countless things to be done here and wrote in the Book of Foundations: "The Souls are waiting that the enclosure is safeguarded. They sweeping the cell of an elderly sister, and For your prayer. are the "Guardian Angels" of the enclo- none ever came to Spain." He was very Why not lend a hand? sure. They are members of the same there, including the excited preparation pleased with the prayerful, austere and- family and strive to cultivate the Carmel forand a poursfeast day! this All rich this grace is offered into a to world God, simple life of the sisters, and requested The harvest is great! Asite spiritone Familyof silence and recollection. Who accepts and blesses it, sanctifies it her to found more monasteries of Dis- But we should also state that it calced Carmelites. Thus God's promise desperately in need of it. to her was fulfilled - the 'great things' be Labourers we have few It was with Divine inspiration- souls.ing the convents she founded in Spain for And we need good ones. and far-reaching foresight that St. Teresa is primarily in community life that the- the glory of God and for the salvation of May love for GOD ALONE, wished that the contemplative life of si sacrificial element of our life emerges - ing and living daily in the same commu- - Urge you to join us. lence and solitude of the Discalced Nuns- nitythe sacrificesand in the imposed same surroundings, by always work and We perceive St. Teresa's love for goes hand-in-hand with a sisterly way of souls. Though we don't leave the enclo life. All the sisters participate in the re sure, like St. Teresa, we are missionaries 9 The Messenger February 1, 2015 Year of Consecrated Life - 2015 Conference of Major Religious Superiors of Sri Lanka (CMRS) Religious Congregsations in Sri Lanka 1 Following on Aknight in Spanish kingdom of Castile, Society of Jesus - SJ suitthe footsteps of St. at some point, Ignatius of Loyola was hIgnatius, as been moved every Je-by betweenfrom a Basque French noble and family. During the battle given to mundane attachments its all over the world pray “to tius sustained severe wounds. is able to transform a person knowto the Spiritual Exercises, Jesu- Christ more clearly, to neying the hems of geographi- Christ's call: ‘Come! TheSpaniards French in soldiers, Pamplona, seeing Igna- the tocal ask; boundaries for the greater Follow me’. Therefore, as com- and seeking worldly fame and glory of God would often pause low him more closely.” panions of Jesus, though deeply conversion,success to be a God-intoxicated made “the greater love him more dearly and to fol- make Jesus known in any given sinful, they are committed to valor and how gallantly Igna- man. Ignatius, following his to share with others his God- What have I done for Christ? milieu they are sent to serve. Je- suits, spread around the world, cuperating,tius fought, he decided only was to spare given Ignatius greatly desired What am I doing for Christ? his life. While Ignatius was re- glory of God” the supreme norm people an easily adaptable way What will I do for Christ? of every action and prayer. This experience. He wanted to teach Fr. Nadal, SJ, the gracefully acknowledge that the 'lives of saints' and 'life of theindicates the transfer of his al- Eternal King, pledging his personal delegate of St. Ignatius, called to become, in increasing incredible metanoia occurred as friends in the Lord, they are Christ' as reading material. An unreservedlegiance from an earthly king to and unstinted per- alwaysof discerning the promptings of wanted his companions who has spoken extensively of the Spirit. Ignatius would have the Jesuit practice, once said, “It ers to ignite the world with love. measure, men for and with oth- popularlyin his life that known in turn as Jesuit led him or- and an unquenchable desire to is a special grace of the whole Their deepest quest as compan- to found the Society of Jesus, besonal love to the Person of Jesus counted as His close com- to be soldiers of Christ, fighting seclusionSociety of but Jesus also to in be the contem- midst and defending the Church under plative not only in moments of low Him, bearing the cross so as der, to fight for the Church mili- that even to this day, adhering athe heavenly banner cause. of the JesuitsCross; to jour- be all things’. toions of Jesus is to know and fol- e tant under the banner of the panion. It is no exaggeration willing to march even to hell for of action, thus ‘Finding God in Cross. It is remarkable how God xperience the resurrection. Our Lady Of Lanka: The National Basilica, Tewatte Richard Boyle surrounding land to plant

s you near War, Archbishop After the Masson out- species such as the Na - the vehicle en- break of the Second World theimportant Sri Lankan tree national tree - Kohom- trance to the Ceylon was protected ba and Kabook to provide National Basil- made a vow that if then A would build a Votive Ba- at Tewatte you pass the silicafrom under major the conflict, title Our he andshade for pilgrims and an sanctity. breathtakingica of Our Lady approach of Lanka to atmosphere of serenity pened, Ceylon was in- cornerstone took place Lady of Lanka. As it hap- The laying of the the holy building for those the structure was not on foot. This approach bishopdeed spared the worst. In Masson obtained on February 4, 1950, but stepsconsists of a series of ex- descending then as- 1946, a delighted Arch- cendingtensively into wide the flights distance, of dowedcompleted Tewatte until with 1974, the a encroached upon by large approval from Pope Pius year after Pope Paul VI en- XII for the construction of a basilica in honour of title of Minor Basilica. On stepsswathes the of Basilica woodland. stands, At ArchbishopOur Lady of Lanka. Masson died February 6, 1974, the con- the farthest end of the Unfortunately, secration of the Basilica his successor, Archbishop and crowning of the statue obsepartly obscured by foliage. rved to realise that Thomasthe following Cooray, year, took and on termedof Our Lady of Lanka took the National Ba- itsYet curiousit can be architectural sufficiently place. Since then what is has become an increas- Pilgrims view of the approach to the National Basilica (Photography: Waruna Gomis) in Roman Catholicism. visionthe responsibility was realised. of This en- silica of Our Lady of Lanka elements Having are unfamiliar descend- wassuring advanced his predecessor's when, in ed the shallow steps and ing magnet for pilgrims, One of the wondrous aspects of Sri Lanka's spiritual nature is begun to appreciate the especially for the Feast of the extraordinary multi-denominational pilgrimages that are sylvan surroundings, you 1948, Pope Pius XII es- Our Lady of Lanka in Feb- ascend and reach two late, to be known as Our March, and the Feast and made, from climbing a mountain, Sri Pada, to encountering the tablished Mary Immacu- ruary, Children's Day in jungle at Kataragama. These are ancient pilgrimages, but there is one of modern origin, whose destination is not a far-flung Lady of Lanka, as the devoteesBlessing of the Sick in Au- who wished to statues flanking the steps; place, but just outside Colombo and just as worthy. This article Masson,the former and Archbishop his succes- principal patroness of the gust. Indeed the volume of of Colombo, Jean-Marie adjacentisland. The next vital step rubber estate cessitated a camping area is taken from the Sri Lankan Serendib magazine onwas the acquisition of an which to build the Ba- tostay be for established, several days and later ne- sor, Archbishop (later silica and provide ample bungalows were built. As you climb the Cardinal) Thomas Cooray, last steps the eclectic na- glass and the cross are both responsible for the themselvesLeila Peiris. set The in an circular early existence of the Basilica. stupa design reminiscent It all began when a shrine ture of the architecture (a chapel) to Our Lady culturebecomes visible: and religious it takes Buddhist caves at Ajanta, of Lourdes (the appari- buildings,its inspiration from Asian a marvellous of the entrance to certain tion of Mary Immaculate multi-denominational towers rise, tapering to- at Lourdes, France) was symbol designed by Fr. wardsIndia. On either side, twin the top where erected in 1911 and a Heras and appreciated golden cupola-like bell wasgrotto built in 1917. Then, enlarged to a church by Buddhist and Hindu enclosures are mounted, becausein the 1930s, Tewatte, the as chapel it was not unlike certain Hindu known, became a popular gopuram designs. devotees. The front view consists of six pillars that Archdiocese,place of pilgrimage for the although it ondrepresent World the War. country's Above, Before you ven- shortlyCatholics became of the multi-de- Colombo setdioceses against during circular the glass Sec- ture inside, it's wise to tour nominational, with Bud- pieced in an intriguing the exterior of the Basilica aspectto understand the context noticed is that it is of the interior. The first dhists and Hindus from all The Holy of Holies and the apse (above) with the life-size statue of Our Lady of Christspider's in web bronze design, sculpted is a central dome, atop which parts of the island making Lanka (Pic: Waruna Gomis) cross bearing the figure of cruciform in shape with a devotion to Our Lady of Contd. on Pg. 10 Lanka. by the Sri Lankan artist, 10 The Messenger February 1, 2015 Welcome St. Joseph Vaz Catechism for the Youth And 50 years Father Joseph Vaz and Pa- people. Eighty years ago, Letter We are a grateful Dalugama Parish, in puwa built a school in hon- Kelaniya,later, the led people by their of Par- the church. Fr.dre Pio were exceptions. We Joseph Vaz as our own Compiled by the people of Wennap- verdict was in favour of the Apostlein Sri Lanka devoutly chose long ago. He will Fr. Indra Ratnasiri Fernando, Parish Priest, Nittambuwa who had laboured hard to Perera, built a church at Blessed Joseph Vaz was saveour of and Father strengthen Joseph ourVaz Makolaish Priest Rev. Fr. Lawrence in the Parish, in blessed and The declared Church open of There will soon be many SECTION 11 (193) now be our . many male children bearing The Seven Sacraments of the Church: the name Joseph Vaz. All sacraments are an encounter with Christ, faith running great risks churchhonour was of Blessed purchased Joseph by Josephto the faithful Vaz Church on Decem- at Ma- and facing severe hazards, Joseph Vaz Col- Vaz. The property for the ber 11, 1994. The Blessed often in disguise. kanda Parish, will soon be homes because Let us all welcome he is our Fr. Lawrence, on Septem- kola, now in the Sapugas- ownSt. Joseph Apostle Vaz and into the our Pa- who is himself the original sacrament. There are lege of Wennapuwa was Christianber 2, 1992 in the face of Clergy and laity Not many Catholic Sacraments of Initiation ( Baptism,Confirmation willdeclared open on Septem- now be re-named as stiff resistence from non- Churches“St. Joseph Vaz Church.” in the world are Alfred Perera and Holy Eucharist). Sacraments of Healing ber 3, 1934. The College matter to the courts The tron Saint of our country.Kelaniya (Reconciliation and Anointing)and Sacraments of the area, who took the of service; mission (Matrimony and Holy Or- “St. Joseph Vaz College.” dedicated to non-Saints. But Baptism joins us with Christ, through Anoint- Golden Jubilee of Priestly 50th Anniversary Wishes ing,ders). Christ heals, consoles. Ordination Marriage – Christ promises his love. Holy Or- Rev. Fr. Peter Reconciliation – reconciles us with Christ. Fernando celebrated 50 ders – priests have the privilege of forgiving. Chapter one (1) years of priesthod on De- The Sacraments of Initiation: cember 21, 2014. He was Fr. Peter served The Sacrament of Baptism (194-202) ordained in 1964. Baptism could be basically known as the way Marawila, Nainamadama, Waikkala,in the Katupotha, parishes Am- of bakadawila and Nikawer- out of the kingdom of death into life, thus it is the gate way to the Kingdom of God. Through baptism one becomes a member of the Church, atiya before going abroad. Rev. Fr. Peter Fernando TechnicalHe also Training functioned Centre. as ebrte their 50th anniversary on February 6. We wish sins.baptism unites us with Christ, it forgives us Director of the Vithanika A Thanksgiving Mass was held on January 5 at Mr. and Mrs. S.B. of the Parish of Wellawatte cel- from the power of original and all personal blessings. Mr. David is also a correspondent to the ‘Mes- senger’them many more years of happy wedded life and God’s and our sister paper ‘Gnana Oli’. Sacred Heart Church, Hettipola. The administration of the Sacrament: ordination to Priesthood ordained to the diaconate • Classical form is the threefold immer- Rev. Deacon Niro- Rev. Bro. Meth- sion of the candidate in the water. thasinghe Arachchige the Hiripitiya parish in the • Water is poured three times over the shan Jayakody hails from head of the candidate while words of the minis- Sanjaya Pradeep Appu- nakadeniya Parish in the ter are uttered; “…, I baptize you in the name of JayakodyDiocese of Kurunegala. He and Mrs. Patricia hamy hails from the Du- Mallawarachchiis the son of Mr. Romulas and was the Father, and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit”. born on November, 14, puhamyDiocese of Kurunegala. He and Mrs. Margaret Water symbolizes cleansing and new life; new Fernandois the son of Mr. Nelson Ap- and was born andlife in Christ. The ceremony also includes the the paschal candle. Ma-eliya Maha Vidyalaya signs of anointing (OC/SC), the white garment 1984. He is an Old Boy of Rev. Deacon Anyone who is not yet baptized can be baptized. runegla. Niroshan Jayakody Rev. Bro. Meththasinghe Dunakadeniyaon October 3, 1984. He is and Dam- and St. Anne’s College Ku- Arachchige an Old Boy of R.C. School Faith is directly involved in the administration.

Bro. Niroshan jayakody entered St. Joseph Vaz missara National School in Minor Seminary, Millawa in June 2003 and the Daham Nattandiya. He entered Joseph Vaz Minor Seminary, Mill- Faith must be publicly professed at the moment Sevana Seminary, Kalutara in 2006. The following year awa in 2003 and the Daham Sevana Seminary, Kalutara in of baptism. The Church has practiced Infant 2005. He entered the National Seminary, Kandy in 2006 he entered the National Seminary in Kandy for his sem- Baptism. Baptism is a grace, an undeserved gift inary formation. He was Ordained a deacon on October and completed his major seminary formation in 2013. He Baptism presupposes that the parents will raise 19, 2014. As a Deacon he served at the Katupotha Par- will be ordained to the Diaconate by His Lordship Rt. Rev. of God who accepts us unconditionally. Infant ish. He will be ordained to priesthood by His Lordship Dr. Harold Anthony Fernando at St. Anne’s Cathedral, Ku- We wish them both God’s blessings. runegala on Saturday, February 7. Rt. Rev. Dr. Harold Anthony Fernando at St. Anne’s Ca- is enshrined on a pedestal the baptized child in the faith. thedral, Kurunegala on Saturday, February 7. and worshipped by all. rament Chapel, situated in ly refurbished Blessed Sac- The Altar con- the crypt where Cardinal Usually, a bishop/ a priest / a deacon OurContd from Pg. 9 Lady of ... Cooray is buried. When you have can administer the Sacrament. At the danger Eastern Oriental Church sists of an imposing block absorbed what the Basilica of death any Christian can baptize by pouring is an imposing cross of the decidedsize statue that of the Our ideal Lady rep- of designedof undressed by Rev. white Fr. Priyan- stone. water over the head of the recipient pronounc- bars, and adjoining semi- resentationLanka. Archbishop was the Cooray statue Magnificent is the crucifix nearby grotto is essential. ing the baptismal formula “I baptize you in the featuring three horizontal has to offer, a visit to the name of the Father, and of the Son and of the Portugal, which toured the tha Silva on the occasion of circular roofs of the Basil- of Our Lady of Fatima from ings.the visit of Pope John II in Cardinal Cooray want- meantIt is not to unlike be a replica, the one cre- at ingHoly Spirit” even a non-Christian can adminis- what the Church does when she baptizes. ica’s extensions - surpris- and painted a tranquil 1995. Note the altar rail- atedLourdes, during indeed the Basilica’s it was ter, he or she should have the intention of do- ingly made of aluminum, island in 1950. However, ed to include many species construction as the gran- Our Lady of Lanka would the Basilica are punctuated her arms and they would ite rock was quarried to byblue. large The wooden granite doorways walls of behave pointing the infant to each Jesus other, in the railings present aston- Baptism is the only way to God and Salvation, of the country’s trees, thus make into building blocks meaning “to Jesus through yet it is to be noted that Christ died for all man- Mary”. Furthermore, in and black - teak, mahogany, Once the grotto was com- kind. Therefore all who have had no opportu- with ornate Indian archi- Jesus’ outstretched other iron-wood,ishing variations of brown jak, white and God sincerely and live in accordance with one’s and completed in 1959. traves above. In between hand there would be a rosa- red sandalwood and many nity to learn about Christ and faith, but seeks drajeewaare 45 artistic faux bronze depicting the his- others. Children’spleted, the Day ceremonies began to be of God has made salvation dependent on the sac- reliefs by Dr. Sarath Chan- conscience finds salvation (baptism of desire). ry, later a golden one gifted contains a tabernacle that heldthe Blessing of the Sick and there. ingtory educational, of Christianity enrich in the Sri by Pope Paul VI. The Holy of Holies Finally, recom- raments. Lanka, which, besides be- Two statues of mended is a visit to the raments, yet God is not dependent on His Sac- Our Lady of Lanka based is a perfect replica of the Museum, which is Kandyan sequence.appearance of the Basilica. smaller,on such a were design, carved one life- by Ark of the Covenant, with in design, complete with “ I have called you by name, you are mine” Its worth When seeing you them enter in sized for the apse, the other twomeasurements taken from angels on either side is moonstone, which contains the Basilica your gaze will alsothe Bible. The design of the based on Biblical de- immensely valuable collec- (Is.43/1). In this way, it is always fitting to have a be drawn upwards to the Fatima.Jose Thedim of Fatima, who The smaller statue, scription. Above hangs an name of a saint since a saint is an intimate friend (To be contd) whichhad also carved Our Lady of was taken to Rome to of God. vestments.tions, from traditional carved sky-blue, cloud-flecked ivory cross. Don’t forget to figures to Cardinal Cooray’s apse,the backdrop for a life- be blessed by Pope Pius XII, descend into the beautiful- 1511 Children / Youth the TheMessenger Messenger February February 1, 1, 2015 2015 Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for

revealing the mysteries of the kingdom to mere children. Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Mt/11:25)

First Reading: Deut. 18: 15-20 LITURGICAL CALENDAR YEAR B 1st Feb. - 8th Feb. 2015 aelites the message about the new The Prophet of God gives prophet who will be sent to the Isr Sun: FOURTH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY by God. These prophets have to be TIME Deut.18:15-20;1 Cor.7:32-35; Mk.1:21-28 Mon: Feast of the Presentation of the Lord Secondalways faithful to the Lord. Reading: Mal.3:1-4 or Heb.2:14-18; Lk.2;22-40 1Cor. 7: 32-35 (or 22-32) Tue: Memorial of St. Blaise, Bishop & Martyr thian community to give undivided and St. Ansgar, Bishop St. Paul wants the Corin- Heb.12:1-4; Mk.5:21-43 Wed: Feast of Our Lady of Lanka attention to the Lord. While the Is. 43:1-5; Acts.1:12-13,2:1-2,4-8,11; maritalunmarried give full attention; the duties should give their Mt. 2:1,2,7-12 married too while they fulfill their Thu: Memorial of St. Agatha, and Martyr Heb.12:18,19,21-24; Mk. 6:7-13 undivided attention to the Lord. Gospel: Mk. 1: 21-28 God touched her heart, she gave up Fri: Memorial of Ss. Paul Miki and toSt. Paul taking the unmarried as give undivided attention to the sus of Nazareth, king of the Jews,” Companions ity that was seen at His teaching is an example tells the married too husband other than her crowned Heb.13:1-8; Mk. 6:14-29 proved by Jesus' power and author- the possessed when they her finery and promised to have no Sat: Heb. 13:15-17, 20,21; Mk. 6:30-34 King with thorns. And thereby she proclaim that Jesus is the Holy one Lord while they remain faithful to Sun: FIFTH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME it is quite evident that Jesus is the their marital duties. In the Gospel Job. 7:1-4,6,7; 1 Cor. 9:16-19, 22,23; became an ardent spreader of the Mk. 1:29-39 of God. Reflection: ButHoly one of God with the proclama- it was seen very clearly by the AidGood News of the Lord. Story 2 tion of the one who is possessed. the Good News. For, he did it with ing an ongoing argument about PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL The Lord wants full atten- followers when Jesus proclaimed who was Jesus and Satan were hav- better at the modern tion and a total commitment from Response: Lord, hear our prayer. all His faithful, so that they too like power. He does not want anybody full power and authority. “that’s it!” and set up a test that will Him would be full of authority and For the priests and ministers of the Church It shows very clearly that runcomputer. It went on and God said up to two hours. God was the that they may practise in their own lives the values attached to Him. He wants those ers.the Lord wants us to be full of He wants us to be dedicated they preach to others. We pray to the Lord. to drift away from Him but to be who have other commitments to andpower and authority as His follow- give our total attention to Him and typed away. Jesus worked Response: Lord, hear our prayer. and Him alone. For this reason we judge. So Satan and Jesus sat down responsibilities but also, He wants For all who hold public of�ice that their deeds be faithful to their calls and life's may match their words and their promises. their undivided attention. other , or the world. heavenly efficient and Satan was We pray to the Lord. should not be selfish or serving any Finallyfaster than hell. Ten minutes before the electricity came back. Response: Lord, hear our prayer. Aid Story 1 their time the electricity went off. In the First Reading the One day a young woman Words can lift people up to heaven or plunge aLord through the prophet promises prophet. He promises to give him Satan started searching fanati- them down to hell: Let us pray for the victims of bro- allthe Israelites now turned faithful; power and the words to be pro- thecally, screaming, “It’s gone! It’s power went out!” Meanwhile ken promises, especially for deserted wives and hus- claimed. He vows to hold answer- full of arrogant thoughts was walk- Jesusall GONE!” I lost everything when quietly started printing out bands. We pray to the Lord. able all those who do not listen to Response: Lord, hear our prayer. ing in her well-furnished living the prophet. He proclaims death to room, after having denied her hand “That’s not fair! He cheated! How smug complacency at the natural all his files. “Wait” Satan screamed. Where words are as false and meaningless those prophets who proclaim their to several young men. Looking with come he has all his work and I don’t as smoke without �ire let us pray that we may always have any?” God just shrugged and speak with sincerity to one another. heartgifts the Creator had freely given only to a king or a prince.” We pray to the Lord. own messages instead of His and her, she mused, “I will give my Response: Lord, hear our prayer. also to those who speak on behalf Rev. Fr. Ciswan De Croos the wall and read these words; “Je- said, “JESUS SAVES.” of other gods. She then glanced at a crucifix on “What is this? A In the Second Reading new teaching with authority He commands even the unclean spirits and they obey him” (Mark 1,21-28) 1. Today’s Gospel narrates Je- by a Jewish historian, Flavius predicted a prophet like Mo- terest. The latter also addresses their Master. According to Mark, before. Deuteronomy 18,15:18 tility and denial of common in- nature of the Messiahship of ers are in the business to make sus’ ministry on a Sabbath in and dies and then enters glory. Josephus. Some miracle work- the synagogue of Capernaum. ses: “A prophet like me will the the former as “Jesus of Nazareth Jesus is the Messiah, who suffers ible. They also use long and com- There He teaches (ministry of toLORD, your God, raise up for you him you shall listen.” Now this … the Holy One of God.” This re- the way to glory. There is no oth- money from those who are gull- the Word) and drives out an from among your own kinsmen; spiritflects the notion that use of the would guarantee mastery Therefore the way of the cross is But Jesus is never ac- unclean spirit (ministry of ex- Great Prophet and Messiah. precise name of an opposing that Jesus is publicly proclaimed plicated rituals of exorcism. susorcism). Let us now treat these separately. prophecy is fulfilled in Jesus the trueer way. Indeed, it is on the cross Messiah in Mark, “When the power to heal. He is never some two facets of the ministry of Je- whichover him. So the unclean spirit can destroy it. But He cused of profiting from the tonished What is the effect of Je-and alarmed. He makes tries to ward off Jesus’ power saw how He breathed his last he ing wonder worker. He utters a ansus’ absolute teaching? claim Listeners on them. are as-He the man. centurion who stood facing Him simplesort of magician or money-seek- command, sometimes 2. First, we find Jesus involved earns reputation all over. silences its cry and drives it off accompanied by a touch. happily in the ministry of the 5. Why does Jesus silence the said, “Truly this man was the Son Miracles like the cure What does then Jesus Word. What does He teach? It is of God!” (15,39). Henot specified. teaches with authority. Proph- does He hide His true identity ets speak How with does authority Jesus received teach? 3. Jesus’ Word, found in the Gos- unclean spirit as “Quiet!”? Why wronglyof a demoniac understood, may give it may a false give liberationmean by His and exorcisms? hope. They Jesus de- and so they use the words, “Thus pels, is so powerful and effica- notion of the Messiahship, if stroysees His the evil exorcisms power that as signs causes of cious. It accomplishes what it revealed by devil? Why is this the cross. Then the persecuted sickness, death and natural di- signifies since the unclean spirit Messianic Secret? Jews have Marcana wrong notion of glory without Christians, without ac- Rabbissays the and Lord” scribes or “The would word sup- of came out of the man at the com- isbeen expecting a political Mes- the Messiah, they might have cepting the persecution as a way portthe Lord what came they to teach me saying appealing …” Hencemand we of need Jesus. to His give Word it our can un- siah. If Jesus publicly claims He insasters and make people expe- their lives. to earlier authorities, as ‘Rabbi X dividedfree and attention. transform us today. rience the saving power of God wrong expectations of Him. to glory, may look for miracles to 8. Today we must continue what ther prophets nor scribes have a get out of suffering and may look directsaid in the name of Rabbi Y.’ Nei- access to God. unclean spirit – a power which 6. How is this Messianic Secret for glory without suffering. am working to complete the war But when Jesus speaks, resists4. Second, God’s Jesus holiness. encounters The lat- an significant The to Marcan the Christians community of century AD – is marked with the Jesus began. What is one way I God speaks. He is authority in- ? 7. The days of Jesus – the first carnate. Hence He speaks in essential that this community against evil that Jesus began?Rev. Fr. Don Anton Saman such a way which none has done ter interrogates the former, is a persecuted community. It is presence of Jewish exorcists as Hettiarachchi “What to us and to thee?’ This evident in Matt 12,27 and Antiq- is a Hebrew expression of hos- of disciples understand the true uities of the Jews (8,2.5 # 42-49) 12XVII15 Children / Youth The Messengerthe Messenger February February 1, 2015 1, 2015 He Came, He Saw and Conquered Our Hearts

Without any hesitation and co-operation, increasing the ning of a journey towards unity recentlyany Sri Lankan can acclaim now, concluded Papal visit. the tremendous success of the quality of faith of the faithful. politicalIn the past principals, few decades which many grew rareIndeed, and our blessed loving opportunity nation was locals were victims of unstable surely will enhance all people in given a chance to experience a them. But, that dark era has this country to work and live as beloved Holy Father, in the best hatred instead of love among butin this nation are guilty for such not as whole or common ac- one, promoting peace and love what Pope Francis, St. Joseph in experiencing the love of our more this Papal visit will erase ceptanceoffences some way or the other, by the religious heads. ministryVaz and all simultaneously saints, but most make of reached its final limits. Further- The saints we need is usall Jesus Christ himself did in his living saints every commu- of ways. This article will draw past, and help the locals to live doctrine by persecuting other fromevery day of our lives. our own nation. out a few points the Holy Father inall peace faults and and most mistakes importantly in the religions,The few who violate their own never are to be con- We, until this year had in love, taking the Holy Father’s accomplished in his visit to Sri abiding in love, travelling in the sidered human. nity wants. If we learn to abide UnityLanka. within the state and the path towards holiness. Nonetheless, this Papal Joseph Vaz our apostle though visit as a guideline we too can no saints in the local Church. St. message of peace during his Church. encounter with various religious be true saints and be witnesses The moment His Holi- Inter- religious unity. heads in the country, enabled sically our own patron. Yet, a We, always and every- them to discuss their views localbeing church a native with Indian, more was than ba- H tate, H where hear and witness the and helped them to understand of Christ. Let us pray harder and ness the President, set foot on the Sri Prime Lanka Minis- the cruel and brutal torturing and each other very well. No mat- just having one saint is quite “Weharder for this simple interces- must restore hope to a five hundred years history, sion to be fulfilled. ead of S is Excellency ter whether Christian, Buddhist inadequate. His Holiness Pope young people, help the old, ministers were present to wel- or even an atheist, what really Francis emphasizes on the call be open to the future, and ter, and a few other government severe persecutions of fanatic souls lose their lives due to the matters is that we understand spread love. Be poor among come His Holiness had a state extremists. So many innocent all races and religions, and by holiness and saintly mission so come him. After this warm wel- of a church towards universal the poor. We need to include ists. Though such crimes do the excluded and preach newly elected President. The notignorance occur in of our religious nation, extrem- during versal brotherhood, peace and glect his heavenly message. peace,” Pope Francis mattersencounter with Mr. Sirisena, the discussed between the the recent times, so many were accepting the principle of uni- many times, yet most of us ne- We as a stable church two parties certainly strength- with a massive community cer- ened the bond between the incorrect criticism due to mis- charity, fulfilling them by satis- tainly need many more saints. Avishka Mario Senewiratne understanding.victims of mental Not torture just one, and whatfying we our should spiritual accomplish. doctrine for As Yes, the canonization process St. Joseph’s College, counter surely will be the begin- the common benefit, is really may be tough but yet practising Colombo 10. Church and Local state. This en- Oli Vila Sundaybut basically all four main faiths School Teachersstated this bonding of all faiths Golden Jubilee Celebration of Rev. Fr. L. K. Mariathasan at Akkaraipattu Golden Jubilee celebration

took place recently. The Ju- bileeof Rev. Fr. L. K.. Mariathasan Mass was organized

and the parishioners. This by the Parish Priest, Sisters

ningwas followed the Parish by Oli an Vila Agape was heldat the Convent. In the eve- and children were giv- caloa recently, The annual presided Sunday over by School His Teachers' Oli Vila was held in Batti- encouraged and showed his appreciation en various prizes for their Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Ponniah Joseph, rendering towards the children. program.annual perfomance. This Bishop of Batticaloa. There were vari- for the wonderful work that the teachers are was followed by a cultural Courtesy: Ut Unum Sint ous events contributed by different Courtesy: Ut Unum Sint parishes. In his message the Bishop

A little girl was walking with her father along a country road, The night was clear and the child was enthralled by the splendour of the sky, all lit up with stars. After moments of refl ection she suddenly looked up to her father and said: "Daddy, if the wrong side of heaven is so beautiful, how wonderful the right side must be!" Anon XIII13 Children / Youth the TheMessenger Messenger February February 1, 1, 2015 2015 Growing in Christ and more like Him. But we must surrender ourselves to ger daily. We do many things to grow physically. We Him. All of us grow physically. We grow a little big- Man does not live by bread alone, but...... by every breathe fresh air, eat and drink properly, exercise, rest word that proceed from the mouth of the Lord." and have social contact. By all these we grow. Similarly (Deuteronomy 8:3) we take care of our body by cleaning it, applying oint- That means no one can grow stronger in Christ, Butments of various kinds. We do all these things to main- have we realized that we are more than just a body tain a pinch of dust which lasts maximum 120 years. soul. without feeding on the Word daily. It is the food for our spirituallyand that our spirit will last for eternity? and become more and more like Jesus. But to grow in The next is exercise. We exercise to keep our Christ we have to put into practice the things growing It is our Heavenly Father's will for us to grow in Christ is not something that we can do on body mechanism fit. In the same way, if we really want Word.

that we learnt from the our own. That is the job of the Holy Spirit. Our job is to when we rest in God though on the outside it looks like nothing is We grow most while we are asleep. Likewise happening, our relationship with God is actu- en each other in the same way. No one can see his own body.co-operate with the Holy Spirit and make sure that we ally growing. Resting in God means that you surrender are taking care of our spirit even as we take care of our To grow physically we need to breathe and fruits. Therefore fellowship with others is essential. your life to Him, believe and trust in Him. In conclusion, spiritual growth is not instant take in fresh air. Similarly to grow spiritually we need daily. Just sit quietly in His presence without doing any- Make sure to find time to be alone with God and automatic. We will grow spiritually only if we want to pray as frequently as we breathe. If we stop breath- thing, just loving Him and being loved by Him. sist in growing. The reason that we are not mature in to grow, decide to grow, make an effort to grow and per- As we need good hygiene to grow properly, re- Prayering we is will simply die physically. If communicating we with stop God. praying And remem- we will die spiritually because prayer is our life line with God. Growth involves making mistakes too. Every the Lord is that we just don't see the need to grow. pentance and confession is essential to keep our spiri- ber to offer God every part of your life; Whatever you tual life clean and healthy. We do this by admitting our child learns to walk only after falling many times. So do, do it all for the glory of the Lord. What a privilege to here, or my pen would never stop! sins, surrendering it to God and repenting from our don't get discouraged when you fall. The important carry everything to God in prayer! But I must not run on (as pure as snow.) heart. Then, the Blood of Jesus washes away our sins thing is that we get up when we fall, keep on trying and to nourish our physical body, we need the Holy Eucha- moving forward. The fault is not that we try and fail but mainand makes us pure again, (1 Jn 1:7) - in our spirit, we will be spiritually sick. rist and The next fact is nourishment. As we need food the word to nourish our spiritual body. The But if we let the germs of anger, jealousy, sadness re- trialwe fail as to an try. Remember opportunity to grow how far and you rejoice. have Praise come not the just how far you have to go. Let's consider every fiery will make We us grow need spiritually. fellowship You to need grow to both pray physically and to be Deven Atheesh have.Holy Eucharist is the real food and the real drink. (John When we receive Jesus in Holy Communion, He and spiritually. The fellowship with other Christians Lord!!! St. Joseph's Seminary, Kandy. nourishes6:55) and the best spiritual nourishment one can ever us and strengthens us making us grow more prayed for by others. Encourage, support, and strength- Benedictine Walk Ode to the Ponti

Thy visit to this Asian land - the orient pearl Shepherd of the flock dispersed throughout the world

We hail! With prayerful obeisance, the Papal banner unfurl WithArise faithful of Lanka; greet Christ's representative on earth. one voice we acclaim the privilege on us bestowed

Blessed messenger of peace the shepherd to his fold With reverence, loyalty and love we greet thee and enfold Within our land's hospitality, its traditions of old.

This land of God's abundance, this land so richly blessed ForThis Land devoid of strife on its peaceful quest. peace; chose our resplendent isle; Missionary of peace in thy magnanimous zeal and zest chose to be our guest

Thy prayers and blessings A sharer in our hour of hope and peace

Holy Father for unity replete And so from North and South as Marians, Doctor and Voice.Print. There from East and West the faithful throng St. Benedict’s College, Colombo as well. a joyous welcome. celebrates 150 years of its proud exis- will be plenty of other activities lined up, We thank thee for the honour - By: Jeannette Chabraal er’stence and service, in year 2015. The Col- community which was inaugurated in the Walk Committee to invite and warm- lege which is run by the De La Salle Broth- ly welcome It is indeed a great pleasure for all the Reverend Fathers, year 1865, is one of the oldest and leading teachers attached to the Benedictine Fra- Catholic Private Institutions in Sri Lanka. ternityBrothers, Old boys/Batches and all Past to join in this Historical event. various activities. Plans are a foot to celebrate this The most important and momentoushistorical land mark of excellence through event will be the ‘Benedictine Walk’ where the entire Benedictine Fra- For further inquiries and par- ternity will take to the streets on the Feb- ticipation confirmation please contact:

• Mr. Randolph Perera (Co-Chairman - ruary 7, 2015, walking in and around the Benedictine Walk) Mob: 0777787187 home of the college, Kotahena in a grand • Mr. Gratien Fernando ( Co-ordinator parade. This colourful parade will com- – Benedictine Walk) Mob: 0777368969 prise of fun and entertaining activities and is expected to attract and be attended • Mr. Alston Rayen ( Secretary - Bene- by a gathering of close to 7500 people. dictine Walk) Mob: 0775578971 atThe the walk College will Grounds be followed which by will a Musical be led • Mr. Harold Leon ( Batches Co- byExtravaganza the country’s and leading a Grand Musical Carnival Bands held ordinator – Benedictine Walk) Mob: 0777348049 XIX Children / Youth the Messenger February 1, 2015 English with Fun and Entertainment

Dear Readers, intellectual play. Immanuel Kant (iv)Experience without theory is blind, but theory without experience is mere cabulary items. In our 60th lesson we learnt a poem about courage, cohesive links and vo- (v)My mother was the most beautiful woman I ever saw. All I am I owe to my mother. George Washington I attribute all my success in life to the moral, intellectual and physical education I In this lesson you will learn a few inspirational quotes, two poems and a received from her. simple text on praying. Ref:/http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/keywords/intellectual. Comments made by our readers are very encouraging. Thanks for your ef- html#yuFBKekbKKWqe4Gk.99 Godforts to make ‘English with Fun and Entertainment’ an interactive process. Bless You! Vocabulary – Faith – Blessed – Study, the delicate shades of meaning NJ Forgiving confidence, trust, conviction, reliance, believes, assurance, devotion – Forgiveness- holy, sacred, sanctified, hallowed, consecrated, revered, sacrosanct clemency ,mercy, pity, compassion, understanding, tolerance Activitie 1: Attitude – merciful, pardoning, lenient, forbearing, magnanimous, sympathetic Gratitude – Read the inspirational quotes, learn the delicate shades of words gift to us. Whine – complaint,boldness, brashness, arrogance, insolence, defiance , approach, outlook moan, cry drone hum, wail, and answer the questions?What we become Whimper – thankfulness, appreciation, gratefulness, acknowledgementsob, cry, whine, snivel, gripe, grumble What we are is God's is our gift to God."(Louis Nizer ) Activity 4 - Read the prayer and answer the questions in complete answers Q (a).What’s God’s gift to us? arms Q (b).What’s our gift to God? me with strength and makes Faith means trusting in advance It is God who my way perfect. Psalm 18:32

blessed Q3. What does God arm you with? gift become becauseDear Lord, I thank you for this day, I thank you for my you are a forgiving God and an understanding armsWords with delicate shades of meaning strength being able to see and to hear this morning. I'm – talent / skill /genius - develop/ convert/turn into makes perfect blessing me. - equips / supports / ropes - forte /strong /suit God. You have done so much for me and you keep on Activity –shapes/creates /builds 2: Read the two poems, recite them well -faultless/flawless/impeccable and answer the two ques- These lines of Poetry will inspire you, encourage you, and use Q 1 Why do you thank the Lord? forgiveness. Please keep me tions given? others. Forgive me this day for everything I have done, said or them for reflection and meditation. You may also share the verses with thought that was not pleasing to you. I ask now for your Who Shall We Help Today Nearer In Service safe from all danger and harm. HelpQ 2 Why does the speaker ask for forgiveness? me to start this day with a new attitude gratitude Poet: John McLeod Poet: John McLeod, © 1982 and plenty of . Let me make And then put down the pen, the best of each and every day to clear my mind so that I can hear from you. Who shall we help today, my friends, Briefly,Write these few words A poor-man passing in the road Q3 How does the writer want to start the day? whine and whimper Who shall we help today? A word to ease I hope, before I write Please broaden my mind that I can accept all things. Let me not again,(concisely) beyond my limits. his way? (comfort) over things I have no control over. And give me the best response when I'm pushed Surely to find in days that are to be Q4 The speaker does not want to whine or whimper over certain things. What are A kindly thought, a friendly deed These are the treasures all may give Nearer in service my dear Lord to Thee! A smile so freely given? These are the keys to heaven! they? KnowLook to the light that His love will guide to And in your searching friend, I know that when I can't pray, you listen to my heart. Continue to use me to do your Who shall we help today, my friends, A sad soul in distress Open your eyes there is so much to see will. Continue to bless me that I may be a blessing to others. Keep me strong that I journey's end, others. Who shall we help today? Kneel with that soul and pray; may help the weak... Keep me uplifted that I may have words of encouragement for perhaps? (anguish) Nearer in service, my dear Lord to Thee! Q5 Why does the speaker ask Lord to bless him continuously? Show him the love our Father showed spring, Into each heart In the way His Son was given: These are the keys to heaven! And with a gentle word some kind- I pray for those that are lost and can't find their way. I pray for those that are mis- Let joy of living (fountain) These are the gifts all have to give, ness bring, judged and misunderstood I pray for all my sisters and brothers. For each and every knowsfamily member in their households, I pray for peace, love and joy in their homes; that there is no problem, circumstance, or situation greater than God. Every battle they are out of debt and all their needs are met. I pray that every eye that reads this Who shall we help today, my friends, Yours is the gift of giving, choice quite free, Who shall we help today? Thee! is in your hands for you to fight. I pray that these words be received into the hearts of Nearer in service, my dear Lord to The lame, the sick, all those in need? every eye that sees it in Jesus' name. Amen! So much that one can say Who Shall we help today? Poem 1 Q 6 Whom does the speaker pray for? And do to help another's pain Q(i) What are the keys to Answers – heaven? In love's compassion given, (sympathy) Yours are the keys to heaven Yours is the gift of giving, friend, Nearer in Service –Poem 2 Activity 1 – (a) God’s gift to us is what we are. (b) Our gift to God is what we become. Q (ii)What is spring in every heart? Activity 2 – (i) A word, a kindly thought and a smile are the keys to the heaven. Activity 3: Activity 4 (ii) The joy of living. Read the intellectual quotes and experience a sense of excitement bankruptcy. was1- I thank God because he has done so much for me and he keeps on blessing me. not pleasing to God. Ravi(i) An expenditure of words without income of ideas will lead to intellectual Zacha 2. The speaker asks for forgiveness for whatever he has done, said or thought that 4. The speaker does not want to whine or whimper over the things he has no control. 3. The speaker wants to start the day with a new attitude and plenty of gratitude.

(ii) Do not try to approach God with your thinking mind. It may only stimulate your Sri Chinm member5.The speaker asks the Lord to bless him that he may be a blessing to others. in their households, intellectual ideas, activities, and beliefs. Try to approach God with your crying heart. 6.The speaker prays for all his/her sisters and brothers and for each and every family It will awaken your soulful, spiritual consciousness. Contact us on: 071 8004580 Compiled by Noel Jayamanne Albert Einstein E-mail: [email protected] (iii) Intellectual growth should commence at birth and cease only at death. XX Children / Youth the Messenger February 1, 2015 Who should be a Christian Everybody likes Jesus Christ. Only the devil and those who deny virtues can hate Jesus. Many peo- After working hard for so long, have we gained "What will it pro�it them if they gainanything that will be needed to ensure a life that will the whole world but forfeit their life?" shouldple want to imitate Christ. Those who want to follow Je- have a proper awareness, a conviction, about endure for eternity? sus and those who believe that they are following Jesus (Mt 16:26). We should realise that if we do not gain any-"Those who want to save their life for my the life and the objective they aim to attain. Man has life sakething to ensure our eternal life, all our efforts will be will �ind it" at two levels - the life of the body God made from the simply futile bodyearth, and the life of the soul that has to last forever. which is mortal and destructible. However hard (Mt 16:25). Instead of working hard for we might Most of us work hard to nurture the life of the try, whatever precautions we might take, one our mundane life, we should seek and strive for eternal life. be called Christian life aims at eternal life, life in Heaven. Christians. The Father makes it very clear as day, sooner or later, we will lose our bodily life. The fact Only those who aim for this eternity will be entitled to "All who see the Son and of the matter is that we hardly do anything for the life of believe in him may have eternal life; and I will raise them our soul which is immortal and eternal. If we spend our upto who can attain eternal life. on the last day" entire life endeavouring to sustain our bodily life that will be certainly lost one day we will definitely prove revealed by Heaven (Jn 6:40). is Jesus, only Jesus. God became ourselves fools of the number one order! man, dwelt For man to attain eternal life, the way and truth amongst us and taught us how to nurture Who should follow Jesus? It is those who have "If any want to the thirst to acquire eternal life rather than work for become my followers, let them deny themselves and take the bodily life that should follow Him. up their cross and follow me" the life of the soul and to make us keen on attaining the kingdom of God. To be a real Christian one has to (Mt. 16:24). Those who hislook beyond the bounds of this mortal world, its glitter, soul and work hard and in right earnest to attain it. want to follow Jesus, aiming eternal life, should accept glamour and glitz and should thirst for the salvation of the pain of giving up their mortal bodies and their mo- virtuous acts. "I am the bread of life" mentary pleasures, and carry the cross of suffering. But The way for that consists of prayers, fasting and other esunfortunately as we spend our time and energy in try- conducive to a commutable and lavish style, we are (Jn 6:48). If the who desire the salvation of the soul. The Christian way ing to protect our bodily life and make our circumstanc- said,physical hunger is satisfied by worldly bread, the hun- "Those who eat my �lesh drink my blood have eter- is prepared for those who want the growth of their souls should have given greater attention. That is why Jesus nalger of the soul is satisfied by the heavenly bread. Jesus life" to enable them to attain eternal life. The life and teach- unconsciously losing our life of the soul, to which we "Do not work for the food that perishes, but for Holy Eucharist. usings of Jesus are appropriate for the soul's salvation. He so that we too become heirs to heaven. (Jn 6:54). It is made possible only through the the food that endures for eternal life." wounded himself and shared his flesh and blood with Courtesy : Vachanolsavam taught us: (Jn6:27). Who should become good Christians? Those Values and Moral Responsibility

Moral awareness is critical to living a fully inte- require the discernment of several different moral issues; grated Christian life. Every action is the result of an in- lengetherefore we need to be aware of what the church teaches at hand in the best possible way. tention, and intentions are formed by core values. Moral in each area of moral teaching to better address the chal- ing.awareness involves allowing our core values to be formed, When we are able to maintain our core values in spite informed and transformed by sound doctrine and teach- towards A a common morally aware goal - to person do what begins is right, to have good, a holy, fully integrated life where aspects of their life works together, of the situation, we realise that our actions become inte- grated and we exhibit a life of integrity. Thus, all the vari- and true. In other words, they act in accord with the will ous aspects of our lives serve as a witness to the Gospel, beginof God. And, once these core values are established in con- to apply these values to any situation they encoun- and the Gospel in turn sheds light on every aspect of our True moral awareness involves constantly seek- ter.junction with a rightly formed moral conscience, they can They will know what the right thing to do is. inglife. to understand all that the Church teaches. This re- quires us to read, study, understand and apply moral awareness It is fair to say that being morally aware is a con- and constantly increase our knowledge as situationsstant process. arise. We Tomorrow need to will have present a keen new sense moral of moral ques- teachings of the Church to every aspect of our life. Just because the Church says something doesn't mean it im- awareness, and keep studying and listening to the Church, ismediately impacts a person's core belief system. It isn't true and learns to apply it that they start to attain a tions, but if we keep informing and forming our moral until one fully understands and accepts why a teaching believe. A morally aware person strives to have a rightly we can meet the challenges of tomorrow with integrity rightly formed moral conscience - they become what they of heart. It is never easy, but as morally aware Catholics living fully integrated lives, we can begin to transform the Courtesy : Vachanolsavam formed consciense and defers to this conscience when world into members of the kingdom of God. faced with complex moral situations. One situation may Catholic numbers up but percentage down The Catholic popula- rope and Oceania. priests and religious who died creases However, followed while by Asia, numer- Eu- lost 90 and Oceania 80. the362,488. Catholic Church runs 71,188 violentthe scope of its annual report on deaths to include Church Vaticantion of the in Decemberworld is on showing the up, ically Catholics may have made 1,076 and However, 1,364 respectively. Africa and In the education sector, lay personnel as well. thatwith numbers figures have released increased by the in some headway, their percentage Asia showed There an was increase an overall of schools and 43,783 secondary kindergartens, 95,246 primary en religious worldwide, whose charity and healthcare centres The report from the all five continents, the Vatican centof world population dropped by in the previous year. numbersdecrease in the number of wom- dropped by 10,677 to inschools, the world while run the by number the Church of Congregation for the Evangeli- Church VaticanBook of Radio Statistics reported for 0.01 per cent from 17.49 per asation of Peoples reveals that 17 seminarian and one lay person that2012 reveals. it puts the total number priests in the world increased priests, one brother, six sisters, The total number of Asia702,529. showed increases, whilst stands at 115,352. during robberies characterised once again registered the larg- Europe Once and again the Africa Americas and However, 2014 was a were killed in 2014—mostly of Catholics in the world at by 895 to 414,313, but Europe showed the biggest decrease. workerstough year for Church workers. were killed during the which Fides says indicates they 1,228,621,000 as of 31 Decem- the second year in succession, The hardest hit group Fides reported that 26 pastoral by brutality and ferociousness, ber 2012, which represents a est downturn in numbers for was lay missionaries. Their Tracey McClure report- nomic and cultural poverty. rica15 million increase on 2011. registered the biggest in- lowed by the Americas which year, compared with 23 in 2013. stem from intolerance and eco-Courtesy: Sunday Examiner The Americas and Af- showing a drop of 1,375, fol- numbers slumped by 19,234 to ed for Fides that it has broadened MATRIMONIAL Bride Academically and professionally qual- ified, well mannered partner is sought by Sinhala Catholic parents living in Canada for their pretty, slim daugh- ter 32 years, 5’ 7” she is a graduate from a Canadian university and well employed with Government of Canada. Please reply with family details. Preferably from Canada. E-mail: a b i s s e t 2 0 @ g m a i l . c o m Telephone 0718241479. No. N5700, C/o, Colombo Catholic Press, Colombo 8.