SINCE Feb 11,1869 The Catholic weekly o f Sri Lanka

Where E a s t e r Renouncement t h e r e i s Experience 5Pg of Office Pg7 Love... 8Pg

The February

"Registered in the Department of Posts of Sri Lanka under No. QD / 50 / News / 2013" Transfiguration of the Lord Sunday February 24, 2013 Vol 144 No 08 16 Pages Rs: 25.00 Registered as a newspaper 24 To All the Faithful ur attention has been drawn through practice however is not followed by our means attempting to use religion for I therefore appeal to all those media reports to the recent practice, non-Catholic politicians and celebrities one’s own self pursuits such as obtaining engaged in leadership roles in the amongO Catholic politicians and persons who remain faithful to the traditions of political advantage. It is also an insult political, social or public life, to pay appointed to high public office, of visiting their religions. not only to one’s own religion but to all attention to this matter, becoming true to non-Catholic shrines and places of worship While it is true that those who religions in general. It is beneath one’s the teachings of Our Lord Jesus Christ and seeking the blessings of non-Catholic hold public office owe a duty to all the dignity to use religion for such a purpose; and to honestly and zealously follow the religious dignitaries before assuming people and must serve all members of it is hypocritical and a devaluation of all practices of the Christian way of life. duties of their new office or position. the public irrespective of their religious religions. If such persons do not do so, but There are similar reports that affiliation, they should not, while carrying Catholics who engage in instead continue to engage in rites and when Catholic politicians or eminent out their official functions or after their political or public life are like every practices of other religions as a habit, it persons in public life die, their funeral demise, acknowledge any forms of other Catholic, obliged to follow the is the moral obligation of the faithful to ceremonies are conducted not only worship, veneration or honour which teachings of Our Lord Jesus Christ and refrain from proposing or appointing such according to Catholic practice but that are contrary to the Catholic beliefs and the Christian way of life. Although persons to public office in the future. non-Catholic funeral rites or practices teachings or are incompatible. Catholic leaders in public life must serve are also performed in addition. These Religion is a matter of individual everyone equally and without favour, yet non-Catholic practices invariably are personal conviction and a person cannot he or she is required to act according to performed to win the favour of the non- honestly hold convictions of different the conscience and the beliefs of his faith. + His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith Catholic public and constitute a way of religions at the same time. Doing this It is only by doing so that one can bear President - Catholic Bishops’ obtaining cheap political mileage. Such a would be unbecoming of Christians and witness to one’s own religion. Conference of Sri Lanka • His Eminence makes Pastoral Visit to All Saints’ Church, Borella ‘As Christians we are challenged to take up the Cross’ hat is the relation Sunday. God was far too powerful “Wbetween God and His Eminence to enter into the mortal humanity?” - was the who presided at High world because he saw the question posed by the Mass answered the ques- world of man as an illu- Archbishop of Colombo, tion himself, by making His Eminence Malcolm references to the Greek Divine World. Cardinal Ranjith to the Philosopher Plato, who sion or reflection“Even the of Jews the parish community of All had said that he saw no felt the same way. They ful, Almighty God cannot says God cannot become Christianity, he said which Saints’ Church, Borella way for the world of God considered it a heresy to be encased in a human man,” the Archbishop showed to the world that when he made his pasto- to enter into the realm say that God became man. body. It was the same pointed out. God did become man. ral visit to the Church last of the human. For him For the Jews this power- with the Muslims. Islam It was only Contd on Pg.2 (See also Pg.7) Wattala Parish welcomes Cardinal Felicitates Advanced Level Students Angelo Matthews n the request of the Archbishop of Colombo, His OEminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, students belonging to Catholic, private and vested schools, from the Archdiocese of Colombo, who obtained 3A’s at the recently released A/L results, were summoned to be felicitated. Each student received a

His Eminence, in the presence of their principals, andpersonally a gathering endorsed of priests, Certificate religious of Excellence, and teachers. from His Eminence and His Lordship, Rt. Rev. Dr.

(Contd on Pg.2) Maxwell Silva, Auxiliary Bishop of Colombo awarded certificates to 400 students. Angelo Matthews, the newly appointed Loyola College, Negombo excels in A/L results “Gleaned from National Cricket Captain, was welcomed by Rev. Fr. Basil Second in the Gampaha District Wickremasinghe at the Parish of Wattala. Angelo, who is * the classics” a parishioner and a regular devotee of St. Anne’s Church, oyola College, Negombo, Wattala was hosted by the parish community at Sunday L well at the G.C.E. (A/L) Memoria Est Service recently. performed extremely Rev. Fr. Basil Wickremasinghe, the Parish Priest in Thesaurus Omnium his address commented, that Angelo’s gesture in making Examination held in August Rerum the sign of the cross in front of the spectators, could be 2012. Two students have (from Cicero) described as an act of great witnessing value and as a passedand Biological the exam Sciences. with Memory is the loyal attempt to reveal his identiy as a Catholic. On behalf flyingMiss. Anne colours Umesha in Physical Perera treasury and guardian of the parishioners and the cricket loving public, he was having obtained 3 A’s in wished all success and God’s choicest blessings. (Contd on Pg.2) Gayan Sanjeewa Fernando Anne Umesha Perera of all things 2 The Messenger February 24, 2013 As Christians we are...... Dr. Nimal Lucas wins Contd. from Pg. 1 seven medals Dr. Nimal Lucas, a Council Member of the Guild of St Luke, Saints Cosmas and Damian and a for- mer captain of the Sri Lanka National Table

medalsTennis and Team four (1966- silver medals1971), won in table three tennis gold at the New Zealand Masters' Games held in Wanganui, New

Zealand from February 4- 10, 2013. doubles He events. won Hegold won medals silver in medals the over in 70 the men's over His Eminence with some parishioners of All Saints' Church, Borella singles, over 70 men's doubles and over 65 men's This was the greatest a cross was a scandal as It is this living with hope and faith which doubles and over 55 men’s singles. 55 team event, over 45 team event, over 70 mixed revelation of Christianity they could not accept the together with Christ that is the basic optimism of As Dr. Lucas was the sole participant from and the reference is there in we celebrate during Lent,” Sri Lanka, he was partnered by New Zealand play- the Gospel of John, Chap- He said that he said. that as Christians we are ers in the doubles and team events. “…And the Word MessiahChrist himself being hascrucified. said in The Archbishop Christianitychallenged to and take explained up the became flesh and dwelt “My Father went on to state that in teramongst 1:14, us.” and I are One,” and in John in self-denial, for that was Special Lecture His Eminence John 10:30, Deus Caritas Est, Pope crosswhat Christand find wanted happiness us to A special lecture will be delivered on 'Celebration noted that, “The most “Father who sent Me.” hisBenedict very first XVI, encyclical has said that of the Faith in the Liturgy especially in the Eucha- singular, act of trust and Therefore, His “Therefore,” “in Chapter 8 he speaks of the rist' by Rev. Father Justin Chawkan,SSS on February faith in humanity that God Eminence said that God God’s love is that he died dothis in Season Matthew of Lent 16:24. let us showed us was by being has gone against his own thefor us.”“Radical That expression is why Chris of- born among us and dying nature to become man and tianity is a religion of hope and renounce all forms of for us a terrible death. live among us. There is and joy and not a religion be filled with Divine Love 26, 2013, from 4.00 to 6.15p.m at the Institute of This he did for he loved nothing impossible for God of fatalism, he said. Christian who can smile Spiritual Formation of AsiaRev. (ISFA)Brother - 130,Emmanuel De La Salle FSC us,” and added that for the just as the Angel declared He encouraged selfishnessthrough his and or her be tears,”a good Street, Colombo 15. Director Jews the Messiah dying on His concluded. 0777-682-989 Interreligiousto Mary Service in Luke 1:37. tothe faithfulremember to fill their lives the dead Awarding of Certificates Following a decision by the Catholic National Com- mission for Justice, Peace and Human Development, interre- ligious services have been held in several dioceses to remem- ber those who died during the

Lanka. 30 years Caritasof ethnic Colombo conflict in Seth Sri Sarana conducted such a ser- vice recently at St John’s Parish - Hall, Mutwal attended by near- lowed the Vocational Training courses at the John Ama- ly 375 Christians, Buddhists, Awarding of certificates to students who fol Hindus and Muslims. rathunga Foundation was held under the patronage of In Badulla, a group of donating blood to the Badulla Gen- tians and Hindus attended a service of Colombo at the Pradeshiya Sabha Hall, Kerawalapiti- nearly 275 Christians, Buddhists, eral Hospital and nutritious food at HUDEC Hall on December 5, Hindus and Muslims gathered on ya,His Hendala Lordship recently. Rt. Rev. Dr. Maxwell Silva, Auxiliary Bishop Nimal Perera cancer patients. Ainsley Joseph for a service, followed by 25 youth items being distributed among 100- 2012. December 3, 2012 at USCOD Hall Cardinal Felicitates... In Jaffna, around 260 Chris (Contd from Pg. 1) Special Spiritual Progamme Addressing them His Eminence said, “You have been In view of the Catechists in the Diocese The participants brilliant in grasping the subject matter to get good “Year of Faith” the Cat- pogramme was conducted were deeply touched by results, likewise take to heart and mind the roots that echetical Centre at Kandy, by a teamThe from first the Com day’s- the two programmes. Rev fostered you. Remember God who helped you, your organised a Recollection at Wahacotte, on 18th and munity of the Risen Lord, Fr.Yovan Pittchi O.S.B Ad- parents, your teachers and all who were associated with programme under the and19th Tamil of January, Catechists, There in- Colombo and the second ministrator of the Shrine guidance of the Diocesan cludingwere over a few 200 religious Sinhala day’s progamme was con- and Catechetical Coor- integral person and groom yourself to be of service to you towards your success. Grow into a fully fledged Director Rev.Fr.Timothy who attended this pro- ducted by Rev.Fr.Darrel dinator Matale Vicariate all mankind.” Coonghe of “Supuwath Gnanapragasam, for all gramme. had made all the neces- This event of felicitation was organised by the Arana” Seeduwa sary arrangements. Madurawela, Archdiocesan Director of Education and Loyola College... GeneralCatholic ManagerEducation of Office Catholic headed Private by Schools.Rev. Fr. Ranjith Contd. From Pg. 1 stream qualifying for Gampaha District. entry too the Faculty of for further academic Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes iological Science has has beenMiss. placedSubhashi 10th Bhagya in the Engineering education.15 students excelled Bbeen placed second Marcelline obtained 2A’s In the Commerce While the Maths Church, Polgahawela will be celebrated on Sunday Feb- in the Gampaha District stream of the 35 students stream was initiated in The 146th annual feast of Our Lady of Lourdes- and 22nd in the All-Island ship Rt. Rev. Dr. Harold Anthony Perera, Bishop of Ku- rankings. Districtand a B and in has Biological qualified students have obtained 3 runegalaruary 24, aswith the Festive Chief Celebrant. High Mass presided by His Lord Master Gayan Science.60th in She the too Gampaha becomes A’swho and sat are the eligible exam to four join and2000, the the Science remarkable stream Sanjeewa Fernando who eligible to enter Medical the relevant universities. resultscommenced achieved only in 2005 over pm presided over by Very Rev. Fr. Piyal Janaka Fernando, also obtained 3 A’s in the Faculty. The Arts stream this short span of time, Episcopal Vespers Vicar of will the be Archdiocese sung the previous and National day at Direc 7.30- Physical Science section Loyola College produced two students with tor of Catechetics and Bible Apostolate. has been placed 2nd in of the educational This is the Church in which His Eminence Mal- the Gampaha District and for entrance out of the developmentindicates the at explicity Loyola Faculty,thereby fields and two one students student the required qualifications College. years, His Eminence came to be known as “the Cardinal while Miss. Sashrika Britto of twentysix eligible from for the Medical Maths Over all this year, around fromcolm Polgahawela”Cardinal Ranjith because was baptizedhe was born in 1947. in that In town. recent 48th in the Island rankings 32 who sat the exam. 3 The Messenger February 24, 2013 Pope's brother says the Pope Emergency Unit to handle religious tensions The Police Department has set up a new will not be a 'full retiree' Emergency Unit to handle complaints related to reli- CNA/EWTN - Pope Bene- a decision that was made. gious tensions, in the wake of a rise in such incidents It’s the natural course of in recent times. The Unit situated at Police Head- that the Pontiff’s decision to resign life and nobody escapes quarters and coming under the purview of Senior isdict good XVI’s for older the Body brother of Christ explained be- from it.” DIG Mr Gamini Navaratne commenced operations cause he had become too weak to Asked how he carry out his ministry. thinks the Holy Father on February 9, 2013 and will function round the will be remembered, Msgr. clock. Complaints could be reported via the 24-hour Ratzinger said he hopes hotlines 0113182904 and 0113188753 or to Fax No. Msgr. Georg“It is Ratzinger a beneficial in an decision inter- his brother will be seen Ainslie Joseph 0112423944. viewfor the with Church,” the Spanish said 89-year-old daily ABC, “as a Pope who strove to deepen and spread the “He no longer has the faith of the Church with Pope Benedcit and his brother From the strength,”published Msgr.on February Ratzinger 17. observed. all of his strength,” as well “He is going through the natural as someone who provided Even once he steps down Vatican process of ageing, like I am as well.” at the end of the month and moves He said that the Holy Fa- by the Faith.” into a former monastery on the Vat- ther had cited his advanced age in “an exampleHe of added a life of that belief Catholics guided ican grounds, Pope Benedict is “not An “authoritative moral leader” going to sit around waiting for the informing him that he planned to should “thank God for having en- during global economic crisis resign. trusted the last few years to a good He added that he hopes to “My brother wants more Pope and pray that he will send us dayhave to moreend,” he one-on-one explained. time with - another good leader of the Church.” his brother in the future, hopefully cate has coincided with a global economic crisis that “As you get older, your strength be- In an impromptu press conference at Benedict XVI’s new residence. has seenVATICAN poverty RADIO rates soaring - Pope in Benedict’s many countries pontifi peace for his old age,” he explained. gins to fade.” shortly after the Holy Father an- “They’ll probably have a around the world. The Catholic-inspired develop- “In addition, he has had to nounced his resignation on Febru- room there for me,” he said, dis- ment agency Progressio says the Pope has been "an counting any possibility of the Pope authoritative moral leader" during this time of crisis his brother “is not to be a full-time has done as much as he can,” the returning to Germany in the near and singles out the clear message contained in his confront difficult tasks, which he aryretiree.” 11, Msgr. Ratzinger said that Pope’s brother said. “It was simply future. Social Encyclical Caritas in Veritate. Daniel Hale, Progressio’s Head of Cam- Annual Prize giving of Nicholas' International College paigns, describes Pope Benedict as “unswerving in his commitment to speaking out on behalf of some The annual of the very poorest people in the world. He says the prize-giving of St. Nicho- their creativity and to love Pope has “taken a very clear view on the morality” las' International College andthe respect students others to exploreso that of development issues and has been “a phenomenal was held recently at the they in return would be College. The Chief Guest loved and respected in was Mr. Yusaf Noordeen society. He related to the advocate” in this field. the Director of the English students a simple story Cloistered nun believes monastic life Service of the Sri Lanka about a skilful woodcutter will extend Pope’s reach Broadcasting Corporation, a veteran broadcaster and for his employer using his The Holy Father’s educationist who was ac- who earned great profits decision to dedicate him- corded a warm welcome succumbed to failure ow- self to a life of prayer will by the Principal and pre- ingrazor to his sharp lack axe of attention but later enable him to impact peo- fects of the College. ple who might not have lis- Addressing the he said could happen to Mr. Niranjan Fernando nior College Choir trained tened to him while he was students at the ceremony anyoneto sharpen who the fails axe. to This give outlined the achieve- by versatile voice trainer Pope, according to a clois- Mr. Noordeen quoted from ments of the students at Mr. Francis de Almeida. tered Dominican nun. Shakespeare “One man sharpen one’s own skills The Vote of Thanks was “When he lives this in his time plays many andsufficient knowledge; attention a lesson to - delivered by the Deputy monastic lifestyle, his prayers will reach those who parts” and said that we as never to be forgotten by tionsthe Cambridge and other and academic Edexel Head Prefect of the Col- maybe were unbelievers during his papacy,” said members of society have any student or adult for andinternational non-academic examina pro- lege, Zaahil Ahmed A. Za- Mother Maria Angelica. to play many roles but that matter. “I’m absolutely sure of this, of the value of grammes of the college. rook. it was important to bal- Presenting the his prayer and of his silence. And it will reach the The distribution of awards ance these roles in order Annual Report of the whole world, even where it wasn’t previously able to to become well rounded College for the year was interspersed by a cho- Text Francisca Ludowyke, reach,” she told EWTN News recently at the Domini- persons. He encouraged ral presentation by the Se- Pic. by Siddath can monastery of Santa Maria del Rosario.

2011/2012 the Principal on how the Pope will be living a life similar to her own. The cloistered Dominican nun also reflected “For us it is something great and beautiful because we will feel him even closer than when he

know that he is following our same lifestyle.” was Pope, because it is an extraordinary greatness to Sadness at Pope’s resignation

After meeting the Holy Father, Pope Bene- dict XVI on Thursday, priests from the Diocese of Rome said they are sad he is retiring and that he was a great gift to the Church. In keeping with his academic gifts, Pope

his Diocese sharing his thoughts about participating inBenedict Vatican spent II and his how final he understandsmeeting with it. the priests of “He’s been a man who has had a wonder-

faith,” one priest originally from Africa said. ful influenceAnother in terms Tanzanian of the priestneed to studying understand in Rome our - hood and his life. said Pope Benedict has greatly influenced his priest priest because he was a real father and indicated that you “Hiscelebrate spiritual Mass life with has full influenced attention, allowing me as a people to participate fully in the Liturgy and for them to recognize the coming of God in the Consecration,” said Father Patrick Tibangayuka, who is studying for his PhD in Philosophy.

4 The Messenger February 24, 2013 Interview with the President of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue

Editorial February 24, 2013 Open to the question of God

A world open to dialogue on the question of God. This is how Cardi- The Challenges to the new nal Jean-Louis Tauran, President of the

Pope and the Church Dialogue, imagines the scenario that isPontifical unfolding Council at the forbeginning Interreligious of this The announcement of the resignation of Pope Benedict XVI came year. He also reinforced his impression by underlining - in an interview he Lourdes and is only the second resignation in the history of the granted to our paper - the timeliness Papacy.on the anniversary The institutional of the Churchfirst Apparition is the oldest of the institution Virgin Mary in the at of the debate between Christianity and - secularism, echoed in many books and mentators are questioning the future of the Catholic Church. They international journals. This point in- referworld to with child an abuse unbroken scandals history among of over priests 2000 which years. have But now occurred com spired the Cardinal to reassert the im- - portance of the work the Dicastery has nancial statements. in several Catholic countries and improprieties in the Vatican fi in particular on the various aspects of Pope Benedict battled with child abuse by priests and the many dialoguecarried out with in the pastMuslim year, world. reflecting problems posed by secularism. He did his best to tackle these problems but felt that he was too old to carry forward these bur- What characterized the Pontifical "in to- Council’s activity during 2012? The Pope with Muslim religious leaders during his Visit day's world, subject to so many rapid changes and shaken by ques- Certainly the appointment of to Lebanon (September 15, 2012) tionsdens of deephis office. relevance He said for inthe his life resignation of faith, in addressorder to thatgovern the a new Secretary and a new Undersec- Barque of St Peter and proclaim the Gospel, both strength of mind retary constitute important changes between the North and the South. I remember and body are necessary. Strength which has in the past few months for the Dicastery. As regards the development an emotional visit to a technical school, located deteriorated in me to the extent that I have had to recognise my of our mission, we essentially sought to remain in a region where the majority are Muslims. incapacity adequately to fulfill the Ministry entrusted to me" faithful to the duty assigned to us by the Apos- This school is run by a Catholic priest and ac- tolic Constitution Pastor Bonus, which decrees commodates youth who work with wood. The There is no doubt that we are on the threshold of stirring times atmosphere and the relationship between the for the Church. Some are referring to the Prophecies at Fatima Dialogue must “foster various kinds of rela- young people were proof to me that inter- and still others quote prophets and question the future of the tionsthat the with Pontifical the followers Council of forother Interreligious religions" and religious dialogue contributes to the common Catholic Church even saying that the Church might see a Schism. “promote appropriate studies and conferences good. They show that notwithstanding the dra- But we know that the Church was established by Jesus who said to develop mutual information and esteem, so matic nature of certain situations, it is possible that the gates of hell will not prevail against it. But God wants a that human dignity and the spiritual and moral to live and work together! Unfortunately, there Holy Church, a Church which will bear witness to his teachings. riches of people may continue to grow" without are other situations which are less encourag- forgetting “the formation of those who engage The Evangelical Catholicism being born today is the result of a in this kind of dialogue”. Even if part of the complete transformation. Even this year the process of deep reform in the Church that began with the Vatican world’s population - above all in the West- is dialogueing. I think with of Egypt,Al Azhar for was example: suspended a country at the in Council II. We must pray that further reforms will be in accor- de facto secularized, no one can deny that God decision of our Muslim partners. As for us, we dance with the Will of God. The Church includes both the clergy continue to reiterate that our doors are always and the laity and hence the duty to be holy applies to all of us. We think of the impressive number of books and open to a sincere and respectful dialogue. have to turn away from all types of sin. But evil has undoubtedly remains an ever timely topic. Suffice it is to increased in recent years. The world has turned away from God on the kiosks in airports - on which the word What do you mean in this case by a sincere and as Our Lady told the children at Fatima we must repent or “God”magazines appears. - which Therefore I see displayed, there is a for whole example, and respectful dialogue? there will be great sufferings in the world. There will be suffer- world open to this type of dialogue. That we must always have before us ings for the institutional Church, for priests, nuns and the Pope the lofty spiritual dimension of each religion. What was the greatest task in the year which The most important thing is to prevent that the such perils. We saw how the Communist Empire which had lasted recently ended? sociological or political characteristics cause himself. But we know that prayer and sacrifice will stave off many Dialogue with Muslims. Unfortunately, us to forget this dimension. I often notice that many Catholics, even if they long to dialogue But70 years a greater collapsed peril without has arisen a single with shot secularism being fired. taking over the to justify the use of violence or seek to impose with other believers, are discouraged by what Islamicsome deviant law by minorities, force on all who without exploit distinction, religion happens around them. It is hard to forget, for abortions being legalised. Many Christians no longer practice the are a danger not only to their societies but also faithentire and Western churches Christian are being world, closed. with The same world's sex Catholics marriages in and Af- to the whole world. They hinder the dialogue killed for the Faith. We must, of course, in any rica, Asia and Latin America now outnumber those in the West - caseexample, unambiguously that every five denounce minutes such a Christian savagery. is where the institutional Church traditionally held sway. Rev. Fr. ber the fate of several Christian communities Having said this, a situation of this kind can Mervyn Fernando has referred to a new Catholic Evangelism for inbetween countries religions. such as It Pakistan suffices hereand Nigeria.to remem No be a spur for believers to deepen their own the Church. The reforms of Vatican Council II have been intended convictions and to witness that, in the midst to prepare the Church for a renewed and revitalized missionary regrettable that the burden of integralism risks of so much violence, that all religions favour causingone and theno causereligious can and justify spiritual such excesses. dimension It isof fraternal relations. It is in this sense that all re- Islam to be forgotten. ligions are an asset for the common good. The "Lukewarmvocation in the Catholicism 21st century. has no future; submitting to the trans- Catholic Church, for her part, remains active How is dialogue with other religions pro- in the dialogue among religions, not only with Weigel in his new book, Evangelical Catholicism. We live in a time ceeding? Muslims but also with the believers in oriental whenforming "religious fire of the faith, Holy commitment Spirit is no longer to a religious optional," community, writes George and - and traditional religions. The ad limina visits of a religiously informed morality can no longer be taken for grant- es in recent months, one cannot fail to mention the bishops, who gladly come to share with us ed.... Evangelical Catholicism calls the entire Church to holiness the King AmongAbdullah the bin most Abdulaziz significant International experienc - for the sake of mission."This certainly asks for a lot. But Our Lord Centre for Interreligious and Intercultural ness of such a commitment. insisted that if we are His true followers we must be totally com- Dialogue which was inaugurated in Vienna on their initiatives, are a final proof of the earnest mitted to Him. There is no room for half hearted lukewarm Catho- November 26 of last year. Although this centre What does the 'Year of Faith' mean in the lics, who merely go to Church on Sundays but do not put practice perspective of interreligious dialogue? Christ's teaching about love to one's neighbour. Saudi Arabia, it is a broader NGO - founded by During the 'Year of Faith' we shall Saudiwas desired Arabia and together financed with for Austria several and years Spain by undertake to strengthen our Christian faith "When the Son of Man comes, will He find faith on earth?" [Luke - in which the Holy See stands as a founding so as to know its content better and to pro- observer. It forms a good channel for dialogue pose with words and deeds the message of Rev. Fr. Richard John Neuhaus argued that this was the question which we hope will not only foster a better Jesus Christ. Since we are at the beginning of "that18.8]. anyone, The question pope or comes layperson, straight would from understand the Gospels, to andbe the the most late reciprocal knowledge among believers, but urgent" question facing the Church now. What would the Son of will also be a suitable place to denounce the of greetings, I make my own the Holy Father's circumstances where freedom of conscience a new year, and thus at the time for exchange and of religion are not adequately respected Man find if He comes now? The Son of Man, coming as the Risen and defended. shallwish, pray expressed to the toLord the that Roman the Church,Curia with notwith the - sheerLord returning heroism, likein glory, the faithwould of findpersecuted the usual Christians human confusion,in Islamic standingwords of herJesus: own "Come, hardships, and you become will see!" ever We more landsin the andmidst in ofChina; which all he'd of it also struggling find a lot against of faith: the Some usual of enemies it full of This has also been a year in which you have recognizable as His dwelling place. We pray made some important journeys. that we may witness ever better and even more I would say that in this sense the visit convincingly that "we have found the One for Holy— the Spirit world, to themake flesh, the andright the decision. devil. A new Pope is to be elected whom the whole world is waiting, Jesus Christ, next month. Let us all pray that the Cardinals will be moved by the I was able to observe that the Nigerians want true Son of God and true man." to Nigeria last May was particularly significant. to live together, regardless of the differences (L'Osservatore Romano) 5 The Messenger February 24, 2013 Easter - Experience through the Lenten Preparation

As it is obvious that the Season the life of Jesus and we are to relive the is traditional to have a time set aside for ries the Paschal Candle into a darkened of Lent begins with Ash Wednesday and great mystery of our salvation from sin the faithful to pray before the Blessed church where the light spreads to all in and death. The Commemoration of the Sacrament. the Assembly. The Baptismal Water is for us to prepare for the "most sacred Lord's Supper indeed renders very im- Praying means a lot at this blessed and the catechumens are bap- celebrationit continues offor the 40 Easter days, this is the time moment. The rapport Jesus had with Triduum." His Heavenly Father is recalled and Lent has been lifetized and and renewed confirmed. our Wefaith. sing "Alleluia," always penitential in nature. a human being at the Garden of Olives is for the RisenDuring Lord the has day filled on Easter us with new We are invited to turn away alsospecially reminded. the agony "Thy Jesus will be experienced done" would as Sunday, the Church calls all Catholics to from our attachments to ma- be the model of life of each Christian. worship at Mass to celebrate their faith terial things and everyday God's will has to be lived all the time. In and rejoice in the Salvation of the world accordance with the Sacred Scriptures, through the Death and Resurrection of relationship with God and the sole quest of Jesus was to be obedi- Jesus Christ. others.pleasure Each and Sunday examine through our ent to the Will of His Father in Heaven. the readings from the Easter Time Scriptures, we are further this reality. The Easter Season begins on invited to recall the impor- His AbbaOn experience Good Friday very afternoon well reveals we Easter Sunday and continues for seven tant themes of Jesus' life and celebrate the Lord's Passion. We read weeks until Pentecost Sunday. The mission. the story from the Gospel of Jesus's Trial Feast of Pentecost usually celebrates The colour of the Season of portant reminders for each Christian to the Coming of the Holy Spirit upon the Lent as it is purple and which embraces be more and more authentic in our deal- As a part of our liturgy we venerate a sound penitential preparation. Hence, ings with others. Jesus Himself remind- theand Cross Execution, with aHis bow, suffering a touch from of a kisssins. Church. During the season, we recall as the Season of Advent, Lent too is a to honour this most sacred sign of our thefirst appearances disciples and of is Jesus the birthday Christ to of His the season of preparation; preparation for a to be humble and service-oriented with Salvation. Veneration of the Holy Cross disciples after the Resurrection. A major aed genuine us with attitude. His own Ourgreat dealings example at how vary - is not to be restricted to Good Friday Feast during this season is Ascension. ing opportunities are to be pondered alone. This veneration has to be a part We are an Easter people. We Themeaningful Easter Easter-Experience.Triduum over in this regard; The foot-washing have a great Hope in the Resurrected On the evening of Holy Thurs- ceremony during the liturgy recalls In respecting and honouring others un- Lord. We have a great Journey, Journey day, we begin the Triduum with a Jesus' Message of Service. Sometimes doubtedlyand parcel liesof the the Christian foundation existence. to our au - to Eternity; Eternal Banquet will be celebration of the Lord's Supper to this would be a challenge since the ten- thentic way of life. The words of St. Paul our reward as intimate followers of the commemorate the meal Jesus had with dency in this secularised society is to be to Philippians can be very well quoted Lord. His own apostles the night before He served and treated well. Holy Thursday in this relation " ...Consider others better Are we in a situation to say that died. It is called the Triduum because it is very important for us became two than yourself..." we are genuine and frank in our Chris- takes place in the period of three days, Sacraments have been gifted to us by On the evening of Holy Satur- beginning with the feast of the Lord's Jesus Himself as channels of the Divine day, we celebrate ( 2:3-11). the Easter-Vigil, the Hence, the baptismal voca- Supper on the evening of Holy Thursday Grace. The Most Holy Eucharist and most important liturgy of the year. The tiantion vocationcan be kept and in identity? mind always very and continues until evening prayer on the Ministerial Priesthood have been specially when we are tempted to be Easter Sunday. At each celebration we instituted in order to be nurtured in the Paschal Candle which represents Christ, self-centred. retell the story of an important event in Lord Himself. After Holy Communion, it thepriest Light blesses of the new World. fire Theand priestlights thecar - Rev. Fr. lndra Ratnasiri Fernando Share your faith - during the 'Year of Faith' The Most Important Book in My Life There are many ways one can Hebrew and Greek. Still another liked a In almost every Protestant Every Sunday we were given a encounter our Risen Saviour, and each contemporary version because of its up- home, the Bible is of utmost importance, Scripture verse to memorize - I wish the - to-date vocabulary. and I remember how my mother used to same could be done by our Catholics! ence. Since this is the 'Year of Faith' it will The fourth minister was silent read it aloud to us and pray - no novenas, We should take to heart the words of St. beone appropriate of us have if had we can a different share our experi own for a moment, then said, "I like my moth- but her own prayers. I can still recall with Jerome, "Ignorance of Scripture is igno- personal story of faith whereby we can er's translation best." Surprised, the oth- a smile - though several years ago - Rev. rance of Christ." So, it is obvious if we do not know Christ, how can we give Him strengthen one another's faith and make er three men said they didn't know his Fr. Fernandopulle at St. Mary's Church, our loving Saviour known and loved b mother had translated the Bible. "Yes," Dehiwela saying, "God has already heard not encouraged to read the Bible - only bringing others to Him. Indeed, it will be he replied, "She translated it into life, all the prayers of the Saints, and now He to hear others? the InWord the of past, God Catholicsat Holy Mass were - good to read how our Religious got their and it was the most convincing transla- wants to hear ours!" After all, we should but now things have changed. Listen to calling to follow the Master in a special tion I ever saw." be able to pray to Jesus like a friend and what Pope Benedict XVI says in recalling way -like the disciples who responded This is the way our life should take all our troubles and cares to Him for his own personal search 'for the face of to Jesus' call. And, not only the Religious, be, and who knows we may be the only He is always, always ever ready to help the Lord', "It is important for us to ap- but the Laity too, and it is the duty of ev- Bible that men may read! To go back to us, and we should pray for others too. preciate how the face of the Lord is not ery baptized Christian to witness for Our my childhood days, I can still recall how The Bible touches our hearts in differ- only to be found in the Eucharist or in Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. So let us prayer, but it is also especially present in light up our darkened world of sin with in order to read the Bible and say her the Bible." Psalm 23 is my favourite Psalm our faith stories! prayersmy mother before used she to woke get up us extra up for early our ent ways. (Matthew 16:26), "For what and I always picture myself as the little is a man profited, if he shall gain the My own faith came about coffee. However, I never followed her sheep being carried in the Good Shep- through many factors which helped me whole world, and lose his own soul? or- "Yea, though I walk to grow in my faith. Firstly, I will relate the Christian Medical College Hospital, what shall a man give in exchange for- through the valley of the shadow of death, about the Holy Bible which is the most Vellorehabit except (India). when The I did only my time Nursing I could at izehis thatsoul?" all Thesewhat the are world the words offers thatis of inno herd'sI will fear arms, no (vsevil: 4)For Thou art with me, important Book in my life. Looking back read a few passages from the Bible was availfluenced and myfollowing mum, Jesus and made should her be real our Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me." on my life, I am truly happy I was not before I went on duty, and so I also made goal, and from my early age my parents it a point to get up earlier to attend the taught me that Jesus should be the most me of God's never failing care and pro- would be like most Catholics not know- Chapel Service every morning. Besides important Person in my life. Mytection daily from Psalms all harm 91 and and 112 danger. also assure Many, ingborn the into Scriptures!! a Catholic Baptized family! as Reason? an Angli - I our work, we had lectures to attend and many years ago I had written on the can, I derived my religious training as a had to study every evening - under su- I had to memorize at Sunday School that front page of my Bible - now faded - the little girl in the Methodist Sunday School - revealed To to me, me it God'swas the immense first Bible love verse to a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my where I learnt the Scriptures, and also ing and reading the Bible in the evening, give us Jesus, and in order to have eter- wordspath." Forfrom me, Psalm the 119:105,best time "Thy to read Word the is at the Scripture classes in school which butpervision! I used Soto recallI had towhat forget I had about read relax dur- nal life we should believe in Him. And was taught as a subject. However, I must ing the course of the day and this gave so, from a very early age - by the grace after my work is done - so I can read and mention that my faith began at home by me immense strength and courage, and Biblemeditate is in on the what evening I have when read. I mustcan relax also also guidance since I was away from "For God so loved the world, that He gave Before I speak about her, I'd like Hisof God only - I begottenbelieved in Son, Jesus. that (John whosoever 3:16), Imitation of Christ by Thomas a Kempis the example of my dear mother. work was strenuous and I found it dif- believeth in Him should not perish, but mentionvery inspirational. that next to"It the is oneBible of I thefind most The Four pastors were discussing the merits home at the early age of sixteen. The have everlasting life." Never in my life moving narratives of intimate Christian ofto sharethe various with you translations this appropriate of the story:Bible. not done a stroke of work at home! But, I have I doubted the Scriptures, and truly experience ever written," (Harry Emer- One liked a particular version best be- carriedficult and on wanted- with the to adviceleave - and since encour I had- believe it is the Word of God - and I can cause of its simple beautiful English. agement of my dear father - and I knew I say with absolute certainty that Jesus May God's grace enable us to son Fosdick -1953). Another preferred a more scholarly edi- was not alone for I felt Jesus was always is 'The True and Living Saviour of the tion because it was closer to the original with me. World'. Lilian Ferdinands share our own faith experiences! 6 The Messenger February 24, 2013 Dona Catherina:The Catholic Queen

here was a Catholic King at the end of Bits & Tthe Kotte kingdom - Don Juan Dharmapala. He was such a devoted Catholic Pieces that he did not want the Madi kingdom to go into the hands of any nonCatholic b y and he bequeathed it in Catholic nuns The outsted King writing to the hands of the in Mannar who V i m a l a d h a r m a s u r iya Portuguese. taught her the Portuguese formerly sought the refuge K a r a l l i y a d d e language, the fundamentals of the Portuguese when Bandara was the King of of Christianity, all the arts his father was killed by Kande Udarata (Kandyan and strategies of state Rajasinghe of Seetawaka. Kingdom) during this time. craft, western manners and He was brought up and When King Rajasinghe diplomacy. Historians think tutored in warfare by the of Seetawaka invaded that the intention of the Portuguese. He was even Senkadagala (Kandy) in Portuguese was to make baptized as a Catholic her marry a Portuguese under the name of Don During this time the consolidate his power he prince and put them on Juan of Austria. He gathered Portuguese harassed the married the widow of his The irony of it is into1582, the the safe King hands with of thehis the throne of Senkadagala local troops and routed Kandyan kingdom and the brother, Dona Catherina. thatin 1613. the viharas and the Portuguese.family fled to Trincomalee, Then King so that they could bring the Portuguese army and King sought Dutch help She was about twenty irrigation tanks destroyed Karalliyadde Bandara died Kande Udarata under their married the legitimate to oust the Portuguese. by King Rajasinghe and the domain. heir to the throne, Dona Senarath had other children Portuguese were renovated. his infant daughter to the The Portuguese Catherina and consolidated visited the Kandyan palace, fromfive-years-old other marriages at this and time. he The Upasampada (higher custodyof small of pox, the Portuguese.entrusting w h o h a d c o n q u e r e d his position as the ruler of JorisThe first van Dutch Spilbergen, envoy whowas wanted to make sure one of ordination) among the As the daughter of the almost all of the Maritime Kande Udarata. his sons became the heir to Buddhist clergy was former king, Kusumasana P rov i n c e s o f C eyl o n Dona Catherina the King and the Queen the throne. Senarath got the restored by bringing Devi, was the legitimate wanted to bring Kande surprised to find that both son of Vimaladharmasuriya Buddhist priests from heir to the throne. She Udarata under their rule. when she got married. She and they wore Western and Dona Catherina, Maha abroad. A temple was built gave up her former name, They marched against and remainedwas only fifteena good years Catholic old attirespoke fluent and dinedPortuguese like in the centre of Senkadagala Kusumasana Devi and defeated the then Kandyan and attended religious Westerners. of a drowning accident. to enshrine the Sacred took the name of Dona King Vimaladharmasuriya services regularly. She King Vimaladharmasuriya DonaAstana Catherina killed on so the incensed pretext Tooth Relic of the Lord Catherina and was baptized and enthroned Dona had one son, Maha Astana by losing her son and the Buddha and the Dalada a Catholic. Catherina as the Queen of and two daughters from brother Senarath ascended heir to the throne even Perahara was introduced She was brought up Vimaladharmasuriya. thedied throne in 1605 of Kandy. and hisTo contemplated escaping to to Kandy during the reign the hands of the Portuguese of Vimaladharmasuriya and Kandy in 1594. with her daughters. But Dona Catherina who were her attempts failed and baptized as Catholics by the she died of a broken heart Portuguese.

oday’s Gospel narrative T Jesus, it meant that the is like an announcement or greatestgreat figures of the accompanyinglaw-givers and foreshadowingof the Transfiguration of the future the greatest of the prophets 105 glory. The setting on the endorsed Jesus’ action of 1 mountain is presented as the By Sirohmi Gunesekera point where human nature offacing God’s crucifixion. saving plan. It meant place for the temporal and that Jesus was the fulfillment Prayer themeets eternal, God: The with meeting Jesus “Did you know that the Pope is resigning on Himself as the connecting for JesusThe to Transfiguration undertake the point, acting as the bridge journeywas also ofGod’s the confirmation cross when “I know. It is quite a shock. We are so used to between heaven and earth. God’s voice commanded, thisFebruary hierarchical 28, 2013?” system asked with Renuka the Pope in disbelief. at the head,” “This is My beloved Son, My commented her brother Amal. not only supports the chosen One, listen to Him.” “Anyway, it should not make a difference to identity Theof Jesus Transfiguration as the Son The Gospel account us. You and I should just continue to pray and lead our of God (as in His Baptism) recounts that the three normal lives.” but the admonition “Listen apostles “woke up and saw “Yes, we should pray too for the Pontiff his glory.” In life we miss so for it must have been hard for him to come to this Messenger and Spokesman much because our minds are to Him” identifies Him as the decision.”said Amal. asleep. What makes “We must all pray very hard for him and his of God. The significance of our minds take a Thoughts successor. I hope that the Cardinals will be able to thethis Law identification Giver. It indicates is enhanced to the apostlesby the presence that Jesus of is two the that haunt me choose a suitable person,” said Renuka. voicekey Old of Testament God and instead figures, of Elijah Elijah the or Prophet Moses, andHe should Moses is the tendency to “We all have our own problems and often talk be listened to, surpassing the laws of Moses by virtue of followcosy nap? the path There of least resistance. We the worldwide Church open its heart in prayer during theseto God hard about times them. when Isn’t the that Roman what prayerCatholics is? transit So let ofHis Jesus filial thatrelationship “God is not with the God. God of the dead, but of the a life without challenges, inconveniences or setbacks. their Pope,” said Malkanthi. living.” AlthoughThe Transfiguration Moses had diedalso andechoes Elijah the had teaching been are averseThere to change. is prejudice We prefer which the blocks comfort our and minds luxury from of “We can go to our local priest who will keep taken up to heaven centuries before, they now live in the us informed of the thinking of the Church. Meanwhile, presence of the Son of God, implying that the same return new idea storms the mind, we hit the snooze button. we must not forget that this is the Season of Lent. We to life can apply to all who have faith and face death. Weexploring dampen and our venturing spirit which into cries untrodden out for adventure.areas. When We a should pray and fast and give up goodies,” said Renu- The conduct of the three intimate disciples is entertain the fear to ‘launch out into the deep,’ the fear of ka. rather humiliating. They fall asleep. They will repeat spiritual risk-taking to make our lives more meaningful “We must follow in the footsteps of Jesus. He this same disappointing behaviour in the Garden and God-centred. went to the desert and prayed and fasted for forty of Gethsamane too. Peter makes a rather childish It was Jesus’ intent to strengthen the sagging days and forty nights. That was when the devil came and tempted Him. So we too should learn to resist beings. had told His disciples that He was going to Jerusalem temptation and ask God for the strength to do so,”said exhortation about building earthly tents for the heavenly morale of the disciples through the Transfiguration. Jesus to die. They could not understand the messianic role Malkanthi. Jesus had taken the decision to go to Jerusalem to face “Our temptations may be small but we must The Transfiguration has a two fold significance. closer to an awakening, an awareness of the purpose and learn not to speculate or gossip about the Holy See. He was on God’s chosen path. On the mountain top He meaningJesus was of executing. the Son of The God Transfiguration taking human form.brought them crucifixion. He had to be absolutely certain whether Perhaps we should think of giving up sweets for Lent. Then we can concentrate on that and just pray for a with Jesus. Moses was the supreme law-giver of Israel. Ananda Perera Elijahreceived was a doublethe greatest confirmation. of the prophets. Moses andWith Elijah these were two good leader of the flock,”said Amal. 7 The Messenger February 24, 2013 Renouncement of Office by the Pope Constitution, Romano Pontifici Elegendo, By Rev. Fr. Freely Muthukudarachchi further revising the procedure for papal ope Benedict XVI’s announce- elections. Most recent law with regard Pment of his planned renuncia- to Papal election was issued by Pope a surprise to many in the world on the Constitution Universi Dominici Gregis tion of the Papal Office came as whichJohn Paul abrogated II in 1996 all Constitutionsby the Apostolic and feast day of Our Lady of Lourdes. The Orders issued in this regard by previous morning of Monday, February 11, the Holy Father addressing the cardinals Roman Pontiffs. Pope Benedict XVI in gathered for the consistory of the Can- onization of three saints declared after part the Apostolic Constitution of Pope prayerful consideration the following John2007 Paul issued II reinstating new norms the revising traditional only in Declaratio regarding his renouncement. norms for the majority required to “I am well aware that this ministry, due to its essential spiritual Pope Celestine V Pope Gregory XII Following the Papal renouncement on nature, must be carried out not only with universali concilio, sanctam Romanam himself to perpetual prayer and uninter- elect the Pope (UDG Art. 72, 73 & 74). words and deeds, but no less with prayer et universalem eccleciam repraesen- - followed by the Cardinals to elect the and suffering. For this reason, and well tante.” The Council approved the Pope’s ciation, the Holy See was vacant for ten RomanFebruary Pontiff 28, the will norms be taken which from will Apos be - rupted mortification. After his renun aware of the seriousness of this act, with renunciation “The Most Holy General days. The law that was observed for the tolic Constitution Universi Dominici gre- full freedom I declare that I renounce the Synod of Constance, legitimately as- Papal renouncement was promulgated gis. However, there are no norms issued ministry of Bishop of Rome, Successor of sembled in the Holy Spirit, representing by any Pope with regard to the proce- Saint Peter, entrusted to me by the Car- the universal Catholic Church, accepts, dure to be followed in the event of the by Pope Gregory X (1271–1276) and dinals on 19 April 2005, in such a way, approves and commends, in the name of which required that a Conclave should the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, notwas be confirmed commenced by Pope until Celestine nine days V, after that as from 28 February 2013, at 20:00 Pontiff or incapacitated permanently hours, the See of Rome, the See of Saint the cession renunciation and resigna- the renunciation. renouncement of office by the Roman tion made on behalf of the Lord who When Pope Celestine V was Peter, will be vacant and a Conclave to Canon 332 which gives provision for was called Gregory XII in his obedience, elect the new Supreme Pontiff will have renouncementby mental or physical to be freely illness submitted except in age and renounced it after four months. to be convoked by those whose compe- and duly manifested. Charles Malatesta, here present, his ir- Whileelected he to was the stillPapacy alive he in was the 79monas years- of tence it is.” revocableby the magnificent procurator and for powerful this business, Lord tery, a new Pope was elected on De- The reason behind the re- of the right, title and possession that he Resignation from Office - had, or may have had, in regard to the Cardinal Bishops and Priests cember 24, 1294. After two years, Pope The general norms on resigna- nouncement of the Papal Office, he says papacy.” “After having repeatedly examined my Celestine V passed away in 1296 and comes after much prayer and reflection. After, Gregory XII had submit- conscience before God, I have come to the ted his written renunciation in July thatwas canonizeda new Pope a wassaint in in the 1313. Papacy Thus still it certainty that my strengths, due to an - duringwas for the the lifetime first time of inthe Church renounced history oneselftion from can an resign office fromis given an ecclesiasticalin Canon advanced age, are no longer suited to an 187 which says, anyone responsible for adequate exercise of the Petrine ministry.” requested1415 and in him recognition to become of the his Bishop digni of The second instance of another Pope reasons which could be given as just fied manner of behaviour, the Council duringPope (December the lifetime 1294 of the to renouncedMay 1296). causes,office for such a just as cause.the good There of the are Church, several Pope’s who renounced the - Pope will happen after the Conclave Santa Rufina at Porto. Subsequently, he Papal Office ply “Angelo Cardinal Corraro.” Papal individual. signed the official documents sim T clamant Benedict XIII was deposed by a new Pope. the goodIn of order the office to resign or the from good an of of the- - the Council of Constance. However, a between March 15, and 20, 2013 elects his is the first time in history new successor to the Papacy was not Canon Law on Papal such a decision or be in a sound mind. for the last six centuries, a Pope has re at the verge of a Schism in the Church of elected for two years until the death of Renouncement Whenfice one someone should behas capable been incapacitated of making nounced the Papal office. It was in 1415, Pope Gregory XII. After the renounced Rome that Pope Gregory XII renounced The provisions in the current by a severe cause such as contracting the throne in order to bring about peace legislation on Papal renouncement is Alzheimer’s disease, gone into a coma, in the Church. The other claimant to the the cardinals legitimately elected the suffered from a mentally disabling throne at the time, one in Avignon, was newPope Pope passed Martin away V, on as October successor 18, of 1417 Pope of Canon Law. “If it happens that the Ro- stroke or severe psychological illness called Benedict XIII. given in Canon 332 §2 of the 1983 Code man Pontiff renounces his office, it is re- that person is not capable of resigning Pope Gregory XII was elected to - quired for validity that the renunciation - calliGregory was XIIelected on November Pope, he took11,1417. the name is made freely and properly manifested In the Church, there are other session of the Cathedral of the Diocese John, saying (When it was in 1958because Cardinal his father’s Ron but not that it is accepted by anyone.” from office. ofthe Rome, See of St. Rome John in Lateran 1406 and Basilica. took posAt name was John. Thus he became Pope However, some may say that, keeping this time the other claimant Benedict John XXIII, the legitimate enumera- which Canon Law states that resignation in line with the above legislation, the offices from which one can resign or XIII was in Avignon in France. But tion of succession of Popes with the before the Conclave which elected the College of Cardinals must be informed a cardinal or a bishop is resigning from can be presented by the office holder. If legitimate Pope Gregory XII, the cardi- antipope also took the name John XXIII of the renouncement, which the Holy nals had considered the causes for the whichname, John,was not because valid). earlier in 1415, an Father did in the Consistory of Cardinals Holy Father. The cardinals who preside office, it should be presented to the Schism and promised an oath which over dicasteries and other permanent bound each of them, if elected Pope, The legislation on Papal elec- institutes of the Roman Curia and on February 11. to hold oneself ready to renounce the Earlier in 1294, Pope Celestine tion and renouncement has undergone Vatican City and who have completed resigning,V, voluntarily Pope renounced Celestine the stated Pontificate the fol- a series of revisions under many Popes Schism. During this time, a new claim- lowingat Naples, reasons on December13, in his formula 1294. of renunIn - antPontificate, was elected so as by to a bring few cardinals an end to in the tothe the seventy Roman fifth-year-of-age Pontiff who will are see asked to of the last century. In the 1917 Code a hasty conclave in Pisa, who took the by legitimate reasons, that is to say, for provision for the Roman Pontiff to theto submit matter theirafter resignationconsidering from the cir office- name John XXIII. He convoked a council theciation: sake “We, of humility, Celestine, of aPope better V, movedlife and of Canon law, in Canon“Si contingat221 there utwas in Constance in order to resolve the con- an unspotted conscience, of weakness Romanus Pontifex renuntiet, ad eiusdem introduced that when cardinals reach renounce his office. of body and of want of knowledge, the renuntiationis validatem non est neces- thecumstances age of eighty, (Canon that 354). their Pope membership Paul VI John XXIII was declared deposed and malignity of the people, and personal saria Cardinalium aliorumve acceptatio,” in the curial congregations are termi- flict about the true successor. In 1415 was condemned for his scandalous be- which means, If it should occur that the nated automatically (Ingravescentem consolation of our former life, do freely haviour by the same council which even Roman Pontiff decides to renounce his aetatem) and they also lose their voting infirmity, to recover the tranquility and- placed papal authority subject to the rights and will no longer be electors at a authority of the council. However, Pope cate, the place, the dignity, occupation, of the renunciation that the Cardinals or Conclave (Universi Dominici Gregis). Gregory XII convoked the council anew and voluntarily renounce the pontifi - office, it is not necessary for the validity any other persons accept the renounce- Concerning the resignation of and rejected all the sessions convoked nounce, and we give full and free faculty ment. bishops there are two circumstances in by John XXIII and its teachings. toand the honours College of of which Cardinals we expressly canonically re to Pope Pius XII by his Apostoic which a bishop is requested to resign In order to bring unity in the elect a pastor of the Universal Church.” Constitution Vacantis Apostolicae Sedis Church, Pope Gregory voluntarily sub- He has been a Benedictine mitted the declaration of his renuncia- elections which was in effect promul- from office. A diocesan bishop who has tion to the Council of Constance which of the Celestines and Prior of the Order is requested to present his resignation gatedin 1945 by revised Pope Pius the X. procedure It was further for papal re- completed the seventy fifth-year-of-age he convoked, as sole true Pope, in the atmonk the timefirst andof his later elevation was the to founder the papal throne. He took back his former name - from office to the Supreme Pontiff, who Malatesta “ . . . renuncio et cedo . . . et Peter of Morronne and retired into Motu Poprio, Summi Pontificis Electio. In ined all the circumstances. This speaks vised by Pope John XXIII in 1962 by his will make provision after he has exam resignofollowing . . .words in hac throughsacrosancta a proxy, synodo Carlo et the hermitage of Majella and devoted (Contd on Pg. 10) 1975 Pope Paul VI issued an Apostolic 8 The Messenger February 24, 2013 ‘Where there is Love, thereH is Faith’ Years ago the Holy Father, Pope w Links me with Spiritual Faith Benedict XVI addressed the Catholic and Grace

Academy of Bavaria, his hometown Though we live on earth, the Catholic Church in Germany, on “Why I am still in the links us with the victorious souls in heaven who make up the Communion of Saints. Through these saints we Church,” and perhaps on these lines His are spiritually connected to the universal community of Eminence, the Archbishop of Colombo, brothers and sisters in heaven. With all the saints who Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith presently are listed in the Martyrology there are also millions of saints whose names are not written in this catalogue and making his pastoral visits to parishes we can pray to them as they may be our own parents, in the Archdiocese of Colombo, has a grandparents or relatives. So it is very important that we pray to them and invoke their blessings. The etymology topic for the ‘Year of Faith’; “Why I am of the name ‘Catholic’ comes from the Greek word happy to be a Catholic.” Katholikos - which takes me beyond language and social status and this is another meaning reason universal why I am – ahappy church to withoutbe a Catholic. limits Last Sunday the Archbishop visited one of the most beautiful and revered w Opportunity to refashion my options Churches in the Archdiocese, All Saints’ Through the Sacrament of Penance, the Church Church, Borella and after Holy Mass, gives me the opportunity to take positive steps in my His Eminence spoke to the parishioners life. This Sacrament is a great blessing and gives me the opportunity to unburden myself by going to a priest and about his journey in the Catholic saying, “Father, I have sinned.” Through the priest the Church. Referring to his talk as a Church absolves my sins and my soul is joyfully liberated Catechesis, His Eminence spoke in point and I can breathe once again as I am free of my sins. Many people go to a psychiatrist for this. Through the form to stress his message. Sacrament of Penance I am able to restart my life and enter a life of fullness. The Scripture tells us about the Prodigal Son and the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant w The Church founded by Jesus Christ and Christ Himself tells us to forgive seventy times seven. “I do not say to you seven times, but seventy times seven”

I am happy to be a part of the Church founded by Jesus Christ on the foundation of the Apostles. The (Matthew 18:22). Catholic Church is the solid foundation of Saints Peter w The Eucharist and Paul and the Apostles and this is the longest story of Pope John Paul II said that 'the Eucharist is a Piece of Heaven on Earth'. St. Paul said that the Eucharist is the Christ’s own words to St. Peter when He instituted the manifestation of the wounded Body of Christ. Through this ChurchGod’s love were, for me‘Thou expressed art Peter through and on these this rock human I will beings. build Eucharist, Jesus wants to be part of me and I tell Him, “Lord my church’ this apostolic faith. is the Catholic Church that gives me the Lord and I believe (Matthew 16:18). I am happy to be a part of intake Christ’s me to presenceYou, give whenme eternity. the words Take of me consecration to heaven.” –are It w A Church filled with Human Beings offered by the priest. Through the Eucharist, Christ wants to help me in my journey of faith. w The Word of God human beings of various nationalities, races, castes but we are allThe not Catholic holy. We Church are all issinners, a Church be it filled the clergy with The Word of God is revealed continuously in the or the lay faithful. I may be the Archbishop but I have Catholic Church. It speaks to me and enters into a dialogue to make my confession every week as I am also sinful. with me. The Word of God and the Sacraments are like two Yet the Catholic Church is not only sinful but saintly as parallel lines. I was fortunate to study the Sacred Scripture well. It shows to the world a human drama, the story of in the Holy Land in Jerusalem and I learnt how the Jews humanity’s real struggle to live and I am happy to be a worship and love the Word of God. The Word of God is part of that struggle as it helps me to grow. dense with content and taking one verse you can make

“The Catholic Church is a comes with all the negativity of human life. I can get a rich w A Symbol of Love a long reflection. The Bible is a living experience and it Church filled with human Catholic Church, through the Word of God.

The Church is a symbol of love for me. She experience of what God tells me within the portals of the beings of various nationalities, w Mother Mary symbolises an old mother with all her wrinkles and one who loves me. Throughout the centuries there are many races, castes but we are all The Catholic Church tells me I have a Heavenly things the Church did and which are not worthy of us Mother. Jesus loved His Mother and He knew she loved but we have produced living saints. The most beautiful not holy. We are all sinners, Him so much and so He gave His mother as a gift to us. be it the clergy or the faithful. became the Mother of the Church. Some people fault flowers bloom in the mud and just like that in this Church I may be the Archbishop but the(John Catholic 19:26) Church From this and day say onwards that we theworship Mother Mary. of Jesus The Polishwith all Conventual its sins, we Franciscanhave beautiful Friar flowers who volunteered that bloomed. to I have to make my confession Protestants termed it Mariolatry but we venerate her as die- Mother in place Teresa of a strangerof Calcutta, at the Maxmilian Auschwitz Kolbe, concentration who was a the Mother of God. Through the Sacred Scripture we see every week as I am also that Mother Mary had tremendous power over her Son. children of the man whom he saved were present at the sinful. Yet the Catholic Church At the Wedding Feast of Cana, He did what she told Him Vatican.camp. When So the Fr. Catholic Maxmillian Church Kolbe is a Churchwas canonized full of Saints the to. She was there with the apostles’ right throughout after and these Saints are powerful instruments of conversion. is not only sinful but saintly as I am happy to belong to this Communion of Saints. well. It shows to the world a of Christians. So I love Mary because Jesus gave her to me.the death of Jesus. She accompanied the first community human drama, the story of Winding up his Catechesis, His Eminence advised w The Presence of Jesus Christ humanity’s real struggle to The Church may be sinful but it is full of saints like the I belong to a Church where Jesus is present in live and I am happy to be the faithful not to leave the Church for flimsy reasons. “I will be with So too the Saints help us in our journey as Christians. So you till the end of time.” The Church is human and it is a part of that struggle as it stars which lead fishermen to their homes in the night. person.weak and In Jesus Matthew said he 28:28-30, will be with Jesus this says, Church. Presently helps me to grow.” the Church is preparing to select a new pope. We should cherish your faith and stand firm in your convictions. not worry about this because Jesus is with the Church His Eminence said, “Where there is love, there is faith. If and He will guide us. God lovesIn you answer and youto a lovequestion Him, on you how don’t one have defines to worry faith, about anything.”

9 The Messenger February 24, 2013 Life and Times of Pope Benedict XVI By Rear Admiral Shemal Theological Commission. Fernando, RSP, USP, MSc Archbishop and Cardinal His Holiness Pope Benedict VI named him Archbishop of Munich and FreisingOn March and received 25, 1977, his Pope Episcopal Paul theXVI ministrystunned theas the world Successor on February of Saint 11, 2013 by declaring that he will renounce yearsordination to take on on May28, the pastoral the same governance year. Peter from February 28, 2013 at 2000 ofHe the was great the firstBavarian Diocesan Archdiocese. priest for He80 Inhours, a short becoming and precise the first but Popecarefully in nearly chose as his Episcopal motto a phrase worded600 years statement, to resign hefrom stressed the office. that Truth”. conscience before God, he came to the from 3 John 8: “Fellow Worker in the- certaintyafter having that repeatedly his strengths, examined due to his an evated a Cardinal by Pope Paul VI, with advanced age, are no longer suited to the titularOn church June 27, of 1977,St. Mary he ofwas Consola el - ministry. He further said that he was in the Conclave of August which elected wellan adequate aware that exercise his ministry, of the Petrine due to its Johntion in Paul Tiburtina. I, who named In 1978, him he his took Special part essential spiritual nature, must be car- Envoy to the III International Mariologi- ried out not only with words and deeds, cal Congress celebrated in Ecuador from but no less with prayer and suffering. Just before his election to October of the same year he took part blessing to meet the Holy Father on 16 to 24 September. In the month of the Chair of Peter as the 265th Chief in the Conclave that elected Pope John School of Truth” was published, con- Shepherd of the Roman Catholic Church Paul II. Vatican along with my wife. We were tainingof his 70th articles birthday by several the volume authors “At on the touched,November inspired 17, 2010 and in encouraged the Holy City by of his different aspects of his personality and John Paul II to chair the Special Synod words, “Sri Lanka is a beautiful country production. on April 19, 2005, Cardinal Joseph In 1980, he was named by Pope and I love your country so much”. It was Ratzinger was identified as one of the the renowned ‘Time’ magazine. Yet, at the Christian Family in the world of to- a few days before the Papal Consistory Doctorates most influential people in the world by on the Laity on the theme: “Mission of the Mass of Papal Installation, he asked, day,” and was Delegate President of the that elevated the Archbishop of Colom- He has received numerous “Now, at this moment, weak servant bo as a Cardinal and when we thanked of God that I am, I must assume this on “Reconciliation and Penance in the the Pontiff for the blessing bestowed on from the College of St. Thomas in St. VI Ordinary General Assembly of 1983 mission of the Church”. Sri Lanka, he quipped, “Cardinal Ranjith “Honoris Causa” Doctorates, in 1984 - human capacity. How will I be able to has worked tirelessly for the Church enormous task, which truly exceeds all John Paul II summoned Cardinal Ratz- and conveyed his Apostolic blessings on Paul, Minnesota; in 1986 from the Cath On November 25, 1981, Pope - inger to Rome and named him the Pre- His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith olic University of Lima; in 1987 from the do it?” from the Catholic University of Lublin; cate, Pope Benedict XVI has attracted fect of the Congregation for the Doctrine and all Sri Lankans”. Catholic University of Eichstatt; in 1988 Throughout the 8-year pontifi enormous masses of people from all It was indeed an unforgettable over the world to Saint Peter’s Basilica Biblical Commission and President of moment in our lives and we treasure in 1998 from the University of Navarre; for his numerous public encounters. theof the International Faith, President Theological of the Pontifical Commis- very much the gifts we received from Facultyin 1999 offrom Theology the Libera of the University University of The number of pilgrims who have par- sion. The Holy Father elevated him to the Holy Father during the audience. WroclawMaria of Rome in Poland. and in 2000 from the ticipated in the Liturgical Celebrations, the Order of Bishops assigning to him He is a Pope who will be remembered Wednesday General Audiences and the Suburbicarian See of Velletri-Segni as a man who appreciated the human- Pastimes Sunday Angelus with the Holy Father ity of everyone he met. He is someone An accomplished pianist who in the Eternal City is greater than that who gives you his complete attention on April 5, 1993. loves Mozart and Beethovon, Ratzinger recorded for these types of gatherings John Paul II approved the election of when you meet him. It is that sense of On November 6, 1998, Pope used to visit the peaceful halls of St. Mi- Cardinal Ratzinger as Vice-Dean of the humanity and openness that he gave to chael’s Seminary in Regensburg to stay Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was College of Cardinals, submitted by the everyone that he will be remembered in the pontificates of his predecessors. in the bishop’s apartment and enjoy not only the key adviser of Pope John Cardinals of the Order of Bishops. On for. playing the grand piano in the semi- Pope Benedict XVI has given years as his Prefect of the Congregation approved his election as Dean of the the Church stability. He was very much nary’s main hall. He also loves walking Paul II of revered memory for over 20 November 30, 2002, the Holy Father for the Doctrine of the Faith but also the College of Cardinals; together with this - through downtown Traunstein, meet- most revered prelate, scholar, theolo- - mensely trusted by the Church. It was ing and greeting people. Traunstein gian, teacher and Catholic author of our bicarian See of Ostia. withan authorarian a heavy heart figure but and complete he was un im- is where Ratzinger went through the office he was entrusted with the Subur time having spoken on everything from derstanding that Catholics all over the harrowing years of Nazi rule and World Election as the Pope world learned of the Pope’s declaration War II. and the “crisis of faith,” to human rights, As the Dean of the College of of his decision to lay down the minis- Ratzinger as a priest had sexual consumerism, private revelation marriage, the priesthood and the future Cardinals, he presided over the College’s try as the Head of the Roman Catholic repeatedly stated that he would like to of the world. deliberations in General Congregation retire to a Bavarian village and dedicate Yet, the depth, candor and during the Vacancy of the Holy See, great dignity, insight and courage. He himself to writing books, but as a Cardi- humble servitude of the Holy Father after the death of Pope John Paul II on hasChurch, indeed an officeleft a verywhich personal he has heldsigna with- nal, he told friends that he was ready to will likely be his lasting hallmark. In his ture as a thinker and also as a shepherd. “Accept any charge God placed on him.” presided at the Solemn Funeral Mass April 2, 2005. In the same capacity, he On election as the Pope he said, “…the published as the Pope, he describes his Publications book titled, “Jesus of Nazareth”, the first Cardinals have elected me, a simple and personal search for the face of Jesus. He St. Peter’s Square, and the Mass for the His many publications are for Pope John Paul II on April 8, 2005 in humble worker in the vineyard of the Election of the Supreme Pontiff concel- spread out over a number of years and Lord. I am comforted by the fact that the Gospels as the real, ‘historical’ Jesus ebrated by the College of Cardinals on constitute a point of reference for many says: “I wanted to portray the Jesus of the Lord knows how to work and act in the strict sense of the word….I believe people especially for those interested That afternoon the Cardinals in entering deeper into the study of - inauguratedApril 18, 2005. the Conclave for the elec- I like to end this article with the that this Jesus – the Jesus of the Gospels even with insufficient instruments….”. tion of the successor to St. Peter, under Salt of the following words of Pope’s speech an- – is a historically plausible and convinc the presidency of Cardinal Ratzinger at Earththeology. His best-sellingThe Spirit of books the Liturgy include: nouncing his planned resignation, “Dear ing figure.” Early Life the Sistine Chapel. The single vote that The RatzingerGod and Report the World (1985); Brothers, I thank you most sincerely afternoon produced no election. In the (1996);The Eucharist, the Heart of for all the love and work with which Life(2000); (2002); God you have supported me in my ministry In 1957, under the renowned for University teaching with a disserta- of the Conclave produced no elec- madeIs Near of Us: his “Introduction to Christian- and I ask pardon for all my defects. And professor Gottlieb Sohngen, he qualified morning of April 19, 2005, two ballots ity” (2003). Special mention should be now, let us entrust the Holy Church to Bonaventure.” afternoon, the fourth of the Conclave, lectures on the Apostolic Creed and the care of Our Supreme Pastor, Our tion on: “TheRatzinger Theology became of History widely in St Cardinaltion. However, Ratzinger on the was first elected. ballot Onof the “Dogma(1968) and - Preaching”a collection of University Lord Jesus Christ, and implore his holy known during the Second Vatican - Mother Mary, so that she may assist tions. (1973) - an April 24, 2005, he celebrated the Mass the Cardinal Fathers with her maternal age of 35, he was appointed as the Chief St. Peter’s Square, receiving the Pallium anthologyHis of address essays, sermonsto the Catholic and reflec TheologicalCouncil from Advisor 1962 to to 1965 Archbishop when at of the andfor the the Inauguration Fisherman’s ofRing his at Pontificate that Litur -in solicitude, in electing a new Supreme Academy of Bavaria on “Why I am still Pontiff. With regard to myself, I wish to Cologne, Cardinal Joseph Frings. His gical Celebration. in the Church” had a wide resonance; in also devotedly serve the Holy Church of God in the future through a life dedi- important positions at the German Bish- Audience with the Pope can only be a Christian in the Church, intense scientific activity led him to cated to prayer”. ops’ Conference and the International I had the rare honour and notit he beside stated the with Church.” his usual On clarity: the occasion “One 10 The Messenger February 24, 2013 Renouncement of Office ... She was a walking encyclopaedia (Contd from Pg. 7) Elsie Selvarat- cold and unknown place of to socialize with all her nam was born in Mannar Huntington, USA. friends and family. As far of a voluntary retirement of all bishops at the age Despite these as she was concerned, ev- lost her at the grand age of hurdles Appachie took it eryone was related to her, Sri Lanka in 1924 and we all in her stride, with her hence we grew to accept ofseventy ill health five. or The some second other instance grave cause is when is earnestly a diocesan siblings, the deceased Ma- - bishop has become less able to fulfill his office because hendren87. She was and the Thiagam, eldest ofand 4 kindness she once again tors at home following dai- Saras, affectionately known createdfaith, unselfishness a life for the fam and- lythe mass many, attendance. unexpected Having visi requested to present his resignation from office (para. as Chinna. She attended ily in Huntington. It was her around was like having § 2) The Concerningsame applies the to resignation the auxiliary of and parish coadjutor priests, the Holy Family Convent not long after this chapter a walking encyclopaedia bishops (Canon 403). in Jaffna, and at the tender started that she lost her and a historian rolled into it is to be submitted to the diocesan bishop. When a beloved husband to can- one. She was widely read late Joseph Selvaratnam a and knowledgeable about charmingage of 18 she superintendent married the husband he was a beloved most subjects, but she also diocesanpastor has bishop completed who isseventy to decide five-years-of-age, to accept it or differhe is from the Police Force. She fathercer in and 1988. grandfather. As well as His a knew all the gossip and itrequested after he hasto submit considered his resignation all the circumstances from office ofto the Elsie Selvaratnam death was a great loss for latest information about well groomed children caramel pudding waiting the whole family but this all our family and friends In these instances it is mentioned that resigna- Marie,gave the Joe, gift Jude, of Gerry, life to Tim six for me in the fridge. did not hold Appachi back. - tionperson must and be the made place to (Canonthe authority 538). to whom, it per- (pappa), Sue and Amirthi. During her life Her strength and faith plaining all the connection She left nine grandchil- time she encountered again played a very im- toand all took the great grandchildren. pride in ex dren and two great grand- many trials and tribula- portant part in the healing Her famous words when acceptancetains to make lacks provision all force of if the it is office not accepted in question within (Canon children. tions, she lost her son process. you questioned her was three189). Itmonths; further one says which that adoes resignation not require which acceptance requires Family and During her many “what child they are relat- takes effect when it has been communicated by the one friends were always her visits to the UK, I remem- ed to us they are family” resigning according to the norm of law. In the present priority, she enjoyed look- burningJude at thedown age of of the 10 fam and- bered how Appachie liked Selina Selvaratnam ing after them and most ilyin home 1984 and following the constant the worry that their life was in beenevent already of the Holy communicated Father’s renouncement to the College of of office, Cardinals. it stomach with all manner danger, appachie, grandda- will take effect on February 28, at 8.00 p.m. as it has ofimportantly delicious food. filling Whenev their- da and aunty Amirthi had Appreciation New title - Pope Emeritus er we went to visit her in to uproot from a well es- “Our Mother Was The Heart - America she would make tablished life in Sri Lanka Of Our Home” tains the title of Emeritus of his diocese and can retain sure that there was a fresh and start a new life in the a place ofAccording residence to in Canon that diocese 402, a retiredif he so bishopdesires, re “Our Mother was the heart of our home unless in certain cases the Apostolic See provides Her presence was a comfort and strength otherwise because of special circumstances. Concern- Obituary ing parish priests it is mentioned that diocesan bishop She blessed our lives in so many ways must provide suitable support and housing for a Through the selfless service she gave retired pastor. And as we remember the gift of her life The Vatican spokesman Father Lombardi in All the ways she cared for our family Father would go to Castelgandolfo, the Papal summer We honour her love and her sacrifice briefing the news agencies mentioned that the Holy - A dedication that was clear for all to see ing that he will live in a former cloistered monastery Building memories for a family she loved insideresidence the immediatelyVatican. He also after mentioned leaving office that andthe Popefollow As children we knew we could count on her would not participate in the upcoming Conclave. Ac- cording to the norm of law, Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger And we knew how very blessed we were will be able to retain his title as Bishop (Pope) Emeri- To have a Mother as wonderful as this tus of Rome or Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. It is said that the Holy Father read the Latin STELLA WINIFRED SWARIS beloved wife of the late There is so much that our Mother meant to us Declaratio, his declaration of renouncement J.B.C. Swaris (High Court Judge). Loving mother of Man- Only in our family can her true influence be known jula (Australia) and Kishanie. Mother-in-law of Lalith For she loved us with all her soul ... calmtext of voice, the while those present listened to him in an and Chithral, precious grandmother of Imeshie, Dush- throughout a lifetime almostof office unreal written silence. in his Itown was hand, Cardinal speaking Angelo in Sodano,a firm, an, Shevon, Devmini and Erandi and Kanchana. Sister Mother was truly the heart of our home! the former Secretary of State and the present Dean of of the late Patricia, late Victorine, late Lanni, the late Joe the College of Cardinals who rose up to the moment and Fred. Passed away peacefully. Burial took place at Remembered affectionately with deep love and gratitude, and responded to the Holy Father. “Now, let me say, on behalf of this apostolic cen- family members thank all relatives and friends who at- Your everloving children acle―the College of Cardinals―on behalf of your beloved St. Sebastian’s Church, Moratuwa on Sunday 18th. The Neluka, Premil & Mahima collaborators, allow me to say that we are closer than ever to you, as we have been during these almost eight tended the funeral sent floral tributes and condolence luminous years of your pontificate. On 19 April 2005, if messages. No. 10, Fernando Place, Moratuwa. Fast from Reading - Stay away from non-essential internet reading, emails and books. Instead give your I remember correctly, at the end of the Conclave I asked 10 ways to fast for Lent - … ‘Do you accept your canonical election as Supreme lence. When your fast is done, you will have learned to Pontiff?’ And you did not hesitate, although moved with Fasting is a path to peace and happiness. Self-denial mindread in to new God. ways. Let your mind rest and experience si emotion, to answer that you accepted, trusting in the leads to a greater sense of wholeness. That is why Lord’s Grace and the maternal intercession of Mary, Christians have fasted for thousands of years. Many Fast from Waste - Reduce your own waste. This means Mother of the Church. Like Mary on that day she gave Christians today are creative about fasting and Lent being careful about how you use everything so that al- her ‘yes’, and your luminous Pontificate began, following can be a time of shedding whatever is standing be- in the wake of continuity, in that continuity with your tween you and God. Here are some creative ways of how you move through and use the world. 265 predecessors in the Chair of Peter, over two thou- most nothing is wasted. As a result you may redefine fasting which you can try. Fast from Talking and Texting - You may fast from sand years of history from the Apostle Peter, the humble people but may communicate through phone or by Galilean fisherman, to the great popes of the last century Fast from Media - You can fast from TV. That means from St. Pius X to Blessed John Paul II. “Holy Father, before 28 February, the day that, you know what your media addiction is. havetexting nothing messages. else to So do. take Replace a break that from time unnecessary with mind- as you have said, you wish to place the word ‘end’ to you, lose tele-dramas, news, films etc. Chances are, Fast from People - Fast from social events. Keep fulnesscommunication. to God, your Do not surroundings talk or text and just yourself. because Thisyou your pontifical service, conducted with so much love and your days to yourself and God. Devote to silence, will open up the communication lines with God. so humbly, before 28 February, we will be able to better Fast from Multitasking -It is overloading our minds express our feelings. We are near to you, Holy Father, and actions with plans and activities. Allow yourself to and we ask you to bless us.” prayer,Fast from reflection Lust and and Bad study. Thoughts - Lent is a time of The Holy Father has taken a timely decision, utter consecration to God do one thing at a time. Let go something that is bad. Set your priorities. Put time in God’s hands by doing only taking into consideration the noble and magnanimous people, deeds, services and relationships. mission of the Church which requires a great deal of (1 Cor. 7:5). Think of good one thing at a time and reminding yourself that you Fast from Money - Time to think of your relation- are simplifying for Him. courage and strength when facing the pressures of the modern world and giving leadership to the Holy Fast from Speeding - You may love to drive fast. Yet Catholic Church. I am sure during his retirement in a remember you may endanger someone on the road. ship to all material things, chiefly cash. Fast from cloistered monastery inside the Vatican, he will create - Instead limit your speed, enjoy your ride, be comfort- money by living only in what you need. Reflect and a spiritual power house which will generate an enor- ter comes you will have more money but this prac- able and polite. This will bring about a good attitude pray a lot about your financial practices. When Eas mous volume of power of prayer for the whole Church. in you. “With regard to myself, I wish to also devot- ticeFast will from redefine Food -your Choose relationship a meal to to give money. up food in Let us try this during this Lent and improve our per- edly serve the Holy Church of God in the future through your daily routine and dedicate the time to God. sonality. a life dedicated to prayer,” Pope Benedict XVI said. 13 11 The Messenger February 24, 2013 Stepping down, is it weakness or humility?

n the local cricketing arena, To act decides to step captains of the calibre of against convention down premature- IArjuna Ranatunge, Sanath and tradition is ly, that move Pope BenedictAfter assuming from the outsetoffice Jayasuriya, Kumar Sangak- not revolutionary. surprises all. It bras oughtthe Pontiff forth inmany April changes. 2005, kara and Mahela Jayawardena Some do it for valid may erupt many Led by the Spirit, many pro- were humble enough to step reasons, which oth- questions, since nouncements were made and down and continue under ers follow suit. Some it is a phenom- carried out. The best inspira- the captaincy of another. This others without enal occurrence. tional move he made was to was because they possibly felt grasping the inner break new grounds, in decid- the heavy burden of captaincy and hidden mean- honourable act ing to step down from his weighing them down and inter- ing tend to critize attractsThis selfless a great and fering with their performance. blindly. However deal of praise tying atoffice the ofappropriate authority. time.It simply Pope is It was also because they were many are conve- and admiration. an exemplary act of emp convinced that they could do niently compelled to felt that more justice would be better and contribute much use the same beaten years ago when servedBenedict towards would thehave Church definitely by more towards the success of PopeIt happened Gregory 600 XII track and do not a healthier Pontiff than him- renounced the the team as specialized players, wish to deviate from self. This evidently shows the papacy and it than as a confused and worried the usual practice humility of the Holy Father in will recurr once captain. In plain and simple and trend. Thus a accepting the reality and his more with Pope terms, they stepped down in stagnant and a nar- utmost loyalty towards the Benedict XVI. the best interest of the team row minded attitude The accepted trend is Church at large. This creates a precedence not and the sportsmanship of crick- may not welcome a sweeping that the vice-captain is pro- 'Give up' and 're- et. This has now come to be a change. moted as the captain and an on a sick bed but to honour- nounce' are the key words regular feature in the cricketing At times a change may assistant is elevated to chief in ablyto hold give on away to an to office, another. ailing Pope pronounced and dictated by world. result in going astray from cus- command. This is how the line Benedict did it, obviously for the doctrine of faith we follow. Sensible actions tomary methods and practice of authority works, but it does the betterment of the Universal Even the ones who teach and precipitate as a practice and a as well. For instance a bride is not have to be the same always. Catholic Church. taken up the aisle to the altar One might be appointed or put it into practice. Only the norm. Acting differently is not What a glorious and by her father. In the absence of elected to a designation for a onespreach who find have it not a deep that easy,sense to frequentwrong, but practice it raises qualifies the brows as a one, an uncle or a brother may of many, since it apparently would create. Many would of spirituality may succeed. step in. Have you ever seen it has to step down after the lapse Jesus did it by giving up His seems an abstract way of be- specified period. Therein one upholdexemplary and precedence applaud this this ges - being done by both parents or of the stipulated time frame or life for us. Pope Benedict too haviour to some. Many invari- at the age of retirement. How ture and hope it continues as a ably raise the question why. is likely to follow suit by giv- many clamour and strive to norm or at least as a tradition A bit of more logic and sense happens, what is so scandalous ing up authority and stepping solely by a mother? Even if it in the future. This could pro- would provide them with the down gracefully. It truly will or by other means of force. vide a choice for the authority answer. It may not be conven- done on Tuesdays and Fridays. be a humble step forward and about it? Burials are seldom extend theirOn the stay contrary, by influence if a tional and traditional, but yet if Choosing these two days cross- a giant step in the annals of the it keeps within the ambit of the ing public opinion, should in person who could go on hold- unhealthywho holds bodythe office and aof weary Peter, Universal Church. rule and the law, then why not no way trigger the critics any mind.not to be taxed inspite of an RodeZo permit and accept it. more. any limitation or restriction, ing office till the end without

Wanted Flat or house - Wanted Wanted a lady with 3 Adv. Flat or House, 2-3 Bed- of computer and preferable with a Driving Licence. Quarters pro- level passes preferably Makola main21.75 road. Perch No Land Brokers. with a0776303835 House. 15 mil videdWanted if Nesessary.a Person in the close proximity in Wattala with a knowledge with Accounts to work in required early march for lion. 2Km to Kiribathgoda. 20m to Kiribathgoda, M. Gunawardena - 146, Averiwatte Road, Wattala. Negombo rooms in Colombo. 4 or 5 (NG4868) in loving memory of 0312225536, 032222326, 9-12monthsContact : 0714319051, joseph bernard koelmeyer Do you like to follow Jesus(N6157) 0772746345 071-3494007 Through the steps of St. Francis 11th year death anniversary of assisi? (NG4868) (N6030) on 24th February 2013

Death leaves a heartache no one can heal come & Join!! Love leaves a memory no one can steal With the Franciscan Conventual Order to be an Instrument of Christ by being a priest or a Brother Tenderly we treasure the past. Qualifications : Students studying for O/L or A/L Fondly remember by your loving Wife Phyllis, and your or A/L passed. Sons, Daughters, in-laws, Grand Children and Great For more details Grand Children. vocation Director St. Anthony's Friary St. Padre Pio Shrine Fr. Peter Jacob Minor Seminary Sethsirigama, Holy Mass will be offered at St. Mary's Church, (OFM Conv) Ethgala, Athurugiriya. St. Franci's Friary Katana. Dehiwela. At 6.30pm, on Wednesday, 27th February 2013. Negombo. 502, Dalupotha, P.H. 031-2240168 (N6070) (N6052) P.H 031-2238133 14 12 The Messenger February 24, 2013 Felicitation for the Advanced Level Students Points for Reflection

of St. Lawrence's Convent PERSONALITY St. Lawrence's Convent, Col * Don't compare your life to others; You have no idea what their journey is all about. - * Don't have negative thoughts of things you 06 held a felicitation ceremony on- cannot control. Instead invest your energy in formanceFebruary including12, 2013 3rdfor theplace many in the stu all the positive present moment. dents who showed exceptional per- * Don't overdo; keep your limits. manyisland activitiesrankings includingat the G.C.E the (A/L) presen ex- * Don't take yourself so seriously; no one else tationamination of awards 2012. andThis prizes programme to the stuhad- does dents including Miss Hiruni Bolonne * Don't waste your precious energy on gossip - * Dream more while you are awake periences by the students and the of- * Envy is a waste of time. You already have all feringwho was of words ranked of 3rd.appreciation Sharing by of the ex principal, a teacher and distinguished you need.. guests concluded the ceremony. * Forget issues of the past. Don't remind your partner of his/her mistakes of the past. That Nimesha Jayamanne will ruin your present happiness. * Life is too short to waste time hating anyone. Don't hate others. At least a hour A tribute paid to a Professor * Make peace with your past so it won't spoil the present. Why not give me one hour Share my mercy given with power by a student you. Love infinite was only my honour * RealizeNo one isthat in lifecharge is a ofschool your andhappiness you are except here Given to all leaving no horror. - can Council was convoked by the truly inspired vision to learn. Problems are simply part of the and the Wayremarkably back in thekeen 1950's, foresight before of goodthe second Pope VatiJohn curriculum that appear and fade away like True Presence is always sure to be felt the XXIII, the venerable, the ever ancient, and ever new Only our experience will vouch the truth by itself algebra class but the lessons you learn will Latin language was the medium of instruction in the Na- last a lifetime. So lets remain with God and share with all tional Seminary in Kandy. * Smile and laugh more Let me offer them to answer His call Our Professor of Psychology that particular time, was none other than Fr. Michael Rodrigo OMI of * You don't have to win every argument. Agree One hour I truly embrace with so much pleasure revered and fond memory who subsequently became to disagree. So why not you offer it at your leisure the victim of a ruthless and senseless killing for trying Rightly matters what you gain that cannot measure so valiantly to foster and promote social justice among COMMUNITY A Precious treasure to encounter in life for ever. the people of a very remote area of the country, who * Call your family often. were both materially poor and socially backwards. * Each day give something good to others. One of the principles he enunciated with a God's agony and passion was an example to all great deal of panache and the facility he had with the * Forgive everyone for everything Love and compassion was the sacrifice common to all "Nihil est in intellects quod non prius fuerit in sensu." under the age of 6 * Spend time with people over the age of 70 & Dying on the Cross He remembered all big and small Latin languageFor those was: of us whose acquaintance with the * Try to make at least three people smile each Pleading for forgiveness was made as His final language is still far from rusty, the meaning of the sen- day call. tence is crystal clear and totally meaningful. * What other people think of you is none of Francis "There is nothing in the intellect, which was not previously in the senses." your business This short poem was inspired by that psychol- * Your job will not take care of you when you ogy principle and is lovingly dedicated to the memory of are sick. Your family and friends will. Stay in this great and intrepid teacher whose student I was so touch. "Challenge of Living" immensely proud, privileged and to be a part of. His tall, thin, lanky, bony and frail frame belied the brilliant head LIFE I "recall" the journey of my life in "muddy water." he carried on his shoulders. * Put GOD Experiencing the "crisis" even "calamities".... you think, say and do. Realizing an active life moving through trouble. Through the webbed window, first in anything and everything that * GOD heals everything My life slowly started "having depth" and Of my abode tiny, I bestow, On knees humbly bended low, * Do the right things "making sense." A prayer for the beauty below. * However good or bad a situation is, it will change When I face conflicts within me * No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and It reminds of the "suffering of the servant" So clear, sharp and all sensitive, show up Pain and confusion overwhelmed me, Peaceful,Overwhelmed quiet bybut the yet senses alive, five, * The best is yet to come. "Shaping" of my life "moulding" loaded... See in all these, the hand divine. Your beauty dazzling is all around me, "Letting the self still" In graceful shapes and yet so free, I find the treasure within me To eyes wonderful a blessing be, It 'orients' me as a "turning point of my life" For beholding the marvel of a tree. I approach the "welcoming hands" of "His Love" Ash Wednesday In the chirping of birds and babbling brooks, A blessing for ears is given for these, With the experience of the "challenges of living" The forerunner of the Lenten season For breezes that rustle the trees. Symbolic reminder Making "flashes back" of my life The music of the heart provides the keys. I integrate my" whole life" to "be with Him" Of man's mortality He "empowers" me to live "according to His Love" Of death's inevitability. Fit enough to be given to lovers, The return to dust and ashes Purple, white and red are the flowers, "The plans, the pains,the joys the sorrow and Full measure always to the givers, From whence he sprung. Aroma to inhale he truly empowers. the very diverse experiences of my life" The tongue is for tasting they say, A clarion call for repentance As it comes through in my daily living Truly amazing and always that way, Arise man from your torpid state Sr. A. Christina Lourdes (H.F.) For the noisy or silent gift that lay, The symbolic ashes seem to say. A bunch of thanks I sing now and pray. Repent- it's never too late. The primal touch of his hands so life giving, From the fetters of sin be free Catholic press website Is felt this day in ways most loving, "Do not ask for whom the bell tolls www.colombocatholicpress.lk For all these to continue, he more than willing, It tolls for thee". To him a paean of praise I chant in thanksgiving. Jeannette Cabraal Email: [email protected] [email protected] Rev. Fr. Joe Paul Fernando Telephone: 2695984, 2678106, 4899611 Fax: 2692586 15 13 The Messenger February 24, 2013 What it says ..... in the Readings Second Sunday of Lent about to do, the offering This also gave hope and From the bright cloud, the Father's First Reading: sible to Him, and what is Gen. 15: 5-12, 17-18 unknown to us is known His life - was in accor- prepared the Apostles to face the great event that voice was heard; 'This is My Son, the God makes a to Him. Hence it is advis- dance with His Father’s Beloved. Listen to Him!' able that we be united wish. was awaiting their Master. covenent with Abraham. Though this could be seen Abraham who did not with the Lord always and - ing on this episode at a as a defeat in the human have even a child of his everywhere. That is why sense the glimpse of the time whenWe the are Church reflect is Liturgical Calendar Year C own is promised numer- we should place all our - 24th Feb. - March 3 2013 ous decendents as the trust and hope in the Lord. being accused of using tion showed them the true stars in the sky. Abraham In the First mediators in the worship gloryvictory at and the theTransfigura glory that Sun: Second Sunday of Lent only has to trust and be Reading God does what of God. The question often was awaiting Him. posed is; why do we not That is the reason Gen. 15:5-12,17,18; dependent on God. is impossible. To Abra- ham who does not have why we should be united Phil 3: 17 4:1 (or 3:20-4:1); Lk. 9:28b-36 Second Reading: a child, God promises with the Lord and should always place our trust and Mon: Dan. 9:4B-10; LK. 6:36-38 Phil. 3: 17- 4:1 descendants as numerous seetalk Jesusto God speaking direct? Inwith the as the stars in the heaven. twoTransfiguration mediators Moses story weand hope and faith in the Lord. Tue: Is. 1:10, 16-20; Mt. 23:1-12 St. Paul wants all For united with Him we God in His own, makes Elijah, before offering His Philippians to imitate him will be victorious. Wed: Jer.18: 18-20; Mt. 20:17-28 and await the Lord, unlike a covenant with him. In life on the Cross. But none Thu: Jer.17:5-10; Lk. 16:19-31 the others whose only the covenant He not only has questioned as to why Aid Story He did not talk to God His Fri: Gen.37:3-4,12-13a,17b-28; object is worship of the promises descendants The harbour of world. St. Paul awaits the but also the land from the Liverpool, England can be Mt.21:33-43,45-46 second coming of Christ. River of Egypt to the great have done so because He Sat: Mic7:14-15,18-20;Lk.15:1-3,11-31 He wants his converts to river, the River Euphrates. isFather the Son direct? of God. He But,should at times. On one occasion then, why He used media- extremely tempestuous Sun: Third Sunday of Lent do the same. Abraham has been lucky to have placed all his trust, The wind was so strong and the waters so choppy Ex. 3: 1-8a,13-15; 1 Cor.10:1-6,10-12; Gospel: Lk. 9: 28-36 hope and faith in God. a fierce gale was blowing. that it was impossible to Lk. 13:1-9 In the Second tors? If HeJesus did, during why not His The story is follow the usual practice - Reading St. Paul is chal- missionwe? had many oppor- tunities to offer up His life. tion of Lord Jesus. On the lenged by all sorts of evil pilot on board to navigate At times He was righteous, Prayer of the Faithful mountainabout the Transfigurawhile Peter, prevailing in this world. ofships taking into an the experienced harbour. James and John were Around him he sees many and at other times He was However a pilot boat Response: Lord hear us in your love. watching, Moses and worshipping the world. Of just. At times they wanted appeared out of the mist, Elijah appear in a cloud them he says, “Their end to destroy Him because He sailing slowly up the pass. For the Pope and t and speak to Jesus. At the is destruction, their God was speaking against the may sustain the people of God in faith, hope and end, the heavens open is the belly, and they glory religious laws and practic- “FOLLOW ME” OnThe it man was ata hugethe wheel sign: was love. Let us pray to the Lord.he bishops: that they and a voice says. “This is in their shame with minds es and at other times He My Son, My chosen; listen set on earthly things.” was speaking against in- Response:Lord hear us in your love. those parts. The helms- to Him. But St. Paul kept his faith justice in the society. Had anmen experienced of the other pilot ships in in the Lord and saviour He offered up His life then He could have become a steered their craft in his the Lord may watch over them and help them to Reflection Jesus Christ. For it is in wake. Each one kept his hero and His followers For all those who exercise authority that Today’s read- and through Jesus that eye on the lead ship and one day our bodies would would have worshipped us pray to the Lord. ings invites us to place thus every boat, large and all our trust and hope in change like unto the glori- Him as an idol. But in all small, got safely into the Response:Lordfulfil their responsibilities hear us in yourworthily love. and well. Let the Lord. Accordingly, we ous Body of Christ. This these instances He slipped harbour. ought from time to time and escaped. May be that In the storms of For all the sick and the handicapped that compare and discuss our those who place all their it was not the right time. life, in the uncertainties they may get the courage and strength they need life with the Lord, listen trustis definite and hope in the in case the Lord.of This time He wanted to of choosing our path, we also have a Supreme Pilot, so as to bear their cross with dignity. Let us pray to Him and surrender Therefore St. Paul wants make sure that it was in to the Lord. all Philippians to imitate keeping with the Will of Jesus who has told us; ourselves to Him. Then “FOLLOW ME” Response:Lord hear us in your love. him in following the Lord. the Father. Therefore He we will never go astray. If we keep our eyes on For the Lord begins from In the Gospel went up to the mountain to discuss it with the rep- Him, we will make it to the where we stop and He Jesus who was so at- harbour of God safely and we may listen to his words and put them into prac- resentatives, Moses and takes up from where we tached to the Father, goes securely. For each of us the followers of Jesus: that Elijah, who also represent- tice in our daily lives. Let us pray to the Lord. have given up. For what Rev. Fr. Ciswan De Croos Response:Lord hear us in your love. is impossible to us is pos- out whether what He was ing the Law and Prophets. to Mount Tabor to find St. Polycarp of the city, but a Church of Smyrna to slave revealed, all the brotherhoods Sunday Rhythm February 23 under torture, of the holy and univer- Bishop Martyr, Apostolic Father of his hiding place. sal Church to acquaint Second Sunday of Lent the Church (2nd century) Brought before them with the ongo- St. Polycarp was converted the judgement ing persecution, was Jesus prayed…His face was changed… and instructed by St. John the Evan- seat of the pro- found unscathed! He Peter and His companions were heavy with sleep gelist. He must have been some 37 consul, he was was thus instantly dis- “Master, it is wonderful for us to be here: So let us years-old when that aged Apostle urged to swear patched with a spear consecrated him Bishop of Smyrna by the genius of and his body burned make three tents…” (in Turkey) shortly before his ban- Caesar and to A voice came from the cloud… ishment to Patmos. Polycarp proved curse Christ, but The genuine "acts" Disciples were afraid…. himself a saintly and very able ad- he calmly made that(c. 155/161-169). have come down After the voice had spoken…Jesus was found alone. ministrator in the face of poverty this famous re- to us, describing how The disciples kept silent and told no one... and constant persecution by the the holy Bishop, like years have I the Good Shepherd, Richest Blessing servedply: "Eighty-six Him, and laid down his life for to pray. toJews. consult In 155 with when Pope he was St. probably Anicetus never did He fail Richest Result - …His–…He face went was up changed to the mountain and his 86, he undertook a journey to Rome me! How could I now blaspheme - clothing became brilliant as Easter date. This meeting did not re- - isting detailedthe record sheep of of Christian his flock lightning. solveabout the the controversy, vexing question but the of Pope the tian!" martyrdom;at Smyrna, is it one is a ofproof the thatearliest the anex- To Think did permit the venerable Bishop to my King Condemnedand Saviour? to I am be a burned Chris cient Church approved and fostered continue in his Eastern tradition, alive, Polycarp's hands were tied the veneration of the Saints and of – aAm time I a for person God amidstwho is mypraying busy behind his back in the stadium at their relics. St Polycarp is invoked to God alone...? Could I allocate month of Nisan as the day on which Smyrna, and while he continued to against earache. To Pray Ourwhich Lord regarded arose fromthe 14th the daydead, of andthe praise the Blessed Trinity and to Reflection: : I bless you for judging inand You competitive and Your love, schedule? every mo- that day was celebrated regardless thank the Lord for permitting him me worthy of this day, this hour, so – ment.Dear Lord,Amen. help me to remain of whether it fell on a Sunday or a to drink of his chalice, great heaps that in the company of the martyrs To Act - weekday. of fagots were piled up around him. I may share the cup of Christ, your Polycarp had hardly re- ally, we must be able to share anointed one, and so rise again to – As we experience God person turned to his See when—under the the termination of his prayers and eternal life in soul and body, immortal The executioner awaited with awe without stagnation did not apply the torch until after through the power of the Holy Spirit. that experience with others persecution of Christians broke out. May I be received among the martyrs Rev. Fr. S. Randil Fernando OMI UponEmperor the entreatiesMarcus Aurelius—a of the faithful fierce he in your presence as a rich and pleas- concealed himself on the outskirts saysthe "Amen". the circular But sentas the around flames by shot the ing sacrifice" (St Polycarp). up all around, the saintly figure, so