SINCE FEB 11,1869 THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY O F SRI LANKA

WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY June 5th

"REGISTERED IN THE DEPARTMENT OF POSTS OF SRI LANKA UNDER NO. QD / 11 / NEWS / 2012"

Sunday 3rd June 2012 Vol 143 No 22 16 Pages Rs: 25.00 Registered as a newspaper In solidarity with Welcome and Mannar Bishop a farewell safety in the context of serious concerns expressed recently. 3. Condemn the false and malicious allegations made against the Bishop by various individuals and groups, including Government Ministers and n a symbolic gesture, the outgoing director of the Goverment controlled IColombo Catholic Press, Rev. Fr. Rohan de Alwis hands media and those over the keys of the Press to the new director, Rev. Fr. sympathetic to the Edrich Rodrigo, at a simple ceremony held last week. Government. Fr. Rohan who formally served as Parish Priest 4. Condemn the efforts of St. Andrew’s Church, Mutwal had been appointed as made to intimidate Director of Caritas-Sethsarana. organizers of this event The new Director, Rev. Fr. Edrich Rodrigo was and attempts by the serving as Parish Priest of St. Mary’s Church, Maharagama, Police to use the prior to his appointment to the Colombo Catholic Press. solidarity meeting was It adopted to: aspirations of the Tamil, judiciary to suppress a Aheld in the premises of 1. Express deep and truth and accountability legitimate and peaceful St. Sebastian’s Church, heartfelt appreciation for the past and activity. Convocation at Mannar, in support of His for the Bishop’s role for continuing abuses 5. Appreciate the large many years as a “voice number of people who Lordship, Rt. Rev. dr. against the Tamil Bl. Joseph Vaz Theologate for voiceless” to the community. had expressed support, Rayappu Joseph, Bishop of victims of war, solidarity and special he 8th Convocation of Lordship Emmanuel 2. Call on the government Fernando and His Lordship Mannar, last Sunday, (27). especially the political prayers for the Bishop TBlessed Joseph Vaz to ensure the Bishop’s Maxwell Silva. Very Rev. Fr. of Mannar in this deva dharma Nikethanaya af�iliated to Daya Welikadaarachchi, the Rector of the Institute the Ponti�ical Urbaniana Subodhi donates general library to Jaffna including non Catholics, welcomed the guests. Sinhalesedifficult and situation, those University, Rome, was There were 51 students from outside the held recently at the from Colombo and the country and to continue Bonjean Hall of St. branches of Kurunegala, to pray for the good Joseph’s College, Chilaw and Tamil Branch health and courage of Colombo. who received the B. A. Rt. Rev. Dr. Rayappu The chief guest was His Degree in Christian studies Joseph, Bishop of Eminence Malcolm at the Convocation. For the Mannar. Cardinal Ranjith, Chancellor The most recent of the Institute. The guests students received the attacks on the Bishop arose of honour were His firstDegree. time Rev. four Fr. Tamil Leopold Rathnasekara OMI, lecturer due to his public support Excellency Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Spiteri, Apostolic at the National Seminary, for decisive Nuncio, and the two Ampitiya, delivered the action by the PG 2 Auxiliary Bishops, His Convocation Address. Opening of Daham Pasal Building

ubodhi lnstitute, The Mayor of symbolized the deep regret SPiliyandala, recently Jaffna received the and sorrow about that donated almost the donation on behalf of the unpardonable act of whole of its general library and the people of vandalism and also the library (all English Jaffna in the presence of sincere desire of the books) on a variety of His Lordship, Rt. Rev. Dr. people of the South to be subjects, to the Jaffna Thomas Savundra reconciled with the people library as a token nayagam, Bishop of Jaffna of the North, so that all gesture of reparation for and the Chief librarian. peoples of the country the wanton damage done Speaking on irrespective of race, to it by the South and as the occasion the Founder- language and geographical a contribution to Director of Subodhi, Fr. location feel equally at rebuilding its collection Mervyn Fernando, said home as children of the of books. that the donation same Mother Lanka. ‘Baptise them in HOLY TRINITY SUNDAY the name of the 3rd June 2012 is Eminence Malcolm Seeduwa Parish, recently. Basil Rajapaksa. Father, Son and HCardinal Ranjith The cost of the The work was blessed and declared construction work completed by Rev. Fr. Basil the open the newly amounted to Rs. 42 lakhs Wickremasinghe, presently constructed 3-Storey which also involved the Parish Priest Seeduwa Holy Spirit’ building of the daham work of beautifying the before his transfer to the Pasala and Vocational Church. The main sponsor Wattala Parish. Mt: 28: 19 Training Centre of the of the project was Minister Pic. T. Sunil Fernando 2 The Messenger 03rd June 2012 Feast of St. Peregrine negombo Catholics Madhu Feast Statement issued by celebrated at St. Lawrence's the Catholic national The feast of St. Peregrine, Association of the Laity the Patron Saint (On the Proposed legislation to amend the law relat- of cancer patients, ing to abortion) was celebrated on We are deeply grieved at the proposal made Wednesday 2 May by the Hon. Minister of Women's Affairs to bring in leg- 2012 at St. Law- islation to legalize abortion in the case of rape, incest and major congenital abnormalities in the foetus. It is a rence's Church, "Holy Mother-Our Lady of Madhu is the symbol Wellawatte. The medically accepted fact that life begins with the fertiliza- Novena Mass was tion of the female egg with the male sperm. The human at the feet of Our Lady of Madhu with all their agonies, heart starts beating 3 weeks after fertilization. Brain concelebrated by miseries,of hope, courage, worries peaceand sorrows and unity for andher intercessionthe faithful flock and the Parish Priest, waves are seen in 6 weeks and all organs are formed at solace." 8 weeks. Abortion is ending of pregnancy by killing the Rev. Fr. Bob Ro- So said, Very Rev. Fr. Patrick Perera, Episcopal drigo OMI and the Vicar, Colombo North during Holy Mass at the Madhu Assistant Parish God, our Creator, and therefore, any attempt to destroy Holy Rosary Shrine at the Second Annual Pilgrimage thefoetus. fertilized We Catholics egg is equal firmly to murder.believe that life belongs to Priest, Rev. F. Sam- of the People of Negombo, recently. His Lordship, Most path Perera OMI. A woman has no right to kill the child in her The festive womb. The rights of the mother and the foetus are the Saturday night Vespers' Benediction. equal, and therefore, in the case of rape and incest no Mass was held near Rev. Dr. Rayappu Fr. Patrick Joseph, said thatBishop agonies of Mannar and sorrowsofficiated are at the statue of St. Peregrine in the open air. one can kill the innocent and defenseless foetus. Rather, common to everyone in this world and when we look the offender should be brought before the law. If we in- During the celebration, Rev. Fr. Bob Rodrigo OMI, an- at the life of the Holy Mother Mary we see a life full of nounced to those present that a devotee had promised duce abortion for birth defects, this would necessarily agony and pain. have a tragic impact on the future of all differently-abled "The Holy Mary drags people out of their ago- children. The proponents of this legislation mistakenly all the way from Italy, as an act of thanksgiving for a nies and intervenes to unite the world about peace and favourto donate received. a statue of St. Peregrine which will I. Mel be flown assume that relaxing the laws on abortion will reduce harmony. complications. Around 20,000 people gathered at the Madhu Rather than attempting to amend the law relat- St. Joseph's College Wattala Shrine with 12 priests to attend the spiritual needs of ing to abortion, the government should take all possible the Negombo Catholics. measures to control more effectively the commission of gets Internet facilities Rev. Fr. S.Emalianuspillai, Parish Priest Madhu criminal offences such as rape and incest by amending Shrine and his assistant Rev. Fr. Augustine Kariyakara- the existing law and introducing more deterrent punish- wana, welcomed the Negombo Catholics at the Shrine ments for these offences. Our Lady of Madhu. The Negombo Catholics got a sepa- In addition to the above course of action, it rate feast at the Madhu Shrine last year. would be in the greater interests of society for the State The organising and all other arrangements to take effective steps to educate the people in regard were made by the Negombo Catholic Madhu Shrine Pil- to congenital abnormalities and provide guidance with grimage Organising Committee. a view to preventing circumstances which lead to such Quintus Perera abnormalities. Yet another constructive step the state could take is to encourage religious and social organiza- Society of Jesus completes tions to establish homes that shower love and affection upon children (both normal as well as with congenital 50 years in Sri Lanka abnormalities) who are unwanted by their parents. It is also known that abortion can cause physi- cal complications in the womb of the woman who un- dergoes an abortion. More over there is convincing evi- dence that a woman who has agreed to an abortion will with internet facilities for the library. tend to suffer from psychiatric disorders, sometimes for ThisSt. Joseph's special College, facility Wattala,was commissioned got five computers by Rev. the rest of her life. Fr. Ranjith Andradi, Rector St. Joseph's College, Wattala. In Sri Lanka abortion may be performed legally Rev. Fr. Ranjith Andradi urged the boys to make full use only to save the life of the mother. Any other attempt of the Library and cultivate the habit of reading. He also to induce abortion is totally unacceptable. Therefore we cautioned them to use information technology with wis- vehemently oppose the proposed legislation. dom. We denounce the efforts made by individuals Rev. Fr. Kamal Kumara, Pprincipal of the Col- and institutions to impose their views of morality on us. lege, Information Technology staff and some students The teachings of all the major religions practiced in our participated at this occasion. beloved country abhor killing. Our position is that what Text: Padminie Nanayakkara is immoral and against the teachings of all the major re- The Society of Jesus in Sri Lanka completed 50 Picture Shewin Mahawatta ligions practiced in our beloved motherland should not years and the occasion was celebrated at the Kolping be legalized. Centre at Deraniyagala with religious activities for two Therefore, we appeal to the government not to days. Provincial Superior of the Society (Sri Lanka) Rev. proceed with the proposed legislation to amend the law Solidarity support...... Fr. Jeyaraj Rasiah sj, was the chief celebrant. relating to abortion. Contd. from Pg. 1 Ven. Kotagala Chandrathana Thero, High Priest Victor Silva (FCA, MCIM) member states of the UN Human Rights Council in Ge- of Miyanawita Raja Maha Viharaya, is seen with Rev. Fr. Secretary neva with regard to reconciliation and accountability in Vincent Rosario sj lighting the oil lamp. Sri Lanka. The Bishop supported calls for implementa- Picture shows Ven. Kotagala Chandrathana First Holy Communion Service tion of the LLRC recommendations and presentation of Thero with Rev. Fr. Winston Rosairo Parish Priest, Mali- boda, lighting the traditional oil lamp while Provincial a plan of action regarding the same and an independent at Kaluwarippuwa Superior Rev. Fr. Jeyaraj Rasiah looks on. and international commission of inquiry to look into matters not addressed by the LLRC such as accountabil- Text and Pic. by J. Antony ity. The Bishop had never called for a separate country or renewed armed struggle and has rejected Children's Avurudhu both these as not being viable options to be considered celebrations at Bathgamulla in the struggle for dignity and justice of Tamil people and broader reconciliation in Sri Lanka. The Bishop had been cooperating and engaged cluding the President, Ministers, The Secretary to the Ministrywith national of Defense, and local Government level government Agents, officials, Military in-of- The First Holy Communion Service at St. Jo- seph's Church, Kaluwarippuwa in the Katana-Halpe questioning by the CID and was instrumental in taking Parish took place recently with 34 children receiving theficials initiative and Police. to invite He readily the LLRC agreed to conduct to the hearingsrequest for in their First Holy Communion from the Chief celebrant Mannar. He had also cooperated and engaged with the Ragama Bathgamulla, St. Joseph's Pre-school Rev. Fr. Amila Gomes, Parish Priest of Halpe and Dean of international community, especially inter-governmental held its annual Avurudhu celebrations recently at the Katana. The children pose here for a group photo with bodies, experts and staff of the United Nations, of which Bathgamulla grounds under the patronage of Rev. Fr. their Daham Pasal teachers and Fr. Amila Gomes. Sri Lanka is a member. Liyanage Patick Perera OMI, Parish Priest, Peralanda. C.R. Dickson Anthony C. Danicius 3 The Messenger 03rd June 2012 Four Hundred Children from Kandawala Parish Statement by SL Movement for Truth, Justice and Reconciliation receive the Sacrament of Con�irmation The Sri Lanka Movement for Truth, Justice and Reconciliation has issued a statement on the me- dia statement of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference in Sri Lanka (CBCSL), published in the Catholic Messenger dated, May 13, 2012. The Statement is as follows: While endorsing the facts presented in the re- cent statement of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference in Sri Lanka, on the implementation of the LLRC Recom- mendations, the Sri Lanka Movement states that proper reconciliation and peace building cannot be achieved by not giving the due rights of the minority ethnic groups who underwent a 30-year prolonged war, subjecting to numerous hardships. Towards reconciliation the gov- ernment must address without further delay, the long standing grievances of the minority community (espe- cially border villages and and displaced personnel in other areas. We exhort the government to rebuild Sri Lanka as a matter of urgency re-establishing the supremacy of the Rule of Law and Order, eradicating bribery and cor- Around 400 children from the Kandawala Par- The children are seen in a group photo with His ruption (as mentioned in the recent and previous Com- Lordship, the Bishop, Rev. Fr. Sarath Tirimanne, Parish mittee on Private Enterprises (COPE), reports), abduc- tered by His Lordship, Rt. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Fernando, Priest, Kandawela, Rev. Fr. Eric Madurawala, Asst. Priest, tions and the politicization of public service. Auxiliaryish received Bishop the of Sacrament Colombo. of Confirmation, adminis- Rev. Sisters Sepalika and Shanthini. The Sri Lankan Movement was able to send the Cecil Danicius Sinhala translation and the English and Tamil versions of the principal observations and recommendations of the LLRC to all our parishes in the Archdiocese and the Church in the Farewell to Mother Eliza After serving in Sri Lanka, for almost 25 years, of the CBCSL initiative on the implementation of the rec- World Rev. Sr. Mary Eliza of the Missionary Sisters of Charity, Diocesesommendations as the offirst the phase LLRC. of our campaign in support returned to her homeland India, two weeks, ago. The second phase would be to communicate Sr. Eliza served as the Superior of "Prem Niva- with the Catholic Apostolate and the other Catholic In- stitutions and organizations. The Sri Lanka Movement Lombardi: Establishing truth sa" at Rawathawaththa, Moratuwa for about three years. key to Pope and Curia Her service was a testimony of surrendering oneself to on November 22, 2010 on behalf of the Catholic Com- Pope Benedict XVI is facing the “trial” that has God and being a servant of servants. munity.has also testified at the LLRC Commission proceedings ensued from the leaking of his personal documents and An immense service was offered to those in the the subsequent arrest of a member of his household on North and East, deserted during the brutal war. Even Cerebral Palsy symptoms charges of possession of said stolen documents with today the children who were made orphans by the war “faith” and “a great desire to serve the Church”, said Holy would testify how Sr. Eliza became a mother of mercy and compassion to them, in their adversity. See Press Office Director, Fr. Federico Lombardi Tuesday It is heart breaking to see a person of such great whilein a briefing the situation with journalists. the Vatican Emer faces McCarthy is “grave” reports it is “nei- calibre face imprisonment due to a misunderstanding therFr. Lombardi tragic or terrible”. began the He then briefing spoke by of underlining Pope Benedict’s that about the administration of "Prem Nivasa." pain at the news of the recent massacre of innocent ci- A lady who became a mother to the motherless and a vilians in Houla, Syria and he also relayed the Pope’s companion to the abandoned mothers, converted her sorrow at news of another deadly earthquake Tuesday prizon cell to a room of mercy till she was released from morning in Emilia Romagna, Northern Italy. her charges and proven innocent. Turning then to the issue at hand, Fr. Lombardi said the second phase of investigations – whether to pro- There was never a hum from her side, despite ceed to trail or not – is still at the preliminary stage and the false allegations that were made against her. Along that the aim of the inquiry is to arrive at the truth based with her true Christian values, just like her master, she on the objective facts as they emerge. He told journal- endured suffering for the greater glory. ists that the accused, 46-year-old father of three Paolo Her sole objective in life was to serve God and Gabriele, is “serene”, and is collaborating with investiga- His people. tors and has met with his wife and defence lawyer Carlo On behalf of all those who were recipients of the love and mercy offered by this great servant of God, take place in coming days. Fusco. A Frfirst Lombardi formal interrogation rejected recent of the media accused reports will that other people had been detained, and Cardinals and I pray and hope that she continues to serve in the questioned by investigators. He stressed that while the vineyardI offer my of heartfelt the Lord gratificationwithstanding to all Rev. sorts Sr. of Mary storms. Eliza Commission of Cardinals -set up in March last by Pope Douglas Cooray Benedict to investigate a series of leaks – were speaking of their efforts, this in no way indicated these individu- Ecumenical gathering in alswith were various under Dicastery investigation. heads and He Curialadded officials that the as Com- part mission of Cardinals led by the Spanish Cardinal Julian Ratnapura The signs or symptoms of cerebral palsy may Herranz is not a juridical body. An ecumenical gathering was held at the Salva- be clear soon after birth or take some months to be- (Vatican News) tion Army Headquarters, Ratnapura, with the participa- come apparent. tion of several Christian denominations. types depending on the type of symptoms, which in A Religious ser- Cerebral palsy is often classified into different vice was conducted on be- working as they should. These include: half of all denominations turn probably reflect which parts of the brain are not by Rev. Fr. Sergius Fernan- cases) - some of the muscles in the body are tight, do. • stiff Spastic and cerebral weak, drawing palsy (about the limbs 70 perin and cent making of all Members of the Baptist Church, Anglican Church, Methodist Church, centcontrol of ofcases) movement - control difficult. of muscles is disrupted Salvation Army and Catho- • by Athetoid spontaneous (dyskinetic) and unwanted cerebral irregular palsy (10 writh- per lic Community participat- ing movements. These may be the result of mus- ed. cles changing very rapidly from being loose and T. Samaratunga for speech may also be affected, interfering with communication.floppy to very tight Control and tense. of posture The muscles is also used dis- Make life rupted. better for those culty with balance, shaky movements of hands you love. • Ataxic cerebral palsy - problems include diffi- Give them the moreor feet, of and the difficultyabove. with speech. Messenger • Mixed cerebral palsy - a combination of two or the limbs and odd postures. There may be abnormal tone (stiffness or floppiness) of 4 The Messenger 03rd June 2012 To the Pontifical Academy of Social Sciences on the fiftieth anniversary of John XXIII's Encyclical 'Pacem in Terris'

EDITORIAL An open letter to the world The Holy Father sent a Message 3 June 2012 to Mary Ann Glendon, President of the Pontifical Academy of The Release of General Social Sciences, on the occasion of their 18th Plenary Session, Fonseka - a harbinger of which was dedicated to the 50th anniversary of John XXIII's Encyclical 'Pacem in Terris'. The justice for the future? Message was written in English and dated 27 April 2012, the day The release of General Sarath Fonseka the former Army Commander the Plenary Session began. was greeted with jubilation by people both here and abroad. The US Government considered him a political prisoner and had demanded At the height of the his release. He contested Mahinda Rajapaksa during the last presi- Cold War, when the world was dential election as the common presidential candidate and lost. still coming to terms with the Barely a fortnight after the election, he was arrested by the military threat posed by the existence police and subjected to a court martial on "military offences." and proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, Pope John XXIII, addressed what has been described as an "open letter to be discharged dishonorably. A second Courts Martial imposed a 30- the world." It was a heartfelt The first Court Martial, which began in March 2010, ordered that he appeal from a great pastor, alleged irregularities in military procurements during his tenure as nearing the end of his life, for Armymonth Chief. prison In term all, has after served finding more him thanguilty 2 of years four incharges prison related and was to the cause of peace and justice to be vigorously promoted at In this case he was accused of telling the 'Sunday Leader' newspaper every level of society, nationally (Pacem in Terris, n. 1). Forgiveness is not a and internationally. While the global political thatconvicted Defense for Secretaryanother 3 Gotabhayayears last November Rajapaksa onhad the ordered white flagto shoot case. denial of wrong-doing, but a participation in the healing and transforming love of God intervening half-century, the vision offered which reconciles and restores. war. Fonseka has said the cases are a political vendetta because he bylandscape Pope John has still changed has much significantly to teach inus theas we the surrendering Tamil Tiger cadres during the final stages of the How eloquent, then, was the choice dared to run against Rajapaksa in the 2010 election. struggle to face the new challenges for peace of theme for the 2009 Special Assembly for and justice in the post-Cold-War era, amid Africa of the Synod of Bishops: "The Church Fonseka has now been given a presidential pardon, the terms of the continuing proliferation of armaments. in Africa at the Service of Reconciliation, which are not yet clear. The appeals against the convictions which "The world will never be the Justice and Peace." The life-giving message dwelling-place of peace, till peace has found of the Gospel has brought hope to millions of a home in the heart of each and every human withdrawn before his release. Africans, sing them to rise above the suffer- he had filed in the Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court had to be person, till all preserve within themselves the order ordained by God to be preserved" Many well-meaning, impartial and independent people consider (Pacem in Terris, n. (165). At the heart of the Assemblyings inflicted on theon them Church by inrepressive the Middle regimes that Fonseka did not deserve to be prosecuted or sentenced with Church's social doctrine is the anthropology Eastand fratricidal highlighted conflicts. the themes Similarly, of communion the 2010 such a harsh punishment. They point out that a court-martial is em- which recognizes in the human creature the and witness, the oneness of mind and soul powered to determine the guilt of members of the Armed forces sub- image of the Creator, endowed with intel- that characterizes those who set out to fol- ject to military law, and Fonseka had left the Armed Services when ligence and freedom, capable of knowing low the light of truth. Historic wrongs and he was charged. Most militaries maintain a court-martial system to and loving. Peace and justice are fruits of the injustices can only be overcome if men and right order that is inscribed within creation try cases in which a breach of military discipline may have occurred. women are inspired by a message of healing itself, written on human hearts (cf. Rom 2:15) and hope, a message that offers a way for- Some countries, however, have no court-martial in time of peace; and therefore accessible to all people of good ward, out of the impasse that so often locks this is the case in France and Germany, for example, where ordinary, will, all "pilgrims of truth and of people and nations into a vicious circle of civilian courts are used instead. Courts-martial jurisdiction extends peace." Pope John's Encyclical was and violence. mainly to service members on active duty and prisoners of war. Lav- is a powerful summons to engage in ish praise had been heaped on Fonseka by the President for his gal- that creative dialogue between the that seemed insoluble at the time have lant victory over the LTTE. So many people thought the change in Church and the world, between believ- passed into Since history. 1963, Letsome us of take the heart, conflicts then, attitude to discharge him dishonorably was due to his contesting the ers and non-believers, which the as we struggle for peace and justice in the Second Vatican Council set out to pro- President Mahinda Rajapaksa. mote. It offers a thoroughly Christian pursuit of the divinely established order, of vision of man's place in the cosmos, aworld world today, where confident the dignity that of our every common human Many people also thought that the Judiciary has lost its indepen- person is accorded the respect that is due, dence since the 18th Amendment to the Constitution as all powers out a message of hope to a world that can and will bear fruit. of appointment over judges is with the President who can use his isconfident hungry for that it, in a messageso doing itthat is holdingcan res- Pope Benedict XVI discretion absolutely. There are cases abroad where decisions of onate with people of all beliefs and military courts have been upturned as in the case of Commandant none, became its truth is accessible Neil Donahue. Sri Lanka has faced growing criticism over alleged to all. In that same spirit, after the terrorist attacks that shook the a resolution which was passed by the UN Human Rights Council in rights abuses in the final phase of the civil war. The US sponsored world in September 2001, Blessed March to press Sri Lanka to conduct an independent probe into civil- John Paul II insisted that there can be "no peace without justice, Foreign Minister G.L. Peiris on Friday, Hillary Clinton had discussed no justice without forgiveness" aian range deaths of topics,in the finalincluding months accountability of the war. Duringissues, civilher meetingwar and witheth- (Message for the 2002 World Day of nic reconciliation. Clinton had also stressed ... the importance of pro- Peace). The notion of forgiveness tection of human rights. tion,needs so to as find to transformits way into the interna- sterile Many people have been pointing out the violations of the Rule of Law languagetional discourse of mutual on recriminationconflict resolu- and the harassment of journalists and human right workers. But the which leads nowhere. If the human Government has to taken enough effective action to investigate and creature is made in the image of punish those responsible. The Government promises an Action Plan God, a God of justice who is "rich in mercy" (Eph 2:4), then these oric alone is not enough, there must be action on the ground. We hopefor Human the release Rights of but Fonseka all this marks seems ato change be confined in attitude to rhetoric. of the Rhet- Gov- conduct of human affairs. It is the combinationqualities need of to justice be reflected and forgive- in the ernment and is a harbinger of justice and good governance for the ness, of justice and grace, which lies future. Let the Government and all in authority follow the Law and at the heart of the divine response uphold righteousness. The Holy Bible says, "Physician, heal thyself." to human wrongdoing (cf. Spe Salvi, (Lk. 4:23) n. 44), at the heart, in other words, of the "divinely established order" 5 The Messenger 03rd June 2012 CATHOLIC CHURCH – The Family of GOD

Victor Silva (FCA. MCIM) what any pastor or seminary Mass was the greatest sacrilege my eyes. I knew Christ wanted it? Besides, there were so many Kandy professor would do if he want- that a man could commit – to me to receive Him in faith, not other books that people back ed to keep his job. I promptly just spiritually in my heart, but then thought might be inspired, stopped my sermon series on sure what to do. I watched physically as well: Onto my such as the Epistle of Barnabas, “How little do we know about the the Gospel of John at the end of andre-sacrifice listened Christ as the – readings, so I wasn’t tongue, down my throat and the Shepherd of Hermas and Catholic Church? Do we really know Chapter 5 and basically skipped prayers and responses – so into my whole body and soul. the Acts of Paul. There were and appreciate the Mystery of our Catholic Faith?”. These thoughts over Chapter 6 in my classroom steeped in Scripture made the This was what the Incarnation also several New Testament flashed across my mind as I read lectures. Although my parishio- Bible come alive. ……………. I was all about. This was the books such as Second Peter, the book “ROME SWEET HOME” au- ners and students were getting found numerous elements from Gospel in its fullness” - (Pages Jude and Revelation, that some thored by the now famous Catholic excited about the rest of my the ancient Jewish liturgy that thought should be excluded. lay evangelist, Professor Scott Hahn teaching, I could not bring my- I had studied so intensely. All Similarly, Kimberly So whose decision was trust- and his wife Kimberly, both of whom self to tell them that what they of a sudden I realized, this is summarizes87 & 88). her experience worthy and were ardent Christians (Presbyte- were hearing – and responding where the Bible belongs. This of the Holy Mass when she doesn’t teach with infallible rians) who loved Christ but were final, if the Church diehard anti-Catholics because they so enthusiastically to – echoed was the setting in which this attended the Ash Wednesday authority?” were under the mistaken impression ideas from Scripture that some- precious family heirloom was service (two years before When Dr. Gerstner had that the Catholic Church was unbib- how, somewhere, the Catholic meant to be read, proclaimed her baptism in the Catholic calmly replied: “Popes, Bishops lical...... Church had discovered along and expounded. Then we Church): “I was amazed how and Councils can do mistakes. the way”- (Pages 49 & 50). moved into the Liturgy of the deeply the liturgy touched me. Scott, how is it you can think (Continued from last week) Kimberly summarizes Eucharist, where all my cov- The call to repentance was so that God renders Peter infalli- her faith in the Real Presence enant conclusions converted. I clear, I wondered how several ble?,” Scott responded: “Protes- Scott wondered about of Christ thus: “Catholicism wanted to stop everything and ex-Catholic friends had missed tants and Catholics agree that what his professors had taught was not a distant religion, shout, ‘Hey can I explain what it when they said they had God most certainly rendered Peter infallible on at least a him and what he (as a Presby- but a presence-oriented one. is happening from Scripture? never been called to the Gospel couple of occasions, when he terian Minister) was preaching Catholics were the ones who This is great!’ Instead I just sat in the Catholic Church” - (Page wrote First and Second Peter, to his congregation - about the had Jesus physically present in there, famished with a super- for instance. ……..Likewise, if Eucharist being a mere symbol, churches and saw themselves natural hunger for the Bread Scott says that since just a symbol. He remembered 137). God could do it with Peter and as living tabernacles after of Life. After pronouncing the Kimberly’s conversion they the other Apostles who wrote that he had already shown his receiving the Eucharist. And words of consecration, the make an effort to attend daily Scripture – then why couldn’t parishioners that the one and because Jesus is the Eucharist, priest held up the Host. I felt Mass as a family: “With the He do it with their succes- only place where Christ used keeping Him in the centre al- as if the last drop of doubt had Eucharist at the centre of our sors as well, especially since the word “covenant’ was when lows all the rich doctrines of drained from me. With all my lives, we are able to show our He could foresee the anarchy He instituted the Eucharist - the Church to emanate from heart, I whispered, ‘My Lord children how the Bible and the that would come if He didn’t? (Page 44). Him, just as the beautiful rays and my God. That’s really You! liturgy go together – the menu Besides, Dr. Gerstner, how can Scott admits: “But stream forth from the Host in And if that’s You, then I want and the meal!” - (Page 166). after lots of prayer and study, the Monstrance” - (Page 162). full communion with You. I of the New Testament them- I realized that Jesus could not weselves be surebeing about the infallible the 27 books Word don’t want to hold anything 9) THE HOLY BIBLE and THE of God, since fallible Church 8) HOLY MASS back’. ………… And with that, INFALIBILITY OF PETER AND when He taught us to eat His Councils and Popes are the have been speaking figuratively Some Catholics grum- I left the chapel, not telling a THE POPES ones who made up the list?.” Jews in His audience would ble: “Oh, the Mass is boring” soul where I had been or what When Dr. John Gerst- Scott was very much surprised when Dr. Gerstner notflesh have and been drink outraged His blood. and The and some even question: “Is the I had done, but the next day ner, a Harvard-trained Calva- had then said: “All we have is a scandalized by a mere symbol. Mass scriptural?.” But, the ex- I was back, and the next, and nist theologian with strong perience of Scott and Kimberly, the next. Within a week or two anti-Catholic convictions said fallible collection of infallible Besides, if they had misun- documents!.” After pondering even before their conversion to I was hooked. I don’t know that Catholic Tradition, the derstood Jesus to be speaking about the logical inconsis- literally – when He meant His Catholicism is totally different. how to say it but I had fallen Popes and Ecumenical Councils tency of Dr. Gerstner’s response head over heels in love with all taught contrary to Scripture, which faithfully represented of attending Holy Mass, Scott our Lord in the Eucharist! His Scott asked the question: “Con- the Protestant position, Scott Hiswords point. to be In takenfact, since figuratively many says:Describing “Then his one first day, experience ……..I presence to me in the Blessed trary to whose interpretation disciples– He could stopped have easily following clarified decided that it was time for Sacrament was powerful and of Scripture? Besides, Church occurs to me, Dr. Gerstner, that Jesus because of this teach- me to go to Mass on my own. personal. As I sat in the back I historians all agree that we got whenfinally it responded: comes right “Then down it to ing (verse 60), He would have ……………I took a seat as an began to kneel and pray with the New Testament from the it, it must be the Bible and the been morally obliged to explain observer in the back pew. …….. the others whom I now knew Council of Hippo in 393 AD Church – both or neither!” - the saying in purely symbolic Then a bell rang and a priest to be my brothers and sisters. and the Council of Carthage terms. But He never did. Nor walked out toward the altar. I …………….I had found my family (This conversation took place (Pages 74 to 76). did any Christian, for over one remained seated; I still wasn’t – it was God’s family. ……….Day off their judgments to Rome before Scott’s conversion to the thousand years, ever deny the sure if it was safe to kneel. As after day, witnessing the entire forin 397 the AD,Pope’s both approval. of which From sent Catholic Faith). Real Presence of Christ in the an evangelical Calvinist, I had drama of the Mass, I saw the 30 to 393 is a long time to be (Contd. on next week) Eucharist. No wonder. So I did been taught that the Catholic covenant renewed right before without a New Testament. Isn’t

Joan of Arc, nicknamed “The Maid of Orléans” (1412 – 1431) Feast 30 May writers and composers who She is – along with St. Denis, St. Martin have created works about her She is a national heroine of offied Tours, in 1909 St. Louisand canonized IX, and St. in Theresa 1920. include: Shakespeare (Henry France and a Roman Catholic saint. A of Lisieux – one of the patron saints of VI, Part 1), Voltaire (The Maid peasant girl born in what is now eastern France. Joan said that she had visions of Orleans poem), Schiller France, who claimed divine guidance, from God that instructed her to recover (The Maid of Orleans play), she led the French army to several her homeland from English domina- Verdi (Giovanna d’Arco), Tchai- important victories during the Hundred tion late in the Hundred Years’ War. The kovsky (The Maid of Orleans Years’ War, which paved the way for the uncrowned King Charles VII sent her to opera), Mark Twain (Personal coronation of Charles VII. She was cap- the siege of Orléans as part of a relief Recollections of Joan of Arc), tured by the Burgundians, transferred mission. She gained prominence when Arthur Honegger (Jeanne to the English in exchange for money, she overcame the dismissive attitude d’Arc au bûcher), Jean Anouilh put on trial by the pro-English Bishop of veteran commanders and lifted the (L’Alouette), Bertolt Brecht of Beauvais Pierre Cauchon for charges siege in only nine days. Several addi- (Saint Joan of the Stockyards), of “insubordination and heterodoxy,”[3] tional swift victories led to Charles VII’s and burned at the stake as a heretic coronation at Reims and settled the George Bernard Shaw (Saint when she was only 19 years old.[4] disputed succession to the throne. Joan) and Maxwell Anderson - To the present day, Joan of (Joan of Lorraine). Depic- cution, an Inquisitorial court authorized tions of her have continued in by Pope Twenty-fiveCallixtus III examinedyears after the the trial, exe in Western culture. From Napoleon pronounced her innocent and declared onward,Arc has remained French politicians a significant of all figure lean - games, music and performanc- film, theatre, television, video her a martyr.[4] Joan of Arc was beati- ings have invoked her memory. Famous es. 6 The Messenger 03rd June 2012

children that has served aslove the and veryfidelity, cornerstone hoping for The True Meaning of civilization and culture rchbishop Dolan post- from the start? Aed the following com- Last time I con- mentary on his blog, The sulted an atlas, it is clear of Marriage Gospel in the Digital Age, we are living in New on June 14, 2011. York, in the United States nation against homosexual Yes, I admit, I The stampede is of America-not in China come at this as a believ- on. Our elected senators or North Korea. In those the basic human rights er, who along with other who have stood coura- countries, government ofpeople. gay The men Church and women,affirms citizens of a diversity of geous in their refusal to presumes daily to “rede- and the State has rightly creeds, believe that God, capitulate on the State’s changed many laws to offer not Albany, has settled the values and natural law. these men and women hos- marriage are reporting There,fine” rights, communiques relationships, from pital visitation rights, be- long time ago. We believ- unrelentingpresumption pressure to redefine to the government can dic- reavement leave, death ben- ersdefinition worry notof marriage only about a cave in. The media, mainly tate the size of families, what this new intrusion sympathetic to this rush to who lives and who dies, the like. This is not about will do to our common denyingefits, insurance rights. benefits It is about and good, but also that we will as old as human reason tion of “family” and “mar- upholding a truth about the be coerced to violate our andtamper ordered with good, a definition reports riage”and what means. the very defini- human condition. deepest beliefs to accom- annoyance on the part of But, please, not Marriage is not modate the newest state some senators that those here! Our country’s found- simply a mechanism for decree. (If you think this in defense of traditional ing principles speak of paranoia, just ask believ- marriage just don’t see the rights given by God, not the union of a man and a ers in Canada and England light, as we persist in op- invented by government, womandelivering in a benefits:loving, perma- It is what’s going on there to posing this enlightened, and certain noble values nent, life-giving union to justify our apprehension.) progressive, cause. But, re- - life, home, family, mar- procreate children. Please But I also come at ally, shouldn’t we be more riage, children, faith-that don’t vote to change that. If this as an American citi- upset-and worried-about are protected, not rede- whatever we want, but what about other rights, you do, you are claiming the zen, who reads our forma- this perilous presumption the liberty to do what we like that of a child to be power to change what is not tive principles as limiting of the State to reinvent the ing omnipotence. ought; we acknowledge raised in a family with a into what is, simply because government, not unleash- fined, by Please, a State not presum- here! that not every desire, urge, mom and a dad? you say so. This is false, it ing it to tamper with life’s niable truth-one man, one We cherish true freedom, want, or chic cause is au- Our beliefs should most basic values. woman,very definition united of in an lifelong unde- not as the license to do tomatically a “right.” And, not be viewed as discrimi- and common sense. Catholic New York is wrong, and it defies logic Catholics often make the Sign of the Cross casu- ally, just as a nice gesture for beginning and ending their prayers. But when we learn to take this act seriously, SIGN· OF GRACE, SIGN OF GLORY signing ourselves frequently with faith and reverence, Six Reasons Why We Make the Sign of the Cross remarkable results can take place. We find ourselves do- 2. A renewal of baptism. First century Chris- The Church Fa- ing measurably better in our Christian life: Praying with tians began making the Sign of the Cross as a reminder thers used the same more passion, resisting our bad inclinations more effec- and renewal of what happened to them when they were word for the Sign of the tively, and relating to others more kindly. baptized. It still works the same way for us. Cross that the ancient The Sign of the Cross, after all, is not merely a When we sign ourselves we are declaring that world employed to in- pious gesture. It is a powerful prayer, a sacramental of in baptism we died sacramentally with Christ on the dicate ownership. The the Church. cross and rose to a new life with Him (see Rom 6:3-4 same word named a Scripture, the Church Fathers and saints, and shepherd’s brand on Catholic teaching offer six perspectives on the Sign of the his sheep, a general’s Cross that reveal why making it opens us to Iife-transform- tattoo on his soldiers, a ing graces. Once we grasp them, we can make the gesture householder’s mark on with more faith and experience its great blessings. his servants, and the Lord’s mark on His disciples. Six Reasons to Make the Sign Signing ourselves recognizes that we are 1. A mini-creed. The Sign of the Cross is a pro- Christ’s sheep and can count on His care; His soldiers, fession of faith in God as He has revealed himself. It commissioned to work with Him in advancing His king- serves as an abbreviated form of the Apostles’ Creed. and Gal 2:20). We are asking the Lord to renew in us dom on earth; and His servants, dedicated to doing Touching our forehead, breast and shoulders those baptismal graces. whatever He tells us. (and in some cultures, our lips as well), we declare our We are also acknowledging that baptism joined 4. An acceptance of suffering. Jesus promised belief in the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. We are us to the Body of Christ and equipped us for our role of us that suffering would be a normal part of a disciple’s announcing our faith in what God has done - the cre- collaborating with the Lord in His work of rescuing all life (see Lk 9:23-24). So when we mark our bodies with ation of all things, the redemption of humanity from sin people from sin and death. the sign, we are embracing whatever pain comes as a and death, and the establishment of the Church, which 3. A mark of discipleship. At baptism the Lord consequence of our faith in Christ. Making the sign is offers new life to all. When we sign ourselves we are claimed us as His own by marking us with the Sign of our taking up the cross and following Him (Lk 9:23). making ourselves aware of God’s presence and opening At the same time, however, it comforts us with ourselves to His action in our lives. ing our loyalty to Him. By tracing the cross on our bod- That much alone would be enough to trans- ies,the Cross.we are Now, denying when that we we sign belong ourselves, to ourselves we are and affirm- de- for us, now joins us in our suffering and supports us. form us spiritually, wouldn’t it? But there is much, much claring that we belong to Him alone (see Lk 9:23). the realization Signing that ourselves Jesus, whoalso enduredannounces the another Crucifixion sig- more.

“You must keep on praying and the Holy Spir- tonificant the Lord’s truth: saving with workSt Paul, of perfectingwe are celebrating the Church that in ourho- it will come to your aid. Remember how we make the linessafflictions (see as Coil members :24). of the body of Christ contribute’ Sign of the Cross? We say “In the name of the Father, 5. A two-edged move against the devil. When the Son and the Holy Spirit.” We know that the Father the devil watched Jesus die on the cross, he mistakenly who is God loves us. Then we look to Jesus as the Son believed he had won a great victory. Instead, the Lord of God to show us the way for He too was a human be-

1 81 ing like us and knew despair and heartache. Then the surprised him with an ignominious defeat (see 1 Cor Holy Spirit comes within us and gives us the strength By Sirohmi Gunesekera and courage to go on.”explained Nalin. 2:8). From the first Easter morning through the present, “So you think that it is from the invisible Holy On one level, then, making the sign is a defen- Spirit that we draw our strength. That is why the Feast the Sign of the Cross makes the devil cower and flee. The Holy Spirit of Pentecost is depicted with Tongues of Fire over the ence. But, more “I just can’t go on. My whole world has col- heads of the apostles. The Holy Spirit enabled them to sive move, declaring our inviolability to the devil’s influ- lapsed. My beloved Daddy is dead,” moaned Ilika. speak in different languages and gave them fortitude. Take time for a minute of “My dear, I am so sorry. I know how close the Perhaps we need to recognize that we are totally help- two of you were. You who lost your mother at a ten- less without the Holy Spirit to guide us. Maybe I too humour - smile! der age grew up being dependent on your father for will get over the loss of Daddy and be able to cope,” It’s strange isn’t it, how diffi cult love. That is why you did not even have a boyfriend. said Ilika. and boring when you want to “Just live for the moment and ask God to help read one chapter of the to God for help?”suggested Nalin. you cope. You have to undergo “Grief Work” and come Bible but how easy it is to read Now you “I are try thirty to pray five and but alone. am overwhelmed Why don’t you by pray the to terms with the loss of your father. In time, you will the Newspaper for hours. sense of loss. Often, I burst into tears and feel heal and the Holy Spirit will be with you throughout,” Rev. Fr. Fraccid Anthony Fernando OMI bereft,” confessed Ilika. advised Nalin. 7 The Messenger 03rd June 2012 A page from our British Colonial past

Compiled by: Kishani S. Fernando

This Sunday in honour of the Feast of Trinity Sunday, we focus on a pretty little Anglican Church, dedicated to the Holy Trinity in Nuwara Eliya.

he cruciform Church surrounded by its churchyard of tombstones is a veritable page from our British colonial T past while the tall cypress, pines and fi rs that gives shade to its garden and the colourful beds of fl owering shrubs makes it picture perfect. The Church dates back to 1852 when it was 18 April 1954. It is recorded that a special Red Carpet ordered a busy English town in the tropics. consecrated by Bishop Chapman on St. Matthias’ Day, 24th from England was laid along the aisle, from the Baptismal Amongst the more famous names was a plaque February, dedicated to the Holy Trinity. It was a time when Font (at the bottom of the Church) to the High Altar to grace “To the gentle memory of Lina Lady Ridgeway wife of the Nuwara Eliya was experiencing an infl ux of European settlers this special occasion. Right Honorable Sir West Ridgeway, Governor of Ceylon who were into coffee and then the tea plantations. It was a The high altar is of white marble elegantly carved 1896 -1903, who passed away at Bracknell Brooks 16 June church built for the colonial planting community, designed with miniature pillars highlighting a Trinitarian design. The 1907. The tablet was erected by her devoted husband and very much in the style that they remembered back home. cross at the center is set against a pink marble backdrop as daughters in Nuwara Eliya which she loved so much.” The origin of the Church is attributed to a meeting the Greek symbols Alpha (beginning) and Omega (end) Another was dedicated to “Dr. George Cardnner, held in 1845 where it was considered that a church was which fl ank it. Immediately below the altar is a railing with Late Supt. of the Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya. Born at needed for the spiritual ministration of the fast expanding an intricate bronze fl oral design. Glasgow died at Nuwara-Eliya March 12. 1849.” European community who had made Nuwara Eliya or its The heavily and elaborately carved pulpit has the Yet another was dedicated to the “Sacred to the neighbourhood their home. The estimated cost of the building name of its donor and the circumstances of its donation memory of Thomas Farr of North Cove Bogowantalawa. A was 900 sterling pounds. The architect was a gentleman by sculpted in intricate English letters of wood around it. lover of nature and God.” And the list goes on. the name of Nelson. Construction was carried out chiefl y The “Hawk Lecturn” of Burnished Brass and its wooden The churchyard also contains many interesting by men of the 15th regiment under the supervision of Major counterpart are classic. The white marble baptismal font, is tombstones. Amongst them are those of Lady Olive Mary Brunker Commandant of Nuwara Eliya. Major Brunker heavily carved and stand prominently at the bottom of the Caldecott, wife of Sir Andrew Caldecott, the last Governor of was assisted by Corporal Moore who had a reputation as an Church. Ceylon, and the family members of Sir Samuel Baker explorer expert builder. It is recorded that it took 7 years to complete The ancient pipe organ that stands on the side is a and pioneered settler of modern day Nuwara Eliya. the building. gift to the Church, it appeared The Church has been enlarged twice thereafter. in more recent times. A small However the Church retains its original architectural features plaque tells us its story: “A and most of its valuable church furnishing is in good order gem of an organ that has and preservation The fi rst thing you notice as you walk into served Stockton-on-Tees the Church is the rather unusual wooden screen that hangs Unitarian Church England half way down from the ceiling, up over your head. The said from 1895 2005. May its screen taken together with the wooden railing immediately music bring joy to Holy below, which may be opened up, in effect separates the Trinity Church.” congregation from the sanctuary. This was once a common The Church walls feature in most churches but has been removed in many today. are set with marble, bronze In church architecture it is referred to as the ‘rood screen’ and gold-plated plaques and tablets in memory of its once vast and distinguished congregation. Reading these plaques is like being whisked in a time machine to a time when an European colonial congregation lived and worshipped here. A time when Nuwara Eliya was the model hill station, a delightful health resort and

Virgin Blessed, Thou Star of the Fairest he month of May dedicated to the depicting the historic greeting by Elizabeth of her young Blessed Mother ends with the feast cousin Mary is from the Church dedicated to Our Lady of the visitation which the of Expectation Mutwal. T st Church celebrates on the 31 of May is of medieval origin. It was kept by the Franciscan Order before 1263, and soon its observance spread throughout the entire Church. The feast of the Visitation and is intricately carved and hangs delicately like a veil. recalls to us the following great truths Over this the dark polished wooden ceiling lends a quaint and events: The visit of the Blessed old world charm. While the supporting timber trusses add Virgin Mary to her cousin Elizabeth a near gothic effect. The choir stalls are of solid oak, I was shortly after the Annunciation; the told. cleansing of John the Baptist from The Church windows are dressed with exquisite original sin in the womb of his stained glass, in my view some of the best to be found in mother at the words of Our Lady’s Sri Lanka. The centre glass over the high altar depict angels greeting; Elizabeth’s proclaiming of glorifying God. The other glass on the sides and at the rear Mary under the inspiration of the of the Church depict focal scenes from the life of Jesus. The Holy Ghost as Mother of God and large glass on the east wall of the Mary Chapel depicting “blessed among women”; Mary’s the “Madonna” was installed to celebrate the centenary singing of the sublime hymn, anniversary of the Church in 1952. The stained glass with Magnifi cat (“My soul doth magnify The British Royal Emblem, placed in the right wing in 1954, the Lord”) which has become a with the inscription “Kings Shall come to the brightness of part of the daily offi cial prayer thy rising” was a gift to the Church from Her Majesty the of the Church. The Visitation is Queen and His Royal Highness the Duke who attended the frequently depicted in art. Good Friday and Easter Morning Service in this Church on T h e s t a t u e h e r e 8 The Messenger 03rd June 2012 Mahatma Gandhi's View on Christianity Why I didn’t become a follower of Christ? ously exploring becoming a Christian, “A rose does not which led him to his discovery of a need to preach. It simply small church gathering in his locality. spreads its fragrance. These strongly entrenched The fragrance is its own Biblical teachings have always acted a sermon…the fragrance of panacea to many of India's problems religious and spiritual life during its freedom struggle. After deciding to attend the than that of the rose.” church service in South Africa, he is much finerIn many and ways subtler came across a racial barrier, the Gandhi was right, the church barred his way at the door. intense proselytization by "Where do you think you're Christian missionaries in f not for Mohandas Karamchand India through force and Gandhi, the Indian Independence Gandhi in a belligerent tone. allurement forced him to Istruggle would have taken longer going, kaffir?"Gandhi anreplied, English man asked make many scathing state- with more bloodshed, division and war. "I'd like to attend worship ments against Christian When senior leaders of the here." missionaries, which sev- Hindu political groups urged Gandhi to The church elder snarled at eral times inspired them respond 'violence with violence' and to retrospect and change 'sword with sword', he opposed insist- church. Get out of here or I'll have my the way of approach in ing and exhorting the path of non– assistantshim, "There's throw no youroom down for kaffirs the steps." in this ‘Evangelism’. violence and peace, which was Gandhi's This infamous incident forced "If Jesus came to biggest sword to combat the trained and Gandhi to never again consider being earth again. He would dis- fully-equipped forces. a Christian, but rather adopt what he own many things that are For sure this great man is one found in Christianity and its founder being done in the name of of the most respected leaders of modern Jesus Christ. Christianity," Gandhi said history, for not only his life, but also his In a speech to Women Mis- during his meeting with an ideals and his message to the people. sionaries in 28 July 1925, he said, “… English missioner. Although Hindu, Gandhi had a although I am myself not a Christian, Here I am remem- very close connection with Christian- as an humble student of the Bible, who bered of Sadhu Sundar ity and admired Jesus very much, often approaches it with faith and reverence, I Singh who is said to have quoting from his favourite 'Sermon on wish respectfully to place before you the done more to "indigenize" essence of the Sermon on the Mount.... the churches of India than When the missionary E. Stanley There are thousands of men and women - Jonesthe Mount' met Gandhi Chapter he in asked Mathew him, 5–7. today who, though they may not have eth century. "Mr. Gandhi, though you quote heard about the Bible or Jesus have any figures"You in havethe twenti of- the words of Christ often, why is that more faith and are more God-fearing fered us Christianity in a clarity, "First, I would suggest that all you appear to so adamantly reject be- than Christians who know the Bible and Western cup... Give it to us in an Eastern Christians, missionaries begin to live coming his follower?" who talk of its Ten Commandments..." bowl and we will drink of it," is a famous more like Jesus Christ. Gandhi replied, To a Christian missionary statement by Singh, who converted from Second, practice it without "Oh, I don't reject Christ. I love Gandhi once said, “To live the gospel is Sikh to Christianity after his personal adulterating it or toning it down. Third, Christ. It's just that so many of you the most effective way most effective in experience with Jesus, who appeared emphasize love and make it your work- Christians are so unlike Christ." the beginning, in the middle and in the in his room on one morning in the year ing force, for love is central in Christi- “If Christians would really live end. …Not just preach but live the life anity. Fourth, study the non–Christian according to the teachings of Christ, as according to the light.... If, therefore, you old. found in the Bible, all of India would be go on serving people and ask them also 1905, whenStanley he was Jones just once fifteen-years asked Christian today,” he added.. to serve, they would understand. Gandhi: “How can we make Christianity the good that is within them, in order to religions more sympathetically to find Gandhi's closeness with Chris- But you quote instead John naturalized in India, not a foreign thing, have a more sympathetic approach to tianity began when he was a young man 3:16 and ask them to believe it and that the people." practicing law in South Africa. Apart has no appeal to me, and I am sure peo- and a foreign people, but a part of the "Therefore it is very important from being attached with the Christian ple will not understand it...the Gospel nationalidentified life with of Indiaa foreign and governmentcontributing its for Christians to practise Christianity faith, he intently studied the Bible and will be more powerful when practiced power to India’s uplift?" among the non-believers so that they the teachings of Jesus, and was also seri- and preached.” Gandhi responded with great can know the real love of Lord jesus" Combining Humility of Intellect and Spirit

By Kuruvilla Pandikattu Sj is Christian ethics — the basis of action His ardent desire is that "the 1985, was quite whimsical, hilarious on love, the brotherhood of all men, the humility of the intellect," with its sci- ichard Feynman is known as a and anecdotalHis first with memoir, the apt written title: Surely in value of the individual — the humility Rcheerful eccentric who liked to You're Joking, Mr. Feynman. A second of the spirit." Such an evaluation by an spirit" with its spiritual openness will "play bongos, chase women, and solve Feynman memoir, What Do You Care "avowed atheist," as he called himself, critiqueentific quest and reinforceand "the humilityeach other. of theThese advanced problems in theoretical What Other People Think? was pub- is both an opportunity and challenge two heritages are the prized possession physics." He is one of the most famous lished after his death in 1988. The Feyn- for religion in contemporary India. For of contemporary humans. So he asks: physicists of the post-Einstein era. After in contemporary India more and more "How can we draw inspiration to sup- his studies at the prestigious Massa- man Lectures on Physics remain both a people are naturally turning to logic, port these two pillars of western civili- chusetts Institute of Technology and beginning to doubt and pose serious He was both a serious research- sation so that they may stand together the University of Princeton in 1942, questions. erpopular and a andjovial classical human text being. in theTypically, field. in full vigour, mutually unafraid? Is this he worked during World War II at the So his comment is: "These two not the central problem of our time?" Army Research Centre at Los Alamos, he is not considered a religious man. He heritages are logically, thoroughly con- holds: "Western civilisation, it seems sistent. But logic is not all; one needs These two heritages drive our of the United States. After the war he to me, stands by two great heritages. one's heart to follow an idea." Then he human quest forward. Respecting the helping design the first atomic bomb became closely associated with the asks about the place of religion today: distinction of these two searches, hu- celebrated California Institute of Tech- — the adventure into the unknown, an "If people are going back to religion, mans today need to support both these nology, where he was a professor from unknownOne is the whichscientific must spirit be recognised of adventure as what are they going back to? Is the heritages and thus we can shape our 1951 until his death in 1988. He won being unknown in order to be explored; modern Church a place to give comfort collective destiny. the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1965 for the demand that the unanswerable to a man who doubts God — more, one his work on quantum electrodynamics. mysteries of the universe remain unan- who disbelieves in God? Is the mod- Taken from Financial Chronicle, Physics students remember him even ern church a place to give comfort and Jan 23 2012 today for creating a visual representa- swered; the attitude that all is uncer- (Asia Journal for Priests & the tion of subatomic particles and pioneer- tain; to summarise it — the humility of encouragement to the value of such Religious. ing work in quantum computing. the intellect. The other great heritage doubts?" 9 The Messenger 03rd June 2012 Archdiocesan "Aggiornamento" to be an effective and meaningful agent of Evangelization would like to place the renewal Pope John XXIII to meet often in Rome at the Oblate Faithful should be aware of this process and revival of the Archdiocese of Pope John was serious and sin- House used to show the documents they of renewal and become more familiar IColombo in the light of the Second cere in his quest for a solution and a rel- had to study and brief us as to what was with the teachings of the Church and Vatican Council. It was the inauguration evant methodology for evangelization. happening at the Council. So in our re- especially the Word of God. For this of the Second Vatican Council in the However God had His own plans and it structuring and renewal we too should the Priests and Religious should have year 1962, I was privileged to be at this was for Pope Paul VI to see the conclu- programmes to study the Word of God occasion in Rome as I inaugurated my sion of the Council due to the unexpect- us as Christians, Priests and Religious. and also some of the social teachings reflect and study why God has chosen Theological Studies at this period. There ed demise of Pope John XXIII. Pope John How do we understand our vocation as of the Church together with the Lay were about three thousand Bishops had a natural knack for pleasant and Christians and as a people of God called Leaders, so as to be effective leaders of from all over the world and also non- humane relationships. I can remember and chosen to be sent to preach the Catholic Religious Leaders. There were on the night of the Inauguration of the Good News. "It was not you who chose evangelization. Today with the threat of Council addressing the mammoth crowd me but I who chose you" (Jn.15:16). Let Fundamentalismthe community and it is efficient of paramount agents imof - and Secular Sciences who were there to present at St.Peter's Square, Pope John us be humble enough to accept our real- portance for the laity to be well aware many experts in the fields of Religious facilitate the programme of the Vati- said, "Dear Parents, when you go home ities like lack of Vision and enthusiasm, of the Word of God and Ecclesiastical can Council. It was fascinating to see tonight, kiss your children and tell them dormant and indifferent commitment to practices. So our "Aggiornamento" to be thousands of Seminarians and nuns in that it is a kiss from the Pope." I had our mission and calling because of our realistic and effective it is important to various costumes and colours adding the opportunity of meeting the brother desire for worldly things and niceties, have programmes to build awareness beauty and variety to the scenery at unconscious and unquestioning follow- of Pope John XXIII in Bergamo when for the Priests, Religious and Laity. St.Peter's Square. ing up of modern day trends and forces. I visited his farm. When I went with The monitoring of the "Aggiomamento" These do make us individualistic and Mr.Angelo Capelli, a famous Painter, the with ongoing evaluations is important "Aggiornamento" brother of the Pope came from the farm for its success. Taking into consider- A word that echoed and re- good Christians and also good priests and gave us Cheese and Wine. He was a ation our human weakness it is impor- echoed during this period was the word replica of the Pope with a big nose and andselfish, religious. constraining So the usneed of becomingfor all of us in tant to work as a group encouraging one "Aggiornamento" which Pope John XXIII a natural expression of friendship and this period of "Aggiornamento" to look another mutually so that they may be on used, to explain the purpose of the warmth. at ourselves and amend our ways so the same wave-length in the implemen- Second Vatican Council. The 'Aggiorna- This affectionate, simple and tation of "Aggiomamento" programmes. mento' meant to bring about a positive outgoing mindset was in their fam- instrument inthe hand of the Lord. I am The administration too should make self-criticism of the Church in the Light ily. Pope Paul VI came from a different surethat wethat could the Laity be effective will see andChrist efficient in us use of the network it has to encourage and inspiration of the Holy Spirit so as background and was a little stiff and re- priests and religious. and animate the priests, religious and to make the Church meaningful and served in his expressions. He was from It is Providential at this period laity on the move with necessary inputs effective and assure the growth, vital- an upper class and an intellectual. He we have the enrichment of the Arch- required for the successful implementa- ity and vibrancy in the task of evange- had to make some special and conscious diocese with two Auxiliary Bishops lization. There were various opinions effort to be somewhat like Pope John. and also the new appointments and tion of the restructuring. and views expressed by the Universal I personally think that he was a great transfers which give us the opportunity Church about Papal Authority, rules and pope chosen by God as the successor of to start our priestly apostolates and Planning regulations regarding morality, popula- Pope John and to see to the conclusions missions with a new enthusiasm and In this whole exercise one tion control, subsidiarity, liturgy and the of the Vatican Council and the imple- change of mind in case if we have fallen important factor is planning. Planning very concept of the Church. mentation of it to a great extent. Some to any unpleasant situations. It gives not only at Diocesan level but also at Pope John XXIII felt that Divine of us had the privilege of being ordained us an opportunity to dream dreams regional, deanery and parish levels so Providence was leading the Church to by him at St.Peter's Basilica at the end of anew and choose right directions and that planning wouid be realistic and a new order of human relations. He the Second Vatican Council. dedications with a new discipline and achievable. The person at the grass-root realized that the sacred traditions, our In the Vatican Council we ex- devotion. Let us surrender ourselves will know how to apply the decisions patrimony of truth received from the perienced an openness and a desire to to the Lord and renew and revive our according to the exigencies and re- Fathers should be preserved. How- commitment to Christ who called us sources available. Almost two years ago ever the Church too should look to the a lot of arguments and many had the to be with Him so as to come to know we spoke about strategic planning. The present, to the new conditions and aimlearn and from the the objective flow of ofideas. the Council,There were the Him and then to be sent (Mt.4:4-6) so difference between strategic planning "Aggiornamento" of the Church in their that we may bear fruit, fruit that lasts. and long-term planning is that strate- mind and attempted to interpret them (Jn.15:16). gic planning makes greater emphasis moderncultures, world new life-styles and the confusions and scientific and trusting in God and under the inspira- on strategies in the achievement of convictionsdevelopments that that have have trickled influenced down the to tion of the Holy Spirit. Pope himself Anchored the Vision or the long-term objective. grass-roots demanding new responses was humble and open. At the opening I want to share with you some Strategic planning go through periodical and interpretations of our deposit of address Pope John said that the goal of experience I had. When I was a young evaluations and remedy the strategies faith. A good example is our change of the council was to eradicate the seeds priest. I used to be involved in youth accordingly. Today things change very attitude towards other religions and our of discord and promote peace and the and University student apostolates. Well quickly and unexpectedly. Even in our ecumenical approach after the Second unity of all humankind. He also said that I used run from place to place meeting missionary ventures there are so many Vatican Council. with regard to doctrine that the Council them and having study sessions with changes that take place. The transfers There were the Progressives Fathers should keep in mind the distinc- them but I did not have much time to themselves can be a constraint. Political and the Conservatives exchanging ideas tion between substance of doctrine and pray or to be with the Lord. I was con- system can be a hindrance to the work and views that some times created em- the way in which it is presented. He vinced that working and meeting people of the Church. Therefore there is a need barrassment to authorities and simple was keen to make the Church a World too was prayer and it hardly occurred of a monitoring mechanism or a team so faithful. So in this confused environment Church and not a Western Church. This that Jesus who too was very busy found as to intervene and remedy such situa- the Holy Spirit inspired Pope John XXIII direction and objective the Pope gave or time to be with the Father and had time tions. who was elected as a night-watchman the Vision he created went a long way for that vertical relationship. Gradually I So in our restructuring and or a stop-gap, to take this bold and for the Council to focus their attention realized that my inner spiritual treasury "Aggiornamento" of the Archdiocese courageous step of launching a General in a practical and relevant manner. was running dry. This can happen to there should be constant monitoring

many of us but there is no substitute for and establishment of check and bal- Vatican Council held in 1868 for the Effective Instruments the time you spend with the Lord. It is AggiornamentoCouncil of the Church of the afterChurch. the first ances so that we may tread towards In the Archdiocesan "Aggiorna- the power house. It is that that gives ef- There were ideas and thoughts mento" too we need a practical and clear our goals which too should be clearly expressed vehemently from every part vision. Bishops and priests should be Christians and brother priests let us see of the globe. Western Europe with their convinced and clear as to the vision and ficacy and animation. So my dear fellow well aware of it. In this whole process whether we are anchored on the Lord defined so that every participant may be background of Reformations and Coun- targets, it is important that our strate- the Dean should be a catalyst of renewal as Christians, Priests and Religious. No ter Reformations came belligerently and gic planning is not vague but clear and 'Aggiornamento' is possible without this and revival. They should be motivated forcefully with their literary acumen practical, precise and measurable. At connection. and trained so as to animate and en- on theology and philosophy to make any stage we should be able to monitor The "Aggiornamento" of the courage both priests and laity. Let us an impact on the Council Fathers. One and evaluate the progress and if neces- Second Vatican Council in some areas sary amend the plans. was a failure because of our failure to Virgin Mary to be with us as she was Many bishops did their study the documents and see to the with thefaith apostles and confidence in the Cenacle ask Blessed assur - ofwriter the names explained that this were flow in theof ideas air were as homework and attended the council implementation of the resolutions. If we ing us the help of the Holy Spirit. Karlthe Rhine Rahner, flowing Yves Congar,in to the Henri Tiber. Lubac, Some with sincerity and seriousness doing are to see to the renewal or the revival Edward Schillebeeckx, Hans Kung, and their studies enthusiastically. Our late Rev. Fr. Crispin Leo Piolanti. Thomas Cardinal Cooray whom we used of the Church, Priests, Religious and 10 The Messenger 03rd June 2012 APPRECIATION Jesus the If tears could build a staircase ..... Bohemian Man and Nazareth * Third Month Remembrance Biblical Bohemian Her life in this were no words for her big of responsibility who ac- up to heaven and bring you Starring anew world began as a daughter loving heart. Her kindness, complished everything home again. No farewell who brought happiness to love, concern, greatness, with devotion. words were spoken, no God promised land her parents, late Charles generosity and hospital- But life swayed time to say goodbye, you In retinue Appuhamy and Mary Sub- ity lead to help others who proving it wasn’t a bed of were gone before we knew Disciples diverse asinghe and as a sister to are in need. roses. All dreams collapsed it and only God knows why. Many made follow three brothers - Gregory, She was innocent, with her cancer diagnosis Our hearts still ache and like to hear, there’s a smile New star divine Dr. Polycarp, Nemisius, sincere, humble and hon- last July. She hardly re- we will remember of one God he claims and three sisters - Late est and was never jealous vealed her pain to others, what it means to lose you who is precious and dear. In heaven the father secret tears still flow. But Irene, Perlita and Susila of anyone. She was always never wanted her loved no one will ever know. In These are the treasures Teah he did our hearts you dwell with we tenderly hold today, who she doted on. They in with a smile, full of life, ones to go through the contradictions turn were very fond of her. mannerism and courtesy. pain. She showed us how love, in God’s care you rest tomorrow and our whole Prevailing customs She was a de- So she was loved by every- above, deep in our hearts life through. In silence and voted Catholic, who never one. there was no answer, re- you are always near, still prayers we always love Provocative, Outspoken missed church services She also excelled allyto fight no cure. an illness She passed where loved still missed and very and remember you. Eter- Preaching gathered and prayers and who had in sewing and gardening. away in the morning of 1st dear. You have gone from nal rest grant unto her Crowds, Momentum an abiding faith in God and The beautiful garden with March 2012. An irreplace- our sight, but never from 0 Lord and let perpetual Jews, Highpriests devoted her entire life to be foliage around the house able void was left in our our thoughts. No words light shine upon her and Rejection and anger a living testimony for Jesus in Negombo is a proof of hearts with her departure. could ever say how much may her soul rest in peace. Resolute, Percevered Christ. She lived such an her prowess in garden- The love she bore towards we love you and how much Death to rise again exemplary life as a human ing. She was an authority we miss you. The memories Fondly remem- Proving all world of the days you spent with bered with undying love being who helped anyone on culinary matters and in the eyes of those who Jesus is God when she felt they needed loved seeing everyone en- missedher family her. was reflected us will remain forever. and gratitude by beloved saved man some assistance. She was joying the delicious dishes If tears could build There’s a face husband Eustace, loving more concerned about the she turned out. She was a a stairway and memories a that’s ever before us, daughter Shivoli and Son- This Biblical King welfare of others. There woman with a deep sense lane, we would walk right there’s a voice we would In-Law Nishantha. Sent by: Miran Perera Catholic Church in Sri Lanka in an indigenous outlook When I Die

Last Sunday the Catholic 1940s deviated from the normal in October 1952. In 1953, the St. Joseph in coat and trousers. Community in the University of pattern and has elements of orien- society allied itself with University It should be emphasised that Peradeniya celebrated the pa- tal architecture. Catholic students world-wide and Our Lady appeared in Lourdes in tronal feast of the Chapel of Mary, changed its name into Newman France and Fatima in Portugal in Our Lady of the Seat of Wisdom in Lanka to be built strictly adhering Society. her usual Jewish dress and not in collaboration with the Newman to indigenous The first art andchurch architecture in Sri With the shifting of Western frock. Society Alumni Association. This was St. Mary’s Church, Badalgama. the Arts Faculty of the Univer- As such the Blessed Vir- It was the brainchild Rev. of Fr. sity Fr. Ignatious Pinto moved gin Mary has to be depicted in her When I die since this year is the Diamond Ju- Henry Rodrigo OMI, which was to Peradeniya as lecturer in usual garb even to depict her with No weaping will bileeyear’s of feast the formationhas added ofsignificance, the New- begun in 1953 and completed in European History and Chaplain a national outlook. This aspect man Society. Some of the founder 1956. of the Catholic students. Soon Comfort my soul members of the Newman Society In building St. Mary’s he conceived the idea to build a Mosaic of the Chapel of Our Lady But Prayer will like Rev. Fr. Derrick Mendis, Rev. Church, Badalgama, Fr. Henry chapel and a hall of residence. ofis magnificentlythe Seat of Wisdom. dealt within the Fr. Egerton Perera sj, Prof. Ashley Rodrigo adopted art and architec- After months of tenacious cor- At present the women Indeed be fruitful Halpe, Rev. Fr. Joseph. Eustace ture, sculptural forms and decora- respondence Fr. Iganatious Pinto in Sri Lanka except some Muslim When breath stops Fernando, were present on this tive designs in the Anuradhapura managed to get a land within the ladies do not cover their heads occasion. period. University Campus. with the saree. The Jewish custom The soul departs The chief celebrant at the He followed Kandyan While the construction of covering the head is retained in from the body concelebrated High Mass held at architecture in designing the of the project was in progress Fr. the Mosaic. When life ends the Chapel was His Lordship, Vian- outer structure, facade and the Ignatious Pinto took up residence However the saree and the body loses ney Joseph Fernando, Bishop of roof. St. Mary’s Church Badal- in the site sharing part of the shed the manner it is worn has the ori- All its glory Kandy. This unique Church is the gama has proved that a beautiful meant for workers and supervised ental touch. As a result Our Lady church could be built following it tirelessly making a tremendous is presented in her usual appear- Hence, I plead outlook in Sri Lanka. indigenous art and architecture. ance in an oriental outlook. Any With you, please first chapel with the indigenous The European missionar- Now almost all the new Catholic Due to his courage, Sri Lankan or an Indian looking Dispose my ies during the Portuguese times churches in Sri Lanka are built determinationsacrifice. and perseverance who established the Catholic with an indigenous outlook. Fr. Pinto could make his dream a accordance with his own native Lifeless, soul less Church in Sri Lanka in the 16th When the construction of reality under two years. It was Fr. background.at the Mosaic could find her in body on the very day century imposed Western culture the celebrated St. Mary’s Church, Ignatious Pinto who named the Besides the Mosaic of the My life ends on people along with Christianity. Badalgama was in progress, chapel with the inspiring choice Chapel of Our Lady of the Seat of During the Dutch times, though not in such a grandiose ‘Chapel of Our Lady of the Seat of Wisdom is a fascinating work of Spending lavishly the Oratorian priests made an form, another Chapel with an Wisdom’. art pregnant with meaning. The for the funeral attempt to bring about a synthe- indigenous outlook was taking Fr. Ignatious Pinto built authority of Our Lady is mani- for the sake of others sis between Christian traits and shape in the foothills of Hantane. the Chapel in accordance with fested with a throne laid upon a to please others, indigenous cultural patterns. Nev- This was the Church of Our Lady national concepts with Kandyan Lotus which symbolises purity. is a SIN indeed. ertheless the art and architecture of the Seat of Wisdom in the elements and Lotus shaped lamps The crest jewel in her crown and remained Western. Peradeniya University Campus. etc. to fall in line with the early angels worshipping her makes her Seba In 1940s when the admin- The Chapel was designed University buildings in Peradeniya. a queen. istration of the Church began to by the then Peradeniya University The triumphant climax of his The seven lamps at her enous art and architecture be indigenised there was a renais- Catholic Chaplain and well known thinking is the Mosaic with Our feet are interpreted as the light and its wonderful Mosaic sance in the sphere of Catholic scholar Rev. Fr. Ignatious Pinto. Lady of the Seat of Wisdom in of the Holy Spirit endowing the with an oriental outlook cultural activity. The late Bishop Its construction was initi- saree in an indigenous framework gifts of knowledge, understanding, is a unique structure that Edmund Pieris revived some works ated in 1953 and was completed with a Kandyan arch at the top. wisdom, counsel, fortitude piety adorns Peradeniya Univer- of Oratorian missionaries. within two years. It was blessed He commissioned the and fear of the Lord. The light sity Campus. Others like by Dr. Bernard Regno OSB, the Goan artist Angela Trinidad to lay emanating from the Holy Infant on It stands as a Rev. Fr. D.J. Anthony, Fr. Marcel- Bishop of Kandy and was formally out the Mosaic. Such an outstand- lap radiates 32 stars found in the monument to its creator line Jayakody, Sunil Shantha and inaugurated in late 1955. In a way background. the great and holy priest J.K.S. Perera produced outstanding the Chapel of Our Lady of the Seat is not found in any other Catholic The Mosaic of the Chapel of God, erudite historian religious literary works and hymns of Wisdom could be considered as Churching Mosaic in Sri with Lanka. an oriental flavour of Our Lady of the Seat of Wisdom and founder chaplain of that contained both Christian There is a tendency encompasses all the virtues an the Newman Society in traits and national outlook. outlook. among some to depict Blessed Vir- undergraduate should possess Peradeniya, Rev. Fr. Igna- Until the 1950s the the first church The Arts with Faculty an indigenous of the gin Mary in cloth and jacket and St. when he or she comes out to the tious Pinto. Catholic churches in Sri Lanka University of Ceylon was shifted to Joseph in national dress to bolster world. As a whole this Chapel is were built on Western models Peradeniya in 1952. The Catholic up the national ethos. a masterpiece manifesting Sri (The writer is a former High following Roman forms and Greek Students who moved to Peradeni- This is absurd, for in Lankan national identity. Court judge and a vice presi- Gothic style. However the Bassilica ya University Campus formed the that event in the West Our Lady The Chapel of Our Lady of dent of the Newman Society in Tewatta which was designed in Catholic Students’ Union there should be presented in frock and the Seat of Wisdom with its indig- Alumni Association). 1311 The Messenger 03rd June 2012 wisdom and counsel. Likewise tion. We also call on the Holy Spir- when you pray the Holy Spirit itBaptism any time and we again want ator Confirma-need Him will give you the necessary gift in our life: “.. .how much more will Holy Spirit according to your need. the Heavenly Father give the Holy The Holy Spirit gives Spirit to those who ask Him!” (Lk The Power gifts: have a desire to study well and us these gifts. But a gift that lies get good marks. But you feel you on the table without ever being 11:13). When we receive the gift The gift of faith, healing, and are not able to do so. You pray to unwrapped does us no good. of the Holy Spirit we are known working of miracles. the Holy Spirit for the gift of un- Make good use of the gifts that as the Temples of the Holy Spirit The Revelation gifts: derstanding and He will give you the Holy Spirit has given you. by (cf. I Cor 6:19); that means the The gifts of the word of wisdom, the same. And in the process of following the example of Jesus, Holy Spirit resides in us. the word of knowledge and dis- praying you have also received and the heroes and Saints we cerning of spirits. learn about in the Bible and in The difference between the the tradition of the Church. God’s gift of the Holy Spirit How to know what gifts sionsthe gift if of you piety-. pray When to the you Holyfind and the gifts of Holy Spirit: we have ? Spiritit difficult He will to give take you certain the gift deci- of Courtesy:Divine Voice When the Holy Spirit is “We must know that he Holy Spirit is the Spir- poured out upon a person, this there are varieties of gifts, but it of God. God gives His one gift is manifested in differ- the same Spirit; and there are varieties of services, but the Spirit as a free gift to us: ent ways and we call them as T same Lord; and there are vari- “... I will pour out my spirit on all gifts of the Holy Spirit: ‘Wis- eties of activities, but it is the dom, Understanding, Counsel, same God who activates all of Knowledge, Fortitude, Piety, out my spirit.” (Joel 2:28-29). them in everyone. To each is flesh... in those days, I will pour Jesus said: “You will be baptized Fear of God.’ These are the given the manifestation of the with the Holy Spirit not many permanent dispositions which Spirit for the common Good” (I days from now. When the day of make a person docile in follow- Pentecost had come ... suddenly ing the prompting of the Holy the Holy Spirit are discovered from Heaven there came ... and Spirit. Our spiritual life is sus- throughCor 12:4-7). our interests/desires.Usually the gifts of a tongue rested on each of them. tained by these gifts. These gifts We always feel being are of three categories: drawn to do certain things and Holy Spirit and began to speak we know that it pleases God: The Vocal gifts: “It is God who is at work in you, inAll other of them languages, were filled as the with Spirit the The gifts of Prophecy, speaking enabling you both to will and gave them ability” (Acts 2:1-4). in tongues, and interpretation to work for His good pleasure” We receive the Holy Spirit at of tongues. (Phil 2:13). For example, you The Perfect Solution I Enjoy Teaching Once upon a time there to where the 17 camels fathers decree was that I teach at Yamatho Lanka Montessori at Ma- lived a rich man. He had were lined up. the youngest should get hara- Nugegoda. I enjoy teaching very much. I love the 3 sons and 17 camels. Thus, 18 camels stood one ninth that is 2 cam- children. The children love me too. There are six classes When he died a prob- ready to be divided. The els. He took two camels in the school they are Tharaka (star), Walakulu (cloud), lem arose about how king called the eldest and left for his home. Dedunu (Rainbow) Sandu (Moon), Hiru (Sun) Manda- to divide the 17 camels. son and requested him One solitary camel re- kini. I am in charge of the star class. According to the law of to take his share. mained. The King took In May 2012 a teacher was absent for many that land, the eldest son The eldest now had no the camel and returned days. I was burdened with that class too. I could not do would receive half share, problem he took 9 cam- to his palace. proper teaching, not even in my class. I am sorry for the the second son - one els and went happily on Are you faced with a children. third and the third son his way. situation that seems to Sanduni Prasadika, Tewatte one ninth. The second son had no have no answer? Don't After much squabbling cause for disappoint- waste time squabbling and arguments the three ment. His allotted share and fighting, fretting sons finally decided to was one third he gath- and fuming. Take your seek the advice of the ered 6 camels and went problem to the King of king. The king listened off. 3 camels remained. Kings. He will give you Giving up my Captaincy to their story; then he led The youngest the prefect solution. I was the captain of the Cricket team of Jaya- in one of his own camels could not complain. His kody Maha Vidyalaya. For the last three years. In Feb- ruary 2012 my team lost to Ananda College, Chilaw. So I had to give up my captaincy. That was a sad day in my life. Nisshanka Archchilage Chathuranga Lakmal Jayakody Maha Vidyalaya, Welipillawa, Ganemulla

(next week) 1412 The Messenger 03rd June 2012 Kiddies Sportsmeet at dental Clinic for St. Joseph's College, Wattala Pamunugama MV

First ever Lenten Programme Children of Moratuwa, St. Sebastian's Balika St. Joseph's College, Wattala took another great initiative to teach children traditional values and games en programme led by Rev. Fr. Tony Pinto school children underwent following the closure of the by organizing a colorful and eventful Avurudu Festival Maha Vidyalaya for the first time particpatedDoreen in a Lent-Pinto School Dental When the Clinic media attached spotlighted to the the Primary difficulties Section the in the College Grounds. Teachers and parents took a lot of Pamunugama, MV, Mr. Merryl Perera member of the of pain to create a traditional village atmosphere, the new Prefects of Kandawala Western PC spent rupees two lakhs out of his funds to Govi Gedera etc. Parish daham School repair the building. Picture shows Rev. Fr. Jude Nicholas, The students of Grades 1 and 2 participated in an old boy of the school with some school staff before declaring open the clinic. (S.K.J. Kurera) Avurudu Games including Kotta Pora, Tug-O-War, Musi- cal Chairs etc. The main feature was the selection of Sin- githi Avurudu Kumari and Kumara. The Sahan Ranwala Children get a glimpse Dancing Troupe added colour to the event. of newspaper work Rev. Fr. Ranjith Andradi, Rector St. Joseph's Col- lege, Wattala thanked all primary school teachers in their effort to make this colorful event a success. Text : Padminie Nanayakkara Picture : Shewin Mahwatta

 "I am the Light of the World" It's your Word that gives light to my parth.  "I am the Vine" Yes, Jesus you invite me to be with you in close intimacy

Fourteen students of St. Theresa's Daham Children from the Daham Schools coming un- School of St. Theresa's Church in Kadawela took their der the Nattandiya Parish had the privilege of undergo- oaths last Sunday as prefects for the year 2012. ing a workshop on newspaper editing and writing. Here they are seen with Rev. Fr. Sarath Tiri- The programme was conducted by Kumara manne, Parish Priest of Kandawela, Mr. Tony Nishantha Nayanajith, of the Gnranartha Pradeepaya, where the and Mrs. Sumudrika Sanjeevani, Daham teachers. children were given an idea on how to write a short news Text and Pic by : report, a feature story and how news photography. Cecil Danicius Pic. Shiyargani, Felicia new School Prefects of Kongodamulla MV Around 31 Stu- dents of the Minu-Katana -Kongodamulla Maha Vidy- alaya, took their oatls as school prefects for the year 2012. Rev. Sister. Preethika Fernando, Principal of the school was the chief guest. Picture shows the children with the teachers. (N0981) Text and photo by : Cecil Danicius (N0959) 1513 The Messenger 03rd June 2012

What it says ..... in the Readings Trinity Sunday

Come, Holy Spirit, fi ll the hearts of First Reading: word that was made deut. 4: 32-34, 39-40 your faithful, and kindle in them the Moses reminds the people of Jesus. Occasion- fi re of your love. of the wonderful acts that God has allyflesh it in was the revealed person performed on behalf of His chosen from the heavens. people. The Lord is God of heaven There were times LITURGICAL CALENDAR YEAR B and earth. There is no other God. when the Israelites 3rd June - 10th June 2012 Therefore Moses wants the people asked for the guid- to keep His commandments and be ance of the Spirit, SUN: THE MOST HOLY TRINITY faithful to Him. either to choose or to anoint a leader, Deut 4: 32-34, 39-40, Second Reading: Rom. 8: 14-17 king or a prophet. Rom. 8: 14-17, Mt. 28: 16-20 St. Paul tells the Romans The Son is promised Mon: 2 Pt. 1: 2-7, Mk. 12: 1-12 that by receiving the Spirit, they as the Saviour yet to have received the son-ship of God come in the future. Tue: Memorial of St. Boniface, Bishop Aid story and share it with Christ. Therefore Therefore it is wrong to say that An explorer had returned & Martyr they became children of God and the Trinitarian aspect of God is not to his people, who were eager to thereby heirs of God and fellow mentioned at all in the Old Testa- 2 Pt.3: 12-15,17-18, Mk. 12:13-17 know all about Amazon. But how heirs with Christ. ment. May be it was not so clear, Wed: Memorial of St. Norbert, Bishop could he ever put into words the but was mentioned in the way that 2 Tim. 1: 1-3,6-12, Mk. 12: 18-27 Gospel: Mk. 28:16-20 could be acceptable to the people of Jesus instructs His disci- that time. Thu: 2 Tim. 2: 8-15, Mk. 12: 28-34 beautyfeeling thatand heardflooded the his frightening heart when ples to go out to the nations, preach It may be even that with Fri: 2 Tim. 3: 10-17, Mk. 12: 35-37 soundhe saw of flowers the forest of breath at night? taking How the Good News and baptize the Christ things were revealed clearer to communicate what he felt in his Sat: 2 Tim. 4: 1-8, Mk. 12: 38-44 faithful “In the name of the Father, and in concrete form. On this feast heart as he sensed the danger of and of the Son and of the Holy day; what we ought to do is not to Sun: THE MOST HOLY BODY AND wild beasts or peddled his canoe Spirit.” He also promises to be with break our heads trying to under- BLOOD OF CHRIST over the treacherous part of the them to the end of time. stand or grasp fully the Trinitarian Ex. 24: 3-8, Hebr 9: 11-15, aspect of God which is a mystery yourselves. There is no substitute Re�lection even for the greatest scholar, but Mk. 14: 12-16,22-26 forriver? personal He said risk go and personalfind out for Today we celebrate the experience. To guide them however, feast of the Most Holy Trinity, three the Holy Trinity and try to adopt he drew a map of the Amazon. They persons but one God. It has never themfind the into qualities our lives that and are thereby there inbe- seized upon the Map. They framed been easy to grasp completely or to come more and more Christian in it in their Town Hall. They made explain fully of God or of the Holy nature and Christ like in our day to PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL personal copies of it. And everyone Trinity. Hence we call it a mystery. day lives. We can get at these facts who had a copy considered himself This is no matter to be alarmed; through Jesus Christ, for he reveals Response: Father, hear us in your love. an expert on the Amazon though for if we humans could understand things better and clearer, we also he did not know every turn and God fully, then God would no more could get at these facts through the For all Christians that they may be tire- bend of the river, and how broad be God or we become equal to God Word of God, the Bible. We could it was and how deep it was, where less in their efforts at spreading the good news of or even more powerful than God. even pray that God would reveal the rapids were and where the falls God's love and care for all the human family. We We can understand only certain them to us direct. For example we were? The explorer lived to regret qualities of God. Even those facts pray in faith. could adopt Trinitarian unity into the map. It might have been better and qualities which we are aware Response: Father, hear us in your love. our lives. Three equal forces united if he had not drawn anything. of are what have been revealed to together, which we cannot see on It is said that the Buddha us by God direct or through Jesus For all rulers that God may grant them our present day lives or society. It steadfastly refused to be drawn into Christ His Son. is love that binds them together so talking about God. He was prob- wisdom and love in their efforts at making the The Trinitarian aspect that no evil forces can separate. The ably acquainted with the danger world a better place to live in for everyone. We of God is revealed very clearly in fact that though they are powerful of drawing maps for the potential pray in faith. today’s Second Reading and in the still makes them able to love the scholars. Response: Father, hear us in your love. Gospel and it occurs quite often in the New Testament, but is not in powerless and make them power- Aid Story 2 the Old Testament. This may be be- For those who have no belief in God that An atheist was spending a cause in a polytheism background as to come down into the world they may discover traces of his love in their heart the Trinitarian aspect of God could inful. order The sacrifice to raise thewhich fallen they and do so boat was attacked by a monster. In and of his greatness in the world. We pray in be misunderstood as another form the down trodden into the grace quiet day fishing when suddenly his of polytheism, God therefore did of God. The shearing of the same faith. and his boat high into the air. As not bring in the Trinitarian aspect blessings with the unblessed…etc. Response: Father, hear us in your love. theone maneasy sailed flip, the head beast over tossed heels, him he of Him to the fore at that time. This But one very important cried out. “Oh my God! Help me!” does not mean that the Trinitar- fact we ought to remember is At once the ferocious attack scene ian aspect was not there from the that the idea of the Holy Trinity is froze in place and as the atheist CATHOLIC PRESS WEBSITE beginning. In the creation story God not a creation by a council or the hung in midair, a booming voice www.colombocatholicpress.lk is mentioned as the Creator, God- Church, but is there throughout the came down from the clouds. “I Email: [email protected] Head. The Spirit is also mentioned Bible and it is mentioned at least thought you didn’t believe in me.” [email protected] when it says “The Spirit of God in today’s Second Reading and in was moving over the face of the the Gospel which are taken respec- “Come on God, give me a break!” the waters.” The Son too is mentioned tively from the letter of St. Paul to Fax: 2692586 man pleaded. “Two minutes ago I when God speaks, “Let there be…. the Romans and from the Gospel of Telephone: 2695984, 2678106, 4899611 didn’t believe in the Monster either.” etc. Those are words and it is the Mathew.

Faith and 1254 For all the baptized, the role of Godfather and the Latin Church, also the children or adults, faith must Godmother, who must be deacon. In case of necessity, Baptism grow after Baptism. For this any person, even someone reason the Church celebrates to help the newly baptized - not baptized, can baptize, if firm believers, able and ready 1253 Baptism is the each year at the Easter child or adult — on the road he has the required intention. Sacrament of the Faith. But Vigil the renewal of baptis- of Christian life.' Their task The intention required is to faith needs the community mal promises. Preparation is a truly ecclesial function will to do what the Church of believers. It is only within for Baptism leads only to the the faith of the Church that does when she baptizes, and threshold of new life. Bap- sial community bears some each of the faithful can be- to apply the Trinitarian bap- tism is the source of that new responsibility(officium). The for whole the devel- eccle- lieve. The faith required for tismal formula. The Church Baptism is not a perfect and life in Christ from which the opment and safeguarding of entire Christian life springs the grace given at Baptism. mature faith, but a beginning sibility in the universal saving forth. finds the reason for this pos- that is called to develop. The will of God and the necessity Who can Baptize? catechumen or the godparent of Baptism for salvation. is asked: "What do you ask of 1255 For the grace of Bap- 1256 The ordinary min- God's Church?" The response tism to unfold, the parents' isters of Baptism are the is: "Faith!" help is important. So too is bishop and priest and, in (Catechism of the Catholic Church)