SINCESINCE FEBFEB 11,186911,1869 THETHE CATHOLIC CATHOLIC WEEKLY WEEKLY OF OF SRI SRI LANKA LANKA

“The heart of our good Mother Mary is all love and mercy. She desires nothing else but our happiness. Holy Father’s Visit to Sri Lanka ‘Abide in Love’ We need only to have recourse to her and we will be heard” Facebook account: - St. John Mary Vianney www.facebook.com/popevisitsrilanka2015 Spiritual preparation for the forthcoming visit of our Holy Father, Pope Francis to Sri Lanka. Special intentions for the Sunday Liturgy SEE Pg.15➤➤ "REGISTERED IN THE DEPARTMENT OF POSTS OF SRI LANKA” UNDER NO. QD / 34 / NEWS /2014 Sunday, October 12, 2014 Vol 145 No 40 20 Pages Rs: 25.00 Registered as a newspaper  At Inauguration of Diamond Jubilee Academic Year Rector of National Seminary highlights challenges to Priestly Formation ector of the Nation- examples of discipleship, Asian countries. al Seminary, Rev. Fr. men who have a deep de- “The Christian RElmo Dias speaking sire which prompts them faithful and clergy in Iraq, at the Inauguration of the to leave everything: “...the Syria and many other Diamond Jubilee Academic boats and the nets.” countries bear witness to Year of the National Semi- Presenting the the faith that emanates nary of Our Lady of Lanka, Annual Report of the Semi- from the Cross. Their life Ampitiya held on October 1 nary to a gathering of Bish- has become a glaring and a said, that the Church needs ops, Religious, Academic brave example of carrying priests who are genuine Staff and Seminarians, Fr. the Cross as Jesus did.” disciples to face up to the Elmo Dias called attention Fr. Elmo said that challenges that are loom- to the anti-Christian atti- this courageous witness ing large against her. tude of the secular world to faith amidst threats and “Therefore, the where there was an open challenges sends a strong Seminaries and their for- “aversion to the Cross and and powerful message to mation programmes to- the clergy and seminar- day have to be geared not from it.” ians, to go interior and ask: only to bring forth men of all the This values negative that flow as- intelligence and wisdom pect, he said, is seen in for the sake of Jesus Christ but also men who are true the socio-political, eco- andHave what we really is it that sacrificed moti- nomic, religious and scien- vates us to move forward in forming ourselves into ‘Lectio Divina’ Western and some Middle the Priesthood of Christ? Easterntific spheres countries mainly in andthe Orientation Talk even in some African and Contd on Pg. 2 His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Winston Fernando SSS, Bishop of Badulla will Countdown to Canonization begins Presbyteral deliver an orientation Fr. Benedict Groeschel passes away talk on ‘Lectio Divina’ on Meeting CNA/EWTN News- Fr. Benedict J. Groeschel, Wednesday, October 15 The next Presbyteral author, former EWTN from 4.00 to 6.00 pm at Meeting of the Archdio- host, and one of the the Peter Pillai Auditori- cese of Colombo is sched- founders of the Commu- um, Aquinas University uled for Monday, October nity of Franciscan Friars College, Colombo 08. The 27 and Tuesday October of the Renewal, passed programme is conducted 28, from 9.30 am each away on October 3. He by the Archdiocesan Bib- day, at the Archdiocesan was 81-years-old. lical Commission (ABC), Auditorium, Archbish- “The Catholic together with the Facul- Commencement of 100 Days mission to the canonization of op’s House, Colombo 8. Church and the Francis- as relief “that God has set ty of Theology, Aquinas Blessed Joseph Vaz and the visit of Pope Francis to Sri Lanka Koinonia University College. began last Sunday (5), with a Holy Mass at the National Ba- can family lost a giant him free from the physi- For details contact: silica, Tewatte. The Mass was celebrated by His Lordship, Rt. today,” the Friars said cal and mental suffering [email protected] he has experienced over 0777749019/ Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Fernando, Auxiliary Bishop of Colombo. in a statement, express- 0715300185/ After the Mass a Special Programme was held giving some OR cmmessenger ing deep sadness at Fr. the past decade.” 0773688329. important facts of the Papal Visit. [email protected] Groeschel’s loss as well Contd on Pg. 3 Ashen S. Senarathna Calling All the Architects and Artists ➤ (See Pg. 2) 2 The Messenger October 12, 2014 Mother Earth is sacred; don’t pollute her With Sri Lanka jewardene, a member of the reason why, despite earth, further food poi- tap water but were instead 50,000 paddy farmers in facing a food crisis where the GMOA’s subcommit- all the marvels of modern soning is also taking place obtaining slightly muddy the North-Central Province most of the food items we tee on national health is- medical technology, more in other ways. water from tube wells. by Special Projects Minis- eat daily – ranging from sues said Cuba had made people are falling sick At a recent meet- The Chief MOH ter S. M. Chandrasena. rice and grains to vegeta- this offer because it was more often, hospitals are ing of the Medico-Legal So- said they had found vari- Dr. Channa Jaya- bles and fruits – known to highly successful in its packed like market places ciety of Sri Lanka, speak- ous insects and even snails sumana, Director of the be polluted by the exces- organic agriculture. He and often medical special- ers revealed that as many in the food that had been Presidential Task Force sive use of agrochemicals, said Sri Lanka's Govern- ists are unable to diagnose as 1,200 additives includ- stored near the toilet or for the Prevention of Kid- Cuba has offered Sri Lan- ment was not respond- ailments. kitchen. He said some of ney Disease, said Presi- ka a wayout ing positively apparently Sri Lanka spends enhancing substances, the colouring substances dent Mahinda Rajapaksa The Cuban for- because the powerful hundreds of millions of ing preservatives, flavor- used for popular biriyanis substances for colouring had taken the initiative eign minister during his agrochemical TNCs, were dollars on the import of were found to be harm- artificialand texture sweeteners, were being and recent visit to Sri Lanka these agrochemicals. ful. Dr. Wijemuni warned to distribute seed paddy used in imported and lo- of traditional rice variet- offered to transfer mod- Dr. Wijewardene cal food items. that the most poisoned ies to farmers who would ern technology for or- withinfluencing the large-scale politicians use of said that in Cuba the use Colombo's Chief or polluted food item that ganic or natural agricul- importedand officials chemical to continue fertil- of agrochemicals was people could eat was the cultivate those varieties ture. But the Government izers, weedicides and pes- banned and the Sri Lanka Dr. Ruwan Wijemuni re- popular kottu roti. without the use of agro- is not keen to accept it, ticides. Government should ac- vealedMedical they Officer had of Healthraided In a positive move chemicals. apparently because of According to peo- cept the offer from our several eateries and ho- last Saturday, seed paddy Dr. Jayasumana ple-friendly agriculturists old Non-Aligned friend to tels in Colombo. What of traditional or native said seed paddy were transnational agrochemi- and nutritionists, most prevent further poison- they found was shocking. rice varieties such as Kalu- given free of charge and calthe influence companies, of thepowerful Gov- of the food items we eat ing of our people and the Most of these hotels did Heenati, Madathawalu, the farmers had agreed to contain poison because of pollution of Mother Earth. not have clean kitchens, Siyapath-El, Putchha Peru- cultivate the traditional Association has charged. the excessive use of agro- Besides the agrochemical toilets or storage places. mal, Kurulutuda and Kaha- varieties without using ernmentDr. Medical Chinthaka Officers Wi- chemicals. This may be pollution of our food and Some of them did not have wanu were given to about agrochemicals.

Calling all.... From Pg. 1 ST. BENEDICT'S COLLEGE, All Catholic architects, painters, sculptors, graphs to supplement your description are necessary. COLOMBO - 13. Applications should be forwarded by regis- material/statue-makers, graphic artists/designers, are tered post to the address below on or before October Application forms for Grade 06 - Year 2015 invitedstatue-makers, to register wood themselves craftsmen, in the fibre Archdiocese glass and ofother Co- 25, 2014. lombo. The registration will facilitate the artists to con- Those who have registered before need not Application forms will be issued to Parents on tribute their talents for the upcoming Papal visit. Guilds register again. All who register will be invited for an in- 13th and 14th October, 2014 between 1.30 p.m. and 3.00 will be formed for the artists and architects. augural meeting with His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal With the guidance of His Eminence Malcolm Ranjith. The following documents should be produced Cardinal Ranjith, the Archdiocese wishes to launch a Rev. Fr. L.G. Priyantha Silva, top.m. obtain at the the College application Office. forms. programme of decorating churches with paintings and Archdiocesan Consultant for Ecclesiastical * Family Book sculptures that help in the catechising of the faithful. Art & Architecture, Members of the Guilds will be given the opportunity to No 990, Aquinas University College, Colombo 08. take part in the above programme. * Child's Original Birth Certificate Rev. Bro. Director. For Further information contact - Sulalitha Please apply with full bio data and descriptions * Child's Original Baptismal Certificate 0773187827/0714917971. of works of art that you have created in the past. Photo- Josephian Past Teachers Feast of St. Mary's Church, Clarification outing in Kandy In our last Katukurunda Moratuwa week's news item titled "Feast of Our Lady of The feast of St. Mary's Church, Good Voyage" on Page Katukurunda, Moratuwa was celebrat- 2, we inadvertently said ed recently, presided over by Rev. Fr. that His Lordship, Rt. Dilan Fernando, a priest-son of Katu- Rev. Dr. Rayappu Joseph kurunda, who also celebrated the Sil- was the chief celebrant, ver Jubilee of his ordination. He was when it was His Lord- assisted by the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. Rasika Lawrence. ship Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph The chief celebrant at Vespers Ponniah Bishop of Bat- was Rev. Fr. Freddie Shanthi Kumar. ticaloa. The error is re- The members of the Past Teachers Association gretted. of St. Joseph's College, Colombo had their annual outing Asika Priyadharshana in Kandy recently. Picture shows the winners of the game competition. Therefore it has an apostolic and pastoral purpose. D.C. Jayasinghe Rector of National... The Inauguration of the Diamond Jubilee Aca- Contd. from Pg. 1 demic Year was held with His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Vi- He said that even though there were many anney Fernando, Bishop of Kandy at the Chair. Among Maggona celebrates the young men who are willing to learn and live in an in- timate union in love with the Trinitarian God, the chal- those present were Apostolic Nuncio His Excellency Feast of St. Vincent De Paul lenge they face today is to remain in love with Him. Pierre Nguyên Van Tot, Archbishops’ Emeriti, Their Hence the Spiritual Formation in the Seminary helps Grace, Most Rev. Dr. Nicholas Marcus Fernando, Most each seminarian to appropriate the Catholic tradition Rev. Dr. Oswald Gomis, Their Lordships, Rt. Rev. Dr. Va- by grounding himself in a personal relationship with lence Mendis, Rt. Rev. Dr. Cletus Chandrasiri OSB, Rt. the Trinitarian God who is the point and purpose of all Rev. Dr. Norbert Andradi OMI, Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Pon- ministry, study, worship and service. niah, Rt. Rev. Dr. Raymond Wickremesinghe, Rt. Rev. Dr. Speaking on the intellectual formation of semi- Maxwell Silva, Auxiliary Bishop of Colombo. narians, Fr. Dias said that some academic courses, ‘Fr. His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Fernando, Dalston Forbes OMI Memorial Oration’ at Theological Auxiliary Bishop of Colombo, a past Rector and a Pro- updating Seminars, Philospher’s Day ‘Fr. Harold Pan- fessor, presided at the Jubilee Vespers celebrated the ditaratne Oration’ are geared to enlighten and deepen previous day. the knowledge of students on certain local, contempo- rary and pastoral needs and issues. Catholic press website The Feast of Vincent De Paul was celebrated re- “The knowledge that a seminarian attains is not www.colombocatholicpress.com cently. The chief celebrant at the Festive Mass was Rev. Fr. Email: [email protected] Anton Grecian assisted by Rev. Fr. Shehan Shanaka. The is meant to be shared with God’s people through teach- [email protected] newly ordained priest of the OMI Congregation and Rev. ing,simply preaching for one’s and personal daily qualificationinteractions orwith edification, the faithful. but [email protected] Fr. Dilan Perera Superior St. Vincent's Home, Maggona. Telephone: 2695984, 2678106, 4899611 Intellectual Formation, has to be integrated with the hu- After the Festive Mass the statue of St. Vincent Fax: 2692586 man, spiritual and pastoral pillars of priestly formation. De Paul as carried in procession. D. Anselm Fernando 3 The Messenger October 12, 2014 Church in the Modern World Apostolic Nuncios call for end Pastor killed in Pakistan after blasphemy charge Christian Pastor Zafar Bhatti, who had been on to war in Middle East trial for allegedly breaking predominantly Muslim Paki- stan’s strict anti-blasphemy law, was shot and killed in a VATICAN RADIO Rawalpindi jail by a policeman last month reports said. - The Apostolic Nuncios Pastor Zafar Bhatti had defended the human representing the Pope in rights of Pakistan’s Christian minority. the Middle East gathered He was on trial after a Muslim leader accused at the Vatican last week him in 2012 of sending text messages that were deroga- for a three-day meeting to tory towards the mother of Islam’s Prophet Moham- discuss the dire situation med, NBC reports. His family members have said police of violence and unrest investigations showed that his phone was registered to in the region. The theme someone else. of the meeting was “The Both inmates and guards had made death presence of Christians in threats against the pastor in prison. Bhatti’s alleged the Middle East.” shooter has been arrested and is under investigation, A press brief, Agence France Presse says. titled “No more war Blasphemy is punishable by death in Pakistan, and violations of human rights!” was issued last prompted lynchings and riots, while lawyers who de- Saturday at the conclu- fendbut the the offense accused is poorlyand judges defined. who Even dismiss accusations charges have can sion of the October 2-4 also come under attack. meeting. In it, the Nun- At least 48 people accused of blasphemy have cios called for an end to These children who have taken refuge from the Islamic State at St. Joseph’sf Parish in Erbil, are been killed. Of these, seven were killed in prison or out- among the 1.2 million internally displaced Iraqis. (Credit: Aid to the Church in Need). side of court. currently underway and theto the multiple grave violations conflicts of human rights. delivering humanitarian tians and of the other reli- the Islamic State. assistance to those in need. gious groups to remain in Catholic Medics can lead In the brief, they emphasize: their lands. cy of stopping the unjust aggressor,• And in the accordance legitima- other people to God •ing of arms Their and of persons. concern the violent activities of with international law. Catholic medical professionals can lead other about the ongoing traffick- • Their concern for people to God by dedicating themselves to holiness and • The urgency of • The right of Chris- following the examples of saintly doctors, A US Bishop has said. Christians condemn closing down of “Medical professionals are uniquely equipped to bring that love of God - by their compassion, their Mother Teresa Chair generosity, and in their very presence – to the souls who NEW DELHI: Christians The discontinuance most need it,” Bishop James D. Conley of Lincoln, told have condemned the Indira Gandhi of the Mother Teresa Chair the Catholic Medical Association’s Educational Confer- National Open University’s (IGNOU) comes at a time when there ence in Orlando, recently. decision to discontinue the Mother is a global Catholic campaign Teresa Chair in health, education urging Pope Francis to fast The Bishop noted Pope Francis’ call to the pe- and social work started in the Christ track the canonization of ripheries: the poor, lonely, rejected, elderly, unborn and Jubilee Year 2000. the Albanian-born Indian- those who do not know the love of God. “We condemn the repre- national Nobel Laureate. The Bishop, who is the Association’s Eepiscopal hensible and incomprehensive de- The Chair was es- Moderator, told conference attendees that they can fol- cision of the Indian Government- tablished in a Memorandum low this call. “Ultimately, your task is to become medical sponsored IGNOU to discontinue of understanding between professionals who know that your work and your lives the Mother Teresa Chair,” said John the Catholics Bishops’ Con- are not your own – medical professionals who have en- Dayal, Secretary General of the All ference of India and the Uni- sections of the society through trusted yourselves entirely to the Providence of God,” he India Christian Council, in a press versity on February 29, 2000. educational programs, extension said. statement. It facilitates the initiatives activities and research and to de- He encouraged medical professionals to ask The University’s Board of of IGNOU for launching several so- velop and launch socially-relevant whether their efforts show the fruits of the Holy Spirit. Management “decided to continue cially relevant programs of study. courses and programs of study such “The Holy Spirit is calling us on to goodness. Let with chairs that are sponsored by The revised MoU was signed on as social work, HIV/AIDS, family life an outside agency and did not uti- April 22, 2009 at St. John’s Medical us respond to that call. Let us seek the will of God to- education, substance abuse, and gether and, let us encourage our friends, our colleagues, lize the funds of the University,” M College, Bangalore. philosophy. It offers various diplo- and our patients to do the same,” the Bishop said. Aslam, Vice-Chancellor of IGNOU, Its objectives remain to ad- mas and degrees in these subjects. had said in the media. dress the needs of disadvantaged Fr. Benedict.... Contd. from Pg. 1

Fr. Groeschel was one of eight Capuchin friars in New York City who helped found the Community of Franciscan Friars of the Renewal in 1987. The commu- nity is committed to poverty and evangelization. Known for his love of the poor, he founded the St. Francis House for the homeless and Good Counsel Homes for pregnant women in crisis. He also directed Trinity Retreat House in Larchmont, New York, and taught at the Dunwoodie Seminary. In addition, he became known as an author and preacher. For more than 25 years, he appeared on EWTN, hosting “Sunday Night: Live with Father Bene- dict Groeschel,” among other programs. “The world knew Father Benedict as a priest, teacher, evangelist, retreat master, and a steadfast de- fender of and advocate for the Catholic Church that he loved so much,” the Friars said, adding that while his re- ligious family saw these traits, “we were also blessed to know him as a father who cared for each of us, a father who was always accessible when we needed him and always glad to see us when we came to visit.” 4 The Messenger October 12, 2014 The Eucharist: Not a disciplinary

EDITORIAL October 12, 2014 tool but 'Manna' to harried families Latin hymns are a distant memory today. They had been thrown out with liturgical solemni- More honourable to fail ty. Nonetheless, a few sacred masterpieces remain etched deep in people’s psyche. “O esca viatorum” than to teach is one such hymn with a sacramental impress. That Eucharistic song reminds us of how Jesus Christ is our greatest teacher or Rabboni as a much loved Jesus broke bread as esca viatorum -- wayfarers’ Mary Magdalene said in a widely quoted proclamation soon af- food – with two disciples en route to Emmaus. The ter the Resurrection, Christian parents who are also teachers manna-like role of the Eucharist was especially largely by example and teachers in Christian schools need to be evident at the Last Supper. aware that if we do not give our children Jesus, if we do not bring them into a deep and personal relationship with Jesus we are really giving them nothing. Sustenance to the harried When Jesus shared bread with His Apos- Jesus has taught us how to do God’s will and how to commu- tles, He was not unaware of the imminent betrayal nicate with the Abba Father. He has shown by His words and by Judas or the denial by Peter. Jesus communed more so by His deeds that when we do God’s will we will become with them, nonetheless. He was not unaware that channels through which God changes history - our personal almost all of His fellowship members would des- lives, the lives of our families, churches, communities and the ert him that same night. Yet, He also knew such country. The main lesson or commandment that Jesus teaches communing would sustain most of them in faith us is, “Love one another as I love you” (John 15:12). - food for the onward journey. It is in this light and context that we need to look at the state That healing effect of the Sacrament of love of education in Sri Lanka. Last Tuesday was World’s Teachers’ may have been very much in Pope Francis’s thoughts Day and spokespersons for the main teachers’ unions have com- when he addressed Eucharistic congress organizers plained that some 220,000 public school teachers and about at September-end. He spoke of the Eucharist’s role 15,000 principals have not received promotions or substantial “in bearing hope, forgiveness, healing and love to all salary increments for several years. Therefore their vocation in need, in particular to the poor, the disinherited of teaching has apparently being clouded and they are often in- and the oppressed …walking with them in search of volved in protest actions, with the victims as in many cases be- an authentic human life in Christ Jesus.” ing the innocent children. At a higher level University student late perceived views on family issues more than leaders are accusing Higher Education Minister, S. B. Dissan- Walking with people? the genuine views of families. In fairness to Chris- ayake of planning behind the black board to privatise higher ed- Sadly, the great Sacrament’s role in “walk- tian families, such an unrepresentative assembly ucation or turn it into ‘hire’ education. In turn the Minister has ing with” people on their search through life’s should not be further abused as a referendum on charged that only a few thugs who are posing as student leaders problems has been thwarted often by efforts to divorce. are against his policy while the majority is with him. Whatever distort the Eucharist into a disciplinary tool. The it is Pope Francis himself is insisting that the Church and world ongoing debate about denying Communion to A lesson for the next Synod leaders need to tackle the structures of capitalism in vital areas couples in troubled marriages is an example of Providentially, this two-week's synod is such as health and education if we wish to bring about a just and such intervention. to be followed up next year by a month-long syn- fair society in line with the Kingdom of God. Already, some laypersons have been od on family-related matters. The experiences of driven away from the Sacrament of Reconciliation the upcoming assembly should encourage Church by abuse of the confessional or its reduction to a leaders to provide for genuine representation of tion has become far too competitive that children are provoked disciplinary tribunal. Such misadventures should families at the follow-up Synod. Such a synod with In this era of selfishness, self-centredness and greed, even educa- caution pastors against denying the Eucharist to active participation of families should be left free means. Education has become so intensely examination-orient- some faithful just when they need the Sacrament to discuss real problems troubling modern fami- edto getthat, the as firstMahatma place Gandhiif possible said by children fair means are learningor even howby foul to for spiritual sustenance in fellowship. caring human beings. realities.lies. Also, families should be left free to find faith- fly like birds or swim like fish but not how to walk as honest and Much evident vacuum Some theologians’ efforts to distract the based solutions No doubt, suitable such to a their family specific synod cultural would need wise counsel, not impositions, from pastoral can President, Abraham Lincoln who though being white was on-going synod with disciplinary issues are not fora experienced in “walking with” families in the forcedWe need to togo reflectto war deeplyto give onliberation the words to the of thecoloured legendary people Ameri- who unlike half-century-ago moves to hijack Church Eucharistic role noted in the earlier cited papal were slaves to the domineering white people. renewal with cosmetic liturgical reform. The Synod on the Family is already has- discourse. Regional family ministries and regional In a letter to his child’s teacher, the great leader said: sled with lack of genuine lay participation. Very episcopal bodies will be more competent to offer “He (my son) will have to learn, I know, that all men are not just, much like earlier synods on family and laity, this such counsel than quirky lobbies with a kink to all men are not true. But teach him also that for every scoundrel assembly too appears to be overcrowded with tamper with the ethos of local family life. bishops and experts. Hence, it is likely to venti- Hector Welgampola cated leader… Teach him for every enemy there is a friend, Steer himthere away is a hero;from thatenvy, for if everyyou can, selfish teach politician, him the theresecret is of a dedi-quiet laughter. Let him learn early that the bullies are the easiest to lick… Teach him, if you can, the wonder of books… But also give On World Teachers' Day, UN agencies him quiet time to ponder the eternal mystery of birds in the sky,

In the school teach him it is far more honourable to fail than urge investing in educators bees in the sun, and the flowers on a green hillside. to cheat… Teach him to have faith in his own ideas, even if ev- nvesting in teachers is ur- tional Labour Organisation's eryone tells him they are wrong… Teach him to be gentle with gently needed to provide the (ILO) Director-General, Guy gentle people, and tough with the tough. best possible opportunities Ryder; UN Children's Fund for millions of children, youth (UNICEF) Executive Director, Try to give my son the strength not to follow the crowd when and adults worldwide, the heads Anthony Lake; UN Develop- everyone is getting on the band wagon… Teach him to listen to I of various United Nations agencies ment Programme's (UNDP) said in a joint statement marking Administrator, Helen Clark truth and take only the good that comes through. World Teachers' Day. all men… but teach him also to filter all he hears on a screen of and Fred van Leeuwen, the Teach him if you can, how to laugh when he is sad…Teach him “An education system is General Secretary of Edu- October 6 - Teachers' Day there is no shame in tears, Teach him to scoff at cynics and to only as good as its teachers,” the cation International, which beware of too much sweetness… Teach him to sell his brawn and agency chiefs said, calling for more represents teachers' organi- rigorous training, better conditions brain to the highest bidders but never to put a price-tag on his zations across the globe. for employment, quality-based teacher recruit- heart and soul. One of the main concerns in many coun- ment, thoughtful deployment and attracting new tries is a lack of educators. An additional 1.4 million Teach him to close his ears to a howling mob and to stand and teachers and talents, especially young people and teachers are needed to achieve universal primary women from under-represented communities. education by 2015, the second of the eight anti- “Innovative, inclusive and results-focused poverty Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). teaching is crucial for 2015 and beyond,” they add- fight if he thinks he’s right. Treat him gently, but do not cuddle UNESCO reported recently that a global Let him have the courage to be impatient… let him have the pa- ed in their message for the Day, which this year him, because only the test of fire makes fine steel. shortage of teachers has pressured many coun- tience to be brave. Teach him always have sublime faith in himself, marks its 20th anniversary. tries into hiring educators with little or no train- because then he will have sublime faith in people. This is a big The statement was issued by UN Educa- ing, undermining the educational progress of nu- CO) Director-General Irina Bokova; UN Interna- merous school-age children around the world. order, but see what you can do… He is such a fine fellow, my son! tional, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNES- 5 The Messenger October 12, 2014 Francis: The Pope's Calling ith leaders of the Catholic Church having the congregation ("versus populum") It was gathered at the Vatican to consider the fu- supposed to set the Church on a course to Wture of the Church's teaching on the family, meet the modern world - not by rewriting the BBC's Director of News and Current Affairs, James doctrine, but by spelling out a fundamental Harding, asks whether Pope Francis is the moderniser change in the Church's outreach to other progressives hope for, or an orthodox Pontiff with a religions, in the conduct of the Mass, in the personal touch. role of the laity in the running of the Church Just over a year ago, a phone rang in the and much more. La Repubblica - Italy's main centre-left Not long after the destination newspaper. Stella Somma, personal assistant to the had been set, the Church stalled. Cardinal editor,offices answered.of The man at the end of the line said Cormac Murphy O'Connor, the head of he would like to speak to Eugenio Scalfari, the founder the Catholic Church in England and Wales and former editor of the paper, a 90-year-old atheist from 2000 to 2009, says Pope John Paul II and a hero of the secular left. "pressed pause" on Vatican II, while under "Who's speaking?" Stella asked. "Papa Fran- Pope Francis "we have a push… the button is Joseph Shaw, a Catholic blogger and fellow of cesco," the man said. being pushed again." St Benet's Hall, Oxford, argues there's a danger that the "Ah, the Pope," Stella replied - and put the call Pope's approach will obscure the Church's teaching. through to Scalfari. "Listen, I have the Pope on the line." "Pope Francis seems to specialise in caus- "Pope Francis seems to specialise in causing confusion Scalfari picked up the phone at home and told ing confusion on certain issues” Joseph on certain issues," he says. "It's upset people who appre- Stella: "You're crazy, it must be a joke". Shaw Chairman of Latin Mass Society ciated having very, very clear teaching, even when it was "No, it's not a joke, I can't make the Pope wait, unpopular, which is what we got from Pope Benedict." so let me put you through." The Synod will address what Cardinal Murphy O'Connor describes as some "neuralgic questions" - To judge his papacy so far, Francis has Scalfari remembers a voice saying, "'Good behaved like a man who watched his predecessor morning, this is Pope Francis… you asked me for a contraception and homosexuality for example. And, the one that has generated most debate - and the greatest expectation of change - is whether Catholics doctrinal argument - and has chosen, quite conspicu- with the phone on his ear, he tells me, 'Wednesday I - encrusted by the Vatican machine and defined by can't.meeting, Maybe and IMonday? want to do Is thatthat. OK Let's for fix you?' a date.' And And I told who divorce and then re-marry civilly should be al- ously, to be a different kind of Pope. lowed to take communion. How is it working? Well, it's clear St Peter's Eugenio Scalfari: The Pope is "a revolutionary." Church teaching is that they can only do so if is busier, Catholics have a renewed spring in their him: 'AnyEugenio day is fine Scalfari for me. is not Monday the only is fine.'" person to - have received a call out of the blue from Pope Francis, church - civil divorce doesn't count. But obtaining an cial wrongdoing have not yet been fully resolved, the who has made outreach to the unexpected, one of the annulmenttheir first marriage can be a haslengthy been and officially expensive annulled process. by the Vaticanstep and, story if the is issues nowadays of child about sex more abuse than and that. finan Then hallmarks of his papacy. The problem has led to an unusually public again, there's no solid evidence yet that the pews are spat as conservative cardinals have lined up to argue fuller. “Pope Francis is not a doctrinal radical," that Church teaching must not change. Francis has proved a surprise as Pope, even to John Allen, a long-time Vatican reporter for John Allen (Boston Globe) those who thought they knew him and he has demon- the Boston Globe, expects that the outcome will not be strated the power of a priest with a personal touch. And their unlikely dialogue about faith and new doctrine, but new practice. "Pope Francis is not a But, by his own admission, he is not a revolutionary. conscience, paedophilia and celibacy, corruption and doctrinal radical. This is not Che Guevara in a cassock," He is, though, a herald of change. A Pope with a delib- the Church, produced an intriguing insight into the he says. He predicts annulment will be made faster, erately different approach to his calling. character of the man who has transformed expecta- simpler and less expensive. tions of the Catholic Church. There seems to be agreement among Vatican After further phone calls and a series of pri- watchers that on all issues before the Synod, radical vate meetings with Pope Francis, Scalfari concluded: Behind the story doctrinal change isn't on the agenda. Instead, Pope "He is a revolutionary Pope." Francis has changed the emphasis. For a number of years, I watched, fascinated, The man the Italians dub the "cold-call Pope" Jane Livesey, General Superior of the Congre- has, in little over a year, lifted the mood of the Vatican by the apparent paralysis inside the Vatican as Pope gation of Jesus - a global religious order of some 2000 Benedict's papacy was engulfed by scandals of child and raised new expectations of the Catholic Church. nuns - says Pope Francis's message is: "There are dif- wrongdoing and court intrigue. But can he meet them? Is he the radical ferent ways of interpreting the doctrine, and my way of moderniser that progressives have hoped for or, rather, doing it is through the prism of mercy and forgiveness." an orthodox priest with a ready smile and a knack for thesex Holyabuse, See financial was in crisis. Then Jorge Bergoglio suc- The BBC's Director of News and Current Af- outreach to the unexpected? His resignation, the first in 600 years, confirmed that fairs James Harding set out to understand one of the From Sunday October 5, the world will began world's most fascinating and charismatic leaders. In to get some answers. Cardinals, bishops, priests and ceeded him in March 2013, becoming the first Jesuit - this, she says, the Pope leads by example. "Francis is a lay Catholics from around the world will arrive at the ingand St the Peter's, first priest Pope fromFrancis the seemed New World to take to becomethe world man who completely gets that - that you can preach all Vatican to consider how Church teaching on the family byPope. storm. From his first evening on the balcony overlook you like, but actually most of the important things in relates to the reality of modern life. Although not a Catholic myself, I, like thou- life are caught, not taught." The "extraordinary Synod" - the third of its sands of journalists the world over, was intrigued - and kind in the modern history of the Catholic Church - is John Allen says this is because, at heart, started angling for an interview for the BBC. I began to Francis is not a theologian or a politician, but a pastor. year. It's likely to reveal both the nature and, most likely, "When he picks up the phone and calls a mother in the Church and then went to Rome to make the case to thepart limits of a process of the change of reflection heralded that by will Pope last Francis. more than a southern Italy whose son is in the hospital," he says, discussFather Federico the possibility Lombardi, with the a range Vatican of senior spokesman, figures that in When I visited Scalfari, he recounted his "part of that is just genuine pastoral outreach, but part conversation with the Pope: "I told him all Popes have the Pope should consider the BBC, given its audience of of it is also recalibrating the model of what leadership reformed the Church, for better or for worse, but you 250 million people around the world. Father Lombardi, in the Catholic Church looks like." are not reforming this Church, you are not a reform- plainly inundated with such requests, smiled and with ist. You are a revolutionary." According to Scalfari, the The Bishop of Rome, as Pope Francis likes some charm left me with the impression that the Pope Pope told him he is not revolutionising the Church, to call himself, has positioned himself as one among was having no trouble reaching a global audience. that his task is just to apply the conclusions of the many. He has made it clear he's in favour of decentral- So, after that, I went for lunch with Ezio Second Vatican Council. ising the Church, and that means that while the rules Mauro, the editor of La Repubblica, whom I had met The Second Vatican Council - commonly known may stay the same, he's giving bishops and priests some years before. (We got to know each other, oddly as Vatican II - was, in theory at least, the seismic event in more room to interpret them. "Every parish priest has enough, interviewing Vladimir Putin and, since then, the modern history of the Catholic Church. It ran from to make these kind of judgements," says Cardinal Mur- had tried to help each other out getting access to 1962 to 1965. phy O'Connor. "In moral theology there's what's called interesting interviewees). He could barely contain his the objective truth and subjective and sometimes you excitement. His predecessor, Scalfari, had just been Vatican II have to take account of the subjective situation of called by the Pope and gone for a meeting at the Santa various people. And a good priest does just that and I Marta Convent. From then on, I kept in touch with Convened by Pope John XXIII, the Second Vati- think a good Pope does that too." Mauro and La Repubblica watching, if you like, the can Council was concerned with Catholicism's renewal Pope Francis surprised some observers by unusual drama from the wings. in the modern world. The world's 2,800 Catholic bish- choosing a compact car on his recent visit to South ops gathered in St Peter's Basilica four times in the Then, when I was on holiday in Italy over the Korea. summer, I asked whether I could visit Scalfari in Rome autumn of four consecutive years starting 11 October But, of course, leaving the teachings of the and discuss what he'd learned of Pope Francis. It was 1962, ending in 1965. Church to that kind of subjective interpretation by a way of trying to understand the man who presides Changes brought about include the celebra- bishops and priests - making that age-old tradition of tion of mass in vernacular language (although Latin ambiguity the guiding principle of the papacy - threat- over a global congregation of 1.2 billion people. And, in remains the liturgical language of Catholicism) and ens to disappoint and frustrate people across the turn, it prompted a more concerted effort to answer the the positioning of the priest during services facing Catholic spectrum. question: what, really, is the calling of Pope Francis? 6 The Messenger October 12, 2014 The ‘god of money’ discards elders ope Francis prayed with his pre- Holy Family of Nazareth, faithful guardian grandmother.” decessor Pope Emeritus Benedict of the mystery of salvation, let respect for In the homily he gave at the PXVI and 30,000 senior citizens, silence be reborn in us, turn our families event’s closing Holy Mass, Pope Francis most of whom grandparents for the into cenacles of prayer and transform observed: “In the Gospel, Jesus did not blessing of long life, at St Peter’s Square them into small domestic churches, inspire abolish the law of the family and the last week to honour World Elders’ Day a renewed desire for holiness, support the passing of generations, but brought it which fell on October 1. The event was nobility of hard work, education, listening, reciprocal understanding and forgiveness. family, in which bonds of kinship are the Family. Holy Family of Nazareth trigger within lessto fulfillment. important The than Lord our formedrelationship a new organised The by Pope the Pontifical gave a copy Council of Mark’s for our society an awareness of the sacred with Him and our doing the Will of God Gospel to all the elderly present. Some and sacrosanct nature of the family, which the Father. Yet the love of Jesus and the of them, including Marcello Bedeschi, is a precious and irreplaceable gift. May who is responsible for organizing the every family represent a welcoming, good parents, brothers and sisters and grand- World Youth Days, went up to receive it. and peaceful home for children and the parents;Father completes it renews and family fulfils relationships our love of Addressing the faithful gath- elderly, for those who are sick and lonely, with the lymph of the Gospel and of the ered, Pope Francis said, “It is inhuman for those who are poor and needy. Jesus, Holy Spirit. to abuse elders just as it is inhuman to Of his predecessor, Pope Mary and Joseph, we turn to you in trust- “How often,” the Pope reiter- abuse children. But God will not aban- Emeritus,great people!” who sat in the rows of seats ing prayer and joyfully place our trust in ated, “we discard the elderly with an on the right hand, Pope Francis said, “I you.” attitude of abandonment that is nothing help, you are and will continue to be the would like to extend a special thanks Pope Francis then expressed more than true and proper euthanasia, memorydon you. forHe isyour with people; you! With and alsoGod’s for to Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI. “I have children are discarded, young people us, the great family of the Church.” Pope said many times that I like the fact you for the elderly ... so that they can truly are discarded because they have no job Francis said this referring in particular are living here in the Vatican so much, one final wish: “We welcome the houses and the elderly are discarded under to Mubarak (74) and Aneesa (68), a because it was like having a wise grand- these homes will truly serve the inter- the pretense of maintaining a balanced couple of refugees from Iraqi Kurdistan father at home. Thank you.” estsbe homes, of older not persons prisons! and We not hope the that inter- economic system at the centre of which who spoke about the sufferings of their After the various testimonies there is the God of money. We are all people. and songs which marked today’s special who do not take care for grandparents, called to counter this poisonous throw The Pope described the story event dedicated to senior citizens, Pope doesests of not someone treat them else!” well In hasfact no“a peoplefuture: away culture, the Christians with all men Francis’ prayer for the family was re- One of the things that make family life of goodwill are called to build a more because of anti-Christian persecution. cited. so beautiful is caressing a child or re- humane, patient and inclusive society.” “Theseof an elderly brethren Iraqi here refugee testify who that fled even in “Jesus, Mary and Joseph, Holy ceiving a caress from our grandfather or Vatican News family of Nazareth, today we express our have faith are like trees that continue to admiration and trust to you; in you we Do you know? bearthe most fruit,” difficult he said. tests, the elderly who contemplate the beautiful communion of That there are approximately 2 Million elders in Sri Lanka {0ver 60 years of age} Recalling his visit to the Alba- true love; to you we entrust all our families That the elders have a right to nian capital Tirana, Francis added: “The so that the miracles of grace may be 1. Independence. 2. Participation. grandfather is in a way twice a father renewed in them. Holy Family of Nazareth, and the grandmother is twice a mother. attractive school of the Holy Gospel: Teach 5. Dignity. In those countries the grandparents us to emulate your virtues with wise spiri- 3. Care. 4. Self-fulfillment. Sr. Edel Pieris. s.c.j.m. have to take the children to be baptized tual discipline, give us the lucidity to rec- Community Services for Senior Citizens in secret, to give them the faith. Truly ognise the work of Providence in daily life. 33 Tataka Road, Kegalle. Nostalgic Memories.. Children: Knowing their Temperament Supreme to us Marians of Trincomalee (Contd from last week) This year as we embark on our 150th jubilee “One night a father overheard his son pray: Marians old and young as we rally around Dear God, make me the kind of man my Daddy is. your banner Later that night, the father prayed; Ably guided by our Apostolic Carmel Nuns Dear God, make me the kind of man my son wants to be” Anonymous forever Remember we the super school days at our Last week we read walk or dress, but more these have their own role a child’s life must be in Alma Mater about mum and her little importantly in our morals to play, but can never be the hands of his/her par- Years of really good and dedicated work girl, today let us see the and values. a substitute for Mum Dad ents. We, parents are their that has made us the smartest unique role Daddy plays Today parents and the environment only heroes, their role models, in being the role model for are looking for the day- they can create, it is the there can be no substi- Students were taught not only to do book junior. care centre, montessori, parents who must train tutes: work and sit for exams but to Little boys would school catechism class, to and instruct their children “Mum and Dad Care, share, compete, sing, elocute and more often than not, try be the “surrogate parent,” according to God’s will. sports we also did do to imitate dad, (he is my or some other programs to The most critical on several generations of truly leave their reflection Oh! The freedom we had and the discipline hero, he will be saying to help raise their children. period of development in children.” himself) he would try to This is wishful thinking, that we got is like gold To be Contd walk with the same mea- in a way it is to say no to Leading our lives today in every part of the sured steps of his father, God’s wonderful invitation globe sit in dad’s favourite chair, to parenthood, saying no maybe even try to have to His blessings. Learning at St. Mary‛s from 1967 to 1979 dad’s hairstyle parted at God’s plan for the has made my life useful to others the centre - (but, of course nurturing of Education then was not hi-fi but practical when he is older though, our children to we who are now professionals and he wouldn’t be caught try- is quite clear, dedicated mothers ing on dad’s hairstyle - it that plan in- volves a moth- Great were the nuns and teachers of those wouldn’t be cool) We, as parents are er, father and days gone away invited to a wonderful vo- a home, not Everything we are today is because of you cation, that is to set godly the schools, come what may. examples for our children, nor the day- Our Alma mater to whom we say not just in how we talk, care centre, “Noble pure and true forever,” “By profession I am a soldier and I take pride in that fact. But I am prouder - in�initely prouder - As our motto was, is and will be till the end to be a father. A soldier destroys in order to build; the father only builds, never destroys. The one of time. has the potentiality of death, the other embodies creation and life. And while the hordes of death A Grateful Past Pupil are mighty, the battalions of life are mightier still. It is my hope that my son, when I am gone, Ramani Babu Lakshmanan Nee De Cruze will remember me not from the battle �ield but in the home repeating with him our simple daily prayer. ‘Our Father who art in Heaven”.” (1967- 1979) General Douglas MacArthur 7 The Messenger October 12, 2014 Famous Portraits of Fr. Joseph Vaz Script and pictures extracted from the Masteral thesis titled, ‘Artistic Sculptural and Iconographic Project of the proposed National Shrine of Blessed Joseph Vaz for the glory Compiled by: Kishani S. Fernando of God’ by Rev. Fr. Priyantha Silva , 2012, Rome

There are three famous paintings portraying the Blessed Joseph Vaz contact with. a wooden altar on his left below the hand that holds the The oldest of these paintings was discovered Vaz reflected The colour the divine yellow light represents to all whom gold he and came this into is Cross.him to make the sacrifice. Hence the Maitre is placed on around 1876 at the Colombo Archdioc- esan Cathedral premises or St. Lucia’s Flower pot on the floor Cathedral Kotahena. It was rescued by Thomas Cardinal Cooray the then Arch- ancient painting but its present con- bishop of Colombo, who had it retouched dition does There not is permit a flower us potto see in the by the Italian art expert Professor Maranzi details. We rely on the second paint- who was at the time in Sri Lanka to touch ing which was a faithful imitation of up the vandalized Sigiriya paintings. The original artist is not known. The paint- red hibiscus, the China rose or the ing now hangs in the private parlor of the the first. The flowers resemble the Archbishop of Colombo. In ancient times those con- The second painting hangs in the demnedshoe flower. to capital punishment were National Seminary of Our Lady of Lanka - garlanded with red hibiscus as they Ampitiya Kandy done by D.L.G Perera dat- were conducted towards the execu- ed September 1896. This is considered as tion site. This seems to be adding meaning to the portrait of Fr. Vaz, for The third is an Indian painting re- when he came to Ceylon it was a pro- ferredthe official to by portrait Fr. R.R. of Rodrigues Fr. Vaz in in Sri his Lanka. book hibited land for Catholic priests and 207 Stories of Blessed Joseph Vaz. (Goa 2005) seen in the ornamentation of the Maitre and the Crosier his decision was like embracing a death sentence. It was Some other older paintings are mentioned in on either side of the portrait. also a strict condition to other priests who wished to the Positio Historica on ‘Iosephi Vaz, Sacra Congrega- serve with him in Ceylon that they should come ready to Crucifix in the left hand and the right hand pointing face the persecution and ready never to go back to their 1985). This is the study done on the historical position to the cross homeland. oftio aPro person Causis at theSanctorum beginning Officium of the process Historicum’ of canoniza- (Rome In a letter to his nephew Fr. Vaz wrote: “Consid- Further the plant is not on the ground but in a tion and submitted to Rome. This work was undertak- er your greatest pleasure to suffer for Christ and with en by George Quintus Perera. These paintings include: Christ, your happiness to please God, to be in his divine priests were called to be planted in a different land and two of the most ancient portraits that were taken from company ….” notpot. inThis their signifies own, wherethe fact they that would he along begin with a newthe other min- Ceylon and preserved in the istry. The Indian painting house of Frias Costa of Goa shows the pot in blue and - dated 1702, oil on wood. seems to give a Marian Portrait found in the house base to the ministry of Fr. of Lady Isabel Henriques Vaz. This is appropriate de Vadde’m de Socorso in- since Fr. Vaz dedicated herited from the House of most of the churches he Visconte de Barde’s - oil on built to the Virgin Mary. wood done after 1702 re- In the pot there are touched in 1835. Wall paint- ing in the Rachol Seminary, one at the bottom, two half Goa. The three Oratorians : bloomed4 flowers; at aan full upper bloomed level St. Philip Neri in the Centre on either side and a still with Batholomeo de Quantal blooming bud at the top. At on his left and Bl. Joseph Vaz the bottom of the hibiscus on his right. Dated to the immediate years after 1759. plant are two designs that resemble the shoots depicted He planted a cross where ever he ministered and built in the Cross found in Anuradhapura which imitate the Some features described chapels, Thein the cross jungles had aagainst special the significance attack of wildfor Fr. beast, Vaz. on the sea shore. He gifted crosses to many persons as design at the bottom of the plant form the shape of the Person of Fr. Vaz a remedy to their problems. He was also gifted with an AnuradhapuraCrosses of St.Thomas. Cross and In thefact Crosses the four of flowers St. Thomas. and the St. As a Goan he sports an olive skin. It is noted that in some of the paintings cited in the Positio Historica, he the cross Fr. Vaz extends to us the same invitation that addition to this unique quality, each of its elements car- sports a beard and moustache. heindulgenced gave his nephew. crucifix by the Papal Legate. Pointing to riesThomas’ symbolic Cross meanings. does not carryGenerally the effigy the Cross of the symbolizes Christ. In life rather than death and suffering… (it) presages the Dress of Fr. Vaz Sun and moon on either side little above the head discovery of the empty tomb, glorifying the Resurrec- He is shown wearing a black cassock, surplice The sun and moon in the portrait of Fr. Vaz is and a stole. V. Perniola in The Catholic Church in Sri inspired by the letter Fr. Vaz wrote to his nephew, an shape, symbolizing fruition and life… the three steps Lanka; The Dutch Period Vol 1, records that Fr Joseph Oratorian deacon to be ordained a priest who bore the belowtion of theJesus. Cross The representfour edges Golgotha, of the cross symbolically are floral re-in Vaz and his nephew were frequently conducted to the same name. In the letter written from Kandy, Ceylon Royal presence…. They went to the palace (of the king of and dated August 17, 1708, he invited his nephew to be nitely is a symbol of the revival of Christianity that was Kandy) in their priestly attire, wearing black cassocks, broughtferring to about the death in Sri of Lanka Jesus. throughHence the the flower mission pot of defi- Fr. shoes and birettas…”. In two of the paintings we see Fr. the earth but has to draw light from the sun to which Vaz and the Oratorians. Vaz dressed in shoes. On one he is barefoot. This is sig- itlike always the moon faces. that He has referred no light to ofJesus its own as the to reflect “Uncreated upon Sun” on whom the nephew should always set his eyes Portrait for the Canonization life right from the day of his ordination, he went bare- and walk in whose divine presence. A new portrait of Blessed Joseph Vaz to be used foot.nificant. And R.R. he didRodrigues go barefoot records up thatto the “….Throughout end of his life….. his The ancient painting depicts the sun in the tra- for the Canonization mass in January 2015 is in the pro- He walked like a poor man.” It shows his simplicity in ditional Sinhalese artistic style, and is placed almost cess of being painted by Fr. Priyantha Silva. This will be respecting others and ability to adjust to different situa- touching the cross - emphasizing the reference made in keeping with sacred art and sacred geometry. It will tions. to Jesus as the “Uncreated Sun”. D.L.G Perera’s painting be a theological depiction that will include the mission He is shown in a surplice and a stole, this he also places the sun in the traditional Sinhalese artistic and service of Fr. Vaz in Ceylon. The proposed art work wore to administer the sacraments and presumably style but a little above the cross, while including a star has been highly commended by the supervisor of Fr. inside the moon. He tries to include the ‘star in the mid Priyantha Silva’s masteral thesis -Oratorian Professor two paintings and gold in the Indian painting. Red is the day sky’ that the father of Joseph Vaz saw in a dream on Fr. U Michael Lang. liturgicalwhen preaching. colour of The vestments stole is in for red the and feast gold of inPentecost, the first the birth of his son and recorded in his diary. The Indian Good Friday, Palm Sunday and commemorations of the painter totally abandons the traditional Sinhalese sun martyrs. In Christian iconographic tradition, red is the and instead of the moon draws only a star with rays giv- colour used to depict the divine nature and life giving ing it the look of a comet instead of the moon. energy and, for this very reason red becomes the sym- bol of the resurrection - the victory of life over death. The Crosier and Mitre on either side It gives an insight to the life of Joseph Vaz - a life led Fr. Vaz is depicted not touching the Mitre and the Crosier but holding the Cross and pointing to it. This used for Christmas, Easter, feasts of Mary and the saints symbolizes his shunning the Bishopric as Vicar Apostol- thusby the representing Holy Spirit, joy,full ofcelebration, sacrifices. resurrection,Gold vestments purity are ic of Ceylon. It was his self denial in love for the continu- and innocence. Christian iconography uses the colour ation of the mission which he perceived as entrusted gold for royalty – gold symbolizes the divine light. Fr. to him by God and his love for the faithful that inspired 8 The Messenger October 12, 2014 The Franciscan Monopoly Abolished

Provision issued by the Viceroy the Religious of the Society have shown would be waiting for the moment or the destruction. The Franciscans went away Ayres de Saldananha in the name great diligence and fervour in converting years of their punishment to come to an when the military appeared on the spot. Aof the King of Portugal: “Dom Ph- end in order to return” (VP PP II 232, let- Coming from Malwana, de Azevedo set a elipe, by the grace of God, King of Por- industrious in choosing means that en- ter of Fr F. Roiz S.J.). guard on the spot to prevent any further tugal. ableinfidels, them have to gomuch forward experience and do and every are- The Franciscans tried to make damage. To all those who will see this let- thing with great zeal for God’s service use of some experts in Church Law to This and similar actions did the ter of mine, I make known…that I have and mine. defend their monopoly. The Viceroy Franciscans do, losing much credit with planned to go on with the conquest of the “This has become clearly evi- stopped anyone coming forward in de- the people. “They went from house to Island of Ceylon… It is my bounden duty dent from their manner of proceeding fence of the Franciscans appealing to the house and spoke against the Jesuits; they to see that the Holy Gospel be preached in India today, from the great fruit they Council of Trent according to which the preached from the pulpit against the Je- in all the regions of that state….and as have gathered in very remote places and diocesan bishop has the full responsibil- suits and against the viceroy and the the Religious and Fathers of the Blessed regions where they live and where they ity to see that the Gospel is preached. Archbishop. They said that the Jesuits St Francis, who have been residing in have penetrated. It pleases me and I am The Franciscans took the law were robbing their property and taking that island already for many years, can happy to see that the same is the opinion into their hands on a day when Captain their churches. They went so far that the no longer by themselves alone, as they of Dom Fra Alexio de Menezes, Archbish- de Azevedo was not in Colombo. The Archbishop felt obliged to suspend two op Primate of India whom the Viceroy Franciscan Guardian took ten or eleven of them forbidding them to preach any regions; and as this island is very exten- consulted and with whom he discussed Franciscans armed with a variety of tools, longer in his archdiocese. The Viceroy siveare few,and fulfillmuch thisgreater obligation is the number in all the of the matter. The Archbishop also thinks went to the place where the Jesuits had told the Custodian that it was for the ser- souls that have to be baptized there; they that the Fathers of the Society of Jesus built a fence round their property with vice of God and of His Majesty and for the need the help of Religious of other Insti- should go to the Island of Ceilao” (VP. PP. most of the material needed for their spread of the Faith and the conversion of tutes. This is also the view of Dom An- II . 235-7). new building. The Franciscan Guardian drea de Santa Maria, Bishop of Cochin, commanded the friars in virtue of holy the Society of Jesus came there. to whose jurisdiction the island belongs, “Though the Friars of St Francis obedience to follow orders. After shout- the infidels in Ceylon that the Fathers of since after visiting the island personally, have been residing in Ceylon for more ing the war cry “Santiago,” he ordered (Fr. Perniola will be happy to receive he suggested to my Viceroy of India that the friars to destroy the fence and carry from his readers critique and com- he should send there other Religious for nothing, nor had they even one friar away all the material accumulated. The ments of his articles appearing in the same work, choosing the Religious whothan knewfifty years, the languagethey have nor accomplished have they whole town was immediately alerted and the Catholic Messenger to enable of the Society of Jesus in preference to sent to those churches good people, but was on the spot to prevent the Francis- him later to publish them in a book. others. The reason of this choice is that only those who were punished and who cans from going forward in their work of Email:[email protected]) God believes in the Believer braham's life is an ed willing to embark upon any exemplary model of when we place ourselves in the adventure. It is an age with so carechild-like of God confidence (Lk 12:22-31). is needed many physical, psychological often become scepti- In the 12th Chapter and mental limitations. When calA when facedunflinching with challenges faith. We of the Book of Genesis, we can - see the example of the strong, nitely feel that Abraham's move and waver. For people like us unwavering and childlike faith waswe think a leap like in thethat dark. we will defi theand model our faith of Abrahambegins to isflinch wor - of Abraham as he relies on God The later incidents thy of emulation. If we try to for each step he takes. One who in the life of Abraham amply places his full faith in God can prove that the journey of one who has God's presence with atdefine the happenings faith, we may of findlife with an apt away even the dearest he has if. him is bound to succeed. God thedefinition eye of faith,in Heb11. and acceptingLooking Goddo any wants sacrifice him to and do can so. Ingive this will never leave us alone. For them without murmur and chapter we see how Abraham complaint, and proceeding is expected to relinquish all the planned through Abraham, He is ahead with hope is something things dear to him. Abraham alwaysfulfilling present the scheme with him.that GodWher - that does not happen over- ever God appeared and wher- night. Only those persons who - intodoes uncertainties not flinch. He because has the he Abraham built altars to show ing faith in divine providence, reliesconfidence on his to God. move Some ahead of useven thatever hehis was promises not alone were and fulfilled, God whohave stronglyunflinching believe and thatunwaver God might feel that Abraham was was with him and to thank God is with them in each of their foolish in placing such faith in for his guidance. By building the unwavering faith in God. She footsteps, can move ahead with God. But his call was to leave altars, Abraham wanted to show "If we are strong gave her consent to be the hope into an unclear, upredict- everything he had accumulated his gratitude to God, to remem- in our faith like Mother of Jesus and throughout able future. over the years, his wealth, his ber His gracious presence and Abraham, all the her life she gave ample proof A baby develops relatives - everything - but it to perpetrate his cherished troubles, tribulations, of her staunch faith. To the Good News, she said 'Amen' was a call for a new beginning. memories (Gen 12:7-9). temptations - as his parents support him in Even when the future was as We all have received without worrying about the hisstrength initial and efforts self-confidence to walk on his dark as rain clouds heavy with the Christian faith through our adversities of all consequences her Amen would own. Just like the baby with water, Abraham did not hesi- baptism and it is worthwhile to sorts - will crack and mean to her in the society bent wobbly legs and un-steady tate even for a moment. He was think of the challenges Abra- crumble before the hands holds fast to the hand of ready to move forward - He ham faced and how he over- fortress of our faith St, Joseph is another example his father, we too must hold the knew God was behind him. Only came them. We are pilgrims and our journey to ofupon bold finding faith. Bothfault Marywith others. and hand of the Lord tightly on our those who can see faith with and in our pilgrimage to the Joseph accepted the Incarnated onward march through life. Eric their inner eyes can withstand eternal kingdom, the Holy the Kingdom of God Lord into their midst. For thirty Ericson, the famous psycholo- adversities and this was shown Spirit gives us strength and will be a smooth years they lived with Jesus and gist, has divided the cycle of life very clearly by Abraham. keeps us company. Our journey sailing, propelled by during this period there were into 8 phases. He describes the Only those who have to eternity might be through the breeze of divine no miracles and signs. Abraham positives and negatives of each strong will power can take family life, through priesthood grace" - decisions in time and go ahead or through a religious life. The lived without wavering even dence that the child garners with the decisions without get- basis of this journey is the love amidst troubles and tribula- fromphase. his In mother his view, through the confi their of God that keeps us going. like Abraham, ready for forging tions, just like St. Joseph and ahead even beyond miracles being together most of the time oppositions. We see Abraham Mary did later. God was pleased and signs. If we are not deep is the basis of the faith that he readyting flustered to leap intoby criticisms the unknown and the models we get from our in our faith we tend to become with Abraham's sincerity. In carries throughout his life. A and those who witnessed his parents,Our faith Catechism is fortified teachers, through chapter 17 of Genesis, we see child who has experienced the action might have laughed at teachers and religious leaders satisfaction we get through God appearing to Abraham and loving, protecting, undeceiving him for his foolhardiness. The like priests and nuns. What miraclessatisfied withand signs the emotional. Such sat- telling him, "Walk before me, care and support of his mother age of Abraham is very impor- isfaction is merely peripheral and be blameless" (Gen 17:1). will also learn to hold the hand tant here. The Bible tells us: we are willing to surrender and not deep. At this time Abraham was 99 When God tells him to leave ourselvesis important to God,is to likefind Abraham,out if Another person that years old. ahead in life without fear, with- Haran, Abraham was 75 years so that God can carry out his marvels us with her faith is outof God anxiety, with andconfidence succeed. and Such go old. At 75 one is not hot-blood- plans through us. We should be Mary. Like Abraham, she had Courtesy: Vachanolsavam 9 The Messenger October 12, 2014 Pope Francis: Blessed Alvaro Del Portillo Sought Holiness in the Ordinariness The Servant of God, “Blessed” whom I have person- Monkole Hospital. Msgr. Alvaro del Portillo teach- ally dealt with in the person of Harambee Africa Intera- es us that “in the simplicity and Blessed Alvaro del Portillo. tional is an organization ordinariness of our life we can His holiness of life encouraging that the faith- ful donate to support, in Pope Francis stressed this in spiritual and apostolic fruits. hisfind message a sure path that of was holiness.” read at Whileoverflowed serving with as abundantBishop Prelate those initiatives begun by the beginning of the Eucharis- of the Prelature from 1975 to Bishophonor of del his Portillo. beatification, 1994, he called to the priest- tion of Bishop del Portillo. hood around 800 professional tic celebration of the Beatifica- men. Serving God and cessor as head of the Prelature I am overjoyed that, neighbour in ofBlessed the Holy Alvaro, Cross the and first Opus suc- Dei some twenty seven years ago, I to its founder St. Josemaria was counted among those who everyday life were ordained priests, thanks Msgr. Javier Eche- urday, 27th September 2014, at to his paternal call and solici- varria, the present Bishop anEscriva, open-air was Mass beatified in Madrid’s last Sat- tude. He ensured that each one Prelate, recalled that his Valdebebas Park concelebrated of us underwent a painstaking Blessed predecessor, who called to this holiness” of life. so arrogantly and insistently. by 18 cardinals, 160 bishops process of human, spiritual, was a priest then a bishop, was “Now, more than ever, (practically the entire Spanish doctrinal and apostolic training. “totally available” at the service we need an ecology of holiness, episcopate) and 300 priests Moreover, he spear- of others. Holiness in from 34 countries. to counteract the pollution of headed the growth and In the interview with immorality and corruption. The Pope Francis’ delegate the Catholic News Agency ordinary life to the ceremony and main con- geographic expansion of the Bishop Echevarria re- saints invite us to bring to the (CNA) in Rome, the Prelate celebrant was Cardinal Angelo Prelature of the Holy Cross and called that Don Alvaro followed heart of the Church and society reminisced how well “he knew Amato, Prefect of the Congrega- Opus Dei. During the nineteen St. Josemaria’s saying to “see the pure air of God’s grace, how to be very human when tion for the Causes of Saints. years that Blessed Alvaro gov- the souls behind the papers” which renews the face of the treating people, in the work Concelebrating with him at erned the Prelature, it began and to see common life as “a earth.” the altar were Cardinal Anto- that he did, knowing that his stable apostolic activities in way to get close to God.” Pope Francis stressed nio Maria Rouco, Archbishop work was also a springboard, twenty new countries: Bolivia He recalled that in in his message that “Blessed emeritus of Madrid, and Bishop (1978), Honduras, Zaire (now an aid to approach God and to Álvaro del Portillo is sending us Javier Echevarria, Prelate of the presence of St. Josemaria called Democratic Republic be with God.” a very clear message. He is tell- Opus Dei. and Bishop del Portillo, he felt of Congo), and Ivory Coast “He helped us, he Jose Ignacio Ureta, himself to be in the presence of ing us to trust in the Lord, that (1980), Hong Kong (1981), understood and encouraged us now a healthy and active 11- people who “intensely searched he is our brother, our friend, Singapore (1982), Trinidad- and at the same time he was year-old, was the Chilean boy for God” and sought how “to who never lets us down and Tobago (1983), Sweden (1984), greatly interested in all things cured miraculously after his love more every day.” Blessed is always at our side. He is en- Taiwan (1985), Finland (1987), that affected us. He didn't feel heart stopped beating for 30 Alvaro also served in Japan couraging us not to be afraid to Cameroon and the Dominican distant from us or indifferent.” minutes through the interces- and Africa, learning much from go against the current and suf- Republic (1988), Macau, New Msgr. Echevarria said Bishop sion of Blessed Alvaro. During these parts of the world. From fer for announcing the Gospel. Zealand, and Poland (1989), del Portillo was “totally at the He is also teaching us that in Czechoslovakia and Hungary disposal of others. He was a little boy together with his par- his work well.” the simplicity and ordinariness (1990), Nicaragua (1992), and person who knew how to love, ents,the Beatification Susana and ceremony,Javier Ureta, the Japan, he During learned the “how homily to finish Israel and India (1993). who knew how to serve and brought the relics of the new of Cardinal Angelo de Amato In various African who knew how to be at hand.” sure path to holiness.” Blessed to the altar after Car- Blessed Alvaro played a role of our daily Finally, lives it we was can planned find a countries, Blessed Alvaro “was detailed the new Blessed’s life at the Second Vatican Council. the linen, vestments and moved by the religious hunger ofin virtues,the Beatification which he Mass, said “is he the Don Alvaro as Blessed. His work focused on the role of dinal Amato officially declared that exists on that continent.” message that Blessed Álvaro liturgical items used for the An estimated crowd of the laity and their importance He encouraged Africans to del Portillo hands on to us ceremony, produced by some more than 100,000 attended the in the life of the Church. His take responsibility and he today.” 600 volunteer workers from all ceremony, mostly from Spain. preaching encouraged Catho- encouraged Africans who left He was “a shepherd ac- over the world, including clois- Countries with the biggest con- lic laity to realize that “many their home country to become cording to the Heart of Christ, a tered nuns, will be donated to tingents were: Mexico (3175); things in the Church depended educated to nourish the desire zealous minister of the Church.” Italy (2140); Philippines (1730) on their lives.” He encouraged churches undergoing special to return home. He invites us to be holy, living a and USA (1520). Some 1,300 his Catholic friends to “live His concern did not holiness that is friendly, merci- priests heard confessions and professionally,” to serve their da, Iraq and the Philippines remain in the level of sympathy ful, good-natured, meek, and difficulties in places like Ugan- distributed Holy Communion. family well, to be “true, faithful where many churches were nor of mere empathy. He pro- humble. friends.” destroyed in recent typhoons. moted, among other initiatives, “The Church and the “That’s how they could Pope Francis will visit the latter Fruitfulness of service a medical assistance center world need the great spectacle best serve the Church,” Bishop this coming January 2015, im- in the Democratic Republic of of holiness so that its pleas- to the Church Congo and he encouraged the Echevarria said. He believed mediately after his pastoral trip I have met one canon- ing fragrance can purify the to Sri Lanka. formation of a clinic that has noxious fumes of the many ized saint in my life: St. John tion will help bring attention to now grown into Kinshasa’s vices which are being praised Paul II. But now, I can add a theBishop knowledge del Portillo’s “that beatifica-all of us are Rev. Fr. Daniel Icalto JCD Thanksgiving Prayer

Almighty and Eternal God, Our loving Father, Help us to deepen our faith, we thank you for listening to our humble strengthen our hope prayer and pleading and rekindle our love, and granting us the great blessing of having our beloved Apostle of Sri Lanka, Blessed Joseph Vaz to Jesus Christ Our Lord to make us spirit-filled witnesses as the First Saint of our Motherland. and the Good News of salvation. Father,we thank you from depths of our hearts Bless our dear land for the gift of our faith And grant lasting peace, reconciliation, unity and prosperity which Blessed Joseph Vaz laboured so valiantly to Mother Lanka and her people. to preserve during the Dutch persecution. Amen. We thank you for the many wonders and miracles Very Rev. Fr. Anthony Fernandopulle that have been worked through his intercession Secretary, National Secretariat for the Cause of over the past three hundred years. Canonisation of Blessed Joseph Vaz 10 The Messenger October 12, 2014 National Joseph Vaz Secretariat meets in Jubilant mood The National Joseph Vaz Secretariat met in a a human effort in any sense of the word and that though was unanimously agreed that it must carry on into the Jubilant mood at “Lankarama,” Balcombe Place, Borella late by almost 303 years, the Canonisation has been the post canonisation period as well, with the chief idea of on Monday September 29, 2014. At the outset. Bishop direct result of Divine intervention beyond all human ef- introducing the Saint to the many who do not know him, Vianney Fernando celebrated a Thanksgivng Mass con- forts. even at the present moment. Different methods of achiev- celebrated by several priests representing the different His Lordship then outlined the order of proceed- ing this was also discussed, such as Talks, exhibitions etc. Dioceses. Names of the dear departed members who had ings for the canonisation ceremony at Galle Face Green The Meeting then terminated with a short prayer fol- worked diligently towards the “cause” were read out on January 14 morning. Around 5 lakhs of Catholics are lowed by lunch. during Holy Mass. expected and His Holiness would celebrate Holy Mass Roggy Corera After Mass, the members were treated with together with the Bishops of Sri Lanka. The entire cer- National Joseph Vaz Secretariat Kiribath and traditional sweetmeats. The members then emony would be as short as possible as the crowd would walked into the Meeting Hall with smiling faces as an at- be open to the weather elements and His Holiness would mosphere of jubilation prevailed. The President, Bishop be taken right round the Galle Face Green in an open ve- Vianney Fernando in his opening address informed the hicle. His Lordship exhorted all members to get as many “House” that he had received a series of telephone ‘calls’ Catholics as possible to attend the ceremony. and e-mails wishing him on our beloved Apostle being Having achieved our objective, His Lordship for the raised to the Altar. His Lordship categorically emphasised Youth wanted the views of the members as to the future of the Catechism that he had convinced all of them stating that this was not National Secretariaty. Many views were expressed and it

APPRECIATION Compiled by Rev. Fr. (Dr.) Damien Fernando ‘Help of the Helpless’ Fr. Indra Ratnasiri Fernando, Parish Priest, Nittambuwa Rev. Fr. Dr. Damian my life” God gave Damien two ti- Fernando passed away on He went to But- tles and called him for two Chapter III (20-24). September 9, 2014. He was tala to serve the people missions. He was given the Man responds to God. a friend for 38 long years. and little did he know that title ‘Doctor’ so he could Anyone who wants to believe needs a heart which I entered the faculty of disaster will strike him heal the physically sick is ready to listen (1King 3:9). In every human en- Medicine, University of Co- there. He was down with and then he was given the counter, in every suffering a hidden message of lombo in 1976. All the Fer- TB meningitis and was un- title ‘Rev. Father’ so that he God is present, yet to be sensitive to that hidden nando’s were in one group. conscious for several days could heal the spiritually message perhaps becomes a challenge to a greater There was this young, si- and survived after a pro- sick. To my knowledge he extent. We as the baptized are to trust Him com- lent boy from Moratuwa longed illness. AII his ill- is the only doctor carrying pletely, so that we are able to understand him bet- called Damien and there nesses started from there the title father and only ter and also to accept His will. started our friendship. We and he could not do what priest carrying the title of Faith he planned to do serving a medical doctor. Faith is knowledge. It has seven characteristics: years as batch mates and ing to become a consul- Personally he was 1. It is a gift of God. groupwere together mates. for five long tant. When I asked him In and out of a friend, brother and a spir- 2. It is absolutely necessary for Salvation We passed out he said “God wants me to hospitalsGod in a difficult all the area. time but itual guide for me. During 3. It needs the free will. from the University and leave everything and come no complaints. Damien’s 4. It is certain. Damien pursued higher for his service.” It was like smile was always there life he was there praying 5. It is incomplete unless it leads to active love. studies in Obstetrics and in the Bible, God calling during his worst ill health withdifficult, me to sad God times and during of my 6. It grows as we listen to the Word of God. his chosen ones. He said “I periods. He was residing happy times he was there 7. It gives us a foretaste of the Joy and happiness his post graduate training can’t escape this call I have at Nazareth, Wennappuwa praising God with me. I of Heaven. inGynaecology. Sri Lanka and He finishedwent to but he never stopped help- will miss his familiar voice Faith and science are not contradictory. There is UK for further training and had a special place in his ing people. He used his calling me to ask for help only one kind of truth to which both faith and sci- came back to the country heartto look for after Mother his flock.” Mary He so expertise in obstetrics to for a poor sick child or for he wanted to become an help childless couples and a child who has no money we are able to recognize the rational structure of tant Obstetrician and Gy- OMI priest. was doing family counsel- to pay school fees, always theentific world reason just refer.as He God intended intended Faith.The reason, Christian so that naecologist.as a fully-fledged During Consul- faculty We were aston- ling. He used all of us his trying to help the helpless Faith demands and promotes the sciences. Faith days Damien never ran ished but we all went for batch mates to help people and poor. exists so that we might know things that are ap- from one church to anoth- his ordination to see a hap- with illnesses who were Dear Damien parent to reason, yet are real above and beyond er and to all the novenas in py smiling Damien who poor as he knew special- when you are in the pres- reason. Faith reminds science and it is supported churches around Borella was radiant in his selected ists from al categories all ence of God singing prais- to serve creation, it should not claim the place of as we did. I was shocked path. After becoming a over the country. es with Jesus and your God and thereby without violating, it must respect to hear that he was going priest we asked how he Damien is a unique beloved Mother Mary pray the human dignity. to be a priest after all this was. The reply was “I have personality. Usually people for us also. Faith… Church… sleepless nights of study- never been this happy in have one mission in life but Dr. Manel Fernando We receive the faith from the Church and live it out in fellowship with the people with whom we share our faith. Thus, Faith is not a private mat- Farewell to an only brother ter, anyone who wants to believe has to be able It is not easy to without playing with your in the same world. I re- to say both “I” and “We.” The individual believer write about my only broth- member telling him “You gives his/ her free assent to the “we believe” of the er, my childhood friend and If I ever scraped will forget me” and he said Mother Church from her s/he receives the faith. playmate; for he picked mydolls!” knee, Clive would "elephants never forget”, Section II me, from the four sisters, quickly make a paste with He never wanted to come The Christian Profession of Faith (25-29) to be his shadow. In his kurum bati and daub it be- back on a holiday. . pranks, he needed a prop cause Mum would later be When I heard that Faith is not about empty words, yet about a re- and I trailed him. generous with iodine and I he was ill, I called him, his ality. The Condensed Faith requires formulae definitions of Faith and developed formulae: over One day, he want- humour never failed him. the course of time help us to celebrate and live out ed to catch those elusive that ordeal he made the I said, “If we never meet this reality. paste.would scream! To save me this side of heaven, I will Indeed, the church needs the precise with a net, running around It happened a long leave this world, loving Francis Clive Fernando wordings in order to protect the message of Christ inbutterflies. the big garden. I joined We him did time ago, they were happy you,” he merely chuckled not catch a single that day One day, we had a funny days, carefree, where we in his response. I imag- church’s faith has to be translated into different and he would say “You’re looking kite. It danced in were outdoors, far differ- ine my brother reaching culturesfrom misunderstanding while preserving andits essentials falsification. since Thethe a girl and you could not the wind, for his sake I was ent from present day chal- the pearly gates meeting Church’s unity solely depends on a common faith. on cloud nine. lenges. St. Peter and saying “Am I Hence, the Creeds are belief formulae of despite him not catching a Marbles, catapults We went our sep- late? I know you have room faith which make it possible for all believers to singlecatch one!”either, This but of I stillcourse, re- and me stealing limes from arate ways, with our own make a common profession. The Creeds go back the kitchen, while the do- families and he moved to That was my to Jesus. “Go therefore and make disciples of all Cutting reams of mestic yelled. “Just two to Melbourne, but I always brother,for me; I theam worldFrancis!” will not nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father kitemained paper, silent! trying to make make a lime juice for my knew that when the chips be the same for me. and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,” (Mt 28:19). a kite with loads of paste, were down, we belonged. Farewell my only The Profession of Faith in Jesus the Lord and in His reply. Mum would admon- Neither time nor distance brother, I will look up at Missionary mandate remains the same. thirsty brother!” was my was another uphill task. ish me with “Why are you could separate us really. the sky and think of you. (To be contd) Hemade never of flour gave and up trying. water running around with him, Just to know that we lived Dawn Fernando 1511 The Messenger October 12, 2014 The Word was made esh and lived among us;

to all who did accept him he gave power to Twenty Eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time become children of God. ( J n . 1:12-14) First Reading: Christ was to take place Is. 25; 6-10a. there. With this offering, Prophet Isaiah salvation is made pos-

LITURGICAL CALENDAR YEAR A describes the messi- sible for all mankind, and anic age in the image of a all hopes and expecta- 12th Oct. 2014 - 19th Oct. 2014 banquet. It will be for all tions of mankind would peoples, not only for the Sun: 28TH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME chosen people of the Old all mankind could sit Is.25:6-10; Phil 4:12-14,19-20; Testament, togetherbe fulfilled. for Therefore the great Mt.22:1-14 or 22:1-10 banquet which is salva- Mon: Gal.4:22-24,26,27,31 - 5:1 Second Reading: tion on the mountain of Tue: Memorial of St. Callistus I, Pope & Martyr Phil. 4: 12-14, 19-20. the Lord. Here salvation Gal.5:1-6; Lk.11:37-41 St. Paul has faced is open to all. Wed: Memorial of St. Theresa of Jesus, all situations in life with In the Gospel Virgin & Doctor hope and courage. He has too the Lord makes it Gal.5:18-25;Lk.11:42-46 done this with the help of clear that kingdom of Thu: Memorial of St. Margaret Mary Christ Jesus. Therefore he God is for all. Even here Alacoque, Virgin is thankful to God for ever the symbol is a great Eph.1:1-10;Lk.11:47-54 and ever. banquet, but this time Fri: Memorial of St. Ignatius of Antioch, the message is a formal Bishop & Martyr Gospel: Mt. 22: 1-14. warning for the people Eph.1:11-14; Lk.12:1-7 The Kingdom to be worthy to take Sat: Feast of St. Luke, Evangelist of God is compared to a part in the great ban- 2 Tim.4:10-17;Lk.10:1-9 great banquet in the par- quet. Why this banquet Sun: 29TH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME able of the marriage feast is made open to all is WORLD MISSION SUNDAY of the king. The invitees because those who were Is.45:1. 4-6;1 Thes.1:1-5; Mt.22:15-21 are unworthy. As a result invited did not accept the outsiders are brought in. invitation. They had their But they too have to be in own valid excuses. Some all its ups and downs and right way, she listened Papal Visit their wedding garment. remain faithful to God. very obediently and re- responsibilities and some He is thankful to God for signed herself. However, Reflection. rejectedwere selfish, the messengers. others had helping him to face and the Lord who saw such SPIRITUAL PREPARATION FOR PAPAL VISIT Today’s Readings Therefore the king had remain faithful. In the a good and an innocent AND present the kingdom of the banquet open for the same manner if we face heart granted the wish of CANONIZATION OF BL. JOSEPH VAZ God as a great banquet. outsiders. All those who life with divine assistance that soul burning with di- SUNDAY MASS INTENTIONS And this banquet is not were along byroads and we too could take part vine love, and she died a Sunday October 12th only for the chosen race, lanes were brought in for in the great banquet. Let few days later as a fervent the Jews but also for the great banquet. This us all therefore strive for Christian. That we open our hearts to learn that sal- Gentiles. Therefore it’s does not mean that the that great banquet the Aid Story 2. Kingdom of God. vation and changing the world for the better require for everybody. Further, sinners too could partici- One drought "doing good to those who aren't able to repay us. Jesus goes on to say that pate in the great banquet stricken summer the Aid Story. just like the Heavenly Father did with us, giving us only worthy ones will of the Lord. village priest told his be accepted to the great The moment the In a missionary congregation. “There isn’t Jesus." We Pray to the Lord. banquet. Therefore we king saw a man who was hospital, a good girl, well anything that will save should with the help of not dressed in a wed- prepared, has just been us except to pray for rain. That we as Catholics be graced with "a mis- Go home, pray, believe Christ Jesus face all life ding garment, he had baptized. After baptism and come next Sunday to sionary passion" to share the beauty of faith with situations and remain him thrown out. This, she called the nurse and others. We pray to the Lord. faithful to Him. Thus shows that though the says: “Sisters bring me did as they were told and whether we are Jews or king opens the banquet a rope?” “A rope? What returnedpray for rain!” to church The peoplethe That heads of governments, leaders of na- not we could reach God’s to all, only those who are do you want to do with a following Sunday. But as tions the world over may be given the wisdom to kingdom because of the worthy will be allowed rope?” “Since I am now soon as the priest saw realize that "War is never a necessity, nor is it in- good lives we lead. in, those living in sin will in the state of grace, I feel them, he was furious. “We evitable. Another way can always be found: the way In the First Read- be cast into the outer sure I will go to heaven if can’t worship today you of dialogue, encounter and the sincere search for ing the prophet compares darkness where they will I die.” “That is right, but do not believe,” he said. truth." We pray to the Lord. the kingdom of God to a weep and gnash their what do you intend to “But.” They protested. great banquet and this teeth. do?” “I just want to hang “We prayed and we do That the Catholic faithful in Sri Lanka may banquet is open to all. St. Paul in the myself and not offend believe.” “Do you?” he imitate Blessed Joseph Vaz in rediscovering the He speaks of it as tak- second reading tells us to God anymore.” She was asked. “Then where are power concealed in contemplative prayer. ing place in Jerusalem. cling on to Christ Jesus so told that her wish to go We pray your umbrellas?” to the Lord. This may be because the that we too like him may to heaven was good, but great life offering of Jesus be able to face life with hanging herself is not the Rev. Fr. Ciswan De Croos Saints are trendsetters in the world! During the Nazi occupation of preference to the rejects in society and slowly walked away and remarked em- pieces. There is so much of division and to marginalized groups. in Vienna, a man fell into the swollen wa- phaticallyto God! Yes, forhe is all a German." to hear. "Yes, The saviour he is a dissensionfind peace. Itamong is gradually the people breaking of differ- into Once a self-righteous crowd tersAustria of thewhen Danube. there wereThere several was a crowdfloods ent nations and cultures. Individuals wanted to stone a woman caught in the act of onlookers, all too afraid to jump into We live in the progressive 21st and different communities are unable of adultery. He cleverly turned the tables the river, to save the drowning man. century.German! InI am our a Jew!" times, there is so much to get rid of their prejudices and accept on her accusers: "Whichever one of you A courageous youth got ready of development and growth in every one another as brothers and sisters of has commit to jump in to save the drowning person. sphere of human life. The communica- one and the same human family. In our stone at her"(Jn 8:7). He gently corrected Just then, someone in the crowd shouted tion and transport systems have rapidly times, there is an increase of hatred, vio- the sin and lovedted no the sin sinner may throw tenderly. the first broken down cultural boundaries and lence and billing of one another due to We can think of another ex- drastically shortened the distance be- communal disharmony. Men and women ample. The Jewish society of old placed aloud. "Don't jump! This drowning man tween nations and individuals. are hated because of their skin colour, several strictures on the leper: A person is a Jew! The Let crowdhim die! too Don't joined risk in, your and life in Today, news and ideas travel race, caste, creed, gender, language and with the dreaded skin-disease must wear for a dog!" faster than the space engine from one economic status. Human beings are not torn clothes, leave his hair uncombed, place to another. We have hundreds of cover the lower part of his face, and call a chorus they shouted. "Don't jump! Let TV channels and other facilities such as The biggest tragedy of our time German."him drown! He is a Jew!' The rescuer internet that make us aware of world isable that to onlylive asa fewhuman individuals beings! really con- clean as long as he has the disease, and quickly replied, Against "No! everybody's He is not Jew! approval He is events and happenings instantly and front this agonizing trend. God created heout, must 'Unclean, live outside unclean!' the campHe remains away from un- and at great risk to his life, the young graphically. The world has become a one human race. Humanity has dividked others (Lev.13: 45-46). But Jesus deals man plunged in. After a long struggle, melting pot of cultures. it into races. What is the solution? with the lepers differently. He never he brought the man to safety. When the We are into a new environment Let us turn to the scriptures. shuns them or spurns their request. crowd came close to see the saved man, with a new mindest. Yet, the fact is that How did Jesus relate to people? He they exclaimed in amazement. "Thanks this world of ours is no longer able to loved everyone but he showed a special Saints for the Modern Generation 12XVii Children / Youth The MessengerThe Messenger October October 12, 201412, 2014 A cherished gift to one so young

Sharing this experience with other young Catholics helped me to realise that our friends are an important part of our faith journey. We need to share our gifts and use the strength of Many Catholics live their whole others to help us grow closer to God. lives without ever having an opportunity to see their Pope. We were lucky that he not only came to South Korea, but that There are many things today Day in South Korea, hoping that I would new friends I made. Sharing this experi- he helped celebrate Asian Youth Day by that can contribute to a young Catholic be able to redeem my faith. And surely, I ence with other young Catholics helped giving us a special audience. losing hope. Our society is so material- did get my faith back. And the best part? me to realise that our friends are an im- Hearing him preach to us young istic with people always in a rush to ac- portant part of our faith journey. We need people in person is one of my best expe- quire the latest things. This was a great experience for to share our gifts and use the strength of riences ever. We were fortunate to have We do not think about whether me.It is strongerI had never than seen ever! so many Catholics others to help us grow closer to God. front row seats and watch him come we need more, but instead focus on how gathered in one place before. It touched Asian Youth Day was a good alive when he spoke to us in Italian with- objects might make us more popular or my heart to see that there are so many chance to meet Catholics from through- out any notes. enviable. young Catholics standing up for God out Asia and, though we only knew each Even though we did not un- here in Asia. other for a short while, we talked about derstand everything he was saying, we we are taught to watch out for ourselves For some, the journey to Asian our faith like we were a family. could tell that he spoke from the heart and that Rather getting than ahead serving is the others most first, im- During the formation sessions and that he really cared for the youth portant goal. warned them of what might happen to leading up to Asian Youth Day, I also and the problems we face. Our friends and classmates are themYouth if Day they was took difficult part. But and even officials then, met new friends in Hong Kong. In our To hear the Holy Father, espe- often non-believers who do not under- they were not scared of the consequenc- diocese, there are not many chances for cially one as admired as Papa Francesco, stand why we devote ourselves to God; es of proclaiming their faith and taking young English-speaking Catholics to get share his excitement for young Catholics they do not always share the same val- part in this event. to know one another. in Asia made me feel proud to be a part ues about life and lifestyle. It was a very beautiful and moving However, I connected with peo- of the Church here. In fact, I am one of those Catho- experience, especially because the theme ple from other parishes and now I have Asian Youth Day was really a lics who had been losing hope and faith. I was martyrdom. I was glad that I was able many brothers and sisters in Christ right wonderful gift. It has given me a lot of felt like I had been let down a lot of times to see the commitment of the faithful in here in this city. good memories, but most of all, it has by my friends, my family and, sometimes action, because this helped me to more The best part of my experience, strengthened my faith and made me more even by God. strongly proclaim what I believe in. of course, was being able to meet Papa hopeful about the life God has given me. I joined the Sixth Asian Youth I was also thankful for all the Francesco at such a young age. Courtesy: Sunday Examiner

Sinhala Sahithya What's your pebble? Udanaya - 2014 They contribute to The annual Sinhala Language overeating and gaining un- and Literary Day of St. Benedict's Col- healthy weight. They coax us lege, Colombo was held recently, on a into drugs, alcohol and other grand scale. The event was held at the addictions. They destroy open air stage with a large crowd in at- families and alienate friends. tendance. They thwart the potential of The theme of the Literary Day our children and physically was 'Spiritual healing - The salutary snuff extra years from our aspects of Oriental Dancing'. The stage life. These are the pebbles in was festooned with appropriate deco- the shoe. rations related to the theme. The Chief The pebble can Guest was Mr. Mudiyanse Disanayake, cause you to quit or perform The Senior Professor and the Director with complete indifference. of Post Graduate Educational Section, University of Aesthetic Studies Co- or add disrespectful silence lombo. Mr. Somadasa Werapitiya and toIt canan otherwise help instigate dynamic a fight re- Mr. Chithrasena Werapitiya, former lationship. Even the desire Masters of Oriental Dancing were the Everyone has had riences. Some are pebbles nounced and usually at the for fame, fortune or power Guests of Honour. Rev. Fathers, Rev. a pebble in his or her shoe. of doubt. They form from a most inappropriate time. can turn into a pebble in Brothers, Senior teachers, Old Boys, You may have one or two single thought that occurred What challenges do they your shoe if left undetected. students of invited schools and par- now. It is the small, nag- years, months or weeks present? Most pebbles stir up the ents and well-wishers graced the oc- ging thoughts that eventu- before. Some pebbles are To run the mara- past, cloud the future and casion. ally weigh you down. Some lodged only in your business thon race of life at your most keep the present to a blink of The proceeding were livened pebbles have been hidden, shoes. Some reside in your the eye. Like a garden that is up with exquisite dancing performanc- undetected for years. Others golf shoes while others form free of embarrassment, guilt, been freshly tilled, a pebble es, songs and absorbing dramas. On this efficient speed, you must be push, prod, and make their in the shoes worn while you rejection, fear, envy, jealousy, can reappear without warn- presence felt every day. Each parent. Unfortunately, some anger, impatience, frustra- ing or detection. Prevention around 350 students who excelled at occasion, certificates were awarded to pebble intrudes into the lives pebbles travel in all your tion and worry. All can be and removal are your only various Sinhala literary competitions, of the unsuspecting. shoes regardless of where lodged in any shoe, from a options for simplicity, bal- conducted by the school. At different times you walk or run. pair of loafers worn by a city ance and abundance. in life the pebbles arrive. Some pebbles are dweller in Colombo, to a pair God works in Rev. Bro. Janaka Fonseka F. S. C. Although they are small and of fear. Others are creat- of boots on a farm in Chilaw. mysterious circumstances ! Director mostly undetected, they ed from guilt, rejection or These intangible pebbles are St. Benedict's College, Colombo 13. represent many unresolved shame. Maybe not today, but crippling. They destroy rela- Courtesy: thoughts, images and expe- they eventually arrive unan- tionships. Badulla Diocesan Bulletin XViii13 Children / Youth The TheMessenger Messenger October 12, 2014 Young World First Holy Communion at Munhena, Maggona Parish Sinhala Literary Day of Ten children received their First Holy Communion St. Benedict’s College at St. Mary's Church Munhena (Maggona Parish). The children are seen here in a group photograph with Rev. Fr. Ishan Prameena, Parish Priest, Sr. Mary Leonilda, Sr. Mary Subasiri and Daham Pasal teachers. D. Anselm Fernando 'MIKE WALK 2014' St. Michael’s College, Batticaloa (a National School) Alumni Association organised and sponsored the 141st Col- lege day ‘Mike Walk’ 2014. The patron of the School His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Ponniah inaugurated and participated at the event. A good number of Old Boys took part in the event to honour their alma mater.

Rev. Fr. Ramesh Christy Talent Trendsetters A talent show was held at Our Lady's School, Nuwara-Eliya recently titled "Talent Trendset- ters 2." Annual Sinhala Literary Day of yanse Dissanayake of the University of Picture shows the Chief St. Benedict’s College, Colombo was held Visual and Performing Arts, Colombo. Guest, His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. on September 26 at the College prem- Vianney Fernando having a little ises. The Chief Guest was Prof. Mudi- Ashen S. Senarathna chat with a young trendsetter. Youth Gathering at Deniyaya Parish Excellence in Wrestling A gathering of The College Catholic youth took place team of St. Joseph's Col- at the Deniyaya Parish in lege, Wattala emerged the Galle Diocese under the victorious at the All guidance of the Parish Priest Island schools sport of Deniyaya. competition 2014 in The programme wrestling events. or- for the Youth was conduct- ganised by the Min- ed by Rev. Fr. Devaseelan istry of Education. of the Claretian Order. Padminie Nanajakkara A. Antony Mazenod Youth Session at Mattakkuliya

The Team members of Mazenod Youth came bers on his experiences in the mission areas of the on the meaning of media and social media and the im- together for another enriching encounter on Septem- Anuradhapura Diocese, the meaning of Youth and portant role it played today. ber 21, at De Mazenod House, Mattakkuliya. how to practise the Charism of the Founder in today’s There was a practical session after lunch where The day was scheduled with Holy Mass fol- world. some creative talent in writing came to light. lowed by two special talks, fellowship and a creative The next talk on Media was given by Mr. Sus- discussion. itha R. Fernando, who is Features Editor and Deputy Rev. Fr. S. Randil Fernando OMI Fr. Shivantha Waas OMI addressed the mem- News Editor of the Daily Mirror newspaper. He spoke Mazenod Youth Coordinator The greatest pleasure in life is doing what people say you cannot do - Walter Bagehot XiX Children / Youth The Messenger October 12, 2014 English with Fun and Entertainment Activity 2 : In order to be an instrument of peace what would you do to Dear Readers, rectify your lapses. Match the lapses in column A with the redmial measures In our 47th lesson we learnt an activity with conjunctions, an inspirational in Colun B poem, quotes from “Little Flower of Jesus” and a devotional song. A –Lapses B – Remedial measure

In this lesson let us learn some great quotes from St. Francis of Assisi, (a) Where there is hatred, (1)I would assure hope; match proverbs with their interpretations and learn a beautiful conversation with (b) Where there is injury,; (2)I would become a light; delicate shades of meaning of words for vocabulary enrichment. (c) Where there is doubt, (3)I would bring in joy. (d) Where there is despair, (4)I would sow love, Comments made by our readers are very encouraging. Thanks for your ef- (e) Where there is darkness, (5)I would promote faith forts to make ‘English with Fun and Entertainment’ an interactive process. (f) And where there is sadness, (6)I would ask for/ grant pardon;

God Bless You! Activity 3– Match the proverbs with their interpretations NJ Proverb Interpretation

(i) A bad carpenter always quarrels Activity 1 - Study the delicate shades of meaning of the words given below (a)One bad quality of a person can with his tools and read the quotes of St. Francis of Assisi and experience a deep sense of outnumber all other good elation. (elation means ecstasy, joy, delight, euphoria, jubilation, excitement, characteristics (ii) A bird in the hand is worth two in exultation, rapture) (b)One’s own experience, a bitter the bush one, is a self tutor (iii)A boat that is not tied up will drift (c) an uncontrolled and undisciplined instrument tool gadget device apparatus along with the stream life can drown one in the end. extinguish put out douse smother quench (d)never drop anything in hand to pursue a mirage sow spread prorogate disseminate implant (iv) A burnt child dreads the fire (v) A chain is no stronger than its (e) Good craftsmanship is determined wound hurt harm damage injury weakest link in one’s skill rather than the tools despair desolation anguish depression wretchedness one uses. sadness grief sorrow misery depression console comfort soothe calm relieve Activity 4: Read aloud and practise the conversation. Visiting Sri Lanka - eternal everlasting perpetual endless ceaseless Scene One accept believe recognise acknowledge admit Two foreigners Mr. and Mrs. Stefan are in Sri Lanka. They are on their way to Badulla injury gash cut hurt wound by car. Car proceeding uphill

Anna: Oh, this is wonderful Great quotes of St. Francis of Assissi – Feast - 4th October down the hill. Sri Lanka is a fascinating country, isn’t it?

“All the darkness in the world can- Stefan: I suppose it is. That’s. whyLook we at camethose here.little paddy fields. They are like steps not extinguish the light of a single Anna: Aren’t you driving too fast Stefan? candle.” Stefan: Am I?...... (Car chugs to a halt) happened? Stefan: I don’t know. The engine just stopped. What was the last town? “Start by doing what is necessary, Anna: I’mOh! notDear. sure What. I think it was Haputale. What are we going to do now? then what is possible, and suddenly Stefan: Perhaps someone here speaks English. I’ll ask. Does anyone here speak you are doing the impossible.” English? Anna: I think they are calling someone. “He who works with his hands is a Stefan: Yes. Someone is coming. Upali: Hello. What’s the trouble? laborer. Stefan: My car has broken down. I don’t know what the trouble is. He who works with his hands and Does anyone here know about cars? his head is a craftsman. He who Upali: There is a mechanic just down the road. I’ll send someone to fetch him. works with his hands and his head Anna: It’s very hot in here. and his heart is an artist.” Upal: Would you like to go to my house. It’s down the road. My sister speaks English. She is a teacher. Anna: That’s very kind of you. I would like to get out of the sun. “The deeds you do may be the only Upali: By the way I’m Upali Gunasekera. sermon some persons will hear to- Stefan: U-pa-li Gun – se- ke-ra?.Is that right? Well, I’m Stefan Fleming and this day” is my wife Anna. “Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace. Upali: How do you do? Where there is hatred, let me sow love, “For it is in giving that we receive.” Stefan: How do you do? Where there is injury, pardon; Anna: Glad to meet you…. I’m going to Upali’s house. Aren’t you coming? Stefan: No. I think I’ll wait here for Mr. Martin Baas. Where there is doubt, faith; “Remember that when you leave Upali: I’ll leave your wife at my house, Mr. Fleming and then I’ll come back Where there is despair, hope; this earth, you can take with you nothing that have received--only Where there is darkness, light; Activity 5: what you have given.” And where there is sadness, joy. underlined in the conversation. Write five words giving similar shades of meaning to the words “Lord, grant me the strength to ac- Answers –Activity 2 - (a) -4 (b) -6 ( c) – 5 ( d ) 1 ( e ) – 2 ( f ) – 3 Activity 3 - (i)-e , (ii) O Divine Master, grant that I may not cept the things I cannot change, the –d, (iii)-c, (iv) - b (v) – a Activity 5 (i)wonderful- delightful pleasing great brilliant so much seek to be consoled as to courage to change the things I can, fascinating-captivating charming enthralling attractive mesmerizing interesting abosorbing (iii)suppose - presume assume un- console, and the wisdom to know the differ- derstandperfect ideal expect magnificent reason guess superb/(ii) imagine postulate expect (iv)happened - occurred, to be understood as to understand, ence.” transpired, ensued, materialized chanced befell followed (v) sure - unquestion- to be loved, as to love. “We have been called to heal trouble - worry distress anxiety care misfortune suffering woe concern (vii)fetch able indisputable certain definite guaranteed assured confident positive (vi) For it is in giving that we receive, wounds, to unite what has fallen bring carry take get cart move (viii) teacher- educator tutor instructor coach It is in pardoning that we are pardoned, apart, and to bring home those who trainer lecturer professor (ix)glad - willing ready prepared happy eager pleased (x)think and it is in dying that we are born to have lost their way.” .” -reason reflect contemplate ponder deliberate consider mediate eternal life Contact us on: 071 8004580 Compiled by Noel Jayamanne E-mail: [email protected]

! XX Children / Youth The Messenger October 12, 2014 The girl on a tight rope

pole she holds on to for balance not telling. much, but it is enough to feed the looks heavy, weighing her down Unfortunately, the re- family for a night. A carnival, the in ways both tangible and im- wards she gains each day after material. Look carefully and you all her practice are not very im- makes business better and per- will see that it is tied around her pressive, but she does not let hustle of traffic and of people, neck and the thought of an alba- that deter her. She will be here of the day. The sad part of such Tension, anxiety and concentration; the girl’s face is a collage of tross comes to mind. The men again tomorrow, and many depictionshaps more profitable of sheer by bravery the end is emotions (Girl on Wire by Faria Athar). in the picture don’t seem to be more brave children all over the that they are so common; people MUMBAI, India - A signal globalization among this looking at her. They have seen it world will do the same. They watching hardly consider the young girl of about 10-years-old spectrum of Indian colors. The all before. Walking on a tightrope are applauded and appreciated scene to be child exploitation. It does what most people would girl, too, exhibits her bit of In- is probably not her ‘talent,’ nor for their effort, but does this at- is a sunny afternoon in the pic- not dream of doing: Balancing on dian revelry. does it come ‘naturally’ to her. It tention make them happy? Al- ture, so the girl has evidently a tightrope. Some may dismiss it The sparkly earrings, is the result of several hours of though it is nice to think of rosy skipped school to perform and as childish, but her perseverance tiny nose ring, bangles and “deep and deliberate practice” images of a brave young girl or earn her keep. The question that and hard work say otherwise. It prominent metal pots on her and the outcome of much failure boy, the real issue is hidden in must be asked is, does she even is clear she has put in hours of head bear testimony to her vil- and perseverance. Here the cost plain sight: This is probably the go to school?This child may not hard work to master this craft - lage heritage. Her clothes may of failing is dangerous and pain- most prevalent form of child la- have all the credentials or acco- it is easy to imagine that her next not be extraordinary, but her ful - and if the tightrope is situ- bor you will see in India. Typical- lades to call herself ‘great’, but venture would be making her profound facial expressions give ated high enough, perhaps even ly - outside the frame - one will she has the courage and bravery way across the rope on a wheel. her more dignity than any other fatal. The studied expresssion on see her parents or other adults necessary to be successful in her It is an extraordinary moment in assets could offer her. She bal- the girl’s face indicates practice collecting money from the spec- own right. an everyday setting. The plastic, ances on a thin rope tied between and perseverance, but also a hint tators who have come to watch. hoardings and formal shirts all two coloured wooden sticks. The of fear. One can only guess. She is The money they get may not be

Catholic parents from the Western prov- MATRIMONIAL ince seek a partner for their daughter BSc graduate 5’ 1” height, medium complexion, Bride born in June 1976 employed in Colombo as

inherits assets such as land house and other son sought by Sinhala B/CH retired educated a Computer Engineer with a six figure salary Academically professionally qualified suitable valuables parents, for their second daughter. She is 5’ 2”, Tel: 0773747432. E-mail: 31 pleasant simple, Completed education in [email protected] Canada and now working for an International No. NG7441, C/o, Colombo Catholic organization in Colombo. Prefer Christian val- Press, Colombo 8. ues in life. Reply with family details. E-mail: [email protected] tel: 0112231995 after 6.00 p.m. No. N3712, C/o, Colombo Catholic Press, Colombo 8.