SINCE FEB 11,1869 THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY O F SRI LANKA We wish our Hindu brethren a Happy and St. Charles Borromeo Prosperous Deepavali!

November 4 "REGISTERED IN THE DEPARTMENT OF POSTS OF SRI LANKA UNDER NO. QD / 50 / NEWS /2013" Sunday, November 3, 2013 Vol 144 No 43 20 Pages Rs: 25.00 Registered as a newspaper Don’t the Heads of Commonwealth need to visit their places of religious worship? ommonwealth Heads of Many Heads of the their respective places of religious Government will meet Commonwealth are either worship has been taken into account betweenC November 15 - 17. The practising Christians or Muslims. in drawing up the arrangements three-day visit, also consists of They generally practise their faith made for their stay here, which may visits to the locations of the two by visiting Churches or Mosques on also include Commonwealth graves out-of-Colombo forums - the the respective Sabbath or holy days maintained by the Commonwealth Commonwealth People’s Forum which are Friday for the Muslims countries which are situated (CPF) in Hikkaduwa and the and Sunday for the Christians. So at cemeteries in Trincomalee, Commonwealth Youth Forum one wonders whether the need for Peradeniya, Jawatte and Borella. (CYF) in Hambantota. these Heads of Governments to visit Church commemorates 25th Death Anniversary of His Eminence Thomas Cardinal Cooray OMI n a ceremony that Iportrayed love and respect, the Catholic community gathered last Tuesday at the Basilica of Our Lady of Lanka, Tewatte for a Thanksgiving Mass, to commemorate the 25th Death Anniversary of His Eminence the Late Thomas Benjamin Cardinal Cooray OMI, the conducted the prayer for the late Cardinal. Servant of God. service at the crypt of His The Philatelic Presiding at the Eminence Thomas Bureau of the Department ceremony was the Cardinal Cooray. The of Posts, Sri Lanka, issued Archbishop of Colombo Pic: Rev. Fr. Sunil de Silva crypt was lined with a First Day Postal Cover to His Eminence Malcolm mark the occasion. Cardinal Ranjith together Nuncio in Sri Lanka, Their graced the occasion. the Servant of God, was a symbolized the love and beautiful flowers which with Auxiliary Bishops Grace Archbishops Delivering the perfect example of faith respect the people had (Contd on Pg. 2) Their Lordships Rt. Rev. Dr. Emeriti, Most Rev. Dr. homily at Holy Mass, Very and a shining lamp of Emmanuel Fernando and Nicholas Marcus Rev. Fr. Cyril Gamini Christian living. Rt. Rev. Dr. Maxwell Silva. Fernando, Most Rev. Dr. Fernando (Episcopal After the Best Writer of the Messenger - 2013 His Excellency Oswald Gomis, and Msgr. Vicar), said that His Eucharistic Celebration, At the Catholic Literary Awards Day organised Archbishop Most Rev. Dr. Renato Kucic, Secretary to Eminence Late Thomas His Eminence Malcolm by Catholic Writers’ Association held at Paul VI Joseph Spiteri, Apostolic the Apostolic Nuncio also Benjamin Cardinal Cooray, Cardinal Ranjith Centre, Colombo last Sunday, well-known Catholic writer Mr. Francis Madiwella, won the Award for Aquinas Rector calls for Education Commission the best writer of the Catholic Messenger. ector of Aquinas University nation like Sri Lanka. Light and darkness in the Church RCollege, Colombo Rev. Dr. “A good education,” he said, Placidus de Silva, called on the “is the beginning of wealth, the Government to appoint a beginning of health, the beginning of Commission similar to the Lessons spirituality and is where the miracle Learnt and Reconciliation process all begins.” Commission to formulate Fr. Placidus was educational reforms so that the addressing the General habit of ministers taking Convocation of the College, held temporary decisions to provide recently at the Msgr W.L.A. Don patchwork solutions will not Peter Auditorium where several occur. students were conferred with The commission would Internal Degrees and Diploma Picture shows His Eminence being welcomed to the Church focus on issues like School by the Administrator of the Shrine Rev. Fr. Noel Nonis. (Pic H.A. Caldera) Admissions, University Curriculum Report of Aquinas University occasion was His Grace, changes, School Curriculum College, Fr. Placidus pointed out Archbishopcertificates. The Chief Guest on the Emeritus Most Rev. Dr. rchbishop of Colombo, told the gathering of His Eminence faithful present that the subjects, Vocational Education and that Education is a vital A component of any society, but Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith 12 Apostles Graduate unemployment crisis. Chancellor of the College. presiding at the feast of especially so of a developing Oswald Gomis, who is also the first Presenting the Annual (Contd on Pg. 2) St. Jude’s Shrine, Indigolla (Contd on Pg. 2) 2 The Messenger November 3, 2013 FROM THE DIOCESES Cultural Day at St. Aloysius' Minor Seminary Church The 5th Annual Feasts Cultural Day of St. Aloy- sius' Minor Seminary was held last month. The Sin- hala Literary Union of St. Aloysius' Seminary was started in 1948 by Rev. Fr. Nicholas Joseph and Rev. Fr. Sevarinus. The Literary The Annual Union celerbated its 65th Feast of All Saints’ anniversary with the dis- Church, Seda Watte, guished presence of Music Pamunugama will be Maestro Dr. Pandit W.D. celebrated on Friday Amaradewa as the Chief 1st November. Fes- Guest for the event. tive Mass at 5 pm fol- This function was lowed by blessing of organised by the Seminar- boats. Concelebrants ians under the guidance of -Rt. Rev. Dr. Maxwell Rev. Fr. Lalith Felix, Rector Silva, Auxiliary Bishop and Rev. Fr. Malin Samurd- of Colombo and Very hka, President of the Sin- Rev. Fr. Shanthikumar hala Literay Union. Welivita, Archdioc- Ranesh Lakshan esan Episcopal Vicar. Secretary of the Sinhala Procession of boats Literry Union carrying the Statue of Our Lady will proceed from Sebastian Place Sinhala Literary Day 2013 - Ballet performance at to the Church via the Negombo Lagoon at Sinhala Sahithya Udanaya Balagala Church 4pm on this day.

The Annual Feast of the Church of Christ the Healer, We- ligama (Galle Diocese) will be celebrated on Sunday 24th Novem- ber. Festive Mass at 8.30 am, followed by bless- ing of the sick. Chief A Musical Drama titled "Ape Daruwo" (our chil- celebrant -Rt. Rev. Dr. dren) was staged at the Parish Church of Our Lady of Raymond Wickremas- Succour Balagala Parish by the Sunday School Children. inghe, Bishop of Galle. It was a concept of the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. Jude Raj Vespers Service on pre- Fernando, script by Very Rev. Fr. Cyril Gamini Fernando, vious day at 5.30 pm Episcopal Vicar for the Missionary Region and Choreog- presided over by Very The Annual Sinhala Literary The Day’s proceedings enlight- raphy by Ms. Thilini Tharanga Rodrigo, a student from Rev. Fr. Nihal Nanayak- Day of St. Benedict’s College was held on ened with the presence of Maestro Sunil the University of Fine Arts. kara, Vicar General of Friday October 25. Edirisinghe. Ashen S. Senarathna Galle Diocese. Thilina Allahakoon There is a light.... Aquinas Rector.... Church Feast at Hapugoda Contd from Pg. 1 Contd from Pg. 1 whom Jesus chose were mostly simpletons who misun- Stating that both higher education and secondary edu- derstood the teachings of the Lord. Even until the end cation lagged behind while the economy of the country they failed to grasp His message. developed on a global agenda which led to a mismatch St. Peter was so full of himself that he even of educational reforms to meet the needs of the labour denied Our Lord three times (John 18:15-27), but Je- market. Fr. Placidus said the reason for this was that sus knew Peter would lead the Church one day. Thus reforms were introduced as ad hoc measures to bring set the apostolic tradition and it is this tradition that is He also quoted from the inaugural newsletter continuedwe have St Peter as the first head of the Church which for over 2000 years and today the Catholic ofabout political benefits. the University of Ruhuna in which the Vice Chancel- Church has as its head the 266 Pope. lor Professor Susirith Mendis had stated the following: Likewise, His Eminence said, that priests, reli- “We are at a point in time when multiple events that can gious and the clergy are the product of ordinary folk and be called crises have developed within a short time. The are not angels. “As a Church we are all simple people trade union actions by the non-academic and academic hence there is light and darkness in the Church and we staff for higher salaries, demand for higher public sec- learn from that.” posed amendments to the Universities Act of 1978 and invitationtor investment in education, the ‘Z’ score fiasco, the pro- to the international private sector to invest in The 88th Annual Feast of St. Mary's Church, Text: Doreen Perera higher education in Sri Lanka by establishing ‘private’ Hapugoda was celebrated recently, presided over by Church commemorate... universities are some issues that are prominent in the Rev. Fr. Vimal Tirimanne, CSsR. Contd from Pg. 1 current debate.” Professor Mendis furthermore poses a Picture shows the pandal erected by the youth very opportune and pertinent question: Is Higher Edu- at the entrance to the Church. His Eminence Thomas Benjamin Cardinal Cooray was cation in Sri Lanka in crisis or at the Crossroads? H.A. Caldera born on December 28, 1901 and hailed from the Parish of Periyamulla, Negombo. He was called to Eternal Rest in the Lord on October 29, 1988. He belonged to the Feast of the Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace Munhena Congregation of Oblates of Mary Immaculate and was ordained a priest on June 23, 1929. Annual Feast of the Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Munhena, Maggona, was celebrated recently. Archbishop of Colombo succeeding Archbishop Jean The chief celebrant of the Festive Mass was Rev. Marie Masson On July 26, 1947 he became the first Sri Lankan OMI. In February 22, 1965 he became Sri Fr. Jude Asantha TOR, Director Franciscan Home, Mag- gona. Picture shows the Statue of Queen of Peace car- ried in procession. Lanka’s first Cardinal when Pope Paul VI conferred on The winners of the Bible Quiz Competition con- All arrangements for the Feast were made un- ductedhim the titular office. by our sister papers the Gnanarthapradeepaya der the guidance of Rev. Fr. Ishan Prameena Kannanga- and Gnana Oli, on the life of Thomas Cardinal Cooray, ra, Parish Priest Maggona and the Liturgy Committee. D.A. Fernando were awarded with medals and certificates. 3 The Messenger November 3, 2013 Church in the Modern World Pope Francis receives Aung San Suu Kyi, Myanmar Opposition Leader VATICAN CITY (CNS) – would be at the service mostly in western Rakh- Pope Francis called for of everyone in Myanmar ine State. inter-religious dialogue without discriminating.” The Vatican does in Myanmar last Monday not have diplomatic re- at an audience for Nobel meeting between Pope lations with Myanmar, Prize winner Aung San Francis Thisand was the the historic first whose overwhelmingly Suu Kyi in which the two Myanmar Opposition Buddhist population of 55 also discussed her long Leader, who has been crit- million is only 1 percent campaign for democracy. icised for not speaking out Catholic. During the meet- enough against ethnic and The Vatican ing Pope Francis “ex- religious tensions in her spokesman, Jesuit Fa- pressed his appreciation homeland. Myanmar has ther Federico Lombardi, for the Opposition Lead- been rocked by sectarian called Suu Kyi "one of the er’s non-violent engage- unrest in recent months, - ment in the cause of peace prompting growing inter- alities in Asia in the area and democracy,” Vatican national concern. ofmost peace, significant democracy person and spokesman Federico Lom- Around 250 peo- peaceful coexistence" and bardi said. ple have been killed and a "symbol of non-violent “The Pope said more than 140,000 left commitment to democ- he would pray for Myan- homeless in several out- racy and peace." mar, for inter-religious breaks of Buddhist-Mus- "The Holy Father diminish life and the val- 20-minute meeting. to value love and under- dialogue in the country. lim violence around the told me that emotions ue of the person." Suu Kyi She said the Pope standing to improve the He also said the Church country since June 2012, such as hatred and fear told reporters after the also told her "we need lives of people." US Ambassador to Vatican united with Anglican scholar, Catholic Pope Francis in care for poor theologian awarded (CNA/EWTN News.- The Ratzinger prize new United States ambassador to the Holy See revealed his shared concern with Pope Francis for those who are subject to poverty, as well as his optimism on US relations with the Vatican. The envoy's remarks come as current US International Reli- gious Freedom Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook is allegedly set to re- sign. President Obama faced criti- for leaving the post vacant for near- cismly two during and a half his yearsfirst term before in Cook's office Participants gather for The Gospels, Historical and appointment in June of 2011. US International Religious Freedom Ambassador Suzan Johnson Cook Christological Research conference in Rome. Ken Hackett was nomi- nated in June by President Barack sues that cause people to be poor.” Health and Human Services (HHS) CNA - At the conclusion of an international Obama to serve as the 10th ambas- "The US Government, mandate, which is a contraceptive symposium in Rome, Pope Francis granted the presti- sador to the Vatican, and was unani- "Hackett added, is also concerned mandate that requires health insur- gious "Joseph Ratzinger Award" to two professors for mously approved by the US Senate their exemplary scholarship in theology. with the “persecution of minorities, ers, or employers that provide their in August. In an interview with The winners were the Anglican Rev. Canon Pro- particularly Christians and their employees with health insurance, CNA, Hackett emphasized the sig- fessor Richard Burridge, Dean of Kings College, London, constraints on freedom of religion to include contraception in their around the world.” and Catholic Professor of Theology Christian Schaller, health insurance plans, even if in individual who is homeless on the Hackett addressed recent Vice Director of the Pope Benedict XVI institute of Re- doing so it violates their religious sidewalk,”nificance of butnot just thinking passing seriously by “that tensions between the Obama ad- gensburg, Germany. “about the policy and structural is- ministration and US Bishops on the beliefs. Vatican brings sports into the heart of the Church

Vatican City, CNA/EWTN News.- The Vatican's - lievers in the world of sports” this week to discuss the Pontificalrole of the Council Church forin the Culture realm held of athletics. a conference on “be “We wanted to bring sports into the heart of the Church,” said Monsignor Melchor Sanchez de Toca, un- dersecretary of the council, “to remember that sports is important…for a sound and full Christian life.” He told CNA that the group also wanted to re- mind “the world of sports that th

e Church has much to bring about, much to say, to a world that sometimes is rotten,” or that “has lost the values which are the foundation of sports.” The conference was held during the celebration of the Church's Year of Faith, and invited international professional athletes, heads of Catholic sporting asso- ciations, and representatives of bishops' conferences involved in the pastoral care for sports to join in a re-

flection on the relationship between faith and athletics. 4 The Messenger November 3, 2013 Eye Opener - 1- Tithe By Sarath Ranasinghe

he meaning of 'Tithe' EDITORIAL is one-tenth part of November 3, 2013 Tone's income. This includes income from salary,

any business, return from in- Overcoming sin through vestments,bonus, incentives, profit from interest received from deposits, realized the Grace of God capital appreciation of assets disposed (Capital gains), In Romans (3: 9-18) Paul referred to sin as a condition that plagues Dividends etc. etc. We being the human race both Jews and Gentiles. There are two very powerful the followers of the Lord forces in the world, which have been here ever since the time when Jesus Christ, are required to Eve partook of the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden. Those two donate the Tithe or 10% of forces are sin and grace. A very great power is sin, a power dark, our income, to support the mysterious, but full of force. The sorrows of mankind, came from Church, for the maintenance ing against two command- ues "Test me in this" says sin? Sin is the Pandora's Box from which all evil has come to man- of clergy, for Missionary ments. According to the Ten the Lord Almighty, "and see kind. We should have known no war, nor pestilence, nor famine, work of taking the Good Commandments, Nos 7 and if I will not throw open the nor sickness or sorrow if the human race had not sinned and sown News to people and related 10 says respectively, "You shall not steal" and "You shall pour out so much blessing its evil seed in this earth. Sin must therefore be charged as the au- charitable work for the less privileged in the society. not covet other's goods." So, thatfloodgates of heaven and there will not have room thor of sorrow, disease, death, and hell. This is no mean power with An "Offering" is a Christian who does not pay enough to store it." Also, the any amount you would give the Tithe is guilty of two of- Holy Proclamation quotes er of sin. The force to combat sin is never described, in the Bible as above the Tithe in free will. fences: Firstly he/she steals Jesus saying "I tell you that which we come into conflict; Jesus never underestimated the pow- the power of human endeavour to keep the law. Giving the Tithe what is due to God and sec- this poor widow put more in goes way back to histori- ondly, covets what belongs to the offering box than all the The only counter force against sin is grace not human will power. cal era, perhaps the time God. "Will man rob God? Yet others. For the others put And what is grace? Grace is the free favour of God, the undeserved prior to Moses as indicated you are robbing me. But you in what they had to spare of blessing of the ever-gracious Creator against whom we have of- in Leviticus 27:30-33. "One say, 'How have we robbed their riches; but she, poor as fended. It is the generous pardon, from the spontaneous loving tenth of all the produce of the you?' In your Tithes and she is, put in all she had— kindness of the God who has been provoked and angered by our land, whether grain or fruit, contributions. You are cursed she gave all she had to live sin, but who, delights in mercy and is ever ready to overlook iniq- belongs to the Lord. If you with a curse, for you are rob- on" (Mark 12:45-44). Do bing me, the whole nation of we have complete trust in uity and sin, and to save His people from all the evil consequences wish to buy any of it back, you must pay the standard you." (Malachi 3:8-9) God to give Tithe in its en- of their guilt. price plus an additional 20 The New Testament tirety to His storehouse? The percent. One of every ten states that Jesus Himself had Almighty God will honour The Holy Bible refers not only to individual acts of sin but also to domestic animals belongs to Tithed as a follower of the the Tithe if we really search the habits of sinning. There is no slavery compared to the slavery of the Lord. When the animals Jewish Law as set down in for Him with the fullness of ingrained habits. Our ordinary method of dealing with sin is to rely are counted, every tenth one the Torah which refers to the heart and complete trust. on our own will power and determination whether the sin is anger, belongs to the Lord. You may Five Books of Moses: Genesis, God has never broken His gluttony, pride, alcoholism, sexual lust or anything else. We deter- not arrange the animals so Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers promises and will not in the that the poor animals are and Deuteronomy. The Holy future too. Despite the hard- chosen and you may not Proclamation of St. Matthew ships in the present environ- tomine not to do it again, we pray against it, fight against it and set it. When we depend on our own will alone to attain the victory make any substitutions. If 17:27 quotes Jesus's saying, ment, if committed to give overour will against it. But it is all in vain as we find ourselves returning sin we are depending on the strength of our will power alone you do substitute one animal "However, not to give offense the entire 10% of the Tithe to them, go to the sea and cheerfully, God will stretch and it is some sort of worship of our will. But will power alone will for another, then both ani- mals will belong to the Lord the balance 90% to provide not help us to succeed in overcoming deeply ingrained habits of sin. and may not be bought back." As modern psychologists who have studied human behaviour point This also explains youcast a hook, and take the first open its mouth you will 100%. out; when we resist mentally any undesirable habit or unwanted that the Tithe is to be allotted fish that comes up, and when benefits beyond the previous Christians should circumstance we thereby endow it with more power which it will out of the best produced and give it to them for me and for have a very high degree of use against us. So as long as we think we can save ourselves from without any defects. Further yourself."find a shekel; take that and faith in God that He was the sinful habits by our own efforts we make the evil in us even stron- it is similar to a command- In the New Testa- Rewarder of those who dili- ger. So Paul says for what I will to do, that I do not practice; but ment or law, not at all an ment also, the idea of Tithing gently look for Him. There- what I hate, that I do. (Romans 7:14, 15 NKJV) option. can be found in several fore, when we Tithe with instances. "So give back to belief, not only we please How then do we overcome a sinful habit? It is through God's grace Whole Tithe King what is King's, and to Him but also we are subject- for which we must pray constantly. The much needed change in us The Old Testament God what is God's" (Mat- ing God to test. "And without thew 22:21). Also, on various faith it is impossible to please is God's work and we must let God do it by surrendering our will has many references in re- occasions describes the God, because anyone who to do what is God's will through His grace. Only God can work in spect of Tithe and Christians comes to Him must believe us from within. We cannot attain or earn this righteousness of the are bound to offer 10% of the income for God's work; derived by generous giving. that God exists and that He Kingdom of God - it is the grace of God that is given to a humble importance and the benefits it is neither what you can In accordance with 2 Corin- rewards those who earnestly and repentant sinner. But the moment we grasp the fact that righ- afford nor what you want to, thians 9:7, "Each man should seek him"(Hebrews 11:6). So, teousness comes from God and not from our own efforts we may in accordance with Malachi give what he has decided in Tithing with faith will ulti- be tempted to believe that there is nothing more for us to do for 3:10, for which the reward is his heart, not reluctantly or ourselves. But that is not true either. We cannot just wait for God to without boundaries. " Bring under compulsion, for God in your life. Every Christian, mately result in overflowing come and transform us through his grace. We must practice certain the WHOLE TITHE into the loves and blesses a cheer- as a disciple of Lord Jesus storehouse, that there may ful giver." This provides the Christ could experience be food in my house." option either to give 10% the outrageous power of Allspiritual disciplines like constant prayer and sacrifice. Consider the he can do is to make the right conditions for the seed to grow. What must be the vi- or less depending on the God while Tithe is paid by farmer who sows the seed in his field, but he cannot make it grow. sion of a Christian? A true fol- capacity or even more than converting faith into action, lower of Christianity should 10% provided you have been which results in your over- whelming prosperity. Even have the vision of entering blessed with many resources. corruption;Similarly as St. Paul says we must sow to the Spirit not to the flesh. but he who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap the younger generation could into the Kingdom of God to Perhaps, you may give as eternal(Gal 6:8) "He who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap life" be encouraged for Tithing enjoy the eternal life in the you are able to donate. So, this invites those who have with a long term perspective company of Our Lord Jesus as they would receive stra- It is very wonderful, but it is certainly true, that there are many Christ. In order to achieve been provided with more persons in heaven in whom sin once abounded. In the judgment of this, The manuel of Chris- wealth to donate more and from the Almighty Father their fellow-men, some of them were worse sinners than others. tians, that is the Holy Bible more, with cheerfulness and tegic benefits and Blessings during the earthly sojourn. There was Saul of Tarsus, there was the dying thief, there was the has listed the command- generosity to receive further As true Christians, woman in the city who was a sinner,—a sinner in a very open and ments and the guidelines to blessings from the Almighty if we honestly love God, our terrible sense. These and many more of whom we read in the Scrip- be followed. It is mandatory Father. affection should truly be tures, were all great sinners, and it was a great wonder of grace, in for every Christian to adhere For those who select and prime concern is, God to the commandment in rela- the option of "we give what every instance, that they should be forgiven. reflected in everything done tion to Tithe and if anybody we can," that is less than 10%, Malachi 3:10 contin- violates this means practic- to be the first of (Contd. on Pg. 5) 5 The Messenger November 3, 2013

who is generous" (Psalm to testify to the resurrection of set of majority in the society of Churches /Chapels ( God's Eye Opener..... 112:5). the Lord Jesus. And God's grace today is to concentrate more on House) in our country which Contd. from Pg. 4 - was so powerfully at work in acquiring materialistic things. are in urgent need of either ingly will also reap spar- them all that there were no Spiritual and Human values renovation or reconstruction our lives. Sustainable ingly,• "Whoever and whoever sows sows spar needy persons among them. are gradually getting eroded but lacking funds, along with commitment to honour the generously will also reap gen- For, from time to time those amongst most in the world. To Social Institutions like Elder's Tithe demonstrates our love for erously" (2 Corinthians 9:6). who owned land or houses a great extent these are results Homes. Orphanages, Vocational Him and also of our dedication sold them, brought the money of excessive Globalization and Training Institutions for under given to you. A good measure, from the sales and put it at Commercialization. Could the privileged children etc.etc. of the Blessings bestowed. "I pressed• down, "Give, andshaken it will to- be the apostles' feet, and it was present trend be acceptable which are under the purview to have God at the first place am not commanding you, but gether and running over, will distributed to anyone who had for positive results at the Final of the Roman Catholic Church I want to test the sincerity of be poured into your lap" (Luke need." Judgment? There is evidence, your love by comparing it with 6:38). during the time of Prophet resources for existence. Also the earnestness of others"(2 provide Human Resources in Haggai even the Israelites and,some are of thebadly Parishes short of in financial remote Corinthians 8:8). Equally with your wealth, with the taking• God's Supports message. those Galatians who too were focused on minting outstation areas are in require- important is to fully recognize • "Honour the Lord 6:6 records, "Nevertheless, the money with hardly any time for - the mandatory aspect of one who receives instruction God. "Is it a time for you your- nance. Catholics living in cer- Tithing for our most essential first fruits of all your crops; in the word should share all selves to dwell in your paneled tainment poor of finances areas like for Estates mainte etc. spiritual growth. "So if you 10).then your barns will be filled good things with their instruc- houses, while this house lies do not have the opportunity to have not been trustworthy to overflowing" (Proverbs 3:9- tor." Further, Corinthians 9:14 in ruins? Now, therefore, thus attend for Religious Services in handling worldly wealth, yet gains even more; another states, "In the same way, the says the LORD of hosts: Con- due to monetary constrains in who will trust you with true withholds• "One unduly, man butgives comes freely, to Lord has commanded that sider your ways. You have sown travelling distances, arising the riches?"(Luke 16:11). Tithing poverty. A generous man will those who preach the gospel much, and harvested little. You need to construct new Chapels is also an Investment for our prosper; he who refreshes oth- should receive their living from eat, but you never have enough; in convenient locations. Most of eternal life as the Lord Jesus ers will himself be refreshed" you drink, but you never have these fund requirements are in has said in Matthew 6:19-20. (Proverbs 11:24-25). every Christian is under obliga- the poorest Diocese in Sri Lan- "Do not store up for yourselves the gospel." This confirms that The source of all our tion to look into the well being but no one is warm. And he ka, like Badulla, Anuradhapura treasures on earth, where moth resources, either materialistic of our clergy and those who are whoyour earnsfill. You wages clothe does yourselves, so to and rust destroy, and where and Ratnapura. Further, there or spiritual, was God, inclusive involved in related duties con- put them into a bag with holes. are many more widows, des- thieves break in and steal. of talents, abilities and the time nected to the Kingdom of God. Thus says the LORD of hosts: titutes and displaced brothers But store up for yourselves etc. and each one must use Consider your ways. Go up to and sisters of Christians who treasures in heaven, where - people in the society. The the hills and bring wood and are neglected and are in need moth and rust do not destroy, ers. We must not claim owner- Scripture• Assists makes less it very privileged clear build the house, that I may take of social support for survival. and where thieves do not break shipthese of for things the benefit which belongof the oth that it was the responsibility of pleasure in it and that I may be Also, there are many Catholic in and steal." to God. " Each of you should all believers to care for widows Additionally, Tithe use whatever gifts you have and orphans and to extend looked for much, and behold, Religious Places of Worship should be given with very clear received to serve others, as hospitality to strangers inclu- itglorified, came to says little. the And LORD. when You you and Missionary Institutions other motives like , gratitude faithful stewards of God's grace sive of all those who are under brought it home, I blew it away. which are awaiting, either to and a means of worship along in its various forms."(1 Peter privileged. St. Paul's First Let- Why? declares the LORD of be renovated or reconstructed with honour to God and also 4:10). ter to Corinthians 6:1-2 says, hosts. Because of my house that in the areas affected by civil In the present envi- "Now about the collection for lies in ruins, while each of you war. The Tithe we are to give to death on the cross of our Lord God and whatever the Freewill ronment, perhaps, for a poor the Lord's people: Do what I busies himself with his own Jesusis a service Christ. to Payment the sacrificial of Tithe Offerings given displaying our person giving 10% might hurt told the Galatian churches to house. (Haggai 1:4-9) displays our gratitude to God the wallet a lot, but for a rich For our own good, the generosity will support the for everything He has given us building of the Kingdom of God it would be of no pain. The week, each one of you should emphasis has to be, to reside and is a sacred privilege. God and guide us towards a favor- answer for those who are un- setdo. asideOn the a firstsum dayof money of every in close to good God who wants to knows well our inner motives able Final Judgment. comfortable is to test the God keeping with your income, sav- provide the best for us. If you and we must not give Tithe So, while we prepare ing it up, so that when I come want God to make your house with ill feelings but with re- agendas to build up tempo- unfortunate for Christians to no collections will have to be spect and gratefulness to God. thinkwith confidence. that God wants It is certainlyten per rary Mansions and utilize God made." Perhaps, it may be better to cent and you can do what you flourished, firstly you ensure given resources to acquire all give what you can afford rather "For Macedonia and your wish for God to be inter- like with the rest to the full, that His house is flourished. If luxuries in the world for our than giving a lot and be angry Achaia were pleased to make ested in your house, primarily which is against the teachings own comfort, satisfaction, about it. a contribution for the poor be interested in building His of the Lord Jesus Christ. The enjoyment etc.etc. by spending among the Lord's people in House. If you expect God to Christians must, enjoy correct interpretation and bless your house, be commit- millions and millions of rupees, giving the Tithe and under- action have to be, as the God Jerusalem." (Romans 15:26) ted to bless His house. Tithing stand that it is a Blessing and has richly blessed you with His There are many refer- and Generosity are two of the trust when Tithe is given to love, mercy, grace, generosity ences, either in the Old Testa- let us make certain sacrifices God's work the person is not most important techniques to constructing the Poor but Ever- etc. etc., then give very lavishly. ment or New which emphasize and fulfill our obligation of become a shareholder in this lasting House of God. Also, let going to lose but gain. We are There are Christians I know the importance of generosity to understand, the greatest and of today whom God has richly too. In Matthew 25:31-46 (The process of building the King- Jesus while we see the needs of the most generous giver in the blessed who give a major por- Final Judgment), Lord Jesus has dom of God and spreading the theus reflect poor Diocese on the Holy in the Face country of world is Jesus Christ. Every- tion of their income for God's stressed that every Christian Good News in the world and and the sufferings of less privi- body should give like Jesus work and live on the remain- was obligated to be generous also are great investments for leged. ing minor portion, but they with those in need. Generosity the eternal life. live abundantly well on that. should NOT AT ALL A TECH- While saluting and In conclusion, I wish sacrificed riches and glory of St. Paul has said "It is more Christians must realise, God NIQUE FOR PUBLIC RECOGNI- deeply appreciating the unique the dream of every Christian is heavenly kingdom selflessly. blessed to give than to receive" does provide us resources in TION as sometimes it happens and great personality of the to have his/her name written (Acts: 20: 35). Once we give in the Society today. "Beware of present Holy Father, the writer in the scroll of the God's chosen more in service to the Lord, the upon ourselves, but to always practicing your righteousness wishes to place on record that people. Therefore, Christians return is also more and God displayorder not the to uniqueness enjoy benefits of a only before other people in order to His Holiness Pope Francis too should not belong to the seg- guarantees of His watchfulness Christian by being generous to be seen by them, for then you had always stressed Christians ment of "You have eyes but over generous people. "And the deserved less privileged in will have no reward from your to be more sensitive towards fail to see, and ears but fail to God is able to bless you abun- the society while meeting our Father who is in heaven. Thus, the needs of the less privileged hear?"(Mark 8:18-21). While dantly, so that in all things at all obligations in spreading the when you give to the needy, in the world. He himself has extending a great appreciation times, having all that you need, started practicing this model message of God. sound no trumpet before you, and saluting Christians those you will abound in every good as the hypocrites do in the by giving up many privileges who already practice Tithing work. As it is written: They synagogues and in the streets, and luxuries entitled for Him to Tithing fulfills certain needs and are generous, let us all have freely scattered their gifts that they may be praised by enjoy and setting up an exam- in the Kingdom of God: pray that the God would guide to the poor; their righteousness - others. Truly, I say to you, they ple for all Christians to follow, through the Holy Spirit every- endures forever."( 2 Corinthi- port for the work of God in have received their reward. But while emphasizing the impor- body in his/her stewardship of ans 9:8-9). bringing• Tithingthe Good provides News to sup the when you give to the needy, the resources which the Most mankind. Acts 4:32-35 says "All do not let your left hand know tance of fulfilling the Social High God has mercifully given. There are a number of the believers were one in heart what your right hand is doing, towards the less privileged Responsibility by the affluent Become a shareholder in the inspiring revelations in the and mind. No one claimed that so that your giving may be in in the Society by being highly work of God's ministry here on Holy Scriptures to become any of their possessions was secret. And your Father who generous. earth. Start TITHING and be more and more cheerful their own, but they shared sees in secret will reward you". It is with deepest GENEROUS. It's a great invest- givers. A few are: everything they had. With great (Matthew 6:1-4). sympathies the writer of this ment for your eternal life. power the apostles continued Regrettably, the mind- article recollects the number • "Good will come to him 6 The Messenger November 3, 2013 he world celebrated es. People suffering with Tthe Mental Health Day Schizophrenia may have a few days ago. Mentally-ill auditory or visual halluci- people are the most isolat- Mental Illness nations or delusions. Some ed and ostracized people drugs and psychotherapy. of a spouse or the loss of of them constantly hear in the world. If you catch Mainly because of the a source of income. But people talking to them or stigma attached to mental within a few months they Bits & hear sounds. Sometimes you are treated with anti- illness family members do can get over this condi- schizophrenics have delu- brain. It may also be due PiecesMadi bioticspneumonia or analgesics or influenza and not want to keep a mental- tion. If they persist having sional thinking that they to accumulation of certain once you have recovered ly-ill relative at home. symptoms of depression are related to an impor- proteins around the brain you can start your normal for more than a year, they tant personality such as cells which hamper their life. Your family and your may need treatment with the president or the queen. functioning. Alzheimer’s employer are not going medications or psycho- mental health condition is Schizophrenia too can be disease is caused by such to refuse to take you therapy or counseling. causedto find by out organic whether (physi- your cured with medications. a condition. This is an al- back as a member Some people get cal) causes. Modern medications such most, incurable and pro- of the family or depressed for no Increase in the as Olazapine or Resperi- gressive mental illness. In- as an employee external reason secretion of thyroid hor- done have almost no side- tensive research is done to at all. This may be mone may cause symp- effects. There are tens of you were work- due to imbalance toms of mania, an illness thousands of people in the ful disease. ing.of the firm where in the chemicals that makes you hyperac- world who are doing nor- find a cure for this dread- Mental illness But peo- in the brain such tive. With medications the mal jobs and are bread- can be cured with modern ple who get men- as serotonin or balance of thyroid hor- winners of families who medications and psycho- tal illness are some- dopamine. They too mone could be restored. have been cured of mental therapy. People with men- times not accepted or could be treated with But there are people who health diseases with medi- tal illness can function as welcomed by their family Depression is one medications such as Prozac get hyperactive because of cations and psychotherapy. normal people in society or employers. Mental ill- of the most common men- or Wellbutrin. Some peo- imbalance in brain chemi- Dementia is an- with treatment and su- ness like other physical tal illnesses. People can ple may reveal depressive cals. These patients too other mental disease pervision. Researchers are diseases can be success- get depressed owing to symptoms because of de- can be successfully treated mainly in old age. This fully cured with modern a cause such as the death pletion of the thyroid hor- with medications today. too may be caused by or- medical treatments to mone. Psychiatrists who Schizophrenia ganic (physical) causes keepfinding mentally-ill causes and patients more could be termed as the such as lack of oxygen in society rather than be- test your blood and brain worst of mental illness- into certain parts of the hind the walls of mental Remembering the Dead are certified physicians will hospitals. Memories of loved ones gone before 10 Terrific Benefits of Ginger November restores; As in prayerful thought, in charitable deeds 1. Haven’t been feeling hungry? 7. Reeling under joint pain? Gin- We, merit to them bestow. Eat fresh ginger just before Helpless souls in purgatory lunch to stoke a dull appe- properties—can bring relief. Awaiting release; Floatger, with its anti-inflammatory some ginger essential oil Depending on the prayers of the faithful juices. into your bath to help aching tite and fire up the digestive To obtain relief. 2. Ginger improves the absorp- muscles and joints. punch to a bowl of soup. (Pss...the A candle, a rose, a sigh, a tear tion and assimilation of es- 8. Just had surgery? Chewing gin- ger post-operation can help Ayurvedic texts credit ginger with Reach out to them in love, sential nutrients in the body. overcome nausea. aphrodisiac properties) remembrance and prayer. 3. Ginger clears the ‘microcircu- latory channels’ of the body, Remembering in gratitude, 9. Stir up some including the pesky sinuses their contribution to our welfare ginger tea to get rid of throat They touched our lives time to time. and nose con- Parents, grandparents,family members, that tend to flare up from 4. Feeling airsick or nauseous? gestion. And relatives, teachers, friends Chew on ginger, preferably when there’s a They befriended us, our turn to tossed in a little honey. nip in the air, befriend them. 5. Can’t stop the toot-a-thon? the warming Thank God For those kindly souls Gas—oops—guess what? By Sirohmi Gunasekera and lisp a prayer tasty tea are lence! evenbenefits of this greater! Choosing to live That God’s eternal peace Ginger helps reduce flatu- “Oh dear, my arthritis is troubling me. I and rest be theirs. 6. Tummy moaning and groan- 10. Bedroom ing under cramps? Munch blues? Try add- wish I could die.”complained Shalini, adding, “I am Jeannette Cabraal on ginger. ing a gingery now eighty two years old. I think I have lived long enough.” “Well, we cannot decide when we are to die. It is the will of God. We just have to ready to go The Prodigal Father whenever He calls us,” replied her daughter Nela. “I think Euthanasia is a good thing. Why Imagine for a mo- honour! I mean, it doesn’t turning the whole house prolong a person’s suffering?”commented Bess. ment, the elder son of the make sense. My father was Thoughts into a place of merry- “That is a deep question. Sometimes, we parable of the Prodigal Son acting as if he had lost his making, killing the fat- that haunt me live for others and a sick person may cause a family (LK.15:11-32) addressing senses. test calf and enjoying it to come together. So it is not just a case of one per- us with these words. What impressions with the neighbours on son suffering but a whole network which is created “The way my fa- would our servants get? this is not the return of the way- to help out. The example of the patient and his or ther treated my younger That in this house, one unfair, what is it? If this ward prodigal who tar- brother was a slap on my could even commit mur- happened to you, would nished his father’s name ing a reason to live,” said Nela. face. My father could have der and get away with it. you put up with it? since the time he left his her patience and stoicism may result in others find- “Sometimes, I pray for strength to face the taken him back as a ser- Just how do you think my What was wrong home? day and am just grateful that I am not bedridden. vant, not as a son. I would father made me feel? I was with my father? He had I used to be very independent so it is a lesson for then have seen that he got faithful to him. I returned his divine way of looking fathom the large hearted- me to let go and let others do things for me. Thank the dirtiest jobs so that tired doing my work and at the whole incident. Who ness of It this is father difficult who to you, God, for helping me to cope each moment of he could prove his repen- the work my brother will forgive someone who would have been reviled the day,” said Shalini. tance. I would then have would have had to do. I was takes his share of wealth, and scoffed at by his neigh- “Yes, each one of us must learn to let go of given him his former sta- exhausted from the heat squanders the whole bours for his magnanimity. pride and self-reliance and be thankful if there is tus gradually on condition and toil of the day. Was thing, then comes back If God, who is the father of someone around to help,” observed Bess. that he walked the straight my father there to give me and says, “Father I have this parable goes through “I know. Even if someone else is impatient, and narrow path. But what a pat on my back and say, done wrong?” Anyone else all the ignominy for thirst- we must learn to cope and be persevering. Each happens? My father runs “Well done my son?” No, would have replied, “You ing for the return of lost one has his or her failings and we must learn to live out to meet him. He throws he was not to be seen. It got your share of wealth, children, would it not be and let live,” said Shalini. his arms around the waster, was surprising to discover now don’t bother us, get our binding obligation to “I think that you are growing and matur- and hugs him—still smell- my father running and fall- lost.” This father tran- return to where we be- ing each day of your sickness.”remarked Nela, add- ing of pig manure! And as ing over my waster and scends all the human ten- long, to his embrace where ing, “We can either just exist from moment to mo- if that was not enough, vagabond brother when he dencies to crush the victim ment or choose to live a fruitful life with pleasant my father orders that he had returned after he had when fallen and instead and lasting happiness? thoughts and thanks for being alive, counting our squandered all his posses- embraces the prodigal. alone we can find solace blessings.” arranges a big feast in his sions. Is that not unfair? If Who will think of Ananda Perera be dressed in finery and 7 The Messenger November 3, 2013 St. Jude’s: Adding a traditional avour to Christian symbolism pettagama has been carefully con- verted into a Tabernacle keeping to all the requirements Compiled by: Kishani S. Fernando offields was stored. This sanctity. As such we see that a door has been carved on the front Last Sunday the feast of St. Jude was celebrated at side of the Indigolla, Gampaha. pettagama to give easy access to the ‘Blessed Sacrament’ r e s e r v e d t h e r e i n . The rest of the stained glass pan- Further the els over the 14 doors, seven run- c a r v i n g s ning along each of the sides rep- on the box resent a devotion known as the show a host ‘Way of Light’. These are 14 joy- of angels ful meditations on appearances of dressed in Jesus after His resurrection. They oriental style in various stances of worship and motifs include scenes of the apparition of Jesus to Mary Magdalene, to the and pinapple. At the bottom centre of the pettagama is Mission of Christ apostles, the ‘Emmaus journey’ aof stylized flowers including the indigenous na, nelum carving of the full pot from which the creeper of life Behind the original Church built in 1952 at Indigolla, and ‘Pentecost’. This devotion is a much larger new Church constructed to accom- has not been given prominence is a beautiful restoration work and a unique creation modate the ever increasing number of pilgrims to the in a church anywhere else in the worthyspreads out and overflow in a flamboyant profusion. It of its novel use. Shrine. country. The new Church is unique in many aspects. It is an ar- The Great Commission On either side of the Tabernacle were line drawings of The Main Entrance chitectural masterpiece in local Church architecture. On the main door of the Church the eleven Apostles. Unfortunately these drawings are Here art and architecture is used to remind us of our are several traditional carvings no more. The purpose of these drawings were once mission to witness to Christ at all times and all places, which when interpreted through again to remind us of the great mission entrusted to the focusing on the resurrected Jesus and the promise of Christian symbolism will help on eleven Apostles when the resurrected Christ appeared Eternal Life. This is achieved by profound Christian life’s journey towards Eternal Life. to the eleven who were gathered together and commis- symbolism and a superb blend of local cultural motifs The bottom panels of the door are which are taken and baptized to give new meaning in sioned them to teach and baptize all the nations of the world. The drawings are sadly missed and it is hoped Church liturgy. ers representing the seven Sacra- will be replaced. mentscarved with eight pineapple flow- and the Mother Church. It Pillars of the Church is interesting to note that the art- The façade of the Church is open and inviting. Sev- Angels Angels always remind us of Eternal Life. On either side eral tall columns hold its front verandah and portico er here to represent Gampaha of the sanctuary are two line drawings of angels who which are embellished with sculptors of the Apostles. district’sist has used fame the for pineapple the fruit. flow- The stand tall and erect with hands clasped The eleven Apostles and St. Paul are celebrated here middle panels are in worship and head bowed in rever- as the pillars of the Church; to whom Jesus entrusted carved with four ence. The attire of the angels are very the mission of the Church; to spread the Good News; stylized crosses much oriental in design. and on whose sweat and blood was built the universal representing the Church. Each of the Apostles carry a symbol pertaining four gospels that Artists have often depicted angels in to His identity – usually connected to his martyrdom. give the teachings accordance to their culture and tradi- Ahead of them all in the garden is a sculpture of their of Christ. Note the tion. And here in this Church - for the centre of the cross reminding us of His promise to the Apostles “Follow comprising a Na guru – Jesus who is seen with a boat and fishing net depicted in local traditional attire. It is uniquefirst time in Sri Lanka - we see angels and beautiful! A concept for re- associated with me, and I will make you become fishers of men.” Eternal Life Mother Mary hereflower traditionally reminding the From time immemorial the Peacock has been used devotee that the way to Jesus is Aflection and consideration. series of angels are also seen carved on the main door through Mary. The topmost pan- frame of the Church. These angels have been carved in Christian art of the 1st century in the catacombs of els are carved with two peacocks to symbolise Eternal Life. We first see its use in early Rome. The peacock sym- – representing the two Great we saw carved on the Tabernacle. The angels are dressed bolism is used here on Commandments of love that will aspanels intercepted with the stylized flower designs that local traditional musicians who are seen playing our the main stained glass surely help to attain Eternal Life. traditional musical instruments. The music they make window in the sanctuary Over all this is an intricate carv- here may be different from the accepted form of an- where stylized peacock ing of a dove symbolizing the Holy gelic strains. Look at them carefully and you will hear in feathers decorate the Spirit. The carvings of the angels your mind the vibrant beating of drums: the gata-bera, four ends of the cross. It around the door frame remind the dawula, thammattama, rabana, the clashing of cymbols is a unique. The peacock people that they are entering the and talampata. While the hakgediya and horns remind symbolism is again used house of the Almighty to praise you that you enter into the presence of the Almighty. on the entrance door – and worship their God. this time keeping to the The Evangelists local traditional. Finally stepping out of the Church, The four stained glass windows above the main doors from its main doorway – and on The Holy of Holies at the entrance are exceptionally noteworthy for their vibrancy and mix of colours. These depict the symbols Immediately under this stained glass cross, stands a ded a granite star with its ends of the four Evangelists. The winged man dressed in ori- large box. The box is intricately carved and painted in stretchingthe floor of the portico is embed- out to mark the direc- ental clothing and holding a lotus bud on a long stem is gold. This is the tabernacle which is the focus and cen- tions of north, east, south, west. representative of Matthew. The ox represents Luke, the tre of worship in the Church. Take a careful look at this Check with a compass for it is in perfect harmony with the ends of here are also inspired by traditional local art. but an antique pettagama. The pettagama of our an- the earth to which the mission of and one is surprised to find that this large sized box is Thelion - Mark and the eagle - John. The symbolic figures Way of Light cients where household valuables or the produce of the Christ is to be preached. 8 The Messenger November 3, 2013 The torch and the television

Vatican Television Centre (CTV) celebrated its 30th birthday last month. A Vati- can conference held to mark the event, examines the television station that in- forms the world about the Pope, reflecting on the role of media in transmitting religious news - especially news directly related to the Pope - and the future of CTV. These themes are also addressed in the book: "Cameras on St. Peter's. Thirty years of Vatican Television Centre' (Milan, Vita e Pensiero, 240 pages, 25 Euros, in both Italian and English with DVD), edited by the Director Dario Edoardo Vigano. The following are excerpts from the book and an editorial by the Director.

If one goes back to its one most bound to its ‘speci- Council alludes to the profound etymological origins, it is curi- change in mentality, in the ous and interesting to notice distances and temporal separa- sense of the Church’s opening tionsficity’, to the allow capacity the enjoyment to cancel of to the world, and the Council’s ‘separation’, indicating that important events live. Thus the decree Inter Mirifica deals with his body, something which “sacredhow the is term something ‘sacred’ from signifies the “instruments of social com- only Christianity among all As Susan Sontag which one must stay far from.” transmission in Europe (Eu- munication” (1963), specifying the religions has taken upon first experiments of satellite On the contrary, the rovision) came about in order that man must use these instru- itself. With his direct and writes: “A society word ‘television’, a strange mix to broadcast the Pope’s words. ments without letting himself often live testimony, the Pope of Greek and Latin, instead A blessing of this mission to be used, bending them to the renewed the mystery of the becomes modern indicates ‘approach’, ‘proxim- cancel distances even “arrived message of the Gospel and Cross. when one of its ity’: the possibility of watch- from the Catholic Church, facilitating their sharing in the Wojtyla’s relation- ing even from afar. So if we which elected St Clare (for her Christian community. Televi- ship with television did not chief activities is believe in the words, then one emblematic gift of ubiquity) as sion was increasingly central, cease creating unexpected understands how there is very Patron Saint of televiSIon. and it could not be left apart. scenarios, even with his producing and little of sacred or spiritual in This attention carried A real turning point in death. John Paul II chose to consuming images, television and, generally, how on over the years, from broad- the relation with television was die every day, before the eyes very little there could be. If the casting Sunday and holiday then constituted by the Papacy of of all; signifying the fragil- when images that god of contemporary television John Paul II, with Karol Wojtyla ity of the body, the force of is called audience, one can well TV like Fr. Mariano, from the who rapidly became a media resurrection and suffering as have extraordinary say that the expulsion of what Mass to the religious figures in an extreme form of evangeli- powers to determine is religious from the media olic themes to the important loved all over the world, made zation. Thanks to television, serials and TV films with Cath star: His figure was known and constitutes a kind of scapegoat events broadcast on the news even more visible and central by his funeral was transformed our demands for modem thought. However, programmes - to name only hours and hours of video appear- into a planetary ceremony even within a world that, all a couple, the opening of the ances, his apostolic voyages, his that involved the world’s upon reality and things considered, is futile, like Vatican Council by John XXIII pastoral visits, the canonization most important networks. are themselves the world of television, one can (with, on the evening news, the ceremonies. With him, not only The eye of the TV cameras apply Rene Girard’s marvellous famous ‘Moon speech’) or the was able to frame and take coveted substitutes voyage of Paul VI through the also the image: By enchantment, into the homes of the entire did “the Word become flesh” but all what dominates man more Holy Land - are images· that, television was transformed into world a supernatural mo- for firsthand easilydefinition: the more “The manSacred believes is above thanks to television, became an instrument of faith and one ment, seen by at least three experience, become he is able to dominate it”. And was at least a bit distanced from billion people: The wind that here perhaps is the key to the of spectators all over the world. the average and opaque sensa- fixed in the collective memory indispensable - Then there was the constant tion of life. The world of commu- pages of the Gospel placed gion and television. counterpoint of the Catholic suddenly began to ruffle the to the health of difficult rapport betweeri reli of modem times,” the Pope said, The farewell to the Pope nication is “the first Areopagus the economy, the representedon a bare wooden the incarnation coffin. media have attained so much of a contemporary myth, the “It has unified humanity: The stability of the polity, importance as to be for many the insertion of a fragment of principle instrument for infor- eternity into the convulsive and the pursuit of mation and learning, guidance tale of poor everyday circum- private happiness.” and inspiration for individual, stance. With family and social behaviours” the television’s widespread . (Redemptoris Missio) diffusion, eye witnessing pand, even during the succeed- The presence of John became a mass phenomena Paul II in television lent itself to in an imitative multiplication and now, Francis, who is also many interpretations. On one that gave life to the media ing pontificates of Benedict XVI hand, the Pope, described as inevitably at this point at the event; this because it broke the centre of the media storm. the Good Shepherd, but also as programming routines and was As Susan Sontag a curious, polyglot intellecmal, experienced by the spectator as writes: A society becomes was an icon of our times no a crucial occasion able to bring one like him has ever had not fundamental values into play. modern when one of its chief so much coverage but also so Until the media, John Paul II activities is producing and con- much media consensus - still, taught new ways of professing suming images, when images “The wind blows reading of the media, seen as he preached, always visible, faith. that have extraordinary powers where it wants,” John the an opportunity to make the continually shown, and con- Thus it is not by to determine our demands Evangelist says. It sounds best use of it. strained to take second place chance that precisely dur- upon reality and are them- even beter in the Vulgar Latin: In the encyclical Pacem in respect to his simple pres- ing the papacy of John Paul II selves coveted substitute for “Spiritus ubi vult spirat.” That is in Terris, John XXIII says that ence. On the other hand, the that the bases and roots of the also what happens in the world “the mass media satisfy man’s Pope became even more of an Vatican Television Centre’s ex- of the media: The messages indispensable to the health of right to objective in-formation” icon the more he displayed his perience were placed and that, blow where they want. And it is thefirsthand economy, experience, the stability become of (1963)’ The Second Vatican physical suffering, the pain of then, its continual complicated to analyze the polity, and the pursuit of development them, draw sure and private happiness”. was maintained with forms of This applies to the efficaciousreason. conclusions representation, Vatican Television Centre. As and find Sinceorder its and be - in professional the Apostle Matthew warns: ginnings, in the world expertise and “Neither do men light a candle, but above all in Italy, in relationships and put it under a bushel, but television has given with religious on a candlestick; and it gives special consideration television chan- light.” Today that source of light to the Catholic Church, nels and institu- is inevitably the media, and in the Pope and the re- tions all over ligious message. The. particular, television, beginning the world. A with the CTV. most immediate form legacy destined used by the RAI since to last, and ex- (L’ Osservatore Romano) its beginnings is the 9 The Messenger November 3, 2013 Message for the Feast of Deepavali - 2013 Dear Hindu Friends, cooperation, peace-building, and favour what His Holiness In a spirit of friend- genuine solidarity and harmo- Pope Francis has described as 'a ny. In short, the ability to foster culture of exclusion', 'a throw- Interreligious Dialogue extends respectful relationships is the away culture' and 'a globaliza- toship, you the best Pontifical wishes and Council cordial for measure of authentic human tion of indifference'. greetings as you celebrate Deep- progress and essential for pro- The promotion of a avali on November 3. May God, moting peace and integral de- 'culture of relationship' and 'a the source of all light and life, velopment. culture of solidarity' is thus im- illumine your lives and deepen Such relationships perative for all peoples, and calls your happiness and peace. for the fostering of relationships In this highly competi- our shared humanity. Indeed, based on friendship and mutual tive world where increasingly humanought to relationships flow naturally are at from the individualistic and materialis- heart of human existence and tire human family. This requires tic tendencies adversely affect its progress and naturally give arespect for the benefit of the en- common recognition and pro- human relationships and often rise to a sense of solidarity with motion of the intrinsic dignity create divisions in families and others. Regardless of our ethnic, of the human person. It is evi- society as a whole, we wish cultural, religious and ideologi- dent then that friendship and to share our thoughts on how cal differences, all of us belong solidarity are closely related. Christians and Hindus can fos- to the one human family. In the end, a "culture ter human relationships for the Sadly, with the increase of solidarity means seeing oth- good of all humanity through of materialism in society and a ers not as rivals or statistics, friendship and solidarity. growing disregard for deeper but brothers and sisters" (Pope Relationships are fun- spiritual and religious values, Francis, Visit to the Community Leaders of Society, Rio de Janei- man family through friendship damental to human existence. there now exists a dangerous of Varginha (Manguinhos), Rio ro, 27 July 2013). Sustained by and solidarity. Security and peace in the lo- trend to accord the same value de Janeiro, 25 July 2013). the teachings of our respective We wish you a happy celebra- cal, national and international to material things as to human Finally, we wish to state religions and aware of the im- tion of Deepavali! communities are largely de- relationships, thereby reducing our conviction that a culture of portance of building genuine re- termined by the quality of our the human person from a 'some- solidarity can only be achieved lationships, may we, Hindus and Cardinal Jean-Louis Lauran human interaction. Experience one' to a 'something' that can be as "the fruit of a concerted ef- Christians, work individually and President teaches us that, the deeper our cast aside at will. Furthermore, fort on the part of all, in service collectively, with all religious tra- human relationships, the more individualistic tendencies en- of the common good" (Pope ditions and people of good will, Father Miguel Angel Ayuso we are able to advance towards gender a false sense of security Francis, Meeting with Brazil's to foster and strengthen the hu- Guixot, MCCJ Secretary Legion of Mary - A Way of Life

devotion to Mary" In this which has been estab- At the "Acies to remain always faithful spiritual classic which lives. Until the kingdom lished for the Good of Function" which is the to God for the honour of provides guidance to the comesmust find Jesus in their to an individual, souls since the era of the most important event in being invited to do our Legionaries Ven. Frank they cannot come to a great religious orders." the Legionary calender part for the promotion Duff stresses on Chris- society or nation. They At present the held annually the Legion- of the kingdom of Christ. tian Perfection for his are advised to see Christ Legion in Sri Lanka is aries renew their con- May we respond to this followers based on the in whom they serve in saddled with an old secreation to Mary and grace with faith, com- Legion system which is a spirit of faith. Home age problem. Most of mitment, generosity and inalienable. Achievement Visitation for two hours the member are aging. her. openess to co-operation The lay people of Sainthood is stressed forms integral part of His Eminence Malcolm express their fidelity to May the Most in Her mothering of every guide and direct the and encouraged by the the legion system. They Cardinal Ranjith has Blessed Virgin Mary soul, especially those who Legion of Mary. They founders booklet on include the sick, prison- also expressed concern whose song of praise the most need the experience chair it and run it. They "We can be Saints." Long ers, homeless, orphans about this matter. New of Her motherly heart. blood (Youth) has to be see. judge and act. They before Vatican II where etc. They spread Gospel the Legionaries daily ob- infused for the con- assess situations, assign the Ven. Founder was a values among them and "Magnificat" is recited by tinuation for the Legion tain for all of us the grace Camillus Fernando work and discuss reports lay observer, the Legion encourage them to live on work done. They recruitment drive is es- incorporated some of worthy lives. Legionar- sential together with an make direct approach to its best directives on the ies arrange Holy Hours, extension drive. people. They are not shy different but complemen- encourage them to recite Rev. Fr. Bede to share the faith with tary role of Priest and the family rosary, en- McGregor OP. Spiritual those who are ready and thronement of the Sacred Director to the Legion of willing. The Legion of Heart in their homes. Mary opined that, "The They learn to Mary,finally lay faithful. founded four de- Legion does not restrict overcome human respect cades before the Second marriage too forms a part its membership to the and to evangelize thus Vatican Council, seems to of their work. Rectification of Accompa- young, but the young conforming to the second incorporate some of the nying Priests and Reli- must be specially sought obligation as laid by the beautiful insights, teach- gious in distributing Holy for and catered for. If the "Standing Instructions" ings and directives of the Communion to the sick Legion does not attract Council on collaboration is an admirable aspect of them, it is largely failing ing of each month. They between Priest and Laity. the Legionary apostolate. in its purpose, for the Glorious Mary listenread at the first meet- to the allocutio of The Legion of The Legion is movement which does the Priest who gives them Mary Handbook and for the lowly and under not appeal to the young Admirable spiritual and theologi- practice spells out that privileged as much as for will never exert a wide Than reality cal nourishment which Priest, Spiritual Direc- the learned and power- Pure than chaste animates and nourishes tor is expected to supply ful" (Rev.Fr. Thomas P.O. the young are the key the apostolate. doctrinal and spiritual Flynn) Cardinal Ribert toinfluence. Furthermore, the future. The rea- Cleansed The Legion of orientation to the Pre- has echoed that "the Le- sonable tastes of youth Immaculate Mary balances prayer and sidium or other Council. gion of Mary is a miracle must be understood and Conception work. This is clear even He gives the Allocutio and of these modern times." allowed for. Bright, gener- Impressive in the order of events God's blessing. He is their Pope Pius the XI, ous, enthusiastic youth Divine beauty at a weekly presidium link with the Bishop with declared that the Legion must not be kept out meeting. They are called whom ecclesial com- represent "the face of the by setting up standards Brings glory to be men and women of munion is appreciated as Catholic Church." Pope which are inappropriate Beautiful prayer, since the two-fold important. Paul the VI, in inviting to the young or which Evokes piety objective of the Legion is To be a Christian, Frank Duff to attend the may be nothing else than Deep respect a legionary today is to second Vatican council kill-joy standards." Emmulate all members and the sancti- bring abundance of life as a lay observer recog- The Legion is the self sanctification of its to a society that suffers nursery for future Priests Pure in life down in the Handbook physically and spiritually. enormous work of the and Religious vocations Divine every way fication of others as laid To bring Jesus through laynized and affirmed the apostoiate. He said, and undoubtedly it is enced by St. Louis Marie the intervention of Mary "The Legion of Mary is the "face of the Catholic Miran Perera dewhich was greatly influ- Montfort treatise 'True to others the Legionaries the Greatest Movement Church." 10 The Messenger November 3, 2013

PAST PUPILS’ A Tribute to late Rev. Fr. Thimothy, a Franciscan ASSOCIATION He was 70 years, a Fran- ka. He also promoted the tradi- He also taught A/L Christianity HOLY FAMILY ciscan at his death, at the age of tional Sinhala prayer books pub- at the TOR Minor Seminary. CONVENT, 91. He also completed 24 years of lished by the Maggona Franciscan Fr. Thimothy was born his priestly ministry. Well- known Brothers, over one hundred years to Peter William and Annie BAMBALAPITIYA Fr. Thimothy was a lovable and ago. He took a keen interest in Thelis of Batagama, Ja-Ela and strong personality. He was a his- the development of the Congre- joined the Franciscans at the torian and Sinhala Scholar. gation which he belonged to. He Rev. Fr. Thimothy Kola- was a councillor for 13 years and fession was in 1942. He passed was the last Superior General. outtender age of 13. His first pro- as a Trained Teacher in tion for 36 years, 21 years as a Fr. Thimothy worked hard with 1945 and was a graduate of the successfulmunne was in the field of Educa- teacher in schools and Brother H. Thomas Tissera, his University of Kelaniya. for 15 years he was the Princi- Superior General to amalgamate The burial of Fr. Thimo- pal of Bolawatta and Katuneriya the Maggona Franciscan Broth- thy took place at the Franciscan Maha Vidyalayas. From Janu- ers’ Congregation with the TOR Rev. Fr. Thimothy cemetery, Maggona. Pupils and ary 1946 to December 1981 he Order which is one of four main friends of Fr. Thimothy paid A Holy Mass will be celebrated at the School worked in schools in the Arch- clerical Franciscan Orders. The lain of the Good Shepherd Sisters their last homage to him at his Chapel on Saturday No- diocese of Colombo and the Dio- union took place on November who were in charge of Niripola Or- burial on October 23, 2013. vember 9, 2013 at 7.00 a.m, ceses of Chilaw and Ratnapura. 13, 1982. In 1989 February, Fr. phanage. From there he went to as- May you rest in the Lord dear in remembrance of the dear For the last 35 years Fr. Thimothy was ordained a priest sist at the (Diocesan) Shrine of St. Fr. Thoimothy! departed souls of Rev. Sis- Thimothy was well-known for his and became the parish priest of Anthony’s, Kochchikade, Colombo. Rev. Fr. Jerome Fernando,TOR ters, teachers and pupils of publications of books in Sinhala Dummaladeniya. After a short pe- the School. on the Church History of Sri-Lan- riod of time he became the chap- All are welcome. Appreciation IN MEMORIAM Jesus A Tribute to my Darling Aunt A Graven BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE It is with grateful heart Lordship Bishop Norbert Andradi OF I pen these few lines as a tribute OMI, Rev. Fathers and Sisters paid image to my darling aunt Mrs. Theresa their last respects to her at home Fernando who passed away on as well as in the church.”Strength Death Steals October 2 at the age of 49. My is nothing more than how well Flesh to dust aunt had been an important per- you hide the pain” Even though, Buried beneath son in my life from the day I was my aunt had to face many hard- Blessed graves born. ships she never made it visible on Until she got settled in her face. Jesus guards life she took care of me as both Even during the last few In divine spirit my parents were employed. She months while battling with her God carved out was a mother who took care of illness she never complained Figure of power me taught me to do the correct Mrs. Theresa Fernando of pain, instead suffered within Never fear death thing and always shared with me herself. She was a simple lady al- whatever she had and was a good us that God will take care of us. A graven image friend to all her nephews and Despite her failing health She left behind memories of her. Joins eternal nieces. she made it a point to visit the Iways satisfied with what she had. Love you a lot Theresa Aththe ANTUNETTE All faithful When I look at the past, I Madhu Shrine during the latter and I miss you a lot and I will al- GUNAWARDANA Fondly remembered by her Abiding souls can remember how she instilled in part of May and for the August ways remember you though you us the habit of praying and the de- festival. The Madhu Matha hymn are not with me by my side. Husband, Marcus, Children, Jesus protects Shanaka, Samantha, Subashani, votion to the Eucharistic Lord. She was her favourite hymn and was Rest in Peace my dear aunt, and Grand Children. always trusted in the Lord and the M. Perera Until we meet on that beautiful 146, Averiyawatta Road, Blessed Mother and to the end she on the day of her burial. Wattala fittingly sung after the Holy Mass His Lordships Bishop shore. and the rosary. She always advised Emmanuel Fernando and His Stephanie Fernando (N4268) never failed to carry the crucifix Joe Bee Perera completes fi fty years of music With the famous Together with people like La Ceylonians, La bambas, Rome. Because of this the song ‘Yakada Thalanna’ Hector Welgampola, Henry Los Muchachos, Dharma- town was named MEEGO- By Eric Vincent Perera, Sydney. Australia (the village blacksmith) Amaratunga, Christie Pere- ratne brothers and Moon- MUWA. Other members of Joe Bee became a very ra and Aloy Jayamanna, Joe stones took the initiative the group Meemasso were sic whether it is Eastern or managers and the staff popular singer among the actively worked to develop in spreading this in Sri Reggie, Gamini, Stanley, Si- Western. discussing their banking Sri Lankans. the Christian cultural val- Lanka. sil, and Shirley. Vijaya Corea intro- needs and other business. Joe Bee, the fa- ues in the Archdiocese of Joe who started Joe became very duced Joe to his Saturday Joe Perera kept mous singer from Negom- Colombo in the seventies. his career as a banker at stars programme and his an unforgettable name Joe together with the Bank of Ceylon with his lypso style song Yakada songs became extremely through his contribution as popular with his first ca- as a singer and a musician the singers like Sunil Pere- talent and interest in the Thallanna a song about popular among the people. a Catholic in the Sri Lankan thisbo completes year. Joe Bee fifty hailsyears from ra, Clarence Wijewardene, calypso style music joined the village blacksmith. Be- People like Vijaya, Kurana, Negombo. His ac- Anton Jones, Dharmaratne the famous group in Ne- cause of its words, mean- Sirisangabo and Vernon Catholic singers like Sunil tual name is Joseph Bene- brothers, Nalin Perera, gombo “Los Muchachos. ing and the tune it became Corea took the initiative musical field. Among the dict Perera. From his small Mariaselle Goonatilleke, Later Joe formed a hit among the youngsters. in introducing Spanish Santa, C T Fernando, Ruk- days Joe Bee had a talent Rukmani Devi, Ivor Den- his own musical group Joe’s other songs, which style Sinhala group music mani Devi, Vincent de Paul for music and participated nis and Sunil Santha con- called Meemasso. I had the became very popular, are to the community through Peiris, Deva Suriyasna, Chi- in various Church activi- tributed immensely for the privilege of working with mala Giravi, Chiqita Linda, the Radio Ceylon. People tra Somapala, Latha Wal- ties at the Kurana St Anne’s development of Sinhala Joe at the Bank of Ceylon. Gayani, Sudu Mal, Adare like Joe bee, Clarence and pola, Morris Dahanayake, parish participating in the music in the seventies and One day I asked Joe why he karala and Meegamu Mee- Neville Fernando got an Neville Fernando, Keerthi Church choir, Christmas eighties. named the group Meemas- masso. opportunity to introduce Pasqual. Niranjala Sa- carols etc. He used to sing During the sixties so. He said that because By introducing their talents due to their rojinee, Malkanthi Peiris, with his friends in Kurana, the Latin American Ca- he is from Meegamuwa the Spanish music Joe to- untiring efforts. Rookantha Goonathilleka, and had a deep and pleas- lypso music became very (Negombo) he wanted to gether with Clarence Wi- Whilst doing mu- Angeline Goonetilleka, ant voice. He studied at popular in Sri Lanka. Ca- name the group Meemasso jewardene, Noel Ranasin- sic Joe worked as a banker Edward Jayakody, Anton Maris Stella College Ne- lypso music originated in and he narrated a story be- he, Dharmaratne brothers, at the Bank of Ceylon and Jones, Gretian Ananda, gombo and at the school West Indies and became hind this name. Neville Fernando and retired as a senior audit Mervyn Perera, Sunil Pere- too he actively participated very popular in the islands The famous Vi- Priya Peiris made a radical manager. I can remember in the concerts, and drama of Trinidad and Tobago. hara Maha Devi, during her change in the Sinhala mu- the days we worked to- ra, Dharmaratne Broth- competitions etc. Later it spread across pregnancy had a craving gether at the Free Trade ers, Mariasle Goonetilleka, Joe was an active Latin America and became for bees honey. The king combination of both East- Zone branch, Katunayake and Nalin Perera, Joe Bee member of the Catho- very popular in Sri Lanka sent his men right round ernsical and field. Western His style music. was a in the eighties. Almost dai- too has kept an indeliable lic cultural group of the in the sixties and the sev- the country and ultimately His main idea was to make ly we visited the Free Trade name in the Sri Lankan Archdiocese of Colombo. enties. The famous groups found bees honey in Little the listener enjoy the mu- Zone factories meeting the

musical field. 131511 The Messenger November 3, 2013

Blessed are you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for revealing the mysteries of the kingdom to mere Thirty First Sunday in Ordinary Time children. (Lk 19:38,2:14) First Reading: and even share half of his Wis.11:22-12:2 belongings with the poor. Thus the Lord saves Zac- LITURGICAL CALENDAR YEAR C The author of chaeus. 3rd November- 10th November 2013 the book of wisdom in a prayerful manner appre- Reflection Sun: 31st Sunday of Ordinary Time ciates God’s kindness and Today’s readings Wis 11:22- 12:2; 2 Thes 1:11 2:2; Lk 19: 1-10 mercy towards the world show God’s care and con- Mon: Feast of St. Charles Borromeo, especially towards man- cern towards His creation, Bishop kind. God out of His love especially towards man. Rom 11:29-36; Lk. 14: 12-14 forgives the sins of men for We too are called to imi- Tue: Rom 12:5-16a; Lk. 14:15-24 He created them and loves tate Him by showing our Wed: Rom 13:8-10; Lk. 14:25-33 them. love and concern towards Thu: Rom 14:7-12; Lk. 15:1-10 our fellow human beings. Fri: Rom 15:14-21; Lk. 16:1-8 Second Reading: We ought to be an example Sat: Feast of the Dedication of the 2Thes. 1:11-2:2 to them and do our best Lateran Basilica to save them from their Ez 47:1,2,8,9,12;or St. Paul writes to sinful lives. We must not 1 Cor 2:9b-11,16,17; Jn. 2:13-22 the Thessalonians who condemn them because of Sun: 32nd Sunday of Ordinary Time were living in idol; think- their sinfulness but rather 2 Mac 7:1,2,9-14; 2 Th 2:16- 3:5; Lk. 20:27-38 (or 27:34-8) ing that the second coming convert them and win of the Lord was at hand. them over to God. For, God He wants them to live a life loves all but specially the peatedly he expressed his lain visited the prison one PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL worthy of the Lord and to sinners so that they may love and faith and hope in day and found a young Response: Give us a new heart, Lord. turn away from their sins. his grandfather by saying. boy in prison for theft and and every work of faith “Oh grandfather, how they murder. The priest with The Lord is merciful to all: that he may not throughfulfill every God’s good power. resolve Aid Story must love you; you are so love and concern spoke walk on our road of life without encountering us, let Those who have generous, you are so kind, to the boy hugging him. us pray. Gospel: Lk. 19:1-10 read the popular chil- so considerate to every My dear son you are such Response: Give us a new heart, Lord. dren’s story of little Lord one you meet.” These a nice young boy why did The Lord is powerful: that his grace may Zacchaeus the Fauntleroy have seen the words from his 14 year old you do this? What pushed touch and heal us, let us pray. tax collector while on the power of hopeful love. grandson worked in the you to this? The boy said Response: Give us a new heart, Lord. journey meet Jesus and You will recall how the lit- old man to such an extent Father if anybody had spo- the Lord expresses his tle lad goes to stay with that he gradually grew to ken to me with this much The Lord closes his eyes to our sins: that he may not walk by without changing us, let us pray. desire to visit him in his a grandfather, one of the of love and concern before Response: Give us a new heart, Lord. house. The visit, results in generous. I would have never fallen Zacchaeus’s turning away the most unkind person be unselfish and kind and to this state or done this. The Lord loves every living being: that he from his sinfulness and he whomost selfish, the meanest, ever lived. But the Aid Story 2 may not fail to lift us up, let us pray. vows to pay back fourfold, boy believed in him. Re- The prison chap- Rev. Fr. Ciswan De Croos Response: Give us a new heart, Lord. Are the dead prayerfully remembered only in November? Introduction yet the unique characteristic of November, yet it has to be ex- 15/12-14). almsgiving organized on behalf Several months of the the holy mass is to be marked ercised throughout the year. John Donne, an Eng- year are usually understood since it is the source and the Catholic cemetery simultane- lish poet challenges death in pleasant before God the Father if with some kind of a special summit of Christian life. Thus, ously becomes the centre of at- one of his poems called “Death”, itof is them solely based would upon be a definitely genuine note. For instance, the month through the active participation tention especially in November. he mentions, ‘ Death one day and clear motivation focused on of May is attributed to the in the Holy Eucharist, the Chris- In fact, this is a pathetic situa- you will die’. Undoubtedly this the need of the recipient. Nec- Blessed Mother Mary while the tian vocation derived from the tion where as the faithful are ex- expression is situated in the essary steps are to be taken to recitation of the Rosary is as- Sacrament of Baptism could be pected to pay their due respect context of Jesus’s Resurrection. maintain the genuine purpose sociated with the month of Oc- more and more strengthened. to their deceased dear ones Death is a true phenomenon of of the act without allowing it tober. December is the month Sometimes the month of No- very often, yet, it is not prohib- life, yet in our faith, it is not the to be a turning point of another of Christmas, at the beginning vember is made related to the ited to be approached in other ‘full stop’, but a ‘comma’, since it big merry-making opportunity. itself, irrespective of different daily routine of the faithful as months too. Frequent visits to is the Gate-way to the Life-Eter- As it was already indicated that religions, we do get the happy if it is not related at all with the the grave-yard of the near and nal. For a Christian anointed the act of almsgiving could be (Christmas) feeling. February is gift of faith. Almsgiving in hon- dear ones with a short prayer with the sacrament of Baptism, surpassed by the sense of gen- considered the shortest due to our of the deceased is a noble always depict out the due re- death is very optimistic since it uine love and respect shown its numbered days compared to act, yet the same act could be spect and love to the departed. combines us to the Divine Pres- to them in their earthly career, other months in the year, some- surpassed by the due respect The tendency is obviously vis- ence (Catechism of the Catholic hence, the commemoration of times it is obvious that people and love shown to them in their ible to neglect and abandon the Church 1010). the faithful departed on 2nd of (including the Christian faithful earthly career. Perhaps there is cemetery in all other months “For to me, living is Christ and November of each year is to be even) do not intend to decide no harm of interpreting Alms- except in November. dying is gain”(Phil. 1/21). embraced with its true mean- their important events in their giving as a result of the effort What is outwardly vis- ing. November too, with its spe- life journey due to some kind of made to console their voice-out ible in a way leads us to ponder Concluding remark: cial emphasis on death would pessimistic mentality. and troubled hearts. Their pur- over our spiritual strengths at It could be notably rec- undoubtedly challenge each In this process of posefully neglected duties to- certain moments in life. Strictly ommended that the dead are to Christian who is baptized in or- thought November as a month ward the deceased would echo speaking, the death embraces a be remembered with the due der to check and re-check his/ is considered the month of the in their lives. Almsgiving could real meaning in the Victorious respect throughout the year her own value system with re- dead. The departed dear ones be also another turning-point to Resurrection of Jesus Christ. though they are given a special gard to the gift of faith. Authen- are in a special way remem- a great function which attracts The Resurrection is further ap- attention in November . tic way of life is to be constantly bered prayerfully, thus it invites people to make merry with eat- “Then he called his son strengthened with the gentle us to ponder over the dead than ing and drinking. When it occurs, the mere empty tomb but with Tobias, and when he came to reminder given to each one to any other month in the year. No- the sole purpose of the act would theproved solid and Heavenly certified Message. not with him he said, ‘My son, when I die, vember is coupled with certain be in vain, thereby the same act “ … He has been raised, He is not give me a proper burial. Honour other-centred. other aspects such as Almsgiv- is always questionable. here”(Mk.16/6). your mother and do not aban- be more and more selfless and ing in remembering the dead, If the genuine intention Resurrection is indeed don her all the days of her life” and acquire more and more as catholic cemetery is thought of in the process of organizing the a mystery of faith, Jesus’ Resur- (Tobit 4/3). much as The attitude to be selfish possible is to be attack- and the number of holy masses act of almsgiving is contained rection is not the life given back It could be cultivated able with the real understanding offered for them. Surprisingly, solely basing upon the need of to His dead body, yet undoubted- as a regular custom/ part and of death as a true and genuine fol- a sort of devotion in relation to the recipient, then undoubtedly ly it is the Glorious Body which parcel of life. Prayerful remem- lower of Christ the Lord. their deceased dear ones is gen- it would be a pleasant offering surpasses Time and Space (Cat- brance is indeed vital and thus Rev. Fr. Indra R. Fernando, erated at once. Comparatively before God the Father. Good echism of the Catholic Church it holds a great value when it Director, the number of holy masses deed of this sort is not expected No.645), it invites the faithful to receives a special segment of Archdiocesan Apostolate for would be increased unusually, to restrict only to the month of the Eternal Life (Jn.6/54, 1 Cori. Christian identity. Also, act of Catechetics. 12VII Children / Youth The Messenger The Messenger November November 3, 2013 3, 2013 VIII The Messenger November 3, 2013 National Bible Quiz-2013 Award Ceremony

INTERMEDIATE Sinhala Medium 1st Place - St. Mary's Daham Pasala, Nawalapitiya 2nd Place - Holy Angels' Girls College, Kurunegala 3rd Place - Sacred Heart Sunday School, Katugastota Tamil Medium 1st Place - Holy Family Convent, Jaffna Bible Study Circle (BSC) of St. Joseph's College, Junior Category English Medium 2nd Place - St. Bridget's Convent, Colombo 07 Colombo in collaboration with the Department of Chris- Gold Medalist - Dilushka de Mel 3rd Place - Holy Cross Church, Hatton tian Religious Affairs of the Ministry of Buddhasasana St. Joseph's College, Colombo 10 and Religious Affairs, held a Bible Quiz at St. Joseph's English Medium College, Colombo under the title 'All Island Bible Quiz - Prize Winners 1st Place - CH/WEN/Girls' College, Dankotuwa 2013' representing all three medium. All Island Bible Quiz - 2013 2nd Place - Holy Family Convent, Colombo 04 The First round of this (oral) Quiz was held in 3rd Place - Good Shepherd Convent, Colombo 13 July on a diocesan basis. The Colombo Archdiocese Quiz was held in July at St. Joseph's College, Colombo. The win- JUNIOR SENIOR Sinhala Medium Sinhala Medium was held in September at the National Level. There were 1st Place - St. Bridget's Convent, Colombo 07. 1st Place - St. Bridget's Convent, Colombo 07 ners15 Gold of eachMedalists diocese who were scored qualified the highest for the marks final in which their 2nd Place - Holy Family Convent, Kalutara 2nd Place - KUL/Holy Angels Girls College respective medium and category. 3rd Place - Holy Family Convent, Colombo 04. Kurunegala The award ceremony was held in October at the 2nd Place - St. Xavier's College, Marawila Bonjean Hall of St. Joseph's College, Colombo. The Chief Tamil Medium Guest was the Prime Minister and Minister of Buddasasa- 1st Place - St. Mary's Church, Nawalapitiya Tamil Medium na and Religious Affairs, D. M. Jayarathne. Among the 2nd Place - Holy Cross Church, Hatton 1st Place - Holy Family Convent, Jaffna distinguished guests were His Excellency, Most Rev. Dr. 3rd Place - Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Trincomalee 2nd Place - Good Shepherd Convent, Colombo 13 Joseph Spiteri-Apostolic Nuncio of Sri Lanka, His Grace 2nd Place - Holy Family Convent, Colombo 04 Archbishop Emeritus, Most. Rev. Dr. Oswald Gomis and English Medium His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Maxwel Silva Auxiliary Bishop 1st Place - St. Joseph's College, Colombo 10. English Medium of Colombo, Chairman, Catholic National Commission 2nd Place - Good Shepherd Convent, Colombo 13. 1st Place - Holy Family Convent - Colombo 04 for Education, Catechetics and Bible Apostolate and Rev. 3rd Place - CH/WEN/Dankotuwa Girls' College, 2nd Place - St. Joseph's College - Colombo 10 Fr. Piyal Janaka Fernando, National Director. Dankotuwa (A member of BSC) In the face of the relentless chal- late educational reforms so that “Situation in Sri Lanka like post-war situation in S. Africa” lenges that are now directed at the habit of Ministers taking Contd from Pg. 2 the education of our youth we temporary decisions to provide "Education is a major enough, was: “Great men are who guided a bitter South Af- must struggle both to defend patch work solutions to imme- factor for social change. We almost always bad men.” Con- rican nation on the path of rec- a truly integral education with diate problems will not occur. think it is important that our sidering the fate and fortunes onciliation and change after the religious and moral values to viz School admissions, Univer- Universities are made to accept of many public men in history – end of the Apartheid system reconstruct our society in order sity curriculum changes , School their role as active agents of past and present – there would of racial segregation enforced to bring about a true and ever- curricular subjects, place of vo- national integration and social be many leaders who would not through legislation by the Na- lasting peace in our beloved Sri cational education, and gradu- justice. We will not have devel- be inclined to disagree with Ac- tional Party (NP) governments, Lanka. ate unemployment crisis. opment for all until we have in- ton. This observation seems to who were the ruling party from Now once again there The Commission tegral education for all. me to be a serious indictment 1948 to 1994 said: “Education is talk of educational reforms should also study what hap- Our Universities should on our sense of values in the es- is the most powerful weapon in view of the Government’s de- pened to the much publicized be awakening awareness that timation of greatness in a lead- which you can use to change the ‘White Paper on Education’, the er, which appear to place a low world." Lanka a ‘Knowledge Hub’. Al- Cluster education system and finitive objective of making Sri their services, and that the value on moral integrity. Needless to state that ready new laws for Higher Edu- the change of the GCE examina- the whole nation benefits from whole nation should therefore But whatever the un- Sri Lanka too is experiencing a cational Institutes have been tion to the NCE which was dis- join in providing the resources derlying reasons that our cor- very similar situation in the po- drafted to safeguard the quality carded so quickly though it was they need to carry out their rupt leaders give for this dismal litical, socio economic and edu- assurance. Accreditation quali- implemented for many reasons. task. Our Universities must view, I do not think any right cational spheres, like that of the This Commission ideal- participate in the transforma- minded person would toler- post war situation in South Af- is to be introduced shortly in ly should consist of academics, tion of present-day society and ate or condone gross miscon- rica. To take Sri Lanka forward fication Framework (draft) Bill Parliament in view of the above. well known educationalist and in the wake of bettering human duct or grave depravities in to the 21st century, it is not too Presumably, it envisages the in- civil society leaders and reli- conditions. Our Universities behaviour for long, because in late even to think of and intro- gious leaders and the mandate should commit themselves in our experience many powerful duce an integral quality with a resources - both local and over- should be to provide an Educa- working with the rest of the na- men in the world holding high deep sense of religious morals flow of both capital and human seas – into the education sector. tion reform that takes in the tion in their concern for societal - to education. But while the education author- existing realities and educates problems. They have a vital role ing today before our very eyes, In the Schools and Uni- ities embark on these reforms youth using all the resources to play in the overall project of officeoften quitehave, or unexpectedly is even happen been versities we need, education greater emphasis should be that are available. changing our society. brought down from their ped- would be constructed as a fun- given to the place of education Our progress as a na- We must not forget that estals of power and prestige by damental human right geared as a tool which will operate as a tion can be no swifter than our a lack of quality and integral a fortuitous discovery that they toward the fullest and integral catalyst of change to ensure that progress in education. The hu- education lies at the base of the have been guilty of dishonor- development of the human per- the Schools/Higher educational man mind is our fundamental unjust social structures in our able conduct. So Lord Acton’s sonality and the reconstruction Institutes and Universities pro- resource. country. dictum that most great men are of society around basic princi- duce men of integral character. In conclusion let us Many of us are no doubt almost always bad men holds ples of moral integrity, equality Sri Lanka needs integral men familiar with Lord Acton’s fa- true only to the extent that their and justice and recognition. and women, true statesmen and think of education as the means mous epigram: “Power cor- reputation to greatness subsists These are not the women, to guide our society to of developing our greatest abili- rupts, absolute power corrupts tenuously, only as long as their Schools and the Universities we a developed nation. ties, because in each of us there absolutely.” Yet many have sel- infamy remains undiscovered. have. But that does not mean There is also an urgent is a private hope and dream dom paid attention (even if They are held in high esteem that we can simply abandon need for the President to ap- - they be aware of it) to what Ac- only so long as true facts remain the education of our youth in point a Commission similar to which, fulfilled, can be trans ton said in the very next line of a closely guarded secret. Schools and Universities or the Lessons Learnt and Recon- and greater strength for our na- his lecture, which surprisingly As Nelson Mandela close our eyes and do nothing. ciliation Commission to formu- tion."lated into benefit for everyone VII Children / Youth The Messenger November 3, 2013 VIII1513 The Messenger The Messenger November August November 4, 2013 3, 3, 2013 2013 Young World Bridgetines Excel at National Dear St. Jude, we hope in You! Bible Quiz Competition

At the National Bible Quiz Competition held at St. Joseph's College, Colombo last month, St. Bridget’s Convent, Colombo won the 1st place in the Junior and Senior category – Sinhala Medium and 2nd place in the Intermediate Category – Tamil Medium. Vihanga Perera received the award for Best The feast of St. Jude's tive High Mass was presided by the two little devotees. Performer in the Junior Category – Sinhala Medium Shrine, Indigolla, Gampaha was cel- Archbishop of Colombo, His Emi- The Western Band of Holy while Andrea Vasanthan and Melisa Rajendran were ad- ebrated last Sunday where a large nence, Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith. Cross College, Gampaha was in at- judged Best Performers in the Intermediate category – gathering of priests, religious and Picture shows His Emi- tendance at the feast. Tamil Medium. devotees were present. The Fes- nence receiving the offertory from Pix: H.A. Caldera Media Unit First Holy Communion at Nayabedde Concert day at Good Shepherd Montessori Yatiyantota

The First Holy Communion service Picture shows Fr. Rajanayagam with the Yatiyantota Good Shepherd Mon- Catechetical Centre, Ratnapura Diocese, of Annai Vellankanni Church Nayabedde, First Holy communicants, Rev. Sr. Grace tessori House of Children, held their an- was the chief guest. Picture shows the Badulla Diocese took place recently, presid- Fernando SDS and Rev. Sr. Grace RGS of nual concert at Dr. N. M. Perera Maha little ones performing in the Percussion ed over by Rev. Fr. Marshall Rajanayagam, Bandarawela. Vidyalaya Hall, recently. Band. Vicar General and Parish Priest. Noel Weeratunga Rev. Fr. Niroshan Vaas, Director, Pic by - J. Antony Awareness programme for Madampe Sunday School students

First Holy Communion at Ss. Peter & Paul, Ragama Twelve children from Ss. Peter Parish Priest. An awareness programme for the guidance of the Parish Priest Rev. Fr. and Paul English Sunday School, Ragama Picture shows the children with Sunday School students of Grades 8 to Sisira Kumara and Asst. Parish Priest received their First Holy Communion last Rev. Fr. Malcolm Candappa and Cate- 11 of St. Sebastian's Church, Madampe in Rev. Fr. Sunil Shantha. month. chism teacher Mrs. Angela Taylor. the Chilaw Diocese was held recently. Holy Mass was presided over The programme was held under Dilum Maduranga by Rev. Fr. Malcolm Candappa, Assistant Carl Taylor It is foolish to enjoy doing wrong - Proverbs 10:23 XIX Children / Youth The Messenger November 3, 2013 English with Fun and Entertainment 3. The psychiatrist said that the man needed to build his self-esteem. Dear Readers, - 4.The woman scolded the psychiatrist. ny story of how Nasreddin Goes Shopping, more proverbs, more inspirational 5.The woman wanted the man to fan her. In our sixth lesson we learnt the English Speech Sounds ( ʃ ) , ( ɜ ), a fun quotes, kid’s jokes, a brain teaser and some more riddles. In this lesson let’s learn the teacher’s prayer, a simple poem about the teacher, Answer the following questions with complete sentences (i) What did the psychiatrist give the man? on male assertiveness and Our Lord’s Prayer, vocabulary enrichment teaser on (ii) Why was the mild-mannered man tired? speech sounds (m) as in map (n) as in nose (ŋ) as in hang, two funny anecdotes word formation, checking plurals, mild intelligent tests and introducing oneself

(iii) How could he finish reading the book by the time he reached his house? Thanks for the readers who made valuable suggestions and for using these lessons effectively. You are invited to share your experiences to enrich our 4 C. Can you guess the answer and complete the utterance? lessons further. A. In a house where male asserts the female ………………………………… With best regards! Activity 5: Read this anecdote of the Lord’s Prayer with full of humour and make your comment in one sentence. NJ B. A mother was teaching her three year old daughter The Lord's Prayer. For several evenings at bedtime, she repeated it after her mother. One night she said she was As most of you use these lessons to teach your children you can start the day with this ready to say the prayer herself. The mother listened with pride, as she carefully teacher’s prayer. Our Lord the Divine Master will inspire you to be good teachers. said each word right up to the end..."And lead us not into temptation", she prayed, "but deliver us some e-mail, Amen." TEACHER’S PRAYER ‘Help us, O Lord to penetrate into the secret of the child, so that we may know him, Activity 6: done for you love him and serve him according to your laws of justice, following your divine will’-- Maria Montessori Complete the grid with the appropriate word .The first one is Noun Adjective Verb Adverb 00. play playable/playful play playfully little child and be a gifted teacher Reflect on this simple inspirational verse written to her best teacher by a 1.love East or West She tells us the right path She’s a burning candle 2.hatred Our teacher is the best When we are in trouble Which gives us light? 3.thought She is our best guide She is a book of wisdom All in all 4.beauty She helps us to decide Which gives us knowledge? She’s the best of all 5.honour 6.collection English Phonology 7.courage Speech Sounds (m) as in map (n) as in n ng. These sounds are called 8.respect nasals because they originate from the nose. ose (ŋ) as in ha 9.analysis 10.reality Activity 1: Read aloud and practise (i)met make most smoke smack smell Activity 7: Check these intelligence tests. (ii) hum storm calm stems bombs games (1) What type of ring is always square? (iii)summer coming camel hammer humble (2) What can you hold in your left hand but not in your right hand? (iv) nice noise news snake snow snob (3) If a farmer has two eggs for breakfast every morning, but he doesn’t' (v) ran bone pins learns scenes pence once own any chickens and he doesn’t' get them from anyone else, (vi) dance any answer winning ring hung where do the eggs come from? (vi) long ringing banging singer monk (viii) drank uncle ankle winkle jungle (5) (4) If Kinga girl Kongwho workswent to in Hong a candy Kong store to playis five Ping-Pong feet three and inches died, tall, (x) sinning singing thin thing winter and wears size five shoes, what does she weigh? (ix)angle single finger hunger anger run (xi)winger kin king banning banging sing Language Function: Introducing oneself - Getting to know people. (xii) singing sinking hang hank sung whata) I wouldam Noel they Jayamanne put on his coffin? a) Submitted I’m Noel Jayamanne by: Joe 1. Nilusha Ranjani introduces herself Iintroduce yourself to your friend Read aloud very fast and practise Activity 2: to Indrani Senehelatha and pactise. (1) The wrong man was hanged. Example (2)The monk was thin and hungry. Nilu : I’m Nilusha Ranjani. Dilini: I’m Dilini Jayamanne. (3)The journey took longer than most of us imagined. Indra: I’m Indrani Senehelatha. (4)The monkey bit my uncle’s ankle. Lasa : I’m Lasantha Bernard. Nilu : How do you do ? (5)There aren’t any lessons this morning. Dilini: How do you do? Indra : How do you do ? Lasa : How do you do? Activity 3: Read the funny story about male assertiveness with stress and intonation and enjoy the fun. Answers Male Assertiveness Activity 4 A. 1. No. 2. Yes 3.Yes 4.No 5. No 4 B..i. The psychiatrist gave the man a book. (ii) He was tired of be- A mild-mannered man was tired of being bossed around by his wife so he went to a ing bossed by his wife. (iii) He could finish reading the book by the time he psychiatrist. reached his house because it was perhaps a very simple book with a few The psychiatrist said he needed to build his self-esteem, and so gave him a book on pages. 4C. dominates assertiveness. He read the whole on the way home. Activity 5. My comment – I appreciate the way how the writer generates fun The man stormed into the house and walked up to his wife. with “but deliver us some e-mail, Amen." Activity 6. (1)Lovely/lovable,/ loving / love / lovingly (2)Hateful / hate man of this house, and my word is law! I want you to prepare me a delicious meal / hatefully (3)Thoughtful / think / thoughtfully (4) Beautiful / beautify / Pointing a finger in her face, he said, “From now on, I want you to know that I am the beautifully (5)Honourable / honour / honourably(6)Collective/collect// after dinner, you have to fan me so that I can relax. After that you have to arrange a collectively/(7)Courageous/encourage/courageously/(8)Respectful/re- tonight, and when I’ve finished eating my meal, I expect a sumptuous dessert. Then, spective/respectable/respect/ respectively / respectfully/respectably dress me and comb my hair?” (9)Analytic/analytical / analyse / analytically (10) real/ realize/really hot water bath for me. And when I’ve finished with that bath, guess who’s going to “The funeral director,” said his wife. Activity Activity 7 : Answers: (i) A boxing ring. (ii) Your right elbow. (iii) From his Activity 4 A: Read the above anecdote once again and answer the following ducks (iv) Candy. (v) A lid. questions with ‘Yes’ ‘No’ Utterance Yes No Contact us on: 1.The wife stormed the house and walked up to the man. 071 8004580 Compiled by Noel Jayamanne 2.The man said the his word was law. E-mail: [email protected] ! XX The Messenger November 3, 2013

ANSWERS QUIZ I. THE CHURCH AND CHURCH TEACHINGS Penance/Sacrament of Reconciliation 468. A Sacrament instituted by Christ for the forgiveness of sins and On Catholic Themes reconciliation with God and the Church. 469. John 20: 21-23. (Again Jesus said, "Peace be with you! As the Father has (..... from last week) sent me, I am sending you." And with that He breathed on them and said, "Receive the Holy Spirit. If you forgive anyone his sins, they are forgiven; if QUESTIONS you do not forgive them, they are not forgiven.").

1. THE CHURCH AND CHURCH TEACHINGS 470. Bishops and Priests. 471. Contrition, confession and satisfaction. 472. A true sorrow for sins becuse they have offended God who is so good Penance/Sacrament of Reconciliation

468. What is the Sacrament of Penance? 473. Admittingand loving all and our a sinceresins to aand Priest firm in resolution the Sacrament not to of sin Penance. again. 474. Carrying out the penance that the priest gives in order to repair the 469. Where in the New Testament does Christ give the Apostles authority to hear confessions and forgive sins? our sins once and for all. harm caused by our sins and to configure us to Christ who expiated 470. Who are the ministers of the Sacrament of Penance? 475. The Sacrament of Penance remits the eternal punishment due to sin, but it does not always remit the temporal punishment which remains 471. What conditions are required to receive the Sacrament of Penance? unless we make amends for the sin by penance. 472. What is contrition? 476. Prayer, fasting, almsgiving; all spiritual and corporal works of mercy, 473. What is confession? and the patient suffering of the ills of life, etc.

474. What is satisfaction? 477. The form of prayer or words the priest pronounces over the penitent with uplifted hand when he forgives the sins he/she has confessed 475. Does the Sacrament of Penance remit all punishment due to sin? 478. The absolution given by the priest to many penitents in cases of 476. What are some of the forms of penance in Christian life? grave necessity or in danger of death.

477. What is absolution? 479. The faithful must have the intention of individually confessing their

478. What is general absolution? 480. Reconciliationsins in the specified with God time. and the Church, remission of the eternal 479. What condition is necessary for the general absolution to be valid? punishment incurred by mortal sins and increase of spiritual strength for the Christan battle. 480. What are the effects of the Sacrament of Penance?

(contd next week.....) Courtesy: Clare Ukken fsp JESUS with a DIFFERENCE [Spiritual Reflection] John 6:1-15. The Miracle of Five Loaves and Two Fish

He knew what He was going to do. Yet He made His dis- Jesus said this to test Philip, because He Himself knew ciples aware of the situation. He multiplied with what He what He was going to do. was given and gave them more and more till they were Philip answered Him, “Two hundred days’ wages worth of food would not be enough for each of them to have a little [bit].” satisfied. HIDDEN POINTS Did Jesus count the number of people before performing the fragments left over, so that nothing will be wasted.” the miracle? When they had their fill, He said to His disciples, “Gather Did Jesus consider the boy who brought what he had? Yes..! Exactly Jesus does not want any basket to be wasted Why did Jesus allow them to collect 12 baskets? even after the miracle. So let us use what we have and what Was Jesus testing His disciples and the people after the we are given more for the betterment of HIS PEOPLE. miraculous feeding, by making them collect the leftovers

which miraculously filled12DIFFERENCE baskets? What happened to the rest of the 12 ! Are we also handing over what we have to Jesus expecting a miracle? baskets? - One of His disciples, Andrew, the brother of Si- kets? AndAre weif so, ready what to are share we themgoing withto do others with the who 12 are filled outside bas the Church? many?”mon Peter, said to Him, “There is a boy here who has five When there is a need, do we show indifference unlike the barley loavesSo they and collected two fish; them, but what and filledgood aretwelve these wicker for so boy who stepped in to help out? baskets with fragments had been more than they could eat. from the five barley loaves that Turning Points JESUS So He asked Philip, “Where can we buy enough food for Rev. Fr. S. Randil Fernando OMI He tested His disciples before the miracle was performed. them to eat?” Nazareth – Wennappuwa! From the Vatican Documents Mystery of the Church LUMEN GENTIUM 4 “When the work which the Father gave the Son to do on earth was Dogmatic Constitution on the Church accomplished, the Holy Spirit was sent on the day of Pentecost in order that He might continually sanctify the Church, and thus, all those who Pope Paul VI believe would have access through Christ in one Spirit to the Father.” November 21, 1964