SINCE FEB 11,1869 THE CATHOLIC WEEKLY O F

ST. ALOYSIUS GONZAGA THE NATIVITY OF June 21 "REGISTERED IN THE DEPARTMENT OF POSTS OF SRI LANKA UNDER NO. QD / 11 / NEWS / 2012" ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST Sunday 17th June 2012 Vol 143 No 24 16 Pages Rs: 25.00 Registered as a newspaper June 24 Archdiocese prepares for Eucharistic Congress he Archdiocese of The 3-day programme with the procession of the informed to encourage the TColombo with the help will also consist of a Most Holy Eucharist presided participation of Daham Pasal of the Blessed Joseph Vaz vocations exhibition with over by the Archbishop of children and parishioners, Trust will organize a very the participation of the , His Eminence especially at the exhibition special 3-day celebration of religious and the Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, which will be unique. a Eucharistic Congress, from seminaries and a special winding its way through the A unique feature will be August 31 to September 2, exhibition on the streets of the City of Colombo. the performances of a 100- 2012 at St. Joseph’s College, Eucharistic Miracles. The bulletin states member choir of school Colombo 10. Continuous exposition that His Eminence requests children. According to of the Most Holy Eucharist all those who are called upon A committee headed KOINONIA, the Archdiocesan will take place from 8.00 to help in the organization of by Very Rev. Fr. Ivan Perera, monthly bulletin, the Congress am to 6.00 pm on Friday, the event to generously do so. Rev. Fr. Placidus de Silva and will be in keeping with the August 31 and Saturday All Parish Priests of the Mr. Gamini Kannangara is spirit of the decade of the Most September 1, 2012. On City of Colombo and the Kotte, currently working out the Holy Eucharist which was Sunday, September 2, the Moratuwa, Wattala, Ragama details of the event. started in August last year. Exposition will terminate and Kandana deanaries are KOINONIA

His Eminence at St. Anthony’s Shrine: “Open your hearts to the Lord” O, Mother of All ! Shrine of the miracle worker in Kochchikade, Colombo. “The Lord,” he said, “wants us to be superior and great in being the salt of the earth to add taste to the lives of many and to be the light of the world in helping others to see the truth and reality of life. That greatness can only be achieved if we open our hearts to the Lord.” His Eminence said that St.Anthony is upheld as great due to the strong bond that he had with the Lord. If we can deviate from our he Archbishop of Colombo, His materialistic tendencies and give TEminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith prominence to spiritual aspects we of�iciating at the Vespers Service held at St. could liberate ourselves from this Anthony’s Shrine Kochchikade, on June imprisonment. 12th Tuesday said that God has created His Eminence also thanked every one of us to be superior beings in the President and the authorities character; in other words like a saint. concerned for providing the adjoining “Human life has meaning and value premises for the use of the Shrine. “We cling to Thy mantle, O Mother of all! - These children seem to say as they and if one does not attach the relevant Administrator of the Shrine lovingly pray the Rosary at the rosary rally held at St. Anthony’s Church Grounds, Rev. Fr. Clement Rosairo and Assistant, in Thoduwawa, in the Chilaw Diocese, on May 27, 2012. (See Page 13) of God is undervalued,” said His Eminence Rev. Fr. Jude Lakshantha were PIC: LAKMAL DIAS. significanceaddressing the to one’simmense life, thecrowd plan of and devotees creation associated in organizing the festive from various faiths who thronged to the proceedings. PIC: T. F. MENDIS Blessing of Church and Requiem Consecration of Mass President at the Vatican new Altar at Bolawatta Parish BY: K. NIHAL he new Church of the Bolawatta Parish FERNANDO Twas blessed and declared open by their Lordships, Rt. Rev. Dr. Joseph Vianney Fernando, Bishop of Kandy and Rt. Rev. Dr. Valence Mendis, Bishop of Chilaw, on June 8, Friday, which also commemorated the 336th Birth Anniversary of Fr. Jacombe Gonsalvez, whose remains are buried here. Their Lordships also consecrated the new Altar of the Church. A Holy Mass will be offered for the repose of the soul of Rev. Fr. Alfred Alexander sss, at Philip Neri’s Church, Pettah President and Mrs. Rajapaksa in the friendly company of Vatican and on June 20, 2012 Sri Lankan offi cials and His Eminence, Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith. at 5.30 p.m.

‘He would not speak to them except in parables’ Mk:4:34 2 The Messenger 17th June 2012 First Holy Communion for a 100 Children Nicholites Venerate the Blessed Mother St. Nicholas’ Interna- tional College, Colombo, celebrated the annual feast of the Blessed Virgin Mary, with a thanksgiving Eucharistic Celebration presided over by Rev. Fr. David Hore C.SsR on 31st May at the College Hall, bringing a month-long daily Marian devotion to a close. In an expression of their love and devotion the Holy Rosary culmi- to the Blessed Mother, the nating in a Festive Mass (Text by Mrs. Francisca Seen in the picture with the chil- staff and students of the and a colourful proces- Ludowyke & pic by children from St. Carmel's Church, dren are Rev. Fr. Felix Colombage, Parish College had conducted a sion carrying the statue of Mr. Siddath Marawila For received the first First time Holy one hundred Commu- Priest and Rev. Fr. Dilanka Nirman, Asst. month-long daily medita- the Blessed Virgin Mary Ramanayake) nion. Parish Priest. Shammika Fernando tion on the Mysteries of around the College prem- ises. Aquinas bids farewell to "Jeeva Raagangal" Tamil New Parish Priest, Kanuwana Fr. Weliwita Catholic CD Release P o p u l a r Music Director Mr. A. Mahendran at- tached to the Sri Lanka Broadcasting Corporation was honoured by His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr. Rayappu Joseph, Bishop of Mannar at a ceremonial A concelebrated Holy Mass was held in the cha- function held at St. pel of Aquinas University College to bid farewell to Rev. Benedict's College, Kotahena on 9th June 2012 on the Fr. Shanthikumar Weliwita, who was Vice Rector of he release of "Jeeva Raagangal Tamil Catholic CD, melody Rev. Fr. Lester Nonis, who assumed duties as College and Rev. Fr. Dinesh Priyadharsha Fernando and and music composed by him in the presence of a large the Parish Priest of Kanuwana Parish, was warmly re- warmly welcome Rev. Fr. Batepola and Rev. Fr. Chan- gathering of Revered Fathers, Sisters, distinguished ceived by the Parishioners of the Visakawatte Church, dana Lal Fernando. guests, friends and well wishers. The Secretary Gener- Registrar al of the Bishops' Conference of Sri Lanka Rev.Fr.Tony June. Martyn was the Guest of Honour. May God bless Mr. when he came to celebratePhoto-Writeup-Shirly his first Mass on Sunday, Perera 3rd A sharing of experience Mahendran and his service rendered to the Catholic Community. Basil Mel by Caritas Sethmini Poson Dansala at Feast of Queen of May Delgashandiya

Parishioners of St. Bernadette's Church, Chilaw extended their de- votion to Our Lady Queen of May taking nine stat- ues in procession to their houses throughout the month of May. On 31st Caritas Sethmini Eheliyagoda held a press con- all the statues reached ference attended by several personnel from the print the Church in a colourful and electronic media from the Ratnapura and Keg- procession and the devo- alle districts recently. This conference was mainly an tees participated in the awareness programme for media personal regarding Buddhists and Catholics got together to organ- the work done by Sethmini. recitation of the Holy Rosary. ise a Poson Dansala at Delgashandiya recently for the Sethmini Director, Rev. Fr. Texie Dissanayake, Rev. Fr. Philip SDS and Rev. Fr. Prabu SDS con- 8th consecutive year. presided at the Conference held celebrated in the Festive Holy Mass. Children from Arklow Children's Home, Patha- J. Antony Leonard Wijesiri gigodella of Halpe are seen in the picture participating at the Sethmini office. Pic by Trishani Fernando in the meal. The Dansala was sponsored by Green Farm AGM of St. Benedict's National Workshop of Catholic Mills. College OBU University Students Cecil Danicius The 108th AGM of the Old Boys' One hundred Catholic it at Mass. Union of St. Benedict's College will be held University students from seven Introducing the work- May Feast at Nattyandiya Parish on Sunday 24th June 2012 at the College of our Universities in Colombo, shop, Fr. Egerton said though Hall from 10.30 am and will be preceded Eastern, Jaffna, Jayawardenapu- there is a thought that those who May Feast by Holy Mass at 9.30 a.m. ra, Kelaniya, Moratuwa and are educated at a University are was celebrated All Old Boys are cordially invited Peradeniya, gathered together wise, this need not necessarily at Our Lady of to be present for Holy Mass and the annu- at the Retreat House in Tewatta, be, as there are many educated Lourdes Shrine, al sessions followed by a fellowship lunch Ragama, this year, for their an- people who cannot be catego- Nattandiya in the nual 3-day Workshop. Their rized as wise at all. We can see and get-together at the Old Bens Sports presence of a large Club. Chaplains were Rev. Fathers it today in our own country and StalinNavaratnam, Saman Maxi- the world at large that the most gathering of the Kindly contact the following, for mus, and Egerton Perera with unwise, unfair and unjust deci- faithful. lunch reservations: Sr. Mabel as the lady chaperone sions have been taken not by the Picture shows the Anton Carvalho-0777803430, Anton Leon who accompanied them. uneducated but by the educated statue of Our Lady - 0714805287, Chandra Bastian - 0775 The theme of the work- and these decisions have had a of Lourdes been 984580, Ashan Stanislaus - 0777 558244, shop this year was, ‘The Path to devastating effect on the people. taken in proces- Peter De Croos - 0776 396060, Stephen Wisdom’. The workshop was di- So the need today is for all of us sion by the youth Corera - 0777 348417, Darrel Ludowyke - rected by the National Chaplain to discover and walk “the path of the Parish. 0777 414567, Felix Dias - 2693250 of Family Services, Rev. Fr. Julian to wisdom,” by being guided by Patrick Perera, assisted by Prof. the Holy Spirit. Darrel S. Ludowyke Anton Meemana. Each day be- Shyangani Felicia gan with invoking the Holy Spir- Rev. Fr. Egerton Perera, sj. 3 The Messenger 17th June 2012 Sinhala Theology Course in the Galle Church in the World The inauguration of a Diploma Course on Theology in Sinhala took place last week under the auspices of His Lord- Eucharistic Congress ship, Rt. Rev. Dr. Raymond opens with re�lection on Wickramasinghe, Bishop of Galle. 'treasure of the Church' The Diploma DUBLIN, IRELAND, JUNE (CNA/EWTN Course has been designed NEWS).- The Church has nothing greater to of- in compliance with the fer than Jesus Christ in the Holy Eucharist, Cardi- requirements of the Na- nal Marc Ouellet said as he celebrated the June 10 opening Mass of the 50th International Eucharistic Joseph Vaz Deva Dharma Congress in Dublin. Nikethanayational Office in of Colombo. Blessed “Our gathering is an act of faith in the However, special care has Holy Eucharist, the treasure of the Church, which been taken to address is essential to her life and to our communion as the local situation of the brothers and sisters in Christ,” said the Prefect of Diocese taking into con- Dharma Nikethanaya in masinghe mentioned the tion which marked the the Congregation for Bishops, who is representing sideration the missionary the Diocese of Galle, quot- need to draw up a mis- inauguration of the Diplo- Pope Benedict as Papal Legate at the celebration in nature of the Southern ing from the diaries of the sionary and pastoral plan ma Course. The Declara- Ireland. Province. missionaries, expressed in line with the spirit of tion document was placed The Church, he told pilgrims gathered Twenty Three the importance of study- Blessed Joseph Vaz who in front of the picture of at the Royal Dublin Society Arena, “draws her life young men and women ing the history of the local Blessed Joseph Vaz, the from the Eucharist,” and “receives her own identity were registered as the Church in the area. Rev. to bring to life the Catho- Apostle of Sri Lanka, by from the gift of Christ’s own body.” Fr. Daya Welikadaarach- licsacrificed faith in hisSri lifeLanka, entirely that the Diocesan Director, “In communion with his body, the Church to follow the Diploma chi, Director of Blessed was at the point of suc- seeking the power of his becomes what she receives: She becomes one body Coursefirst batch which of will students spread Joseph Vaz Deva Dharma cumbing to the threats mediation and guidance with him in the Spirit of the new and eternal cov- over a period of three Nikethanaya in the Arch- and repression unleashed to continue this new mis- years covering around diocese of Colombo deliv- by the Dutch persecutors sion begun in the Diocese marvelous mystery!” sixty subjects. ered the guest speech. of the time. of Galle. enant,” the More Cardinal than 12,500 reflected. pilgrims “What from a great around and Rev. Fr. Ratnapri- His Lordship, Rt. His Lordship read the world are gathered in Dublin for the June 10-17 ya Perera, Director of the Rev. Fr. Raja Ratnapriya Rev. Dr. Raymond Wickra- Eucharistic gathering. Its opening ceremony, held Blessed Joseph Vaz Deva Perera on the Feast of Corpus Christi, featured a parade of out the official Declara- Under Secretary of the Ponti�ical Rebuilding Our Lady of different counties, carried alongside symbols of the Perpetual Help Shrine, Catholicinternational faith. flags as well as insignia of Ireland's Council for Inter-religious Dialogue Cardinal Ouellet concelebrated the after- The Holy Father Pope Bene- Ayithiyamalai (Batticaloa) noon opening Mass with Dublin Archbishop Dia- dict XVI, has appointed Rev. Fr. muid Martin, Archbishop Robert Jean Louis LeGall Indunil Janakaratne Kodithuwak- We are Happy to invite all the pil- of Toulouse, Cardinal Thomas C. Collins of Toronto, ku Kankanamalage the Diocese of grims who had visited Ayithiyamalai with and Archbishop Piero Marini, president of the Pon- Badulla, and Professor at the Fac- prayers and thanksgiving years ago. Now the prevailing peaceful situation had opened In his homily, the head of the Congregation Urban University in Rome, as the fortifical Bishops Committee recalled for Eucharistic Ireland's “long Congresses. traditional of ulty of Missiology at the Pontifical the doors to all to visit Our Lady of Perpet- Council for Inter-religious Dia- ual Help in Ayithiyamalai (EP). The Annual fulness “has enriched not only these shores, but logueUnder (PCID). Secretary of the Pontifical Feast this year is scheduled to be held on the has,fidelity through to the her Catholic missionary faith.” sonsThe country's and daughters, faith- 2nd of September 2012. To accommodate helped to bring the Gospel to many other, far-dis- of the Catholic Church for promoting interreligious dialogue in the pilgrims we are working to rebuild the tant shores.” accordance with the spirit of the Second The PCID Vatican is the Council, central in office par- shrine premises. All the available accommo- But Cardinal Ouellet acknowledged that ticular the Declaration Nostra Aetate. the 50th Eucharistic Congress comes at a “turbu- dations were damaged and destroyed by the Fr. Janaka was an alumnus of the National Seminary of lent time” for the Irish Church, which has suffered Our Lady of Lanka, Ampitiya and ordained a priest in the year ended war. Now we are working to rebuild in recent years from revelations about sex abuse 2000. He holds a BA (Hons) in Sociology from the University of the church premises and the Pilgrims rest committed by clergy in past decades. The country Colombo, and also Licentiate and Doctorate in Missiology from buildings. Therefore we are inviting you too also faces a priest shortage, and problems with to join hands in this effort of ours. For more theological dissent. details contact us “The Church in Ireland is suffering and fac- the PontificalInternational Urban Association University, for Rome. Catholic He hasMissiologists. been also a lectur- Rev. Fr. Douglas James es many new and serious challenges to the faith,” er at the Pontifical Urban University, Rome and also a member of noted Cardinal Ouellet. “Well aware of these chal- Rev. Fr. Raveen Perera Administrator lenges, we turn to our Lord, who renews, heals and strengthens the faith of his people.” The 49th International Eucharistic Con- gress was held in 2008 in Quebec. Pope challenges European soccer stars to promote noble virtues WARSAW, POLAND, JUNE (CNA/EWTN NEWS) - Pope Benedict XVI is urging those partici- pating in soccer’s 2012 European Championship to promote “noble human values” during the tourna- ment which begins on June 8. “I encourage all those involved to work to ensure that this event is experienced as an expres- sion of the most noble human virtues and actions, in a spirit of peace and genuine joy,” the Pope said in a message to the President of the Polish Bishops Conference, Archbishop Józef Michalik. The month-long competition will take place in Poland and the Ukraine June 8 to July 1. It features the top 16 national sides in Europe, including the Pope’s motherland of Germany and his adoptive na- tion of Italy. The tournament begins with an opening match in the Polish capital of Warsaw between the host nation and Greece, the 2004 champions. The Pope’s comments come amidst fears that the tournament could be dogged by racist abuse aimed at black soccer players. 4 The Messenger 17th June 2012 The Listener

EDITORIAL By Rev. Fr. Patrick Clarke 17 June 2012 ome time ago I was on a bus in Dublin day I was talking with my mother when suddenlyhome from she Japan burst for out my laughing. first vacation. "What's One Swhen I noticed something that sparked so funny?", I asked. She said, "Well when Sympathy for the Tamil prisoners of off many memories. What happened was you were a small child Nannie Kennedy war could promote reconciliation that I noticed a woman blessing herself as the used to take you out and she must have bus passed a church. That simple act brought brought you into almost every church in me back seventy years. I grew up in Dublin and It is three years since the war ended in the total annihilation of the Dublin." Nannie Kennedy used to help my I went to school by bus. The bus passed several mother by taking me out almost every day. LTTE. The World recognizes that the Tamil people have grievances churches and as we passed everyone would and that their recourse to war against the government was only after I was too young to remember those outings either raise their hat or bless themselves. Then, but I had fond memories of her from my the failure of negotiations over a period of 35 years. But the LTTE when I got to the school, there would be a turned it into a brutal war of the Sinhalese versus the Tamils. later years. She was a beautiful person and stream of kids running in and out of the nearby became my second mother. She died from church to make a quick visit. No one ever told The Government is procrastinating while the Tamil youth are again cancer when I was eight years old. I believe losing patience. The TNA has said that they want internal self de- that I owe my vocation to her prayers. I also termination and not external self determination so that they will be believe that Nannie bringing me to so many part of the single State although it would have to be a Federal State. churches was what later led me to a love The Government is reluctant to devolve land and police powers fear- of the Blessed Sacrament and to receiving ing that it would be a step towards a separate State of Eelam. The many blessings during a long life. fear may be legitimate but that is all the more reason that the issue All the above memories were trig- should be resolved with goodwill. Meanwhile the election to the Pro- gered by seeing a woman on the bus bless vincial Council in the North should be held to give an opportunity to herself as we passed a local chuch. the Tamil people to at least carry out their limited functions. A view of Mount Fuji from the Church of Fujisawa Why do I want to write about these memories? Because they underline The Government is carrying out development in the North under us to do this; it was the custom and we just did for me the power there is in making visits programs like the "Uthuru Wasanthaya." Much money has been it. to the Blessed Sacrament. Just to go into a spent on repair and reconstruction of roads and highways including Later there came another memory. church and spend a short or long time sit- the A9. The restoration of the infrastructure damaged or destroyed This time I was a missionary priest in a Japa- ting there can change our life. by the war is necessary and can be done only by the government. But nese parish, about an What do we do on the use of the military and labour contractors from the South has hour by train from Tokyo. such occasions? Well, we Fujisawa Church was go in believing that the expenditure through what economists call the multiplier effect since situated on the top of In coming before Risen Jesus is present in thedeprived money the payments people from would directly leak out benefiting to the South. from such development a small hill with a long — that church. How he is straight road leading up Jesus in His Real present I do not know. Because of the free and peaceful atmosphere that emerged after to it. My memory was Presence, and sharing Maybe in the next life the ending of the war, there should have been by now, a noticeable of the number of people their burdens with I will understand. I do improvement in the economic activities of these provinces. But the who walked up that hill believe in the words of to make a visit to the Him, speaking from Jesus "This is my Body," tions of the people. Private sector entrepreneurs are still to invest Blessed Sacrament each their hearts, they will and I know from experi- day. They were students, ence the power of the figures do not reflect any dramatic improvement in the living condi- discover not only the become able to return to their normal lives which were disturbed by elderly people, and peo- Real Presence in the thein any war. significant Irrigation way.tanks Nor were have destroyed all the andpeople there been was resettled no conserva- and ple returning from work. One who loves them, lives of people. Someone tion of water to carry out agriculture. Fishing was subject to restric- Again, how or when that but also the One who may ask, "But I'm not tions which were not lifted until very recently. More importantly the started I don't know: It into prayer, what do you people should feel that they are stakeholders in this development ef- was the custom. listens. say?" Well, do nothing; fort. But that requires that their representatives should be consulted Another memory just sit in silence which and made partners in such effort. was from my teenage can itself in time become years. I remember mak- ˜ a deep form of prayer. Or The pressing grievance is that the Army still controls civilian activ- ing a visit to the Church if you are tired, you can ity. The presence of a large number of troops in the North and their after school almost every day. Looking back sleep. visible presence in the streets indicate to the Tamil people that they St Therese of Lisieux did not have are under military occupation. The Government must work to dispel a common practice for teenagers. Yet there I any problems about falling asleep at prayer. I find this rather strange because it was not this perception among the Tamil people. Recently the Tamil youth was making my visits. I remember that on one Today so many people are out of work, or have shown impatience. They have resorted to hunger strikes and particular day, as I sat before the Blessed Sacra- worrying about their jobs. There are so have staged protests in the prisons. There was the hunger strike in ment, I suddenly felt deep gratitude for the many people struggling to put food on the Vavuniya on 24 May in which 500 family members, mainly women, gift of faith. This was followed by a realization table for their children. They need to open fasted for a day in solidarity with the prisoners. of the millions of people in China who did not their hearts to someone. They need a good have this precious gift; somehow I felt that the listener. In coming before Jesus in His Real The detainees ask that they should be either charged or released. Lord was inviting me to go to China as a priest Presence, and sharing their burdens with Some spokesmen also appeal for a general amnesty as had been missionary. Up to then the thought of priest- Him, speaking from their hearts, they will extended to Sinhala political prisoners following the youth insur- hood had never entered my head. Two years discover not only the One who loves them, rections of 1971 and 1987-89. Only the JVP leaders were charged later I decided to become a member of the but also the One who listens. Jesus Himself on that occasion. The Government says it does not consider these "Maynooth Mission to China," now known as said. "Come to me all you who are bur- persons as political prisoners. Are they all terrorists? 11,600 LTTE the Columban Fathers. After ordination I was dened and I will refresh your." ex-combatants and others caught up in the war surrendered and sent to Japan as China had been closed due to I am not saying that prayer before were held in 'rehabilitation' centres since May 2009. Of this num- the Communist takeover. the Blessed Sacrament is the best way ber the military claim that only 698 now remain in their custody. or the only way to come to the Lord. It The Government has not made public any registry of the names and is one way. As Jesus said "I am with you My final memory concerned my return locations of Tamils in detention, which has been a demand of family always." He is present in so many different members searching for their missing relatives. ways, through creation, through His Word, through the person nearest us, and so on. The prisoners demand to be charged or released is legitimate in the Prayer, or simply being present before the eyes of the civilized world. Last week the Minister of Foreign Affairs Blessed Sacrament is a simple, beautiful, referred to the Buddhist theory of punishment which is purely re- and accessible way to experience Jesus as a habilitative and not retributive. Yes that should be so and the Gov- loving, living and listening person. Parents, ernment follow this Buddhist philosophy by granting a general am- grandparents, and those who care for chil- nesty to those who were not directly involved in crimes against the dren lead them to many blessings through humanitarian law or the laws of war. Some are said to have been in this practice. Finally I end with a little verse custody for 10 or even 15 years without having been convicted of seen on a parish bulletin board: any offence. Others have been indicted based on forced confessions "Every time I pass a church, or their signature on confessions written in Sinhala (which they can- I stop to make a visit. not read) but which are admissible under the provisions of the dra- So that when I am carried in conian Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). The Lord won't say, "Who is it?" Fr Paddy Clarke served in Japan The Government should consider granting a general or selective am- for almost �ifty years. He is now retired in nesty except to those to be indicted and their cases should be heard Dalgan Park, Navan. Fr. Paddy Clark (centre) in Dublin with speedily. (Courtesy: Far East Magazine) his nannie and big brother Shane 5 The Messenger 17th June 2012 Give people their Right to Information

All decisions taken by the guaranteed by Article 14(a). indulge in criminal misappro- promise to include a Charter undiluted providing the right Government affects its citizens. Ex-Chief Justice Asoka de Silva priation, misuse and fraudulent of Rights into the Constitu- So the citizen in a vibrant de- making a keynote address to an investments of public funds tion based on the Declaration Such legislation will promote mocracy has the right to know august audience at a function and other related abuses of of United Nations and other transparencyto access official of publicinformation. action what's happening. The right soon after retirement has em- corruption and waste. Recent International Treaties to up- and help reduce wastage and to information therefore is a phasized on the need to enact events of misuse of public hold social, cultural, political, misuse of public funds and fundamental right of the citizen relevant legislation to enhance funds amounting to billions of economic and civic rights to make the government more ac- constitutionally guaranteed this basic right of the people rupees will be shelved as al- - countable. In India people are by all modern democracies in recognized by the Constitution ways with no one held respon- mitment to good governance unafraid to agitate for their just the world. In its enactment it of the country to ensure trans- sible. inall Mahindacitizens. HeChinthanaya affirms com in rights for they are educated so. empowers the citizen, and as a parency and accountability The United National 2010. He keeps us guessing Majority of our people focal right assures basic free- with regard to governance so Party presented a Right to from some positives that had relatively have little knowledge doms for the creation of good as to hold Ministers of the State Information Bill as a private come from his keynote address of their rights saving for voting governance. In simple language accountable for their actions. member's bill in 2011 which to a congregation of Buddhist a party into power, especially information in this context The implementation of the the Government majority hu- religious dignitaries at the those from the rural areas. Our means anything that exists in right to information therefore miliatingly out voted in Parlia- UN Wesak Commemoration system of education does not any form with the Public Au- has a legal binding on the Gov- ment. Subsequent attempts by Celebration that was held in enlighten, the rural student of thority. And such information ernment for openness, account- the Party were also shot down. Thailand few days ago where modern thinking that is waft- is deemed to be held by the ability and better State Sector Government came out with he has spoken on respect for ing across other developed countries. Hence the space for Public Authority on behalf of Management. Government's a pledge to present its own human rights. political exploitation of the the people who are the rightful Right to Information Bill which Whilst we wait in innocence depriving their just owners of such information. this in its recommendations as remains in limbo. The discon- neighbouring India right to rights. The political contours It becomes pertinent anown imperative baby, the LLRC,for Reconcilia ratifies - certing factor is wrong signals information is already law and are changing and the people to recall that the Government tion and good governance. from the President himself. He considered a milestone in the will rise in force against cor- of Sri Lanka in 1980 has rati- The push for the is on record to have said to a country's democratic process. ruption and bad governance if right to information legisla- group of journalists last year People of diverse backgrounds the government fails to address on Civil and Political Rights tion emerged in 2001 under that a Right to Information Bill have used the right fearlessly the issues in good time. People are freed from war and new makingfied the itInternational incumbent on Covenant the the led to expose corruption and hold horizons opened for recon- government to enact such laws coalition government through unbecoming of a person who ciliation and good governance. and amendments that may a Draft Bill submitted by the shotis superfluous. into limelight This in is local most poli - No longer can Government People await freedom from the become necessary for effective Law Reform Commission which tics out-striding his political Departmentspublic officials and accountable. nameless of- anarchy of political bondage implementation of this Cov- failed to see light of day due contemporaries as a champion and bad governance. The ball enant. As for the democratic to change of government. The of Human Rights. His on foot curtain for citizens could have is in the Government's Court rights enshrined in our Consti- change saw the beginning of protest march, ˆ" from Colombo theficials right hide to behindknow what the red deci tape- to kick start the process for tution our Supreme Court in a a new administrative culture to Kataragama invoking divine sions have been made in their reconciliation and good gover- nance by presenting the Right judgment in 2004 has held that allowing free rein to politicians intervention for people's rights name. Much could be borrowed to Information Bill in good faith even a bare denial of access to and public servants which cannot be forgotten. from the Indian RTI Act. It is as it must be. If not allow the stretched gathering momentum Mahinda Chinthanaya important for Sri Lanka to have Opposition to do so. an infringement on the rights with deepening impunity, to for Presidency 2005 did official information amounts to , M.P. specific legislation, politically Towards Christian Unity

Pope Pius XII died on October bishops constituted an authentic plural- to sanctify, to teach and to rule the 10, 1958. On October 28, 1958, 76-year- ity - a plurality of persons, a plurality of people. Christ's promise "Behold, old Angelo Roncalli was elected Pope, I am with you to the end of the and he took the name John XXIII. Less interior lives and a plurality in different days," was made to Peter and the than three months after his election on conditions.experiences Given and reflections, this background plurality at the of Eleven, and their lawful succes- January 25, 1959, the Pope announced - sors through Peter as the head of the calling of a General Council. ments as the bishops continued to dis- the Church. In brief, it can be said, Great popes of the Middle Ages Council, there were, at first, disagree there can be no Christianity with- had used Synods and General Councils as to hold on to the ancient faith, but re- out Catholicism, there can be no a means of promoting reforms address- clothecuss, debate, it in words define and and ways defend which in would order Catholicism without the Pope, and ing the needs of the Church. Ecumenical speak afresh to the world and to our sep- there can be no Pope without the arated brethren. Disputes are normal to Sovereignity that belongs to him. creeds, condemned heresies, deposed the process. (Acts. of the Apostles Chp. Since the Protestant Ref- emperorsCouncils have and so defined on. Pope dogmas, John writtenwanted 15). But, the Council turned that plural- ormation, many people have tried his Council to be Pastoral, and Evangeli- ity into a Unity of belief. Sadly, the media to build the Church anew based cal rather than juridical and dogmatic." focused more on the disagreements at I want to throw open the windows of the Council, than the progress that was New Testament. But they can- the Church so that we can see out, and been made. noton theagree evidence on what they the find New in Tes the- the people can see in," he said. And so, Two things became very clear. tament means when it describes Vatican Council II had a different air. It The Church had already begun to speak the Church, because of it, today it was primarily pastrol, cordial, and com- to the world. And secondly, there was a is said that there are 2010 Chris- Pope John XXIII municative - seeking dialogue, perhaps Pope with a warm heart, ready to go out tian denominations, all claiming as never before, between the Catho- to the world in the name of Christ and to be the one true Church. Every- Apostolic Authority. Man being what he lic Church and the world, between the try to heal the wounds of existing divi- time that the Church becomes divided, - Church and our separated brethren. In sions among the Christians. Europe was it tears the heart of the Body of Christ. ing to solve such a huge problem with is, this can prove to be very difficult. Try other words ministerium rather than once united under the umbrella of the In order to achieve this One Unity in paper work and signing of MOU, is like Magisterium. Church Christ had founded until histori- the Church, the wiser course would be trying to stop a tidal wave with an um- The Council opened on the Oc- cal circumstances wounded it. to look at the Church that came before brella. Ecumenical spirituality is a spiri- tober 10, 1962, in the presence of 2800 Welcoming a group of non-Cath- the Bible - the Church that gathered the tualty of prayer. Such prayers always bishops who come from different parts olic Ministers and delegates to Rome, Scriptures together in a book form, and of the world. Whereas Vatican Council Pope John said: " I am Joseph, your broth- that was universally accepted after gather people together in the same way 1, in 1870 was Mediterrenian and there er." Pope Paul VIth. addressing a similar the Synod of Rome 380 AD, 393 AD, 397 Mary and the other disciples prayed for was not a single bishop from Asia or Af- group in Geneva, said: "I am Peter," thus AD. and 417 AD. In other words, the the coming of the Holy Spirit. (Cardinal rica. At the Vatican Council II, 60 % of revealing strong desire to help our sepa- Church did not come out of the Bible, but Murphy O, Connor). God has his time the bishops were from Africa, Asia, North rated brethren in their search for unity Bible came out of the Church. when He will chose to unite His Church and South America. in the Church governed by the successor So, what does re-union mean? so that there will be but One Church and In addition there were invited of St. Peter and the bishops in commu- Reunion can only mean the resumption One Shepherd. Unity is His gift to us, and to the Council the Orthodox, Protes- nion with him. The Magisterium, that is of that union which once existed before we need to go out to meet it. tants and other observers. Geographi- the Pope and the bishops derive their the Protestant Reformation. The three cally, it was the most Catholic Council authority from Sacramental Ordination, Bryan Landsberger in the history of the Church. The 2800 and they alone are empowered by Christ Belief, Baptism, and Obedience to the requirements for Unity must be fulfilled: 6 The Messenger 17th June 2012 Fatherhood's dimming fl icker serves the love and rever- children and then later as- Psychological depression. of his own father is some- ence of every child and of suming the role of being Recent social evi- times taken as his param- the whole family. That was both parents to any chil- dence indicates that in a eter to relate to God, his how we were taught and dren that are born. And in relatively high percentage Creator and Lord. grew up knowing, respect- extreme cases some chil- of a father’s involvement If his image of a fa- ing and loving our father. dren come not from the in the child’s growing up ther is faint and dim, some- But this healthy situation is usual conception of one years, the child will eventu- how his idea of a loving God fast disappearing. child or twins but through ally have better educational is equally uncertain. There A new mind set of achievements and psycho- seems to be a big distance our young people seems tion. This social aberration logical wellness. The child between them so that reach- to be taking over today. It ofartificial children means being of concep- raised becomes a better linguist appears that society has with only one parent is re- owing to the father’s use cannot reconcile his vague changed dramatically over ceiving more approval all ideaing out with to Him how is difficult. to relate He the years with a different the time even in movies. pressions. openly to a concerned and moral code replacing the This indicates that as we of diversified He (or words she) is of emo- ex- loving father. traditional and reputed to advance to a more highly Canadian Messenger be outdated one. We have technological society, the to explore, to discover and It has been said; feels safe and secure in his an increasing number of more we appear to regress knowtionally more secure, around confident him "That of all rocks upon father’s arms by relying on single mothers who rear with our moral standards. and has a higher self-es- which we build our lives, him in time of peril. His is the children single hand- Recent thinking teem. He can function well a family is the most impor- the guiding hand in a child’s and discussion on this mat- intellectually and can ex- tant." And we are called to fatherhood is diminishing. ter in sociological circles ercise self-control over his recognize and honour how dispels fear and gives cour- Theedly. father’s The significance essential role of shows that a father’s ab- feelings and behaviours. He critical every father is to agefirst to attempt get up afterto walk every which fall is now in question with a sence in the family is linked can therefore relate better that foundation. and bolsters belief in one- lessening of his share of re- to a great percentage of ju- socially with others. A father is a lead- self. The role of the father sponsibility. Sad to venile delinquency, criminal A child’s image Father’s Day er, a role model, a builder, makes for a wholesome at- note that quite a number records and school drop- a protector and a provider. mosphere in the home that of the women now dismiss outs. In a fatherless home, He has a very important is easily caught and taught. the idea of marriage itself behavioural problems de- role in the family. A child And for this reason he de- by cohabitating, begetting velop with more cases of

Ten Characteristics of Great Men 1 83 1. Great men have their priorities in line. They know 7. Great men are continually expanding their minds. what is truly important in life, and live accordingly. They do not think they know it all. and are open to By Sirohmi Gunesekera 2. Great men are tender with those in need of tender- new ideas and insights. ness. They are kind to the elderly, children, and 8. Great men have a healthy sense of self. They are those with disabilities. . confi dent and secure while maintaining, a sense Birthday 3. Great men respect and honour women. They don’t of humility. objectify, degrade, or demean them. 9. Great men help and assist others. Whether in their place birthday!”moaned Sherica. “Don’t“Oh dear, count I feel the so years. old. YouToday have is mylived fiftieth a full 4. Great men participate in the community. They may of employment, in their daily lives, or in the greater world at large, they have a sense of giving back. life. You may not have married and had children but spend time volunteering, working for a cause, or you have spent a useful life,” remarked her friend being involved with a charity. 10. Great men are in touch with their feelings, emo- Manilal. 5. Great men are honest, and have a sense of moral- tions, concerns, and even·shortcomlngs. They don’t “Well, I always try to be of help whenever I ity, integrity, and decency. They have an internal feel a need for pretense or power. They can cry, can. Fifty years is a lifetime of service but there were awareness of what is or is not appropriate, good, have compassion, and acknowledge mistakes. times when I just looked after myseif. I guess I have- right, or decent. They can love and be loved. Note, a great man is not measured by the 6. Great men have a sense of purpose. They do not “Nobody is perfect. If we are honest with amount of money he has, the kind of car he drives, waste inordinate amounts of time in front of the TV ourselvesbeen selfish we too, will pandering admit that to theremy ego,” have said been Sherica. many the size of his biceps, or outward appearance. or playing video games. They can balance fun and occasions when we thought only of ourselves. We A great man refl ects his greatness in his ev- relaxation with work and productivity. cannot spend our lives as adults without being ego- eryday life. Jennifer Jones - Health Therapist out falling by the wayside once or twice. That is why wecentric are . sinnersYou could and not need have toreached ask forgiveness fifty years with- from Do we recognize the true heroes? God,”said Manilal. “Yes, we must not forget that Jesus Christ A few weeks The Japanese stu- came to earth although He was the Son of God and ago, there was an awards a standing ovation that dents know Karu. Do Thoughts suffered and died for our sins. So even if we com- ceremony near Galle Face exceededHe finished the the salutation race to we know him? He is mit sins on earth, if we truly repent, we will be light house organized by that the spectators gave no hero for us. For that pardoned,”chimed in Laila, adding, “the longer we the Colombo Dockyard. Billy Mills from USA, the Sri Lankans, he was live, the more sins we commit. Sins can be both of The chief guest Mr. Channa winner of the race. Mills is the loser. haunt me Ranatunga who was the reported to have said that His son, the beginning of the Mass, we ask pardon for “what we son of Mr. Ranatunga the gold should have gone chief guest, Mr. Channa burnt. havecommission done and and what omission. we have In failed “The toConfiteor” do.” at the Karunananda. Why Mr. to Karu. Ranatunga, who is he? He Do “You are right. There are many things I have Ranatunga was invited as is a Presidential award we need to go to failed to do. I will resolve from now on to look out the chief guest was that, the race, a journalist asked winner for heroism. Today, Olympics and break re- for ways to be a genuine Christian. Besides, on my him, “Why When did youhe finished run the cords to become a hero? If after nearly 48 years, the he is a teacher at Lunuwila birthday, I am going to say a Prayer of Thanksgiving 3 laps all alone when the you are keen enough, you organizers decided to Buddhist Vidyalaya. A few for the blessings showered on me. I have reason- recognize and honour his other athletes had already years back, some students have ample opportunities ably good health and can get out of bed without as- father and give an award. completed the race?” His were burning garbage near for small acts of heroism sistance, have enough money for a plate of rice and Karunananda died a long reply was, “I came today to his school garbage pit. One every day. We like to smell curry today. Let me pray for humility and gratitude,” time ago. So, the award run the 10,000 metres and of them fell accidentally concluded Sherica. would be handed over to not to give up halfway. The into the burning pit that faded, withered ones. The his son, the chief guest. people in my country were was about 8 feet deep. the fresh flowers, not the Who was Kar- eagerly watching me run- The boy was on the heavy away or thrown on the unananda? He was the ning. To give up half-way is side. Channa, who was in ground.faded flowers Similarly, are castwe like Take time for a minute of 10,000 metre athlete who the nature of the loser. But a classroom, saw the boy to praise the winner, not humour - smile! represented Sri Lanka at falling and rushed to the the loser. The winner is the 1964 Olympics held in The English text place. Many students and surrounded by his admir- A famous artist whose paint- Japan. What was special bookI fulfilled used my by duty. 11-year-old teachers had gathered to ers; the loser is left to bite ings were extraordinary wanted to about him? He ran the children in Japan has a les- the place by then, but no- the dust. Very few of us display them. After few days of dis- 10,000 metre race at the son on world heroes. This one was doing anything. think of the loser and pat play, a gentlemen inquired whether Olympics which consisted lesson is meant to encour- Channa jumped inside and him on the back, give him the paintings would appreciate in value after his death. “Of course,” he said of 14 laps. When all the age the Japanese students encouragement. We need a “they might even double in price.” and teach them about per- the boy up whilst another grain of heroism within us the race, he still had to run teacherwith great from difficulty top raised lifted him if we are to add value and Who was that guy who brought all 15 paintings?” other athletes had finished “He was the artist’s doctor.” mentioned in this lesson is and saved him. Channa’s Rev. Fr. Fraccid Anthony Fernando OMI He ran the 3 laps alone. Sriseverance. Lankan TheKarunananda. first hero face and hand were badly Ananda Perera 3 laps to finish the race. flavour to our lives. 7 The Messenger 17th June 2012 Saints with courage to speak the truth While his work in the law courts was exemplary, hast sent. I have glorifi ed Thee on earth; I have fi nished the following his vocal disapproval of the king’s plans, his work which Thou gavest me to do. And now glorify Thou me, career quickly came to a halt. He resigned in 1532, citing O Father, with Thyself, with the glory which, before the world ill health. After failing to attend the coronation of the king’s was, was with Thee” (John 17:3-5). He closed the Bible and new wife, Anne Boleyn, he was one of the people accused said, “There is enough learning in that to last me the rest of of complicity with Elizabeth Barton, the nun of Kent who my life.” And with that, he was led to the scaffold. Compiled by: Kishani S. Fernando opposed Henry’s break with Rome. Subsequently, Thomas Weak and emaciated, Saint John Fisher found the refused to acknowledge the king as the head of the Church strength to address the crowd gathered before the scaffold. Both St. Thomas More and St. John Fisher were martyred for of England, defending the papacy. He was committed to the He is said to have proclaimed in a loud voice: defending the traditional view of marriage and for remaining Tower of London, tried in a one-sided trial, and found guilty “Christian people, I come hither to die for the faith faithful to the Catholic Church. Both were executed by the of treason. of Christ’s Holy Catholic Church, and I thank God hitherto government for their beliefs. Few saints are more relevant to Upon sentencing death by beheading the constable my stomach hath served me very well there unto, so that yet our time. In fact, in 2000, Pope John Paul II named Thomas of the Tower of London visited More, respecting him, and I have not feared death. More patron of political leaders. And St. John Fisher the seeking his forgiveness. More spoke to him, saying, “Good Wherefore I do desire you all to help and assist patron saint of those persecuted for the faith. Master Kingston, trouble not yourself but be of good cheer; me with your prayers, that at the very point and instant of for I will pray for you, death’s stroke, I may in that very moment stand steadfast and my good Lady without fainting in any one point of the Catholic faith free your wife, that we from any fear; and I beseech Almighty God of His infi nite may meet in heaven goodness to save the king and this Realm, and that it may together, where we please Him to hold His holy hand over it, and send the king shall be merry forever good Counsel.” and ever.” His last With those words, having been offered a stay of words, prior to the execution multiple times should he relent his position, Saint axe falling were: “I John Fisher was beheaded. His head was placed on display die - the King’s good on the Tower Bridge, but after two weeks during which time servant but God’s no decomposition was noted, the head was tossed into the fi rst.” Thames to deter those who had begun speaking of miracles. Saint Thomas’ The spot his head had been placed was quickly fi lled with body was buried in the that of Saint Thomas Moore, martyred just nine days later. Church of Saint Peter. Saint John’s relics remain in the Church of Saint Peter at the His parboiled head was Tower of London. placed on display on the Tower Bridge for Church celebrates their feast of St. Thomas More and St. one month prior to the John Fisher on 22 June. The stained glass of the saints is local faithful rescuing from St. Mary’s Church, Bambalapitiya. it. During his lifetime, Saint Thomas wrote Sculpture by artist Schmalz Timothy P. od St. Thomas More extensively poems, titled A Man for All Seasons fiction, scholarly w o r k s , l e g a l The Four Seasons: with life scenes in the tree crown reviews, translations, Spring: The First Meeting with Erasmus in the London House contemplations of (lower left) More fi rst met Erasmus during the latter’s visit scripture, and prayers. to England in 1499. Below is one such prayer: Summer: Alice and Thomas More Playing the Lute in the Evening (upper left)In the background More’s daughters by Saint John Fisher his fi rst marriage: Margaret Roper (left) and Cecily Heron was born in Beverly, (right). Yorkshire. He studied Autumn: King Henry VIII at More’s House in Chelsea (upper theology at Cambridge right) The king unsuccessfully attempts to persuade More on University, receiving several degrees, and the annulment of his marriage to Catherine of Aragon. eventually decided to enter s e m i n a r y. U p o n Winter: More’s Execution on Tower Hill (lower right) Saint Thomas More was born in London, the son of a ordination as a priest, he was assigned to Northallerton, More kisses the executioner as a symbol of forgiveness and judge. At a young age, Thomas was placed in the home of England, where he established a reputation as an extraordinary consolation. Cardinal Morton, Archbishop of Canterbury, who, noting the preacher and scholar. Appointed proctor of Cambridge boy’s cheerful disposition and scholastic aptitude, arranged University, he created scholarships, introduced Greek and for him to attend Oxford. A serious student, and with few Hebrew into the curriculum, and brought in the world-famous fi nancial means, Thomas applied himself and avoided “vain Erasmus as Professor of Divinity and Greek. It was likely or hurtful amusements” to the detriment of his studies. Saint John who introduced Erasmus to Saint Thomas More, He quickly demonstrated considerable academic skills, beginning their lifelong friendship. In 1504, Saint John was mastering both Greek and Latin, becoming expert in French, elected Bishop of Rochester and Chancellor of Cambridge, mathematics, and history, and learning to play both the fl ute in which capacity he also tutored Prince Henry who was to and viola. His gifts quickly attracted attention, and he was become Henry VIII. admitted to law school, and became a barrister. Much like Saint Thomas, however, Saint John’s commitment to the Church, including the sanctity of marriage It quickly became clear that Thomas excelled at law, but and the legitimacy of the Pope, that was his undoing in it was not where his primary interests lay. He was deeply English society. When Henry VIII decided to divorce, drawn to the idea of the religious life, spending considerable he asked Saint John to look into the matter. John, well time in prayer and contemplation, delivering lectures on the respected as a theologian and a scholar, was quite vocal in writings of Saint Augustine, and engaging in penance and his opposition to the divorce, and even more so regarding mortifi cation similar to those enacted by local monks. For Henry’s claims as the Head of the Church of England. Like example, Thomas wore a hair shirt each day and fasted. He Saint Thomas, John refused to pledge an oath of allegiance to eventually moved into the monastery, but could not ignore the King, recognizing the Anglican Church, and as such, was the injustices of English society, and eventually left to enter arrested and confi ned to the Tower of London for 14 months into a career in politics. He was married shortly thereafter. without trial. During that time, many former colleagues— bishops, who had pledged allegiance to the king were sent Thomas entered Parliament, and tirelessly defended the to visit John, hoping to convince him to submit. rights of the poor, much to the annoyance of King Henry As the fourteen months went on, John became frail, VII. In revenge, the King imprisoned Saint Thomas’ father ill, and emaciated due to the harsh treatment he received. and would not release him until Thomas agreed to withdraw Also, during this time, he was appointed Cardinal by the from public life. After the death of the King in 1509, Thomas Pope. The following day, he was condemned to death by became active once more. In 1510, he was appointed one of torture, but this sentence was modifi ed to beheading as the the two undersheriffs of London. In this capacity, he gained jailors feared that the 66-year-old Cardinal was ill and too a reputation for being impartial, and a patron to the poor. weak to endure any length of torture. One hour before his execution, the Tower guard More’s political career became increasingly at odds with found Fisher standing and dressed, awaiting his fate. The King Henry VIII, who, himself was looking to break from holy Prelate took the New Testament and read aloud the from the Catholic Church so that he might remarry. Despite his the Gospel of John: “Now this is eternal life: That they may opposition to the plans of the king to divorce, he was elected know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou Lord Chancellor. 8 The Messenger 17th June 2012 Saint Anthony of Padua altar of St. Anthony’s Church, Batagama teaching the people in the Archdiocese of Colombo, Sri as well as friars Lanka. attracting multi- The Doctors and Historians tudes wherever he carefully analyzed the remains in order went. He preached to reconstruct the physical appearance against heresies of the day so pas- of the Saint. To the surprise of these sionately that he experts, his Vocal Apparatus or the car- came to be called tilage of the larynx (= the parts of the ‘The Hammer of the body used in phonation or speech) was Heretics.’ found to be intact. Even 750 years It is after his death, it had remained incor- because the Saint rupt. Why is it so, dear believer? taught the New The Body of St. An- Law, his Vocal Ap- paratus and Tongue accompanied the funeral bier. That very 1263. When the sarcophagus remain intact for ages. The Tongue is evening miracles began to occur around wasthony opened, was firstSt. Bonaventure recognized in a seal that marks the laborious task of the grave of the Saint. Miracles continued preaching and teaching, carried out by found the Tongue of our Saint at an increasing rate. Pilgrims from the the Saint. Hence Saint Bonaventure, hav- miraculously incorrupt. Given that farthest end of the world started visiting his tomb. The process for canonization tongue is a very fragile part of the uld was commenced and concluded rapidly. noting seenhelp butthe Tonguesing these when praises, the coffin with was Less than a year on May 30, 1232 in the parts to disintegrate after death, it hisfor theheart first full time of admiration: opened in 1263, “O Blessed co body that is usually among the first Cathedral of Spoleto, Pope Gregory IX, can hardly remain incorrupt. More Tongue, you have always praised the than 700 years have passed since his Lord and led others to praise Him! Now who once called the Saint ‘The Ark of the death. But the Tongue remains incor- we can clearly see how great indeed have Covenant’ being moved by his eloquent rupt – a perennial miracle, unique in been your merits before God.” preaching in front of him, elevated An- history! Why is it so, dear believer? thony of Padua to the honours of the al- “But whoever obeys “But whoever obeys and teaches these commandments will be called tar. The one counted among the greatest tions in the words of our Master, “But and teaches these greatest in the kingdom of heaven.” in the kingdom of God was also counted whoever We obeys find andanswers teaches to these these ques- Yes, our Saint was counted among the among the greatest in the Church. commandments will be commandments will be called great- greatest in the kingdom of heaven. On Today Saint Anthony is a uni- called greatest in the est in the kingdom of heaven.” Jesus the 13th of June in 1231, the dying Saint versal saint, venerated by Christians and kingdom of heaven” did not come to abolish the Law. His non-Christians alike. I can still remem- mission remained within the frame- was taken on a farm wagon to Arcella (Matthew 5:17-19) near Padua. Having received the Last ber how we, as altar servers of Rev. Fr. Mahes Ganemulla, could see large num- extending and deepening its meaning. Rites, the Saint intoned the hymn to bers of devotees from all faiths crowd- Last year as we knelt in prayer Hiswork Death of the and Law. Resurrection He fulfilled usheredthe Law the Blessed Mother: “O glorious Queen, right in front of the sacred relics of exalted above the stars!” His bright eyes ing our parish church, dedicated to St. Anthony, on Tuesdays in deep venera- the Vocal Apparatus and Tongue of St. new heavens and new earth. The Law of gazed ahead. “What do you see?” asked tion of the Saint. His Relics remind us of Anthony in the Chapel of the Relics in Mosesin the new now and completed final age, by the Jesus age became of the Friar Luke. Then the dying Saint, who Padua, our memory rushed back to a standard of conduct for His disciples. was about to be counted among the his zeal for the Gospel. Hence let us obey some incidents in the past, both far and Saint Anthony of Padua not greatest in the holy heavens in the bo- and teach the Gospel, the New Law of near. only studied but he also obeyed this New som of the glorious Queen, murmured, Jesus, which was once faithfully obeyed In 1981, a canonical recogni- Law. Not only did he observe it, but he “I see my Lord.” and valiantly taught by our Saint. May tion of the Body of St. Anthony was also taught it. He composed sermons for Our Saint was counted among he intercede for us all! conducted with the permission of His Sundays (around 1228) and feast days the greatest in the Church of Christ as Holiness John Paul II. 750 years after his (between 1230-1231), as preserved up well. In the shadows of the evening, “Jesus’ place should always be in the death, the Saint’s mortal remains were to this day. He shaped the development crowds of children ran shouting at the centre of every heart. From this centre, as examined a second time. After these ex- of Franciscan theology by introducing top of their voices: “The Saint is dead! if from the sun, emanate rays aminations, people were allowed and so the teachings of St. Augustine to the Friar Anthony is dead!” The Body of the of grace to each of us” millions and millions came to venerate friars and founding in 1223 a theology Saint was laid in the small Church of (St. Anthony of Padua) the relics of our beloved Saint prior to school for the friars which eventually Santa Maria Mater Domini re-burial. Perhaps you might have been became the school of theology at the Rev. Fr. Don Anton Saman University of Bologna. He traveled all of his last wish. The entire population among those millions. I was yet a teen- in fulfillment Hettiarachchi ager serving Fr. Mahes Ganemulla at the over Italy and France preaching and of Padua, dressed in mourning clothes St. Anthony's Shrine in People's Heart

occasion, I have got what I've wanted. Through the visited St. Anthony's Shrine during its feast. Being a intercession of the Saint. Many say I am lucky. Yes, I am kid, I wasAbout wondering ten yeas why ago, the when Shrine I was was a sokid, crowded. I first lucky not because I got what I wanted. But I think I am o lucky because St. Anthony's Shrine is situated close to crowded?" She replied saying: "The faith of the peo- our vicinity so that I can go there even though I do not Iple!" fired a question to my mother. "Why is the Shrine s belong to St. Anthony's Shrine. Those days, as a child, I didn't fully under- I am privileged to write this article. Maybe stand what my mother said that day. But it is impor- through this article God might be testing a scenario tant to mention that one has only to visit this Shrine which I don't want to mention here. on the 13th of June every year, on its feast day, to see However there is something special in this thousands from North, South, East and West of the Shrine. Why do so may devotees, irrespective of Island and even from overseas come to visit, pray and their religions and racial differences, visit this Shrine ans from Goa, visited the faithful in Ceylon at the risk throughout the whole year? at their lives. Fr. Jacobme Gonsalvez, the Superior of Anthony. Giving a description about the history of this the Oratorions who is affectionately remembered in to seek help, In Sri to Lanka, fulfill theirSt. Anthony promises has and many to thankdevotees St. Shrine, according to tradition and gleaned from the Ceylon as the 'father of Sinhala Catholic Literature', and several churches have been established in his hon- documents preserved in the Archdiocesan Archives in lamented the fact the Catholics of Colombo had no our. But St. Anthony's Shrine at Kochchikade, which Colombo is as follows: resident priest. However a zealous priest, Fr. Antonio, is placed in the heart of Colombo, attracts a lot more In the 18th Century, Catholicism was still a disguised as a merchant took up his abode in a house devotees. People of every race, caste and religion visit proscribed religion in Sri Lanka and priests could not in Maliban Street, Colombo, close to St. Philip Neri's this Shrine daily to pray to St. Anthony. Therefore the exercise their ministry in public. The Dutch were perse- Church. (The old Church faced the road). The Dutch place is crowded and busy everyday. cuting the Catholics but who preferred to be degraded, discovered his hiding place, but Fr. Antonio, disguised, I personally believe that this Shrine has a impoverished and ridiculed rather than give up their special blessing over its devotees. Up to date, I have faith. Shrines such as Madhu, Talawila and Kochchikade knew him and his reputation for sanctity, and volun- asked many things kneeling in this Shrine and the are souvenirs of those dark days of persecution. (S.G. teeredfled towards to protect Mutwal. him Hefrom met the some Dutch, fishermen provided who they ultimate result has been inspiring . In every single Perera, S J, Historical Sketches page 14) A few Oratori- obtained from God the favour they wanted, namely the (Contd. on Pg. 9) 9 The Messenger 17th June 2012 St. Anthony's...... Cordiality extended to the President in Rome Contd. from Pg. 8 stoppage of sea erosion that prevented them drying their nets. Fr. Antonio decided to pray to God and asked St. Anthony’s intercession to obtain for the

returned to his home at Maliban Street, and came to thefishermen shore, cladthe request in his priestly they made. garments Fr. Antonio and with then a large wooden Cross in his hand. Planting the Cross at the spot most threatened by the advancing Sea, he prayed to God to manifest His Glory, by working this miracle. The waves receded and an extensive sand bank was exposed to the view of all. The Dutch Government appreciated this favour and offered a reward to the people's bene- factor. The humble priest asked only the permission to live and die near the Cross he had planted. This was granted and the priest built a Chapel with mud in honour of his patron, St. Anthony of Padua. When he died after many years, he was buried there. The little Chapel which was made of mud was enlarged in 1806. And in 1922 one of the mem- bers of the Congregation went to Goa and brought a Statue of St. Anthony and it was solemnly placed on the altar of the small Shrine. This is the very image that is to day held great veneration at St. Anthony's Shrine, Kochchikade, and the side altar on which it rests, is the altar of the ancient Church and stands President Rajapaksa meets Bishop Gino Riali which the origin of the same Sanctuary is due. on the very A tiny spot piece sanctified of the byincorrupt miraculous tongue event of St.to Anthony of Padua is enshrined is a special reliquary and placed in one of the glass cases with a statue of the saint, at the entrance to the Shrine. Soon after the arrival of the statue of St. Anthony the work of building of a large Church commenced and the Church was completed in 1928. The blessing of the new Church took place on Sunday the 1st June 1934, presided over by the Vic- ar General Very Rev. Fr. Caetano Antonio. It would appear that people of all creeds, government and military authorities too included, lent their support Meeting the Sri Lankan Community in Rome towards the erection of this Church which contin- ues to be a centre of deep devotion to the Wonder Worker. With the devotees of the Saint increasing, this Church too became congested. In 1938 plans were made to improve and enlarge the structure. A choristers gallery, large wings on either side, the Mission house and meeting room behind the main altar were added. On the growing needs of the present day. It called for replacement, a new and more spacious structure has now taken its place. It is indeed a monument of love and devotion to St. Anthony raised by all, rich and poor, but mostly the latter, in Colombo, as well as in the whole of Ceylon. May St. Anthony protect this City and this Island and all his devout clients and lovers therein. (C.C.M. of 1 -3 - 40) The present marble altar in the centre of the Church was consecrated by the then Archbishop A group photo with the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI of Colombo, His Eminence Thomas Cardinal Cooray OMI in 1951. Jesus showed his love to humans by sacri-

our life for the people who we love. God loved peopleficing his expecting life on a nothing. cross and He it loved is time us to only sacrifice as he wanted to give his love but we "love others expecting their love, care and many more things." According to the Holy Bible, "Love is patient, love is kind, and is not jealous; love does not brag and is not arrogant, does not act unbecomingly; it does not seek its own, is not provoked, does not take into account a wrong suffered, does not rejoice in unrighteousness, but rejoices with the truth; bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things. Love never fails....." Jesus spent his whole life teaching humans how to love. On this St. Anthony's feast day we should at least take one step forward to go on the route that Jesus went during his whole life. May God A section of the crowd present at the Sambuddhathwa celebrations bless you and thank you for reading.

Roshen Steelman 10 The Messenger 17th June 2012 The situation in the District of Mannar Recently the priests of the Diocese of Mannar had poor, the suffering people and as the people are helpless Letters organized a solidarity service in the Cathedral premises on he has to take the mantle upon himself and has to become to the Editor behalf of their shepherd His Lordship Bishop Rayappu Jo- a voice of the voiceless. seph. I am glad that your esteemed paper had given some Some of those who wield power in that particu- sort of publicity for that event. I have also had the opportu- lar area, do serve the people in a very discriminatory way. True Facts nity to meet Bishop Rayappu in Mannar and elsewhere and I read the valued article appearing in the Mes- closely associated with him at National Centre of Caritas senger titled “Catholic Church - the Family of God” writ- Colombo on Peace initiatives. When I had the opportunity to meet some fishermen in ten by Mr. Victor Silva, with interest. I felt I should thank It is unforutunate that many do go by false reports theclose minister vicinity concernedto the town about of Mannar, their plight.Whatthe poor fishermen was the Mr. Silva for letting us know the true facts behind the and assumptions that His Lordship was actively involved responsedid explain of this their particular difficulties minister? when theyThat hadyou did approached not vote conversion of Professor Scott Hann and his wife to the with the LTTE and I know that he had challenged the LTTE for us at the elections so be prepared to suffer the conse- Catholic Church. When I called Mr. Silva this morning leadership of their misdeeds, and some ministers do call quences. he was pleased but he said that it is because Fr. Felician him all sorts of names. When he sent the letter to the Hu- man Rights Council, he spoke the truth and a few of us gave of the Diocese of Mannar had also accused this same min- publish the article that it became so meaningful. a sympathetic support by writing another letter. ister for Indiscrimination a recent newspaper in employment. account Ofa certainthe 600 official posts So Father, I wish to thank you too very sincerely As the shepherd of the people he cannot remain only ten were given to the majority community. Even 10 for your decision to print this very valuable article in vacancies were offered to those people who supported his toto in the Messenger. shepherd. In fact he should have been congratulated. It political agenda. This is indeed a gross violation of justice Yvonne Amarasekena mustsilent be and stated definitely that he he only exercised champions his function the cause as a of true the as there is no equal treatment and this type of discrimina- St. Anthony helps even lost animals the Justice and Peace Commission of the Bishops’ Confer- encetion createsto examine reconciliation such stories more of discriminationsdifficult. It is the and task vio of- Some years and the workmen became tive result. Hence the pups At tea-break on the lations of human rights not only in Mannar but all parts back I was working on a friendly with all of us at the had to be bottle-fed with thirdclue to day find a groupthe lost of animal. women of the country. This National Commission which is set up house - building project site. Very soon she made our powdered milk. under guidance of the Bishops’ Conference has to wake up at Batagama North Jaela. site her permanent abode When Rani did not area came to say they heard be a voice to the voiceless. and was given the name return to her pups the fol- thefetching barking firewood of a dog in in the a The building site was with- Rev. Fr. Reid Shelton Fernando in bell-hearing distance Rani. As her mark of grati- lowing morning, it was clear deserted well nearby. The from st. Anthony’s Church tude for our caring for her, that something had really workmen lost no time in Batagama where Rev. Fr. she guarded the premises gone wrong. Attending Mass hurrying with ropes to the St. Anthony’s College, Wattala OBA Linton Joseph was the Par- day and night. After some in the morning, I made a fer- place mentioned and after Executive Committee time she became pregnant vent request to St. Anthony a while Rani came running ish Priest at the time. Being 2012-2013 in close proximity to the - home and went straight to church I was able to attend ful pups. This dog-family was When Rani was not seen her pups. The following Members were elected to serve and gave birth to five beauti to help us to find the animal. many services including living happily till one day the in the evening or the next This time it was at St. Anthony’s College, Wattala OBA Executive Com- the Healing Service on Fri- mother, who had gone on morning either, all but me, with tears of joy that I went mittee from 2012-2013. days and the Novena to St. her rounds during the day, had lost hope about the ani- to the church to thank St. Patron: Rev. Bro. Denzil Perera did not return by evening. A mal. It was then with tearful Anthony who, at the re- Anthony on Tuesdays. (Provincial La Sallian Brothers) quick search in the immedi- eyes that I made my appeal quest of a human, had A wayside stray Vice Patrons: Rev. Fr. Prasantha Amarasekara, ate neighbourhood by the to St. Anthony at Mass that helped even a lost animal. dog, a female, that was fed Mr. Neil de Silva, with remnant food by me workmen brought no posi- morning to help us with a Neville Anthony Perera Mr. Gamini Perera, Mr. Clement Fernando, Mr. Felician Peiris, Mr. Lalith Jayawardena, I was privileged APPRECIATION Mr. Benedict Silva, Admiral Cecil Tissera, to have known Father Mr. Rohan Bernard Fernando, Alex and worked with him and I can say with proud Memories time cannot erase! President: Mr. John Emmanuel conviction - here was a ‘A voice we loved God he loved so much that Imm.Past Rev. President: Fr. Mal Fernando Mr. Ranjan (Ex-officio de Silva. - Principal) man who walked the line is stilled,’ it’s resonance he once told me “God is Vice Presidents: Mr. Suresh Amarasekara, unafraid - with truth and haunts the corridors of St. my mother and my father.” Mr. Susantha Perera, justice as his raison d’etre! Philip Neri’s and echoes Equating his heavenly Mr. Ranjan Mendis, Mr. Raju Ratnavel, We mourn his on the back roads of my Father to the role of his Mr. Ranjith de Mel, loss, we miss him and memory! Father Alex, our natural parents was his Mr. Clarence Leonard, Mr. Lanka de Silva, though he was not a bold hearts are as burdened unequivocal acceptance Mr. Kavinda Rodrigo, Mr. Malintha Jayasundera, faced name in the way of with grief today as they of God’s love and his own Mr. Neomal Perera. our celebrity-obsessed so- were one year ago when unconditional commit- General Secretary: Mr. Lakshman Dinuka Fr. Alfred Alexander sss ciety, our country and the you left without a goodbye! ment to God. Father Alex Asst.Gen.Secretary: Mr. Ranjan de Silva ingly denied them by world will be the poorer Father Alex’s lost his mother when he Treasurer: Mr. Roshan Rodrigo war, famine and natural for his having left us! character was his supreme was just one and a half Asst. Treasurer: Mr. Ignatius Perera disasters. Father Alex tried Dear Father, when attainment and from all years old and, in 1975, Sports Secretary: M. Hiran Dabare. to illustrate on many occa- Jesus celebrated His vic- that has been written God called his father too. Asst.Sports Secretary: Mr. Tyronne Fernando sions that the invisible bar- tory over death, He chose about him it is clear that, Father’s real Soc.& Mem. Secretary: Mr. Anuruddha Rajapakse. to give us many things to as a lover of God, he was strength lay in his remark- Committee Members: Mr. Clifford Spearing, Mr. Oliver and greed were the most comfort us in trials, and possessed with a heavenly able ability to adjust and Fernanado, Mr. Sanjeewa Weerasinghe, Mr. Sukumal perniciousriers of human dividing selfishness factors among the best of them charity and mischievous relate to others and this Fernando, Mr. Terrance Nugera, Mr. Bernard Perera, in our world today. Service He chose to give us you. humour. Father Alex was contributed largely to the Mr. Indika Abeyratne, Mr. Awanrha Perera, Mr. Chmin- to his fellow men, to uplift Now only the echoes constantly generous not success of his priesthood. da Roshan, Mr. Jerald de Silva, Mr. Senaka Perera, Mr. the oppressed and tire- linger to sustain us and only in deeds but also He was a great priest, not , Mr. P.M.S. Jayamanna, Mr. Dimuthu An- lessly defend their cause, always will! in his consideration of only in his work but as yana, Mr. Gayan Lakshitha. was the sine qua non of his Karen others. There was one a rare human being. He (Clarence Leonard) existence. outstanding feature in could accomplish what he this priest of God, he was disciplined in mind and all, a holy man. An exemplary Christian personal living to a rare did becauseThe heboundaries was first of Mrs.Therese Wijesekara the President of St. Vin- inception, almost 13 years, she had put her heart and soul degree and emanated of the real world often cent de Paul Society Nagoda, Kandana passed away under and done so much to keep the home going steadily. She was a grace and sweetness frustrated Father Alex, he tragic circumstances having met with an accident on Friday loved by every inmate in the home. which was incomparable. lived with a single purpose, 18th May 2012 offering her soul to the Lord. The funeral Late Therese took the initiative of collecting funds His interior austerity en- to uplift the marginalized, took place on Sunday 20th May 2012, amidst a large gather- from her friends abroad and in Sri Lanka to construct a abled him to be most kind the poorest of the poor ing at St.John the Baptist Church Nagoda, Kandana. Three to others. and be among them. The priests who had being in this parish earlier Rev.Fr. Priya St. Vincent de Paul in Sri Lanka. new churchShe at knew Karambe that been she would the first have church to face dedicated the Lord to Father was born ethnic war in Sri Lanka Rev. Fr. Sameeth Fernando, at the grave site, and Rev.Fr. Ran- very soon and she had prepared everything, the dress for on 12th September 1938, was his greatest sorrow janJayamanne Silva, the and Parish Rev.Fr. Priest, Daya delivered Dharshana the officiated homily. at Church, her funeral, hymns to be sung at her funeral, her last will at Allaipiddy in Jaffna and and he spent the greater Late Therese had a continuous service in St. Vin- and awaited God’s call. he was not to know that part of his life constantly cent de Paul Society of Nagoda for 23 Years, of which she Among the distinguished persons who paid their even at his birth, God had journeying to the North- last respects to her, were His Eminence Malcom Cardinal chosen him for His own. East and back, working two years as President. She was one of the enthusiastic Ranjith, Archbishop (Emeritus), Rt.Rev.Dr. Nicholas Marcus From a family of three hard in order to ensure membersserved as who Treasurer initiated for the 17 work years of and the Elders the final Home period in the of Fernando of Colombo and His Lordship Rt.Rev.Dr.Valence boys and a girl, the Lord that those less fortunate Parish of Nagoda in 1995. As an exemplary member of the Mendis Bishop of Chilaw, took the youngest into His than he could make it to SVP., she had an ardent desire of helping the poor irrespec- Finally, our Lord having watched her for so many fold. Who of us could ever the next day and beyond. tive of the assistance rendered by the members of the SVP, years during her life time invited her to join Him and take forget his disarming smile All he wanted to achieve she showed her commitment towards the needy quite ad- up greater responsibilities in heaven. Eternal Rest grant to and resonant voice raised for them was a chance at mirably. her O Lord and let Perpetual Light shine upon her. May she in praise of his God, the life and prospects seem- As Chairperson of the Elders’ Home, from the very rest in peace. Tom de Silva 1311 The Messenger 17th June 2012 The Concert that was... “Memories are made of these” Review of Trail Blazing Years of Denzil and Bosco

The concert suc- lads enriched the and Yasmin, all niec- relaxed, evoking hearty cintly titled “Memories’’ choir of St. Bene- es of Bosco. Within laughter with their anec- featuring Denzil and Bosco dict’s whose presen- moments they cap- dotes, plunged deep into became a historic event as tation of “Bathiyena tured the hearts of six decades of musical ex- it unfolded at the Lionel Pempala” (music by the discerning audi- perience and expertise, to Wendt, before a packed Bonny Fonseka to ence by their virtuo- take the audience through audience. Those who came the lyrics of Rev. Fr. so on the keyboards, an incredibly awesome knew well that the presen- Don Peter) won the vocal excellence and musical journey. They tation was by an inimitable second place in the neat presentation. sang “Are you Sure”, “So duo, who stood shoulder competition for the Then returned Sad”, “Wooden Heart”, “Al- to shoulder at the sum- selection of the new to the stage- the re- ways”, “Michelle”, “That’s mit of a journey spanning National Anthem freshed duo Denzil what you do to me” and sixty incomparable years in the post colonial and Bosco who re- “Memories are made of of singing. Perhaps none in era. The music got newed nostalgia of These”. this land, and maybe just a perpetuated when the past with their They were ac- handful world over could it was recorded for rich rendition of companied by Eshantha lay claim to such a tall and gramophone disc “Pretty Blue Eyes”. Peiris, Revel Creg and the - and became a trea- “Besame Mucho”, group with sensitivity and cert has come and gone, but sured possession of lege. This programme also ful Sunday, the audience “Las Mananitas”, elegance. thejustifiable memories boast. linger The on. con Fr. Don Peter. surprisingly, attracted fe- was pleasantly surprised “Like Strangers”, “Blue When they aptly In 1951, Denzil male vocalists from Good - Diamond Medley” and “ ended their concert with and Bosco joined St. Bene- The Beginning Shepherd Convent. Ther- ous and youthful voices Sounds of Silence”. “Maybe Tomorrow”, the dict’s College, a cherished Denzil Perera and after they came under toof the hear senior tender, duo melliflumerging After a break, the audience was not con- cradle for many musicians Bosco Fonseka (darling the wings of renowned and emerging in exquisite members of the Choro vinced by the promise; of repute, literally walking son of mastro Bonny Fon- showman Malcolm Andre harmony. “Take a mes- Benedicte ensemble who they wanted more. So the hand in hand. Figuratively seka), teaming up togeth- and began earning fame sage to Mary” they began, in the recent past, have D & B duo graciously re- they came cheek to cheek er as mentioned earlier in public concerts right and sleekly presented all transformed themselves sponded with a parting straight away to begin as an inseperable musical across the nation. of the “Nashville Blues” from an elegant Philhar- song. their journey together duo from that tender age, All through their and “Listen to the Ocean:" monic Choir of the yester As the lights fad- along the less travelled progressed through their long musical journey, they How can one reconcile to years, to a rock/pop group ed and the stage became path of vocal music of the teens as artistes in great enriched their vocal and the idea that here were with the nondescript at- bare, the enthusiatic ap- harmonious type. demand in an era where harmonic skills by train- two “Young” men in their tire to give a touch of the plause lingered for a while. They were am- melodious, heart warm- ing under Maestro Lylie early seventies, singing contemporary age, pre- ply blessed as they came ing music was the norm. Godridge in his Acapella and sounding as though in sented their segment. the audience went home, under the tutelage of an- The harmony of ‘Everly choir and thereafter as their sweet "seventeens"? They excelled in the Aca- exclaimingWith a sense “memories of fulfillment are other great Old Benedic- Brothers” in the early members of “Choro Bene- pella singing which they made of these.” tine musician and choral 60’s stirred their imagina- dicte” and “Saints” - as Added Musical did with much enthusi- “History” they director Bonny Fonseka tion and obviously they they do now. asm. say, is a litany of the events became hot favourites Flavour who was also a teacher in The two men past. Indeed that evening, at the informal concerts The Concert the prestigious Commerce gave way to three sisters. The Final Segment Denzil and Bosco made it titled “Our Own Show” Thus, when the section of the College. As Musically and otherwise The “D & B” duo happen. organised by Rev. Bro. Ed- scene opened at the Lio- boy soprano and alto, the charming Shyami, Marcia by now was immensly Francis D' Almeida ward at St. Benedict’s Col- nel Wendt on that beauti- O! Mary we crown thee with blossoms today... A Rosary rally was held in the Dio- The Kingdom of Heaven cese of Chilaw recently, with the participa- tion of a very large gathering of children "At that time the disciples came to Jesus and asked, “Who, then, is the from three churches belonging to the Par- greatest in the kingdom of heaven? ish of Thoduwawa, with the motive of in- "He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. And he culcating in them a devotion to Our Lady said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, and the Rosary. you will never enter the kingdom of heaven. Therefore, whoever takes All the children who participated the lowly position of this child is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven. in the rally were Daham pasal students from Churches of Thoduwawa, Kudaama- And whoever welcomes one such child in my name welcomes me". duwella and Barudalpola. Causing to Stumble Each child was given a rosary and the recitation was led by a group of “If anyone causes one of these little ones who believe in me to stum- priests consisting of Rev. Fr. Wimalsiri ble, it would be better for them to have a large millstone hung around Jayasuriya, Judicial Vicar (Chilaw Dio- their neck and to be drowned in the depths of the sea. "Woe to the world cese), Rev. Fr. Ivan Peter Fernando, Par- because of the things that cause people to stumble! Such things must ish Priest of Kirimatiyana, Rev. Fr. Eugene The rally was initiated by a team of parishio- come, but woe to the person through whom they come!" de Silva, Parish Priest of Thoduwawa ners led by Tony Nishantha Fernando and members of and Assistant Parish Rev. Fr. Dushantha the Choir. Matthew 18:1-7 Perera. Kumara Nayanajith

Pix : Lakmal Dias 1412 The Messenger 17th June 2012 A little bit of adjustment Calling Student Correspondents choose to look at it. Never To all Rev. Father Rectors, Rev. Sister Superiors and underestimate the power Principals: of positive thinking. All institutions which have English Acad- emies are hereby invited to appoint a student corre- 7. Give up the luxury of spondent to link with the Catholic Messenger. This criticism. could also be from your media unit. Give up your need to The correspondent may report to us on any criticize things. events or event or matter of importance that needs publicity people that are different and may act as a link to forward articles of any stu- than you. We are all differ- dent who wishes to write to us. ent. yet we are all the same. We all want to be happy, Please consider this as an opportunity to we all want to love and be add prestige to your Alma Mater. Editor loved and we all want to be understood. We all want something and something is wished by us all. GOOD BYE TO 1. Give up your need to always ity for your life. be right. 8. Give up your need to impress PARADISE There are so many of us 4. Give up your self-defeating others. who can't stand the idea of be- self-talk Stop trying so hard to be Oh my! How many people An AELT programme was started on ing wrong - wanting to always be something that you're not just to are hurting themselves because 27th of January for students who had sat for right - even at the risk of ending make others like you. It doesn't of their negative, polluted and re- the G.C.E. O/L Examination in 2012. During the great relationships or causing a work this way. The moment you petitive self-defeating mind-set? programme we had various competitions like great deal of stress and pain, for us stop trying so hard to be some- and for others. It's just not worth Don't believe everything that your drama, singing and spelling. Of the three Houses thing that you're not, the moment it. Whenever you feel the 'urgent' mind is telling you - especially if it - Active, Brave and Creative, Active House got you take of all your masks, the mo- is negative and self-defeating. You fi rst place. Brave House got second place and ment you accept and embrace the is right and who is wrong, ask are better than that. Creative House came third. We had a good time. "The mind is a superb instrument yourselfneed to jump this into question: a fight " over Would who I In the last week of the AELT programme if used rightly. Used wrongly, how- be drawn to you, effortlessly. rather be right, or would I rather we had our fi nal exam, a concert and a DJ party. ever, it becomes very destructive." real you, you will find people will be kind?" Wayne Dyer. It was a very enjoyable time. During our pro- Eckhart Tolle 9. Give up your resistance to gramme we met many friends from various 2. Give up your need for change. schools. We had our farewell on 1st of April. It control. 5. Give up your limiting beliefs Change is good. Change was a very sad day because we had to say good- Be willing to give up your What you can or cannot will help you move from A to B. bye to our loving friends. need to always control everything do, about what is possible or im- Change will help you make im- that happens to you and around possible. From now on, you are no provements in your life and also Finally I would like to thank our heaven- longer going to allow your limited ly Father who guided, protected and blessed us. I you - situations, events, people, the lives of those around you. Fol- beliefs to keep you stuck in the etc. Whether they are loved ones, low your bliss, embrace change - also thank our Director Rev. Fr. Cyril Perera and wrong place. Spread your wings coworkers, or just strangers you don't resist it. the Rev. Sister. Last but not least I would like to meet on the street - just allow "Follow your bliss and the universe thank our teachers who made us so knowledge- them to be. Allow everything and "A belief is not an idea held by the able. I thank specially Madam Douglas, Miss mind,and fly! it is an idea that holds the will open doors for you where there everyone to be just as they are and Sanduni Gunathilaka, Mrs. Kumudini Fernando, mind." Elly Roselle were only walls" Joseph Campbell you will see how much better that Mr. Michael Angelo, Mr. Mervin Perera, and will make you feel. 10. Give up labels. Rev. Fr. Hemantha Fernando. I would also like to "By letting go, it all gets done. The 6. Give up complaining. Stop labellng those things, thank Mr. Buddhika and Mr. Imaalan who taught world is won by those who let it Give up your constant people or events that you don't us Information Technology. I thank all the people go. But when you try and try. The need to complain about those understand as being weird or dif- who helped us in various ways. world is beyond winning." Lao Tzu many, many, things - people, situ- ations, events that make you un- ferent and try opening your mind, May God bless them all. little by little. Minds only work 3. Give up on blame. happy, sad and depressed. No- when open. Hansani Perera Give up on your need to body can make you unhappy, no "The highest form of ignorance Active 1 blame others for what you have situation can make you sad or is when you reject something you John Paul 2nd Centre, or don't have, for what you feel or miserable unless you allow it to. don't know anything about." Ma-eliya, Ja-ela. don't feel. Stop giving your powers It's not the situation that triggers Wayne Dyer. away and start taking responsibil- those feelings in you, but how you

(Next week) 1513 The Messenger 17th June 2012

What it says ..... in the Readings Eleventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Reading. Ezek. 17: 22-24 to the Israelites long I call you friends, says the Lord, because I To the people who were before the coming of living in exile, God promises a king the Messiah. It is the have made known to you everything I have who would rule them with justice Messianic kingdom and power. This kingdom would be that the Lord prom- learnt from my Father. established in Israel. This kingdom ised through the (Jn. 15:15) will give shelter to all peoples. prophet Ezekiel. This

Second Reading. 2 Cor. 5: 6-10 with the coming of LITURGICAL CALENDAR YEAR B St. Paul writes to the thepromise Messiah. was fulfilled 17th June - 24th June 2012 Corinthian community to remind In the them that like him they should live Gospel Jesus speaks in the world, a life that prepares of the kingdom of Aid story SUN: 11TH SUNDAY OF ORDINARY them to be inhabitants in the king- When King Darius of TIME dom of God. the parable of the seed. Here the Persia planned the conquest of Ez. 17: 22-24, 2 Cor. 5: 6-10, growthGod through of the parables. kingdom The is slow, first is Greece, he gave orders that during Mk. 4: 26-34 Gospel. Mk. 4: 26 -34 steady, smooth and silent. The the 4 years he was going to take to Two parables of the King- farmer merely plants. The growth prepare for the campaign, a slave Mon: 1 Kgs. 21: 1-16, Mt. 5: 38-42 dom of God are presented. One occurs in accordance with nature. should wake him up every morn- Tue: Memorial of St. Romuald, Abbot the parable of the seed is to show The farmer comes only to harvest. ing with these words, “Lord, do not 1 Kgs. 21: 17-29, Mt. 5: 43-48 us the mysterious growth of the It is so also with the kingdom of forget the war against Athens,” War Wed: 2 Kgs. 2: 6-14, Mk. 6: 1-6,16-18 Kingdom of God. And the parable of God. against Greece was but an impe- the mustard seed is to show us the The second parable is the Thu: Memorial of St. Aloysius rial whim for Darius. However he universality of the Kingdom of God. parable of the mustard seed. The did not want to lose sight of it for Gonzaga, Religious mustard seed is the smallest of all a moment. On the other hand, how seeds but it grows to be the great- Sir 48:1-15, Mt. 6: 7-15 Re�lection does modern man scorn that divine Today’s readings speak of est of all shrubs. Even the birds of Fri: Memorials of St. Paulinus of Nola, command: “Save thy Soul.” the establishment of the Kingdom the air build their nests in it. Here Bishop, SS. John Fisher, Bishop & of God. It was a promise made at the Kingdom of God grows to be the biggest of all. Aid Story 2 Thomas More, Martyrs the beginning and was established It also becomes a univer- A wealthy man, noted dur- 2 Kgs. 11: 1-4,9-18,20, Mt. 6: 19-23 this by living lives worthy of the Sat: 2 Chr. 24:17-25; Mt. 6: 24-34 shelter and refuge. It is open to all and meanness, died and arrived Kingdomwith Jesus. of But God. we This have is tothe fulfill mes- Jewssal kingdom and Gentiles so that alike all .could find Sun: THE NATIVITY OF ST. JOHN outsideing his life the time Pearly for Gates. his selfishness He was sage set for us in today’s readings. The Kingdom of God is not THE BAPTIST In the First Reading the for the priests alone but also for entering he was required to explain Is. 49:1-6, Act. 13: 22-26, Israelites were living in Babylon. the people. Anyone could come to whydisconcerted he should to deserve find that admission. before Lk. 1: 57-66-80 There was no hope of freedom from exile. But suddenly prophet take refuge therein. Therefore we So he told St. Peter that once on Ezekiel comes out with the Lord’s allit, makeshould use strive of it, for find the shelter Kingdom and of a cold winter’s day, he had given message of freedom and re-estab- God. two pence to an old lady who was Prayers of the Faithful lishment of their kingdom. But it is The Second Reading starving, and on another occasion now a new kingdom that the Lord reminds us though we are of the he had given a penny to a little boy Response: Lord, increase our faith, to face chal- promises them. It is a strong and world, we should live a perfect life. whose parents had been killed in lenges of life. a powerful kingdom. This is said We all should live a life worthy a revolution. St. Peter transmitted in a symbolic form. The symbol of the Kingdom of God. Then and this information to Gabriel and Heavenly Father, we thank you for our Holy is a Cedar tree growing on a lofty only then would we be allowed to inquired, “What shall I do with this Father Pope Benedict, Our Bishops, all the clergy and mountain. It will be a universal secure a place in the kingdom of applicant?” And Gabriel said, “Give religious of our country, and those discerning their kingdom where all people could God in the life after. Therefore let him his three pence back with vocation. May they remain faithful to the Gospel of everyone strive to live a life worthy interest and tell him to go to hell.” your Son Jesus Christ, in word and in deed. establishment of the new kingdom of the kingdom of God and thereby Rev. Fr. Ciswan De Croos We pray to the Lord. alland would would know find refuge.the power With of the the reserve our place in the Kingdom of Response: Lord, increase our faith, to face Lord. This was the promise made God. challenges of life.

Lord, we thank you for the graces and blessings you also makes the The Grace of Baptism neophyte have showered upon all of us, May we care and have compassion and love to all around us, and come to " a new 1262 know and love you through the abundance of your creature," an by the perceptible elements of the sacramental rite. gifts. We pray to the Lord. adopted son Immersion The different in water effectssymbolizes of Baptism not only are death signified and Response: Lord, increase our faith, to face of God, who challenges of life. has become a "partaker of the newpurification, birth in butthe Holyalso regenerationSpirit. and renewal. Thus Lord, we thank you for our children and young peo- divine nature, ple. Remain close to them in their growing years, the two principal effects are purification from sins and member of may the mustard seed of faith grow within them, For the forgiveness of sins... Christ and co- and may we show them good example by the lives heir with him, we lead. We pray to the Lord. 1263 By Baptism all sins are forgiven, original sin and and a temple of Response: Lord, increase our faith, to face all personal sins, as well as all punishment for sin. In the Holy Spirit. challenges of life. those who have been reborn nothing remains that would impede their entry into the Kingdom of God, 1266 The Most neither Adam's sin, nor personal sin, nor the conse- St. Aloysius Gonzaga Holy Trinity quences of sin, the gravest of which is separation from gives the bap- Born in the castle of Castiglione, 9 God. tized sanctify- March, 1568; died 21 June, 1591. ing grace, the He had in fact distinguished himself, 1264 Yet certain temporal consequences of sin grace of justi�ication: when in Spain, by a public examina- remain in the baptized, such as suffering, illness, death, tion not only in philosophy, but also in - enabling them to believe in God, to hope in him and and such frailties inherent in life as weaknesses of theology, at the University of Alcalá. to love him through the theological virtues: He made his vows 25 November, character, and so on, as well as an inclination to sin - giving them the power to live and act under the 1587. Immediately after, he began his that Tradition calls concupiscence, or metaphorically, theological studies. Among his professors were Fathers "the tinder for sin" (fome speccatit); since concupis- prompting of the Holy Spirit through the gift of the Vasquez and Azor. In 1591 when in his fourth year of the- cence "is left for us to wrestle with, it cannot harm Holy Spirit. ology a famine and pestilence broke out in Italy. Though those who do not consent but manfully resist it by - allowing them to grow in goodness through the in delicate health, he devoted himself to the care of the the grace of Jesus Christ." Indeed, "an athlete is not moral virtues. sick, but on March 3 he fell ill and died 21 June, 1591. crowned unless he competes according to the rules." He was beatifi ed by Gregory XV in 1621 and canonized Thus the whole organism of the Christian's by Benedict XIII in 1726. His remains are in the church "A new creature" supernatural life has its roots in Baptism. of St. Ignazio in Rome in a magnifi cent urn of lapis lazuli wreathed with festoons of silver. The altar has for its cen- 1265 Baptism not only p (Catechism of the Catholic Church) terpiece a large marble relief of the Saint by Le Gros. urifies from all sins, but