the Messenger

15 Pages·2016·3.77 MB·English

National independence Day
Our lady The CaTholiC weekly of sri lanka
of lanka
“RegisteRed in the depaR tment of posts of sRi Lanka” undeR no. Qd /11 / news / 2016
February 4
sunday, January 31, 2016 Vol 147 no 05 20 p ages Rs: 25.00 Registered as a newspaper
V E R B U M T V
a dream come true
people who would make and mobile phones have
this dream a reality,” said been able to make the
His Eminence Malcolm world seem a small village
Cardinal Ranjith presid- with the development of
“It was a dream of the ing at the Thanksgiving modern technology and
Sri Lanka Bishops’ Con- Holy Mass to commemo- the Church in conformity
ference over a period of rate the first anniversary with the mission Jesus
time to have our own of 'Verbum' TV. Christ entrusted has tak-
Catholic TV channel and “The modern en necessary steps to use
it is to the good fortune of communication media the available contempo-
our Catholic faithful that including newspapers, rary communication me-
we were able to meet the radio, television, internet dia to go forth and spread
the Good News,” His Emi-
nence observed.
Presiding at Holy
Mass celebrated at Supu-
vath Sevana, Seeduwa last
Saturday, His Eminence
expressed that by utilizing
contemporary communi-
cation media in the proper He said that was used in the work of the then Church seniors
manner it is possible to from the beginning of evangelization. Papyrus toC roecnotrdd otnhe coPngt.e2nts of
provide a great service to the Church, the available paper, copper plates, en- the Holy Bible.
“armed revolution casoncietny anod itts b elttierbmenet. rcaomtmeuni cmationa nme”dia garanvinngsu awle rFe euasesdt bay t T ewatte Shrine
The annual feast of Our Lady of
rchbishop of Co-
Lanka, Tewatte will be held on
lombo, His Eminence
February 7. Festive High Mass
Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith
will be presided by Very Rev. Fr.
pAresiding at the feast of
Patrick Perera, Episcopal Vicar
St. Sebastian’s Church at
at 7.30 a.m.
Enderamulla observed
Vespers the previous
that St. Sebastian was a
day February 6, will be presid-
gallant martyr who was
ed by His Lordship, Rt. Rev. Dr.
one of the best soldiers
Emmanuel Fernando, Auxiliary
in the Imperial Roman
BHishoopl oyf Ctolohmubor ast d7.0a0y p. mfo. ot-washing
Army.
“But he spoke
rules to include woman
out freely against the
injustices of the Roman
Empire for which he was
severely persecuted and
VATICAN CITY - Pope Francis has changed the rules
forced to sacrifice his
Pic & Text by T. Sunil Fernando and Roshan Pradeep for the Church’s traditional foot-washing ceremony
life,” His Eminence said.
Delivering the liberate man.” on Holy Thursday, issuing a decree allowing women to
homily at the 125th feast His Eminence participate in what has until now been a ritual officially
of the Church, His Emi- said that it was to free of the Catholic faithful is of priests and religious open only to men.
nence noted, “One main the oppressed that Christ to forget self and focus including the Episcopal In a letter addressed to Cardinal Robert Sarah,
truth that St. Sebastian came into this world. “To his/her attention on his/ Vicar of the Jaela Region, Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the
discovered at that time free them from injustice, her neighbour’s welfare Very Rev. Fr. Shanthiku- Discipline of the Sacraments, the Pope said that from
was that a revolution selfishness and to liberate and act accordingly,” he mar Weliwita also partic- now on the 12 persons chosen to participate in the
fought with arms and all men from evil. Thus said. ipated at the festive Holy ritual of the washing of the feet will be selected “from
aFmimNunaitiNon Ccoiualdl n e vaerS StihSe TsuaprNemCeE r eTvoOlut iDon ES ERVAiN laGrge M nuEmDbeir CaMalss S. TUDENTS among all members of the People of God.”
“For some time I have been reflecting on the
rite of the washing of the feet, which forms part of the
Liturgy of the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, with the inten-
Dr. Maxie Fernandopulle,
tion of improving the ways in which it is put into prac-
As done in the past several years the Catholic or write to the undersigned to get further information.
tice, so that we fully express the meaning of the gesture
Doctors' Guild is planning to grant financial assistance
made by Jesus in the Upper Room, His gift of self until
to deserving first year Catholic students from lesser Coordinator
Contd on Pg.13
privileged families who have entered the different med- Telephone: [phone] the end for the salvation of the world, His boundless
ical faculties this year. Those interested please contact Address - 33. Police Park Avenue, Colombo.5.
Website: E-Mail: ccpmessenger @yahoo.com
colomboarchdiocesancatholicpress.com
[email protected]
2 The Messenger January 31, 2016
"Follow the life led by Saints"
Archbishop of Colombo, His Emi- said His Eminence.
nence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith “Hence it is very impor-
presiding at Vespers at the 148th tant to become good Catholics
annual feast of St. Sebastian’s by following the lives led by the
Shrine, Kandana said that to be- saints,” the Archbishop said
come a good Catholic and make The Episcopal Vicar of
the life in Christ beautiful, it is Ja-ela Region Very Rev. Fr. Shan-
important to follow the lives of thikumar Weliwita, Secretary,
saints and their heroic deeds and Administration (Archdiocese),
bold qualities as examples. Rev. Fr. Jude Samantha, several
“But today there is an priests, religious the faithful
accusation against the Catholic took part in the Vespers Service.
Church that the faithful are wor- His Lordship Rt. Rev. Dr.
shipping saints following tradi- Emmanuel Fernando presided
tion. But Catholics do not worship at the Festive High Mass the next
saints. The duty of the Catholic day (January 20), which was fol-
faithful is to follow Christ by our lowed by a procession bearing
love for our neighbour and to live the statue of StA. nSteobna sJtaiayna.s uriya
in Christ with an open heart and
firm belief just like the saints,”
“Mission Bells" "When you face problems Christian Unity Service at
and difficulties, work St. Mary's Church, Bambalpitiya
with patience in God"
Rev. Asiri Perera, President of the Methodist
Conference of Sri Lanka delivered the homily at the
Christian Unity Service held last Sunday at St. Mary’s
Church, Bambalapitiya. It was organised jointly by the
Catholic National Commission for Ecumenism and In-
terreligious Dialogue under the guidance of its Chair-
man, Rt. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel Fernando, Auxiliary Bishop
of Colombo in association with the National Christian
Council of Sri Lanka.
Speaking on the theme Called to proclaim the
Mighty Acts of the Lord -1Peter2:9, Rev. Asiri Perera
said that this event is not simply a Service only but it is
a place to express our unity in Christ. He said that sal-
Providence House Church, Bandaragama vation is a mighty mct of God given to us through Jesus
celebrated the Feast of St. Joseph Vaz on January 16, Christ and it is a responsibility given to us to proclaim
The first copy of the Panadura Parish bulletin, ‘Mission
with Rev. Fr. Rohan De Alwis, Director of Sethsarana the salvation. The pattern of proclaiming may be differ-
Bells’, was presented to Rev. Fr. Chanaka Welikadarachchi,
presiding as Chief Celebrant at Holy Mass. ent in the various Churches but as Christians we con-
Assistant Parish Priest, by the Editor of the bulletin, Mr.
Also concelebrating was Rev. Fr. Augustine tinue to stand together as God’s people to proclaim the
Lalith Fernando recently.
Rohan, Parish Priest Horana Parishionerss from Mighty Acts of the Lord.
The presentation took place after the Holy
Horana, Panadura and Piliyandala also pAanrgtiecliop Gatoemd einz In his reflections on Christian Unity, Rev. Asiri
Mass. The bulletin is published under the guidance of
the Mass. Perera said that we have laid too much emphasis on our
the1 Pa7ri1shs Ptr ieFset, aResv.t F ro. Sfh e Sltotn. DSiaes.b astian's thai Pongal at Yatiyantota differences instead of highlighting the things that bind
us together. It is in coming together like this and in our
Church, Diyalagoda
fellowships that we come to know how close we are in
Jesus Christ. We must learn to acknowledge and accept
each other and pray together for peace and reconcilia-
tion in our nation. At the same time,” in our own house,
in God’s house", we must lay aside our different labels
in the knowledge that Jesus Christ calls for unity and
reconciliation.
In his welcome address, Rev. Fr. Felician Perera,
Parish Priest of St. Mary’s Church, Bambalapitiya said
that he and his Parishioners were happy and proud to
host the Unity Service which has now become an annual
event and that he hoped that the ecumenical movement
will go from strength to strength in the years to come.
Rev. Ebenezer Joseph, General Secretary of the
National Christian Council in his Vote of Thanks men-
tioned the close understanding the NCC had developed
The 171 Feast of St. Sebastian's Church of Diyalagoda, At the National Integration and Reconciliation with the Catholic Church in co-organizing the Unity Ser-
was held recently. Thai Pongal Festival held at YatiyantotaP, Rice Jv.. AFnr. tDoanmyian vice event every year, especially the eAxcinelslleinet J osuseppphort
The Chief Celebrant at Festive Mass was Rev. Fr.
Fernando, Yatiyantota Parish Priest is seen addressing and cooperation given this year by the Bambalapitiya
Noel Dias, Marriage Tribunal Judicial Vicar, Archdiocese
Cthoen ctdro. wfrdo.m Pg. 1 Parish.
of Colombo.
Picture shows Rev. Fr. NoeDl b. Aeinnsge clmon Fdeurcnteadn dboy a dream... all those who are involved in the media have a vital re-
Rev. Fathers and well wishers for the Festive Mass.
sponsibility to use the media for the good and well-being
Hoisting of the flagstaff at
of society. The media must always build peace, goodwill
Ottaravadiya These engravings are even today preserved in muse- and co-existence and raise the spirituality of the people.
It should never be used to create division, animosity or to
ums in various countries around the world. Great ar-
encourage a society that lacks human values.
tistes like Leonardo Da Vinci and Michelangelo used
“Having suffered for 30 years experiencing
their painting to great effect as a way of expressing their
a dangerous war which is behind us now, it is time to
opinion. The printing press was first introduced to the
reconcile all races by utilizing the media to heal broken
world by Johannes Gutenberg who was a good Catholic.
hearts. The mass media can be used as a bridge in build-
The first thing he printed was the Holy Bible. ing togetherness and co-existence. If we love our coun-
His Eminence went on to state that it was in try this is the only thing that needs to be done today.
the year 1861 that a newspaper was first published and Those who promote division in society, restlessness,
issued in the Vatican. The inventor of the Radio Gug- animosity are traitors,” said His Eminence.
lielmo Marconi cGonmanmaernthcae dP rtahdee Vepaatiycaan Radio Broad- At the end of his homily, His Eminence thanked the
casting Station in the year 1931. In our country too, we Chairman of Verbum TV, Mr. Milan Perera on behalf of
the Catholic Community for his generosity to ensure the
had a paper, the which was first
continuance of Verbum TV.
issued in the year 1866 and which celebrated its 150th
Picture shows the hoisting of the flagstaff at St. Sebas- The anniversary celebrations were also graced by the
anniversary recently.
tian's Church, Ottaravadiya in MadempellaH i.nA . pCraelpdaerraa- Stating that this media can be used for the good p(Preixs e&n Tcee xotf b tyh eT . ASpuonsilt oFleicr nNaunndcoio a, nHdis R Eoxscheallne nPcrya,d Aerecph)-
tion for the feast on January 30. bishop Pierre Nguyên Van Tot.
of society or with evil intent, His Eminence noted that
3 The Messenger January 31, 2016
68 Years of independence
SINCE FEBRUARY 1869
Editorial By Francis Madiwela
email:[email protected]
Website:colomboarchdiocesancatholicpress.com W
Telephone: [phone]
January 31, 2016 e are celebrating the 68th
year of Independence on
February 4. During this
Creation spirituality
short period of time Sri Lanka had
three attempted coups d’état, two
assassinations of Heads of State with
“In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth. The
executive powers, three Constitutions
earth was without form and void, and darkness was over the
and almost thirty years of bloodshed
face of the deep. And the spirit of the God was hovering over the in the form of a “war of liberation.”
face of the waters. And God said “Let there be light,” and there Historians say that Sri Lanka never
was light,” Genesis 1:1-3. directly shed even a drop of blood to
gain its Independence from the Brit-
ish. This is in comparison with other
As we move into February the month of Independence
countries of the British Empire such
and the Feast of Our Lady of Lanka, we need to reflect deeply as India, Kenya and Zimbabwe. What
on creation theology or spirituality and the need for all of us we missed before the Independence
to get more deeply involved in the Extraordinary Jubilee Year we had to undergo after the Indepen-
of Mercy and Pope Francis’ historical encyclical on ecology dence, with a vengeance.
focusing on the attempts by a wicked and selfish world to From 1948 to 1956 we fol-
destroy God’s creation. lowed the dictates of our former co-
In the Bible creation chapters 1,2 and 3 we read how lonial masters. The British Navy and The last capitalistic and Western-style
God created all things - the Sun and the spectacular sunset, the the Air Force had their bases on our soil, ap- free market experiment was made by the United
moon, the stars and all the galaxies in the universe, the oceans parently to defend our independent status. The National Party (UNP) government of 1977, un-
and the rivers, the trees, the flowers and all creatures big and political system and the culture of the rulers der the leadership of President J. R. Jayawarde-
small, from the elephant to the ant. Finally God created man remained very much that of the colonial times. na. Restrictions on imports of goods were lifted.
and woman in His own image and likeness. We were given the The British Queen remained our Head of State. The Constitution was changed and full executive
English remained our State language. The peo- powers were vested on the elected President.
mission to be just stewards of all creation which represent the
ple were governed under the Soulbury Constitu- The electoral system was changed to Propor-
beauty, the glory and the majesty of God.
tion with two Houses - parliament and senate. tional Representation. The Mahaweli Scheme
It is clear from the divine messages in the creation
The purpose of the two chambers was mainly to was started and completed to divert and utilise
stories or parables that we cannot love and worship God
safeguard the minority rights. water for agricultural purposes and to make Sri
without loving His creation that means all people, all creatures
All these changed in the 1956 elections. Lanka self-sufficient in rice.
and everything in creation. As we sing in that beautiful song
The backers of the new regime, the Buddhist The economic development of Indepen-
God’s handwork is revealed in the sunset, the flowers and the monks, the labour classes, the farmers, the Swa- dent Sri Lanka was stalled by two rebellions and a
trees. basha teachers and the Ayurvedic physicians 26-year-long ethnic war. The armed struggle led
Billions of years later we see an ecological catastrophe reclaimed their rights lost under the foreign by Rohana Wijeweera with his Janatha Vimuk-
as revealed in the Pope’s encyclical. Linked to this is the worst rule. The old regime ended up with only eight thi Peramuna (JVP) comrades against the elect-
ever monstrosity created by a greedy insensitive and perhaps seats in parliament. The British Navy and the Air ed government of Sri Lanka, killed or maimed
senseless world. Force were gradually withdrawn from the Cey- thousands of educated youth who would have
Last week, one of the world’s most respected social lonese territories. Sinhala, the lingua franca of contributed enormously to the development of
justice movements Oxfam made the shocking revelation that the majority of the people, was made the State this country. The reign of terror launched by the
68 of the world’s richest super billionaires own more wealth language. The leader of this revolution, S.W.R.D. same group in the eighties eliminated many ed-
than half the world’s population, that means about 3500 Bandaranaike, was assassinated in 1959 by one ucated and experienced politicians, artistes and
million people. This is clearly not God’s will, perhaps it is the of his supporters who was in the robe of a Bud- entrepreneurs as well as some more educated
devil’s will. That is why Pope Francis is challenging the Church dhist monk. youth with future dreams. Many professionals
and the world to take urgent and effective action to alleviate Our electorate voted for two major par- left the country in fear of unpredictable killings
and eventually eradicate world poverty - a crisis that is directly ties with policies which were diametrically op- and the overall chaotic situation in the country.
linked to the pollution of the air, the sea and the rivers and posed to each other at the elections. This led This JVP rebellion and the ethnic conflict led to
mother earth. more to the undoing by the incoming regime of the brain drain of experienced intellectuals and
The 74-year-old wheelchair physicist Stephen many benevolent policies of the outgoing gov- professionals from this country.
Hawking, widely regarded as the new Einstein recently said ernment which were advantageous to the peo- The ethnic conflict that started in 1983
ple. These capitalist and socialist experiments was the most disastrous economic, political and
that in the next 100 years, the Earth would face a number of
led to the detriment of the overall development social calamity that brought devastation to the
dangers including nuclear war, global warming and genetically
of the country. development of independent Sri Lanka. History
engineered viruses. In terms of a solution to the twin crises
The Sri Lanka Freedom Partly (SLFP) will show that this was absolutely triggered by
widespread poverty and environmental degradation the
governments took a socialist stance. This was the shortsighted policies of narrow-minded pol-
Bible shows us a solution in Jesus and the Early Church. The
very obvious during the 1970 to 1977 govern- iticians who only looked for immediate political
Creator God became a human being and went still further. He
ment of Prime Minister Sirimavo Bandaranaike. gain to hold on to power. The ordinary people
voluntarily became poor to unite with those who were trapped The tea, rubber and coconut estates were na- of Sri Lanka paid with their blood, limbs and
in enforced poverty. tionalised, the private ownership of land was their psychological sanity because of the intran-
There are two forms of poverty. One is enforced restricted to 50 acres per person. In 1972, the sigence and short term political ambitions of
poverty where millions or billions of people are caught Constitution was changed to a Republican form these politicians elected by us.
in a poverty trap set by a selfish and greedy world which of political system. The Senate, one of the two According to the estimates of the Unit-
worships the deity of money or mammona. The other form chambers of government established by the ed Nations, the human loss of this conflict was
is voluntary poverty which Jesus entered into as did the Soulbury Constitution, was abolished and the 80,000 to 100,000. This included at least 27,639
Contd. on Pg. 13
Apostles‘A alpnedc thhceh aEtahralyw Cayhau’.r ch and we also are called upon to name of the country was changed from Ceylon LTTE fighters and 23,790 Sri Lankan soldiers
do. Voluntary poverty means to live in a simple and humble to Sri Lanka.

way or If we are ready and willing God
will teach us how to learn to mange with our basic needs.
When we save more we will have more to share and restore
Alpechchathawaya
the dignity of God’s people whom a wicked world has thrown
into the poverty trap. The opposite of is the
acquisitive instinct that drives a person to become a rich fool.
Bahubhandawadaya
Politely it is known as consumerism. But there is a powerful
Sinhala word which puts it bluntly - .
That means to give in to our desires and buy more and more
whether we need it or not. The seduction is provided in five-
star shops or supermarkets where the forbidden fruits are so
attractively displayed that most people are tempted to buy
and buy.
So as we move deeper into living the Jubilee Year of
Mercy and the essential principle in Pope Francis’ encyclical
on the ecology, let us pray that God will give us the power to
leave our boats on familiar shores and leave with Him into the
deep so that the world’s values will be turned upside down.
4 The Messenger January 31, 2016
Church in the Modern World
Pray for jihadists' conversion – one of them
could be a future St. Paul, says French priest
French spiritual writer God,” he continued. “We spirituality and Christian which will allow a jour-
Father Jacques Philippe must be called to a per- renewal. He said the heart ney of simplicity, trust,
says there is only one thing sonal conversion to live of Christian spiritual life and freedom,” Fr. Philippe
that can end violence. and preach the life of the is to welcome “the un-
said.
“We must pray for Gospels, which alone have bounded love of Our Fa-
the conversion of the jiha- the power to completely ther manifested through Asked how to re-
dists. There certainly is uproot violence from Christ and to respond to spond to Catholics who
among them some future man’s heart. We must not this love. feel betrayed or confused
Saint Paul,” Fr. Philippe forget that violence does He said Christian
by the clergy, Fr. Philippe
said. not only exist in others life is not merely adhesion
encouraged them to look
He said that Is- but also resides in us, less to doctrine, conformity to
to the saints.
lamic terrorism is a great visible, but still present.” external ideal, or belong-
“The Church is
menace, but he warned Fr. Philippe is the ing to a nice community.
against hysteria or ag- first priest of the Com- “On the contrary, not made of some perfect
gressive reactions or ha- munity of the Beatitudes, the Holy Spirit works in elite, but rather of sin-
tred towards terrorists in an ecclesial family of con- Christians who, through ners journeying towards
response. secrated life that draws the living experience of conversion. It is a place
“The fragility from Carmelite spiritual- God’s love and mercy,
where we can meet both
of our societies is a call ity. His comments came respond to a call for a
man’s wretchedness and
to find our security, our in a recent interview with of Saint Thomas More Col- In his interview, personal encounter with
God’s unbounded mercy.”
hope5 an0d 0our ypeeacea inr sW ialliafmt Feahrey, PRreseidefnot rlegme in aNewt iHoampnsh,ir e. the Cpriaestt ahlsoo sploikec osf sChhristo tuhroludgh bpraeyer people of
peace and forgiveness
Pope knocks on lutherans' door
Catholics who commemorate the death
Pope Francis will partici- move will see the
and resurrection of Jesus in the Holy
pate in the 500th anniver- Head of the world's
Mass should enter into harmony with
sary of the Reformation Catholics worship
Christ by becoming people of peace and
by attending an ecumeni- alongside the heirs to
forgiveness, Pope Francis has said.
cal service in Sweden as a religious tradition
In a recent weekly Angelus ad-
a guest of the Lutheran founded in opposi-
dress to crowds in St. Peter's Square, the
Church, the Vatican said tion to the Church of
Pontiff also exhorted global faithful not
last Monday. Rome and which once
to refrain from going to Holy Mass if they
In a highly sym- regarded the pope as
think they can pray better on their own.
bolic act of reconciliation the anti-Christ.
"The Eucharist is not a private
that would even recently The modern-
prayer or a beautiful spiritual experi-
have been unthinkable for day Lutheran Church
es homosexuality to the ence; it is not a simple commemoration
a Catholic Pontiff, Francis in Sweden continues to
point of having both les- of that which Jesus did in the Last Sup-
will visit the Swedish city uphold principles that with the heart of Christ, assimilating his
bian and gay bishops. per," said the Holy Father.
of Lund on October 31 for are anathema to all but choices, his thoughts, his attitudes," he
In a joint state- "The Eucharist is the same Jesus
continued. "It means entering in a dy-
a commemoration jointly the most radical Catholic
ment, the two churches that gives Himself fully to us," said Fran- namism of love and becoming people of
organised by his own in- theologians: It has had a
said the event would cis. "To nourish ourselves from Him and peace, people of forgiveness and recon-
ter-faith agency and the female archbishop, Antje
"highlight the solid ecu- to live in Him through the Eucharistic ciliation, of social sharing. "
Lutheran World Federa- Jackelen, since 2013; has
menical developments communion, if we do it with faith, trans- Pope Francis was reflecting on
tion (LWF). ordained women pastors
between Catholics and forms our life, transforms it in a gift of the day's Gospel, taken from John, when
The surprise since 1960 and embrac- Lutherans." God to brothers and sisters." Jesus calls Himself the "living bread" and
Church in india seeks takeover
says "whoever eats this bread will live
"To nourish ourselves from that
forever."
'BreMad ouf lisfe'l miemans e nrteerinlgi ing hiaromounys leaders confirm
of some government schools
iS presence in Mindanao
Archbishop Leo Corne-
lio of Bhopal has said the Muslim religious leaders
Madhya Pradesh govern- in the Philippines have
ment was yet to respond confirmed the presence of
to its request regarding the group that calls them-
handing over some of selves the Islamic State
the State-run schools in (IS) in Mindanao.
low-performing districts "These extrem-
to the Catholic Church to ists have extended their
improve their educational tentacles in conflict-af-
fected Muslim Mindanao,
standards.
gaining supporters in
"A year ago, I Congress has up to Feb- called on the Philippine
communities of disillu-
personally asked Madhya ruary 1, to pass the Bang- government "to help us
sioned Moro people," said
Pradesh Chief Minister samoro Basic Law that bring just and lasting
the religious leaders in a
Shivraj Singh Chouhan to will establish a proposed peace by legislating
statement on January 24.
hand over a couple of gov- ing, one of our principals ment schools needs to be new autonomous political genuine autonomy" in
The statement
ernment schools in back- wrote to the government improved urgently. entity known as the Bang- Mindanao.
said the Moro people of
samoro in Mindanao. "We also call on
ward districts to us, so for adoption of govern- "I visit villages Mindanao felt "deceived" by
"The fighters be- all Muslims in the coun-
that we improve the edu- ment schools. But we have
and I am of strong view the failure of the Philippine lieve that the peace pro- try to refrain from join-
cational standards in such not received any response government to pass a law
that education system cess has been betrayed by ing angry groups that es-
institutes," Archbishop from it," he said. that is supposed to create a
Cornelio told reporters, According to the needs to be improved in Muslim region in the south- imperial Manila," the reli- pouse unjust killings or
gious leaders said. terrorism to advance their
reported NITI Central. Archbishop, the educa- government schools in ern part of the country.
The statement cause," the religious lead-
"After my meet- tion system in govern- Madhya Pradesh," he said. The Philippine
obtained by ucanews.com ers said.
5 The Messenger January 31, 2016
Bible Doubts
Health related
issues in Sri lanka
In the case of the Ten Commandments, what is given in Exo. 20:1-17 and in Deut. 5:6-21 BByy DDrr.. MMaaxxiiee FFeerrnnaannddooppuullllee
there are some differences. If the Commandments were given in writing to Moses why are
there differences in what we see in Exodus and Deuteronomy? FEVER iN CHilDREN
i

n the Old Testament, is a detailed description Fever is the commonest reason a child is taken to a
the list of the Ten Com- banning idol worship. This doctor. It frightens the parent. Firstly it is important
mandments is seen at is an explanation of Exo. to differentiate fever from feverishness. Feeling
three places —Exo. 20:1- 20:4-6. From this we must warm is not fever. Place the back of your hand on
17, and 34:14-26a and understand that the dif- the forehead and check whether it is hotter than
Deut. 5:6-21. There are ferences between Exo. 20 normal. The fever baby’s mouth is warmer to the
some slight variations in and 34 happen because of nipple when breast feeding. If still not sure check
the details of these Com- the differing backgrounds with a thermometer. Fever is much maligned and
mandments. To under- between the two. It was misunderstood. Moderate fever is also a friend than
stand the causes of these in Exo. 32 that the people a foe but not a friend to spend with more than a few
differences, we ought to provoked God by indulg- days. Fever increases the child’s white blood cells
know the background of ing in idol worship. and substances like interferon which are soldiers
the descriptions of the It is in Deut. 5:6- to fight an infection which caused the fever. It is not
commandments. 21 we see the command- harmful unless it is very high like over 106F. Height
The description ments similar to the ones of the fever is not an indication of the severity of an
seen in Exo. 20:1-17 is given in Exo. 20:1-17. This infection. A simple common fit caused by fever is
the first one. This is how is the background of this. not a cause for worry. Most febrile fits lasts only a
the Holy Writ testifies After 40 years of wander- few minutes and will not cause harm unless it lasts
it: "When God finished ing, the Israelites reached for a long time or the parent does something silly
speaking with Moses on the Moab Valley. But the like trying to give something by mouth during a fit
Mount Sinai, he gave him Lord had told Moses that and the child gets choked or force a metal object
the two tablets of the cov- because he had not trust- like a spoon between the teeth and break a tooth. A
enant, tablets of stone, ed in him and shown his the LORD your God com- rsheaekde: rYou shall not bear bitten tongue will heal very easily.
written with the finger holiness before the eyes of manded you. false witness (in Hebrew Most of the childhood fevers last a few days
of God" (Exo. 31:18). Af- the Israelites, he shall not ) against your and are often due to a viral infection of the upper
ter talking for a long time bring them into the land 2. Exo. 20:13: You neighbour. But in Deut. respiratory tract. What is needed are rest, some
with God, Moses goes to he had given them (Num. shall not murder. Deut 5:20 it is: Ne'iathdeshr aushwaall' acceptable soft foods and extra liquids. Do not
the valley and then he sees 20:12). The background of 5.17: As the Lord has you bear false witness send to school till the fever has settled. It can cause
the people worshipping a Deut. 5:6-21 is that Moses commanded, you shall not (in Hebrew complications and he will infect the other children.
calf made of gold. He was assembles his people and murder. against, your neighbour. Keep the child in the cool area or under a mild fan
enraged at this heinous explains to them the com- so that the cool air will take away the heat from the
act of his people, and so mandments of God. Mo- 3. Exo. 20:10: you 7. In Exo. 20:17, the skin. The best dressed child is a naked child. Sponge
he threw the tablets away. ses reminds them of the shall not do any work— commandment You shall with tepid water. The heat from the inner organs
The tablets broke hitting Covenant God had made you, your son or your not covet your neigh-
will travel to the skin via the open blood vessels
the bottom of the valley. It with them on Mount Sinai daughter, your male or bour's house is given in
when the skin is warm and cool blowing will cause
is about these tablets it is (Deut. 5:1-5). Moses intro- female slave, your live- the beginning.
evaporation of the water on the skin taking the heat
written, "The tablets were duces the commandments stock, or the alien resi-
8. tihmIond Exo. 20:17, along with it. Keep four pieces of wet cloth under
the work of God, and the with the introduction, "He dent in your towns. Deut.
two times the word 'cov- the arm pits and the groins. Do not use ice caps.
writing was the writing said." 5:14: You shall not do any
et' ( ) is used. Btuit- The drug to use is paracetamol. Do not overdose
of God, engraved upon the He was reading work—you, or your son itna yDeheut. 5:21, the second with it as it will cause liver damage. Do not obtain
tablets" (Exo. 32:16). the commandments look- or your daughter, or your time the word 'desire' (
paracetamol from more than one source even if the
The Command- ing at the tablets. Moses- is male or female slave, or ) is used.
fever does not come down.
ments given in Exo. 34:16- just reminding the people your ox or your donkey, or
Paracetamol comes in different colours and
26 were given by God once again the command- any of your livestock, or 9. Different from
when Moses made the en- ments God had given in the resident alien in your the 10th commandment shapes. Do not get deceived by unqualified persons
treating prayers after the Exo. 20:1-17 and Deut. towns, so that your male in Exo, in Deut the word in the pharmacy counters. The dose is 15milligrams
Israelites had breached 34:14-26. Moses had seen and female slave may rest 'field' (Deut. 5:21) is add- per kilogram body weight per dose not more than
the Covenant of the Lord. how the Israelites were re- as well as you. ed. This is what is given in 4 times a day. A tablet has 500mgms and the syrup
This is the description sponding to the Covenant Exo. 20:17: You shall not 120 mgms per 5 ml. If the child is not having Dengue
about those Command- during the 40 years after 4. In Exo. 20:11, as covet your neighbour's infection Ibuprofen may be used. Avoid using
ments: "The Lord said to the Covenant. Even as he the basis for the observa- house; you shall not covet suppositories of anti fever drugs which are popular
Moses: Write these words; is asking his people how tion of Sabbath we see the your neighbour's wife, amongst less well informed mothers and doctors.
in accordance with these they should respond to model of the Lord who or male or female slave, Many diseases are cured despite drugs and doctors
words I have made a cov- the commandments dur- rested on the 7th day after or ox, or donkey, or any- It is very important to be aware when to
enant with you and with ing their life henceforth, working for 6 days. But thing that belongs to your worry and see a doctor soon even on the 1st or 2nd
Israel. He was there with he is giving them a timely in Deut. 5:15, the obser- neighbour. day of fever. They are –
the Lord for forty days explanation of the previ- vation of Sabbath is the From the compar-
and forty nights; he nei- ously given command- memory of the liberation ative study given above, 1. Vomiting or passing blood via the rectum or
ther ate bread nor drank ments. This is the reason from Egypt. one thing is very obvious. red patches in the skin.
water. And he wrote on behind the variations. There is no fundamental
5. In Exo. 20:12 we
the tablets the words of From the following com- read: Honour your father difference between Exo. 2. Severe headaches when the fever is down,
the covenant, the ten com- parative study, it can be and your mother, so that 20:1 -17 and Deut 5:6-24. drowsy, persistent vomiting.
mandments" (Exo. 34:27- seen that Moses has not your days may be long The commandments in
28). Although there is the brought in any fundamen- in the land that the Lord 5:6-21 were repeated by 3. Localised abdominal pain, diarrhea with
mention of ten command- tal changes in the God-giv- your God is giving you. Moses to the people who blood and mucus.
ments', all the command- en commandments. But in Deut. 5:16, there is were about to enter the
ments mentioned in Exo. an addition after 'so that Promised Land. The com- 4. Persistent cough with difficulty or rapid
20:1 -17 are not seen here. 1. Exo. 20:8: Re- your days may be long': mandments written by breathing with grunting respiration
But some commandments member the Sabbath day and that it may go well the Lord are those in Exo.
which do not appear in and keep it holy. Deut. with you. 20C:o1u-1rt7e.s y: Vachanolsavam 5. Difficulty in passing urine, red or yellow
(December
Exo. 20 are mentioned 5:12: Observe the Sabbath coloured urine or very little urination.
haepreo. sInt o3l4a:1t0e-:1 7 there day and keep it holy, as 6. In Exo. 20:16 we )
6. Child with another longstanding chronic or
The ministry or work of an apostle. In and build up the kingdom of God through practice of congenital disease or on long term drugs.
their faith, professional competence and the perfor-
Catholic usage, the word is an umbrella-like term cov-
mance of good works in the concrete circumstances of
ering all kinds and areas of work and endeavour for the 7. New born with fever.
daily life. Apostolic works are not limited to those done
service of God and the Church and the good of people.
within the Church or by specifically Catholic groups,
Thus, the apostolate of bishops is to carry on the mis- 8. Looks very ill and toxic.
although some apostolates are officially assigned to
sion of the Apostles as pastors of the People of God: of
certain persons or groups and are under the direction
priests, to carry out the sacramental and pastoral min- 9. Not moving a limb.
of church authorities. Apostolate derives from the com-
istry for which they are ordained; of religious, to follow
and do the work of Christ in conformity with the evan- mitment and obligation of baptismC, actohnofilricm watoirodn ,b hooolky
10. Painful swollen joint/s.
gelical counsels and their rule of life; of lay persons, as orders, matrimony, the duties of one's state in life, etc.
individuals and/or in groups, to give witness to Christ
6 The Messenger January 31, 2016
After 400 years the
- Bard of Avon lives on...
a near diplomatic disaster
During this year's commemoration in april 2016 of the fourth
centenary since Shakespeare's death, for the first time one of his plays will
be performed in its entirety on Vatican territory. The play will be Hamlet.

e do not know much about judgement, of hell and heaven. The plots 1964. The Royal Shakespeare Company
Shakespeare. He is probably of his plays are a salutary reminder to owns a copy of the First Folio of Shake-
the most famous "unknown" modern man that God exists, that there speare's plays, and brought it to Rome,
in early modern history. Many claim to is a life after this life, that evil doing is carefully and delicately packaged, for Pope
be certain about his "real" identity, in- punished and good rewarded." Paul VI to bless after the performance.
cluding the nature of his religious belief. It is therefore more than ap- Having bestowed his Apostolic Blessing
Usually, those who shout the loudest are propriate that during this year's com- upon the actors and those accompanying
W
those who wish to claim the Bard for memoration in April 2016 of the fourth them, Paul VI was shown the prized copy
themselves or their tribe. By doing so, centenary since Shakespeare's death, of the First Folio. He would have been told
they are missing the point, which is that for the first time one of hHias mplleatys will that it was printed in 1623, that only 233
Shakespeare is, rightly, considered a uni- be performed in its entirety on Vatican (mostly incomplete) copies remain and
versal genius, his cascade of words appli- territory. The play will be , often that it is one of the most valuable books in
cable to all people, at all times. Choose considered the greatest in the canon and the world. His Holiness, perhaps misun-
a language into which Shakespeare has it will be performed by Shakespeare's derstanding the gesture, leafed through
been translated, or a culture through Globe Theatre at the Palazzodella Can- some of the precious pages and then gra-
which he has been interpretected and celleria as a central element in their am- ciously accepted the kind gift for the Vati-
the genius emerges, burnished and in- bitious Globe tHoa Gmlolebte world tour, during can Apostolic Library!
tact. He was a truly great Briton, who be- which they are performing their latest It is not recorded how the First
longs to the world. productiHona mofl et in every country in Folio was extracted back from the Pope.
This was something well un- the world. Perhaps the then British Minister to the
derstood by Pope Paul VI. In November is appropriate for many Holy See Sir Peter Scarlett, had to exercise
1964, the Pope attended a Shakespear- reasons, not least because Pope John some of his well-honed diplomatic skills.
ean recital at Palazzo Pio performed XXIII is on record as referring to Arch- Be that as it may, it is now safely kept at
by the Royal Shakespeare Company to bishop Montini of Milan as the "Hamlet the Shakespeare Birthday Trust in Shake-
commemorate the 400th anniversary Cardinal." Later, as Pope, shortly after the speare's birthplace of Stratford-upon-
of Shakespeare's birth. In brief remarks November 1964 Royal Shakespeare Com- Avon in Warwickshire, having survived
at the event, the Pope celebrated Shake- pany performance, Paul VI told the me- its encounter with the Bishop of Rome.
speare as "this supreme writer", noting dia, "The press which you represetnhta cta ins It is right that, finally, after so
"how the profound humanity of Shake- bthee a q mueosstito inm."portant instrument of great many years. Shakespeare's greatest play
speare, ever open to adventurous and good, always faithful to the truth, will be performed on Vatican territory, in
poetic exploration, leads to the discovery All the journalists present rooms beside those decorated by William the high moral lessons and admonitions
of the moral laws, which make life great at that December 3, conference immedi- Shakespeare's near contemporary, Gior- contained in his works." We do not know
and sacred, and lead us back to a reli- ately understood which Shakespearean gio Vasari. It is also appropriate that this whether or not Shakespeare ever came
gious understanding of the world. His cHhaamralectter the Pope was quoting. special event will occur during this Jubi- to Rome in his lifetime. However, even
lofty genius and powerful language in- At this year's performance of lee of Mercy. Paul VI said back in 1964: 400 years after his death is not too late
duce men to listen with reverence to the we can rest-assured avoid what "Our enjoyment of the poet's vision of for this universal genius.
great verities he exApounds, ofl dealth a nd twash a near deiplomat ic dwisaster backo in humranityl shdould not m'akse us o ver-look his
David Cameron
Prime Minister of U.K
cies of Shakespeare is his ence on our culture and
capacity to educate. As his ability to educate,
This year's 400th make it the world's lan- we see from the outreach there is just the immense
anniversary of the death guage. The first major work of the Royal Shake- power of Shakespeare to
of William Shakespeare dictionary compiled by speare Company and inspire. From the most
is not just an opportunity Samuel Johnson drew on Shakespeare's Globe and famous love story to the
to commemorate one of Shakespeare more than the impact of pioneer- greatest tragedy; from
the greatest playwrights any other writer. Three ing British charities like the most powerful fan-
of all time. It is a moment thousand new words and the Shakespeare Schools tasy to the wittiest com-
to celebrate the extraor- phrases all first appeared Festival, studying and edy; and from the most
dinary ongoing influence in print in Shakespeare's performing Shakespeare memorable speeches to
of a man who - to borrow plays. I remember from can help improve literacy, his many legendary char-
from his own description my own childhood H ehnorwy confidence and wider ed- acters, in William Shake-
of Julius Caesar - "doth be- mV. any of them are found ucational attainment. Ev- speare we have one man,
stride the narrow world for the first time in Eugene Delacroix, "Hamlet and Horatio in the ery day throughout 2016, whose vast imagination,
like a Colossus." Shake- Words like dishearten, Cemetery" (1839) Britain is inviting you to boundless creativity and
speare's legacy is with- divest, addiction, mo- join us in celebrating the instinct for humanity en-
out parallel: his works tionless, leapfrog - and life and legacy of Wil- compasses the whole of
translated into over 100 phrases like "once more - while the pre-eminence times before their death, liam Shakespeare. On 5 the human experience as
languages and studied by unto the breach", "band of his plays also did much the valiant never taste of January, Twelfth Night, we one has before or since.
half the world's school- of brothers" and "heart of to standardise spelling death but once." launched "Shakespeare So, however you choose
children. As one of his gold" - have all passed into and grammar. But Shake- While his original Lives". - an exciting global to play your part, please
contemporaries, Ben Jon- our language today with speare's influence is felt plays continue to enter- programme of activity join us in 2016 in this
son, said: "Shakespeare is no need to reference their far beyond our language. tain millions - from school and events to highlight his unique opportunity to
not of an age, but for all original context. Shake- His words, his plots and halls across the world enduring influence and celebrate the life and en-
time." He lives today in speare also pioneered in- his characters continue to the overnight queues extend the use of Shake- during legacy of this man;
our language, our culture novative use of grammat- to inspire much of our as hundreds scrambled speare as an educational ensuring that, as he him-
and society - and through ical form and structure culture and wider society. for last minute Htaicmkeletts to resource to advance lit- self put it, "all the world's
his enduring influence - including verse without Nelson Mandela, while a see Benedict Cumber- eracy around the world. a stage" and that through
on education. Shake- rhymes, superlatives and prisoner on Robben Is- batch playing at Beyond the h(Ciso ulretgeascyy:, L'tOruslsye, rvSahtaokree-
speare played a critical the connecting of exist- land, cherished a quote London's Barbican last great gift of language, speare Lives. Romano)
role in shaping modern ing words to make new from Julius Caesar which year. But perhaps one of the bringing to life of our
English and helping to words, like bloodstained said "Cowards die many the most exciting lega- history, his ongoing influ-
7 The Messenger January 31, 2016
st. Paul in ephesus
of Paul and Thecla. Dated to the mid 2nd century AD,
this text relates a story in which the betrothed Thecla
listens from a window to Paul preach on “virginity and
by: Kishani S. Fernando
prayer.” Upon hearing Paul preach, Thecla reportedly
decides to forgo her marriage and remain a lifelong
God-fearing virgin, a decision for which she victori-
n January 24, the Church celebrated the feast of ously endures the heated opposition from family and
the conversion of St. Paul from a fierce persecu- friends. Not dissuaded from either her religion or chas-
tor to a great Apostle of the Gentiles. tity, Thecla is miraculously delivered from several or-
We focus here on two sites in the ancient city deals and is reportedly even commissioned by Paul to
of Ephesus which can still be traced, where St. Paul left teach the word of God.
his imprint during his missionary journeys through the Unfortunately, in order to protect its delicate
gTrheaet Gcernotetrtso o of Af sSita. MPianuorl and southern Europe. contents, the grotto is not always open to the public.
O ephesus and st. Paul
In the foothills on the southern side of ancient
Ephesus, is a site popularly known as the Grotto of St. two incidents are highlighted to show what Paul en-
Paul. There is evidence that the cave has been used countered in Ephesus. The city was known as a centre
from the early Christian era until the late 19th century for magic and miracles and the first story is about a
for worship purposes, but was only “rediscovered” by Jewish exorcists who tried to heal in the name of Je-
modern researchers in 1995. sus as Paul did, but were unsuccessful. Subsequently
The grotto is painted with numerous inscrip- a number of converted magicians burned their books
tions and illustrations including portrayals from the on the magic arts. Again the Great Theatre of Ephesus
Old Testament to the Byzantine Middle Ages and rang- is mentioned where a riot started against Paul in 56
ing in age from the 4th century to the 12th/13th cen- AD. The riot was started by a silversmith by the name
tury. The theme is consistently Christian. The grotto of Demetrius who provoked his fellow-craftsmen to a
enclosure is described as being in the form of an elon- public out cry against Paul, that the new religion threat-
gated cavern measuring approximately 15 meters long, ened the livelihood of the craftsmen who made silver
2 meters wide and 2.3 meters high. The main passage Ephesus was once the most important com- souvenirs of the Temple of Artemis and sold them to
leads back to a slightly expanded rectangular area mea- mercial center of western Anatolia, situated on the the foreign tourists and pilgrims. Paul’s companions
suring about 2.7 meters wide. coast of Ionia, three kilometers southwest of present- Gaius and Aristarchus were dragged into the theatre.
In the late 1990s Dr. Renate Pillinger from the day Selcuk, Turkey. It was colonized principally from Paul tried to enter the theater but his companions did
University of Vienna discovered an early fresco on the Athens. During the Romans period, it was the third not let him.
western wall of the grotto’s passageway that has been largest city of Roman Asia Minor after Sardis, Alexan- Scholars seem to agree that Paul wrote four of
identified to be of that of the Apostle Paul. The paint- dria and Troas. It was famous for the Temple of Diana, his letters from Ephesus: Galatians, First Corinthians
ing, which had been plastered over by subsequent oc- which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient (part of an ongoing correspondence with the Corin-
cupants, is dated by Pillinger to the late 5th to early 6th World and for its Great Theatre where the fights of wild thians), Philemon, and Philippians. The latter two, he
century AD. The illustration also includes two women: beasts and of men with beasts showed. The city’s im- wrote while in prison in Ephesus. Second Corinthians
identified by some as Thecla to the left and her mother portance as a commercial centre declined as its harbor seems to have been written while Paul was on the road
Theocleia to the right. In the center of the image, Paul is was slowly silted up. after he left Ephesus.
shown seated with a book on his lap and his right hand According to the Book of Acts, Paul’s first visit (Post-New Testament tradition holds that
raised with two extended fingers in a manner depicting was merely a stopover on his way to Antioch, Syria. On John, the disciple of Jesus, brought Mary, the mother
a preaching gesture. His discourse is the object of inter- his Second visit to Ephesus he stayed for about three of Jesus, to Ephesus to live and wrote the fourth gospel
est to the young woman Thecla, who is peering out of years and so successful and abundant was his labours there. The traditional site of ”Mary’s house,” is now a
a window. The mural has been interpreted to be a por- that “all they which dwelt in Asia heard the word of the venerated shrine in Ephesus).
trayal of an episode found in the apocryphal book, Acts Lord Jesus, both Jews and Greeks”. In Acts 19 and 20,
St. Thomas aquinas and aquinas University College
St. Thomas Aquinas (1225 – 1274) is one of St. Albert the Great, (1200 – 1280). St. Albert was so im- also been declared
the great teachers of the Medieval Catholic Church, pressed by Aquinas and urged that Thomas should be the special Patron of
honoured with the titles; Doctor of the Church, Angelic sent to Paris to one of the famous universities. all Catholic Universi-
Doctor and Prince of Catholic Theologians. Post ordination and Doctorate in Sacred The- ties and Educational
He was born in Aquino, close to the Benedic- ology, he started to teach with such lucidity, accuracy Institutions.
tine Monastery of Monte Casino, in central Italy where and inspiration that the students were attracted by the In Sri Lanka
he had his early education. Later he was sent for studies thousands – the University of Paris at that time count- The Aquinas Universi-
to Naples where he was exposed to the writing of the ed 30,000 students. Thus he held two professorships ty College was found-
Greek philosopher Aristotle. After his priesthood he was at Paris, lived at the court of Pope Urban IV. He was ed in 1953 by late
sent for further studies to Cologne and worked under the principal exponent of Scholastic Philosophy which Very Rev. Fr. Peter A.
interpreted Aristotle’s system in the light of Christian Pillai OMI, Rector of St. Joseph’s College, at its premises
Teaching. In his relatively short life of 49 years, he is in Darley Road, Colombo 10 as an autonomous higher
known to have composed some 60 works. Far surpass- education institute with the approval and the blessings
ing everything else was his unrivalled Summa Theolog- and the inspiration of His Eminence Thomas Cardinal
ica, a summary of Christian Philosophy and Theology Cooray OMI., the sixth Archbishop of Colombo. Aquinas
- an explanation of the entire body of Catholic teach- was registered with the Ministry of Education of Cey-
ing, which has been standard for centuries, even to lon as it was then called, in 1954 as Aquinas University
our own day. The beautiful Office and Mass for Corpus College. In 1955 it was shifted to the present premises
Christi, with its much loved hymns, Tantum Ergo and O at 990 Maradana Road, Colombo 08.
Salutaris Hostia, were composed by him on the Pope’s Recently a statue of St. Thomas Aquinas was
orders. He nevertheless remained modest, a perfect installed at the entrance to the University. The statue
model of childlike simplicity and goodness, mild in was made by Mr. Ranil Fernando under the guidance of
word and kind in deed. Rev. Fr. Priyantha Silva. On either side of the statue are
T h o m a s Aquinas died while on his way to symbols (church and angel) associated with the titles
the Council of Lyons. He was canonized by Pope John of the Saint as the Doctor of the Church and Angelic
XXII on 18th July, 1323, elevated to the dignity of ‘Doc- Doctor. The symbol of the sun on his chest is a symbol
tor of the Church’ by Pope Pius V on April 11, 1567 and of sacred learnin
in 1918, his name was included in the Code of Canon
Law. Among other citations, St. Thomas Aquinas has
8 The Messenger January 31, 2016
Feast of Our lady of lanka
a
ll Sri Lankans celebrate ity proclaimed Our Lady the God. This statue of Our Lady of
the feast of Our Lady of Queen of Lanka in the following Lanka now standsat the Basili-
Lanka on the 4th of Feb- words; ca at Tewatte. The foundation
ruary every year. The Archdio- 'By the authority of stone to the Basilica was laid in
cese Oblate Fathers through a val- Our Holy Father Pius XII, we 1951 and after nearly 25 years
iant effort promoted the devotion proclaim the Most Holy and Im- of dedicated toil by a team of en-
to Our Lady among the Catholics maculate Virgin Mary, Queen gineers architects, stone cutters,
through prayer symbolized by of our island and ordain that masons and humble labourers
the Shrine at Tewatte Sri Lanka. she be invoked as Our Lady of under the personal supervision
It was in 1942 as ravages of war Lanka, in the name of Our Lord. of the Church's hierarchy, the
threatened our country His Grace Amen. Basilica was completed in 1974.
Archbishop Jean Marie Masson After many years of The Child Jesus in the statue of
OMI, under heavy stress and invoking Our Lady of Lourdes Our Lady of Lanka holds a ro-
anxiety towards the country and at Tewatte, the devotion to Our sary in one hand and points the
citizens including all Catholics in Lady of Lanka was slow to pick other towards His Mother to tell
his flock appealed in prayer to up. With the simultaneous cel- us that the rosary is the only way
the Immaculate Mother of God to ebration of National Indepen- to approach her. Thus prayer
save and protect Sri Lanka from dence on the 4th of February becomes a focal point in the ven-
the dangers that threatened its and due to the impact of mean- eration to Our Lady of Lanka.
safety. ingful hymns this devotion in Mary too in turn points towards
Through prayer Arch- prayer to Our Blessed Mother her child wearing the oriental
bishop Masson vowed to our Mary, Patroness of Sri Lanka star. The feet of the statue are
Lady to build a votive church has grown leaps and bounce adorned with three leaves and
if the country was spared. Our and has now become a distinc- flowers of the 'Na' tree, the na-
God Almighty listened to the tive feature of Sri Lankan Mar- tional tree of Sri Lanka. The pure most lovingly grant his bless-
prayers of all Catholics through ian piety. Inspite of the Shrine white 'Na' flowers symbolise ing and earnestly wishes that
the intercession of Mary and Sri having humble origins it has to- Mary's chastity. as most devout clients of the
Lanka was no more troubled day become a sacred city and a On the initiation and heavenly Mother you may shine
by her enemies. At the call of power house of prayer. On June proclamation of this first feast forth with every virtue.
those relating to the main city 11, 1948 Mary was equally pro- day, Pope Pius XII in a message Today the feast of Our
centre of prayer an intimacy
of Colombo and other members claimed as the patron saint of said: "To you who proclaim the Lady of Lanka is celebrated at
with our loving Mother Mary
of the Catholic hierarchy assem- our country. Mother of God Queen of this is- the Basilica of Tewatte.
who is widely known as the Pa-
bled at Tewatte on the February The statue of Mary Our land under the title of Our Lady This national shrine of
troness of Sri Lanka. 'Mary! Our
5, 1947. His Grace Archbishop Lady of Lanka has been made of Lanka and to the priests and Our Lady of Lanka at Tewatte Lady of Lanka, praMyeirra fnor P uesr.e ra
Masson present in the midst with a child in her arm so as to faithful here present the August continues to be revered by the
of all isncluwding colergyr andd la--wimply tihaet shel isd the iMonther gof PJonatiff grpatefual forn youre homsagee co untry and its Tpeohple ias sa land of
samurai to attain sainthood Tranquillity
t
he martyrdom of olics. They fled to the Phil-
a 16th-century ippines, but not long after
Samurai who died his arrival, Takayama died
for his Catholic faith was on February 3, 1615.
approved this by Pope In 2013, the Japa-
Francis, making the Japa- nese Bishops' Conference
nese warrior one among submitted the lengthy
nine other causes that ad- 400-page application for
vanced toward sainthood. the beatification of Ta-
Takayama Ukon kayama to the Congre-
was born in 1552 in Japan gation for the Causes of
during the time when Je- Saints. On January 22,
suit missionaries were be- 2016, Takayama's ad-
coming introduced within vancement in the cause
the country. By the time for canonization was fur-
The greeny blue waters gently lash the grainy shore;
Takayama was 12, his fa- the country under the led him to live a poor life, ther promulgated when
The long swaying palm fronds frisk
ther had converted to Ca- reign of Japan's Chancel- because when a samurai Pope Francis approved
tholicism and had his son lor Toyotomi Hideyoshi does not obey his 'chief,' his decree of martyrdom. As the balmy breezes blow.
baptized as “Justo” by the in 1587, many newly- he loses everything he “Since Takayama A benign sun beams
Jesuit Fr. Gaspare di Lella. converted Catholics has,” Fr. Anton Witwer, a died in exile because of Bathing the land in its all pervading glow.
Takayama's posi- abandoned their beliefs. general postulator of the the weaknesses caused
And gently the streamlets rustle
tion in Japanese society as Instead of denying their Society of Jesus, told CNA. by the maltreatments he
daimyo allowed him many faith, Takayama and his Ten years passed suffered in his homeland, As they meander evermore.
benefits, such as owning father left their presti- and the chancellor became the process for beatifica- Peaceful! Oh so peaceful! as in days of yore.
grand estates and raising gious position in society more fierce in his perse- tion is that of a martyr,” Fr. Cans't hear? The spuming torrents
vast armies. As a Catholic, and chose a life of poverty cution against Christians. Witwer explained.
In bridal splendour fall.
Takayama used his power and exile. Although many He eventually crucified Takayama's life
to support and protect the of his friends tried to per- 26 Catholics and by 1614, exemplifies the Christian Cans't view? The misty mountains
short-lived missionary ex- suade Takayama to deny Christianity in Japan was example of "a great fidel- In its verdure adorned.
pansion within Japan, in- Catholicism, he remained completely banned. ity to the Christian voca- And the afterglow when the sun has set
fluencing the conversion strong in his beliefs. The new boycott tion, perse v ering despite
Radiating a great clam!
of thousands of Japanese. Takayama “did on Christianity forced Ta- a l l d i f f i c u l t i e s E,"W FrT. NW Nitewwesr
When a time of not want to fight against kayama to leave Japan in continued. Cans't scent? The araliya and Jasmine
persecution set in within other Christians and this exile with 300 other Cath- Rukatthana and Sepalika serence
Pink Lotus buds recline in ponds
With Olu and Manel for company.
Whispers of tranquility in a Paradise isle
By nature's bounty blessed;
As under one Banner of freedom
The Nation its allegiance profess.
Jeannette Cabraal
9 The Messenger January 31, 2016
little notes to Papa Francis
N
EW YORK (AP) March 1 from Loyola Press often complimented the
— “Dear Pope in Chicago. It’s a project artwork of the children.
Francis,” 10-year- that likely would not have “He knows
old Mohammed begins, materialized without the Pope Francis very well,”
“Will the world be again help of Father Antonio McGrath said of Spadaro.
as it was in the past?” Spadaro, a Jesuit like the “We tried to make it
Signed “Respectfully Pope and the director as easy for the Pope as
yours,” the boy wrote of La Civilta Cattolica, a possible.”
from a Jesuit-run school Roman Catholic journal The Pope’s
for refugee children in published in Rome. response to Mohammed:
Syria and was treated to a Tom McGrath “No, when the time comes,
long and personal answer of the Jesuit-founded the world will not be as it
from the Pope himself. So publishing house co- was. It will be far better
were 29 other children edited the book with than it was in the past.”
who posed questions to Spadaro after reaching Mcgrath said that
Francis in letters from out to the priest for help. once the Pope agreed to
letters. around the globe. The “He has this great affection
around the globe for a Spadaro brought about 50 participate in the project, The 30 kids Pope wound up with for children, who have a
new book poignantly letters with questions to Loyola reached out to in the book range in about 50 letters from
great affection for him.
illustrated with their own the Pope so he could select priests and lay people age from 6 to 13. In all, which to choose.
He was surprised at the
artwork. 30. Spadaro sat with the around the world to about 250 letters were “He loved the
The book, “Dear Pope as he responded connect the publisher received in 14 languages project right from the depth of the questions.”
Pope Francis,” is out to each. Pope Francis with children to write the from 26 countries beginning,” McGrath said.
Responding to God's Call
O
n January 30, Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith LBN Cable TV and Dish TV
the 'Verbum Verbum Television Studios networks.
TV' channel commenced activities on On Januray 30, 2015
commemorated the July 07, 2014. The open- Verbum TV commenced
First Anniversary of its ing of the Studios also her- its production activities
journey. For us Catholics alded the commencement having invested approxi-
it certainly is a joyful of its production activi- mately Rs.100 million on
celebration. 'Verbum ties. The announcement technological equipment
TV' began to widen the of the impending visit of which was mainly met
rim of the faithful with His Holiness Pope Fran- with the personal financ-
a brilliant four-pronged cis to Sri Lanka in January es of the Board of Direc-
effort at a time when the 2015 was first made from tors because they consid-
main principle of the these studios. ered the spreading of the
media was to engage in Though Verbum Word of God an important
commercialization. Television commenced alliteration than personal
It is the result of production activities it wealth.
the development of a fam- still does not have broad- During the visit
ily of devotees without the casting rights but with de- of Pope Francis even
support of any organisa- termination and full faith though 'Verbum TV' had
tion, foreign entity or the in our Lord the Channel not officially commenced,
strength of any foundation. forges ahead to respond since they had the tech-
'Verbum TV' is indeed in to the needs of the faith- nological competence the
reality an effort to swim ful. At present the chan- Channel requested State
against the tide to encour- nel is broadcast through permission to cover the
age the faithful to truly re- PEO TV and Dialog TV. visit of His Holiness but
spond to God’s call. In order to increase its it was turned down. We
With the bless- broadcasting range, 'Ver- were told that it was offi-
ings of the Archbishop of bum TV' has expended cially the responsibility of
Colombo, His Eminence large sums of money on the government. However
at the function held at Bo- event. This was indeed a faith which was essentially
lawalana, at the conclusion miracle as most Sri Lankan done through church
of the Holy Father’s visit, TV channels as well as sev-
services was on January
since the the State media eral overseas TV networks
30, 2015 extended to the
was not covering the event, covered this event live
living rooms of the faithful
the Catholic Social Commu- through the coverage pro- Contd. on Pg. 13
nications Centre requested vided by 'Verbum TV'. where the elderly, the
'Verbum TV' to cover the The spread of
10 The Messenger January 31, 2016
Sr. Sadhani celebrates 25 years of teaching excellence
at St. Joseph’s College, Colombo
any who have served cal functions for over two Her strength and deter-
in the Lord’s vine- decades. She was highly mination especially dur-
yard have left a legacy be- reputed for her sim‘Bplulee ing the days of the Quiz, is
hMind them, which was a re- banudt Wmheitaen’ingful poems beyond human standard.
sult of their ministry. But published in the However, the fact which
Sr. Maria Sadhani AC, was magazine. She many admire in her is her
a Religious Sister who did showed a keen interest in endless HOPE. She shows
a service beyond the ex- developing the spirituali- no concern about whatev-
pectation of all. She served ty of the students and was er catastrophe she faces.
The 2015 Bible Quiz
almost her entire career instrumental in bringing She never lets anything
in the field of education. them closer to God. She but God rule over her at
She was an Old Girl of Holy jects including Maths, Re- recently published a book all times. Her prayers are
Cross College, Gampaha ligion and Health Science. on Crossword puzzles for tive years in a grand mag- Science in Grade 6. She hardly for her, but for the
and subsequently taught When subjects in English children. This book al- nitude and has enabled taught me for the next healing of the world. She
there for a few years. Sr. Medium for the Advanced lowed children to read thousands of boys and girls four years of my school made us witness God in
Sadhani joined St. Joseph’s Level commenced in the and know much more all around the Island to career and the memories everything she did.
College in the year 1991 early 2000s, Sr. Sadhani about the Bible. read the Word of God. Sr. I spent with her cannot As Sr. Maria Sad-
and since then has taught was a pioneer in teaching Nevertheless, the Sadhani was appointed as be described. Never will hani reaches her 25th
thousands of Josephians. combined mathematics. brainchild of Sr. Sadhani the Co-ordinator of Schools the things she taught me milestone of teaching at
She was a great Her knowledge was vast, was the All-Island Bible for the Archdiocesan Bible on life fade away from St. Joseph’s all of us wish
treasure the Lord gifted but her simple and hum- Quiz, which was initiated in Commission some years me. I remember how lov- her all the very best and a
to St. Joseph’s College. She ble lifestyle defined who 2006. Sister and a few stu- ago. She celebrated her Sil- ing and joyful she was. speedy recovery!
never sought for glory or she really was. dents were able to form a ver Jubilee of Religious life She just enjoyed whatever avishka MMaaryio Stehnee wiGraotonde
appreciation from anyone, Sr. Sadhani was Bible Society at St. Joseph’s in 2011. she did. It was Sister who Lord bless her!
but always fulfilled her active in many religious and subsequently initi- I have known Sr. made my friends and I join
duty to the best of her abil- activities in school. She ate the quiz. This Quiz has Sadhani since 2009, when the Bible Society, which St. Joseph’s College,
ity. She taughRt maeny vsu.b- Forrga.n isaed umangy ulitusrgi-tibneen eheld Pfor teen rconeseciu-rsahe taught me Health changed our lives forever. Colombo 10.
preneur in Colombo. F. X. Perei- 130 convents. In the Indian sub-
(Co-Founder Congregation of Immaculate Conception)
ra was the father of Chevalier I. continent, it is widespread, serv-
X. Pereira and the founder of the ing in 24 dioceses, throughout
firm F. X. Pereira and Sons Ltd., Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka,
Most Bharathas of Sri of Panjampatti at the time was Augustine Pereira. Middle-aged in Pettah. Chevalier I. X. Pereira Andra Pradesh and Bihar. The
Lanka may not have heard of Rev. Fr. Julius Larmey and the Augustine at that time was not is my father. main work of the Congregation
Rev. Fr. Augustine Pereira. It catechist was the middle-aged a priest. He was only a catechist Brother Augustine so- is in the field of education. They
was Fr. Augustine along with Augustine Pereira. By then, in the presbytery desirous even- licited financial support from have many schools in various
Fr. Julius Larmey, who was co- four young women of Panjam- tually of becoming a priest. He his wealthy brother in Colombo. States in India.
founders of the Congregation patti had volunteered to remain himself was under the direction With the aid he received, he pur- The centenary of the
of the Immaculate Conception, celibate and devoted them- of Fr. Larmey but Fr. Larmey chased a house for the group. Pa- Congregation was celebrated
which originated in South In- selves to works of charity. Fr. died in Trichunapally in 1901, rishioners also responded but I. in February, 1999, at which six
dia in 1899 and now, after the Larmey passed away in 1901, aged 65. X. Pereira remained the biggest Bishops and several members
Tsunami, boasts of a Convent just three years later and was At the demise of Fr. benefactor of the group. In 1899, of the Pereira family were pres-
in Mannar, where seven Sisters followed by Fathers Visuvasam Larmey, the group spoke to Bro. the group officially pronounced ent. The Congregation still pro-
presently reside. and E. Nespoulous respective- Augustine and expressed their their religious vows and was de- fusely acknowledges the help it
The founding of the ly. The latter held office for 13 desire to be guided by him in clared Religious Sisters. received from the late Chevalier
Congregation of the Immacu- years. He too is considered a their religious vocation. With Bro. Augustine was or- I. X. Pereira and his brothers. In
late Conception Sisters in Ma- co-founder. It was during the the consent of every successive dained a priest in Tuticorin in fact, the exhibition included a
durai, South India, was founded time of Fr. Nespoulous that the parish priest, Bro. Augustine 1900 and became officially the section which gave the complete
by a priest who had close links group obtained the sanction of then undertook to attend to the Director of the religious group. ancestry of the Pereira family.
with the Sri Lankan Christian the Bishop of the diocese. needs and spiritual direction of Fr. Augustine then returned to Of recent years, many
community of the Pereiras. The The group of pious la- the group. After careful scruti- Panjampatti, where he passed instances have come to light of
founder is Rev. Fr. Augustine dies was very much involved ny, Bro Augustine found that the away in October 1911, as assis- miracles that occurred due to
Pereira, the paternal grand un- in the teaching of religion and four were capable of taking up tant to Fr. Nespoulous. the intervention of Fr. Augus-
cle of the writer of this article. other activities of the parish. the responsibilities of religious This Congregation of tine. There is now a movement
This Congregation is prolific in But during this period of incu- life. Indian Origin has now assumed in Rome to press for his canon-
India today. Its Mother House bation, there was a great soul Bro. Augustine was a the magnitude of an internation- ization. There is also a prayer
is in Madurai. It was founded in who devoted his full time and scion of an aristocratic family al religious congregation with that is now doing the rounds in
1899, in Panjampatti and soon concern to see the group as- in Tuticorin. He was an elder Papal approval. It has spread to India and Sri TLahnekrae fsoer Mhios tbhea-
shifted to Madurai where it re- sume the status of a Religious brother of the late F. X. Pereira, Zambia, South Africa and Italy. It atification.
maain Ps tor doatfee. Tshes Poarris,h E Prniesgt inCoenegrerg aationn dan da th aCt woams Brmo. iwtthoe dwa sC aa wtehll oknloiwcn Senctrie-ennotwi scotunts overC 8l0a0 snusnisf ainedd advertisement
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Global Science, Earth Science, Engineering,Fluid Dy- God has created. Business studies (Sinhala medium), Combined Mathe-
namics and a world leader in many areas of scientific Christianity had matics (English medium), Physics (English medium and
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dedication to uplift the standard of fellow Human be- passionate about books and
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ings by understanding and believing our Good Lord’s was a voracious reader during his school career .He
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Dame Professor believes that Science is a torch that il- energy. I could recall how he used to attend daily mass are passionate about teaching. Please e-mail your CV
luminates the world. Science is a metaphor of life. Life with his beloved father (Raymond) at St. Sebastian’s to [email protected] on or before 7th
is a gift from God. According to Professor Fernando, if Church, Moratuwa during his entire school career. His February 2016.
you have the Catholic fundamentals correct you cannot mother Audrey was also a devout Catholic.
(Please mention the subject and curriculum that you
fail in life. Our Catholic religion is based on faith, not on Present day Scientists challenge religion (es-
wish to apply for, on the subject line)
man’s knowledge. God’s existence is hyper reality. He pecially Christianity) to prove the existence of God is
believes that the world is so exquisite with so much love like asking somebody to light a candle to see the sun. Lord...
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and moral depth, that there is no reason to deceive our- Great Scientist Albert Einstein said, “The more I study
Lead me, Guide me, Walk beside me.
selves with some pretty man made stories. Science the more I believe in God.” Professor Harindra
In the Bible, the actions of God are usually nat- no doubt also has the same realizatiolna.lin Ferdinando
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