Lenten retreat and prayer for the Sri Lankan Catholics to prepare for Easter
Kandy (AsiaNews) - Prayer
Retreats, Stations of the Cross, pilgrimages and fundraisers: this is how the
Catholic Diocese of Kandy (Central Provinces, Sri Lanka) has
been preparing for Easter, during the period of Lent. "The
priests of each parish - Fr. Nandana Manatunga, director of the Human Rights of
the diocese explains to AsiaNews -
have organized special programs to reflect on the living conditions of Tamil faithful
in the North, the needy , the sick and those in
prison. "
Among
the many initiatives, there have been many pilgrimages to Alagollawa, Marian
Shrines, the shrine of St. Anthony Wahacotte, where a Stations of the Cross was
held. "In
these places - adds Fr. Manatunga, former director of Caritas - Setick Kandy -
people have had time to meditate on the Passion of Jesus Christ and their
lives." In
addition, the diocese of Kandy has organized a
collection, with proceeds going to build a new oncology department in the Kandy General Hospital.
Following
the theme chosen this year by the National Catholic Commission for Justice,
Peace and Human Development, "Unity through reconciliation," the
dioceses of the country have organized educational programs. Caritas
has contributed preparing booklets and posters.
"With
the start of Holy Week - concludes Fr. Manatunga - we enter an atmosphere of
great enthusiasm. Why does this happen? After all, we're going to remember the
crucifixion of Jesus if we look at the current situation, we see wars, violence
all
sorts, selfishness, injustice, discrimination, poverty ... But at Easter,
believers are waiting for new life. It is the best time for us all, to answer
the call of God, listen, taking the hands of our brothers in distress, in our society and our
country. "
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24/01/2007
