Melani Manel Perera

The Christian Children’s Fund launches new development programmes in Hambantota districts where 60 per cent of the population lives in utter poverty since the 2004 tsunami. A Buddhist boy tells about his happiness in getting help. “Now I can focus on my studies,” he said.

On the National Day of the Sick, about 500,000 pilgrims gather in the famous basilica from around the country. Everyone prayed for their own physical well-being but also to heal the country from war, corruption and human rights violations.

Thousands of Tamil and Singhalese pilgrims gathered to celebrate the feast of the Assumption at the Madhu sanctuary. During the procession, the noise of nearby explosions shook many, who tearfully invoked the Virgin’s intercession. Bishop of Galle: “Tears of joy and of pain, they faced great risk in order to come here”.

The government had closed the road for security reasons. Thousands of pilgrims are expected for the feast of the Assumption. Colombo and Tamil tigers promise to “avoid clashes” in the area.

Rev. Duleep de Chikera condemns the governments triumphant propaganda which celebrates recent victories against the Tamil separatists. He invites parents and teachers to promote “the values of trust, respect and cooperation”, in order to bring “peace to the country”.

Preparations for the feast of the Assumption start within two days. The local bishop reminded the government of its promise to open the main road which leads to the shrine, so that pilgrims may be able to go there in great numbers. But Colombo has said the Tigers are amassing arms around the church.

The SAVISTHRI movement launches a campaign to protest against the increase in petrol and seed prices, as well as those of basic goods. A petition is sent off to the President to take “urgent measures”.

Rajapaksa pledges essential services and new elections in eastern region after wresting control away from Tamil Tigers. He still has harsh words for the rebels, who still control parts of the country and announce new attacks.

Fishing communities complain about 30 per cent hike in kerosene price. Colombo approves government fuel subsidies but then turns around and raises prices blaming the civil war and the tsunami for the economic crisis.

Following an accord between the government and Tigers to spare the campus around the famous Marian shrine from clashes, around 3,000 people went to pray for peace. The local clergy hope that if the two parties keep their word, more pilgrims will go for the feast of the Assumption on 15 August.

The government has done away with value-added tax on a range of essential foods, from flour to sugar, in a bid to keep prices down. The people have responded favourably.

The Catholic community in Anuradhapura is participating in the celebrations of Poson, which marks the dawn of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Parish churches are decorated in typical lanterns; young people prepare traditional drinks for travelling pilgrims in a climate of “great unity.”