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. "
