Revolution proclaimed by Mary Mother of the Messiah

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THE MORNING STAR
JDCSI, Diocesan Office
Vaddukoddai
Sri Lanka
Morning Star Uthayatharakai
cja jhuif
Registered as a News paper at the General Post Office, Sri Lanka
Established 1841, A Christian Fortnightly Published Every other Friday
Vol.207. Jaffna - October - December 2014 Issue No.6
Righteousness Exalteth a Nation, But Sin is Reproach to any people
The Morning Star
www.csijaffnadiocese.org
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Editor
17, Frances Road,
Colombo - 06,
Sri Lanka
Revolution proclaimed by
Mary Mother of the Messiah
Jothi! She stood before me, eyes cast down. The faded tattered tight
outfit made prominent the full blown pregnancy. Her face was pale, and her
lean body bowed backwards because of the heavy womb with her babe to balance her stature. In one of the camps, my eyes didn’t fail to notice this young
pregnant teenager.
She in her teens had no other option to submit to a quiet marriage
without even looking at the face of her husband to be in the dark night. This
was quite common during the time of war. This was a kind of escapism from
being recuperated. They were on the run for their lives of course. The intensity of the unrest scattered the population.
Now here Jothi stands facing an audiences to register herself in the
camp.“ What is your name?” “We see you are pregnant, so when did you get
married and how?” “Is your marriage is a registered one?” “We see you are in
your teens. Who was the witness for your marriage?” “At least tell us your
husband’s name” She was bombarded with question for which she has no answer. Her mind was too tired and confused to answer these question.. Her
husband was one of the unnamed persons with the title of ‘Missing in action!’
In my feeling level my heart melted like wax within my bosom. My eyes welled
up, broke the dyke and poured out salty tears. Gradually I started to reflect
upon the virgin Mother Mary portrayed in the gospel of Luke. In the history
of the Hebrew and Jewish tradition it is known that every Jewish girl prayed
to be the mother of this Messiah. We begin the time known as “Advent” the
time we prepare for the coming of the Messiah, Jesus Christ into this world.
BISHOP VISITS THE FIRST CSI TAMIL
CHURCH IN CANADA
It was a time of joy and
fellowship when the bishop visited our congregation in Toronto, Canada
on All Souls Day, November 02, 2014. The bishop
was accompanied and assisted by the Secretary of
the diocese, the rev. Dr
D.S. Solomon.
After a time of praise &
worship, the Rev. Viveganathan led this special worship. The Scripture Lessons were read by the Rev. Dr Solomon and Dr Ms. Meera Mather, Chair,
General Education & Liberal Studies, School of Advancement at Centennial
College. Bishop Thiagarajah preached the sermon on this occasion. The Rev.
K.M. Shanthikumar who was until
recently the Priest-in-Charge was
also present and participated in
the special anthem.
A special time of prayers
in memory of Mr. Jeyasingam who
entered eternal glory exactly a year
ago on All Souls Day was also observed. The bishop offered the final prayers and pronounced the benediction.
Good Shepherd Tamil Church (CSI – Toronto) was founded in the year 1992 by
a group of our Sri Lankan brethren led by Mr. Yogan Mather. Wilmar Heights
Baptist Church, located at 1687 Victoria Park Avenue, Scarborough is the place
where people have been gathering to worship on Sunday afternoons for the last
twenty years. This church is the first Tamil CSI Church of the Church of South
India in Canada. It is also registered as a charitable organization. The Rev. J.
Viveganathan now serves as the spiritual leader of this congregation.
As the gospel of Luke
opens, we see that God
is beginning the ground
work for the preparation
for Jesus to come to this
world. But what is the
core message of Advent
in relation to the Magnificat of Mary?
The writer of
Luke Gospel Mary is
portrayed as a lowly
hand maiden . She also
calls herself God’s slave
woman, aware that her
gender has not deflected the design of God but
rather fulfilled it (Gal.
4:4, born of a woman’).
Her use of the word
‘slave’ expresses again
her identity with the
Continues in page VI
The Family Reunion
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brothers to dwell together
in unity! It is like the precious oil upon the head, coming down upon the
beard, even Aaron’s beard, coming down upon the edge of his robes. (NASB)
Ps. 133:1-2
It was a pouring monsoon rainy day; a bright new idea dawned among
the wives of the pastors who returned into the flock. The favorite talented
Tharshini, a pastor’s wife whom I have known from child hood, insisted that all
the pastors and the families should spend a day together in this festive season,
to get to know each other and strengthen our family reunion which we have
missed for quite a long time because of misunderstanding, misinterpretation
alienation, ignorance etc.
She further stated that it is necessary to bring back together people or
Continues in Page XI
Mustard Seeds
Do not pity our children my friends
Your pity is not what they need!
Artificial limbs, surgeries and thinning frames they may
embody
But they are not incomplete or pathetic
For in our children you see hope and light like no other
The fire of perseverance consumes their brokennes
And amidst adversity that would have drowned me – they
have survived and thrived
So give them a future of opportunities and recognition
Learn from them lessons of life
Foster them with care and compassion
For the little buds of today will not be mere roses
They are the palmyrahs that will define our future
Where we have failed – they will succeed
For they are not frail and unfortunate, but strong heroes
The hope of our tomorrow!
Gita Thiagarajah
Advent Message from the Bishop
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
I am happy to greet you in another Season of Advent as your brother and co-sojourner. We thank God for
the opportunity given to all of us to enter into a season of
joy, happiness and comfort. The season of Advent is a rich
time for us to contemplate God’s invitation to new life. As
we journey together through Advent toward Christmas,
may our conversations be rich and our imaginations bold
that we may be able to think afresh and take to our hearts a
message that has not been so clear hitherto for reordering
our lives. As we look forward and march into something
new we certainly pause for a moment in order to look back
and remember to thank God for the faithfulness of God
that sustained us amidst all odds and hopelessness. Faithful gratitude believes that the God who has given good
gifts has more good gifts to give. Let us thank God for
God’s gifts of truth, mercy, justice and generosity.
Advent is a period that reminds us of God’s gifts to
us. It also points clearly that we are called to take to heart
the commitment and dedication that is expected of us. It
demands a faithful obedience that makes us commit to be
partners in the mission of God (mission Dei). Advent denotes a unique opportunity. It invites a radical response,
an urgent choice, or a fundamental reorientation.
We as church community should contemplate together the presence of God and the implications of God’s
will for us. God who created space within Godself to accommodate all what He created, is the One who emptied
Godself and took the form of human for the sake dwelling
with humanity is also the One who continues to stir our
hearts to model God in our day-to-day living that the message of incarnation becomes meaningful.
As we journey into this great season in anticipation of celebration because of this important God-event in
Christ, let us be challenged in our hearts that God’s gift of
truth disrupts our systemic and deliberate ignorance that
denies our obligation that God’s gift of generosity contradicts our parsimonious selfishness and God’s gift of mercy
interrupts our hard-hearted indifference. This is a season
where we think differently. Let there be a radical rapture in our way of living. May the spirit of God
that creates a new world, a new heaven and a new earth richly dwell in our hearts. May God’s Spirit that
came upon the disciples and created a community of obedience and mission motivate us to be obedient
to this divine imperative. Let us pray that the Spirit of God helps us in these hope-filled days that neither life nor death nor angels nor rulers nor things present nor things to come, nor powers nor height
nor depths nor anything at all in creation can separate us from God and from God’s love for us. For this
we ought to be grateful and we give thanks for God’s gift to us.
+Daniel Thiagarajah
Bishop’s House, Vaddukoddai
Page II
The Carols
The season of Christmas begins with the
season of advent. Traditionally singing carols during
the season of Christmas has become part and parcel
of the celebration of the birth of Christ. However
this season and the singing of carols have become
universal. The evolution and metamorphosis of the
carols goes way back to the first century AD. The
fact that the first song of the Angels to the shepherds should be considered as the good news song
to the people who are marginalized in every aspect.
It was sung by the Angel a multitude of the heavenly
host, praising God according to the Gospel of Luke.
“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
And on earth Peace among those
Whom he favours”
(Luke 2:14)
When carols were sung, first in Europe, thousands of years ago, they were not Christmas carols.
Rather they were pagan songs, sung at the Winter
Solstice celebrations as people danced around stone
circles. The word carol originally meant to dance
to something which brings happiness and joy. The
shortest day of the Winter Solstice usually falls
around 22nd of December. Thus the Christmas carols used to be written and sung during Christmas
time.
A Roman Bishop in AD 129, said that a song
called “Angel’s Hymn” should be sung at a Christmas service in Rome. Another early Christmas
hymn was written in 760AD for the Greek Orthodox Church by the Comas of Jerusalem. They were
all in the language Latin. For the convenience of understanding the songs they sung, people started to
write the carols in their own languages.
St. Francis of Assisi in 1223 started his
Nativity play in Italy. The songs or ‘canticles’ were
sung by the people who acted the play. This continued then onwards in Europe first and later to all
the countries and people of all languages who celebrated Christmas. In the recent times, the message
of Christmas is written in different languages and
sung in their own traditional music, which enable
people to know the meaning of Christmas.
The meaning of celebrating the birth of Messiah is glorifying and praising the creator God, and
to bring the good news of Peace with justice to all
people. It is up to us to discern whether this aspect
is being fulfilled while we sing the carols during this
season.
Angel.
ADVENT
(On A Theme by Dietrich Bonhoeffer)
Pamela Cranston
Look how long
the weary world waited,
locked in its lonely cell,
guilty as a prisoner.
As you can imagine,
it sang and whistled in the dark.
It hoped. It paced and puttered about,
tidying its little piles of inconsequence.
It wept from the weight of ennui,
draped like shackles on its wrists.
It raged and wailed against the walls
of its own plight.
But there was nothing
the world could do
to find its own freedom.
The door was shut tight.
It could only be opened
from the outside.
Who could believe the latch
would be turned by a pink flower —
the tiny hand
of a newborn baby?
© by Pamela Cranston, 2011
The Diocesan Festival 2014
Thanksgiving Service
The Diocesan Festival Thanksgiving Service was held on the 11th of October
2014. The service witnessed the participation of pastors from the nine provinces which include, Jaffna Vanni Batticaloa Hill country, Galle, Kurunagalle,
Hambantota, Bathegama, Neluwa etc. The procession commenced from the
Bishop’s House in Vaddukkoddai to the newly renovated cathedral, and the bell
which stands majestically since the Dutch period was gloriously ringing until
the end of the procession. The Cathedral overflowed with the faithful, which
included 200 Sinhalese members. The service was organized in such a manner
that it catered to the congregation which included Sinhalese and Tamil speaking members. The welcome by the Bishop was rendered in Tamil, English, and
Singhalese. Important prayers and all the songs were selected in such a manner
that it was in both Tamil and Sinhalese. The first Bible reading was read in
English by the Principal of Uduvil Girls’ College, Mrs. Shiranee Mills, the second by Rev. Sanjeeva in Sinhala, and the Gospel reading was by Rev. Joseph
in Tamil. The theme of the service was “Secure my future” which focused on
children in lieu of International Children’s Day; the special song by the Sinhalese choir as well as the sermon by the Bishop centered on this theme.
The Procession
The procession from the Bishop’s House to the Cathedral was a spectacular
sight. The Diocesan Banner carrying the aim of the Church of South India,
“That they all may be one” led the procession which is central to the calling of
the Church. The Kurunagale Sunday School boys led the procession with the
Kolattam. They were followed by pastors, and members of each of the churches The Sunday Schools’ singing competition saw enthusiastic and talented eager
young children. Among the wonderful voices were also participants from Sincarrying their respective banners.
halese churches. This was a new addition to the history of the JDCSI. The judges
for the competitions were from the Music Academy of the Jaffna Fine Arts University. The Viruththappa: MathuramKulendran Challenge Cup went to Abisha
Bairavi from Uduppity Church.
Sunday Schools’Singing Competition
The Bible Quiz
The Bible Quiz saw well prepared and competitive participants. The churches
that had gotten through the semi-final rounds qualified for the finals which
were held on 4th October 2014. The Bishop’s Challenge Cup Competition was
conducted by the Bishop and Rev. Pathmathayalan. The Bishop’s Bible Quiz
Challenge Cup went to T.C. Angeline from Vaddukkottai Church.
Cultural Show
This year’s cultural show indeed did justice to the cultural diversity of Sri Lanka. The show included an English play based on the theme “Secure my Future”
which was performed by the Kurunagellasunday school children. A beautiful
Barathanaatiyam performance was rendered by the Sunday schools of the Batticaloa and Killinochchi churches. An English action song was performed by the
students of Uduvil Girls’ College. Overall the cultural show was an entertaining
event with many Tamil and Sinhaesedances, songs and other performances.
There were many other competitions that took place during the “Mini Children’s Rally” held on the 4th October 2014. The competitions included essay writing, drawing, and
memory verse competitions. The Children’s Rally and October Meeting was indeed a wonderful time of fellowship and harmony. The growth of the JDCSI was most ardently
displayed in this event which saw the gathering of churches from all 9 provinces. May the Lord continue to guide us in His mission to ensure “that they all may be one”.
Page III
Ministry Among Children In Neluwa
‘Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them,
for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these’
( New International Version)
In the recent era, the ministry among children has become an important ministry in the world. Thus, even the United Nations Secretary-General
Ban Ki-Moon has mentioned the importance as “The one thing all children
have in common is their rights. Every child has the right to survive and thrive,
to be educated, to be free from violence and abuse, to participate and to be
heard. “
A recent research clearly says that as Christians we are realistically in
danger of not passing on the Biblical Christian values to our next generation.
As a growing church, the Jaffna diocese of the Church of South India in recent
times focuses on bringing up the children in good moral ethical values. The
Child Care Centers and Sunday Schools are places that provide the arena for
this purpose. Religion and the values of life, development stages of a child from
the infant stage are all interrelated ones. Thus the Child Care Centers are used
to create a healthy and sustainable space for the future.
Christ Church in Neluwa in the Galle District is one of the growing
places which embrace all children without any discrimination of caste, creed
or religion to promote the welfare of the children. The Rev. Jude Romesh Fernando and Mrs. Inoka Fernando with the help of the teachers take active role
in this ministry. The children are from the tea and rubber estates. They have
to walk a long distance for educational facilities. The community is faced with
issues of poverty and child-labor. What the church does through the ministry
of the Rev. Jude Fernando and his wife is well received and appreciated by the
entire community.
Page
PageIV
IV
D e d i c a t i o n o f N ew ly B u i l t
C h u r c h i n N e l u wa
‘I was glad when they said unto me, Let us
go into the house of the LORD.’ Psalm 22.1
Neluwa lies in the South of Sri Lanka, which comes
under the district of Galle. The Jaffna Diocese of the Church
of South India has been actively involved in ministering
to the needy, people in the Island of Sri Lanka. The church
has not only ministered to the people in Vanni and the Hill
country but also has stretched out her hands to the Sinhalese communities in Kurunagella and in the South. As a
result, child care centres and worshiping communities in
these areas have come as part of the Jaffna Diocese.
The Rev. Jude Fernando, who has been doing God’s
ministry in the Neluwa area, was ordained as a presbyter
at the Cathedral in Vaddukoddai on the 17th of November
2013. His mission has been focused on house churches in
the tea estates in his area. Sunday schools have also been
regularly conducted in these house churches. The need for
a church building was very much felt by the priest and the
congregation because the people consider the church to be
the house of God that has been given to them by Him.
The establishment of a church building is an important event in a church’s history as a church is the place where
the Christian community gathers to hear the word of God,
to offer intercession and praise to him, and above all to celebrate the holy mysteries, and it is the place where the holy
sacrament of the Eucharist is kept. Thus, a church building
was constructed in his area and was dedicated on the 15th
of November 2014 by the Bishop, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Daniel S.
Thiagarajah.
The priests belonging to the other areas like Kurunagella, Galle, Baththegama, Hambantota, Colombo, and from
Jaffna participated in this historical event. It was a solemn
occasion worship, in which around 250 parish members
participated. The bishop conducted the service in both Sinhala and Tamil, as the parishners were from both Sinhala
and Tamil speaking communities. Translation was done
by Rev. Balakumar of Galle JDCSI church and Mr. Indrajith
from Campus Crusade. The children performed an elegant
welcome dance, which led the Bishop and the other priests
and people to the church. The Christ Church Neluwa was
then dedicated and opened for the glory of God.
The church committee members honoured the Bishop and welcomed other priests who were present for the
occasion. The songs were sung in both languages. The members of the church received blessings from the Bishop. After the service all who were present, joined in a fellowship
tea which paved way to build up a good relationship among
those gathered.
The Rev. Jude, his wife Inoka and his family hosted the clergy and visitors from other areas for a fellowship
lunch at his residence.
Page V
Revolution proclaimed..............
1st Page Continues
marginalized disenfranchised of the society.
But when she had the encountered the Angel of God, with the news to
prepare her to be the vessel of carrying the long awaited prophecy of the Messiah who will liberate the world, her response was “how could it be since I am
a virgin!’ This may be considered as a statement, or asking for a clear vision of
the calling. In the book of Luke it seems that the message of courage given by
the angel about the Messiah was “He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and his kingdom there will be no end,’ gives her the assurance that God’s
redemptive plan depends upon the faith and collaboration of a woman, and
the chosen one was her. Her immediate reply was the unconditional obedience to God proclaiming “Here I am the servant of the lord: let it be according
to your word.
In Lukan Gospel, her immediate action was to go to the hill country
to see her cousin Elizabeth who was also pregnant in her old age. The writer
of the Gospel of Luke introduces significant ministries with the use of songs,
often deeply reminiscent of songs in the Old Testament. In this way, the song
of Hanna, a barren woman who is one of the most poignant characters in the
Old Testament, and the mother of the prophet Samuel could be compared to
Mary in the praise song she sung after the birth of Samuel. There are many
similarities in the songs of the both ladies. Mary’s song of praise resembles
that of Hanna, who rejoices in God’s mercy after the birth which well up from
deep within her (1Samuel 2: 1-10).
The “lowly person” is central in the theme of Luke. Woman (Mary,
Elizabeth, Anna), old priest, carpenter (Joseph), shepherds (outcast), wooly
prophet, old man (Simeon)….
Mary is filled with wonder that God has chosen one of low social and
economic condition to bring the world the Son of God. Mary is overwhelmed
by God’s goodness to the lowly and by the honor which he can bring to the
despised of earth. Her focus is on the liberating and leveling work of God in
human hearts and lives. This song will be echoed in Jesus’ manifestation of
himself as anointed to preach to the poor, the downtrodden, and the afflicted
in the Nazareth Manifesto (Luke4:18 -19).
Mary recognized the promises in the OT that the coming of Jesus
would bring mercy to all those who were lowly in their status on this earth.
Jesus’ actions will prove this, not only did God talk the talk, but He will walk
the walk in the incarnation of Jesus. He came disguised as a lowly man, but
brought to us so much. He met our every need. The focus of Jesus’ ministry
was to turn the world’s thinking upside down; the greatest instruments are
the lowly in heart and spirit. Lk 4:17-19.
In the magnificat:
•
Mary recognized the future importance of her role, yet it was with humility. God’s purpose for salvation will be accomplished through the birth of her child.
•
God is over her – (Lord, means master, person of higher status).
•
Sing of God’s Mercy to the Lowly Mary (vs. 46-49)
•
God has saved her – (Savior, means one who delivers from grave
danger)
•
Mary recognized the future importance of her role, yet it was with humility. God’s purpose for salvation will be accomplished through the birth of her child.
•
God has blessed her – (Mighty One, speaks of a warrior (Ps. 45:3; 50:1; 132:2,5), powerful one who has done great things for Mary.)
•
Mary’s attitude was that this calling was positive in spite of difficult earthy situation. “God has done a great thing for me” not “Why me God!”
Our attitude to the great commission should be “a glorious song of adoration to God” rather than complaining. Given below are some of the examples from the Bible, the message being God’s
preferential option for the lowly.
II. Sing of God’s Mercy to the Lowly Person (vs. 50-53)
Lowly person = “those who fear Him”
Job 5:11 – “He sets on high those who are lowly…”
Ps. 136:23 – “God remembers us in our lowly state…”
Ps. 138:6 – “Though God is on high, yet He regards the lowly…”
A. God Gathers the Helpless (51)
B. God Exalts the Humble (52)
C. God Fills the Hungry (53).
Jothi, is one of the examples of the victim who needs the message
of Mary’s song to empower her to face the future. As a whole the Magnificat
and the Nazareth Manifesto of Jesus gives the message of overturning the
excising corrupt, unjust social order which was not the intention of God. As
we enter the advent and look forward to celebrate the birth of Messiah, let
us internalize the truth that Christmas is not about eggnog, lighted trees,
presents, or candy. Christmas is about God keeping His word, and entering
earth’s atmosphere to rescue mankind from their sins. Jesus came as a lowly
child, He lived as a lowly servant, He ministered with a humble spirit, and
died as a lowly lamb.
Therefore, Christians should celebrate God’s fulfillment of His promises and mercies to the lowly through the birth of the Christ.
Thaya
Advent 2014
The Logo of Church of South India
The Logo of the Church of South India
is an important and significant as the formation
of the CSI through the process of unification.
The Lotus and the Cross used in the Logo possess a rich cultural history and heritage which
will help us in the understanding of the significance of the unification and our call and
mission as members of this great and unique
church.
The Lotus, a typical Indian flower, in
Mythology is supposed to be not only a temple
flower but also the seat of the creator. “Pankajam” one of the Indian names given to the Lotus has a very significant meaning that in other
words it lives as long as it can receive the sunrays
hence it is also called ‘Thammipuvu” meaning ‘flower of the sun” to the Indian Church,
it stands to be interpreted as symbolizing the
composition, nature and role of the members
of the Church of South India in the bond of the
union and in the context of being indigenous
and also being dependent of the grace of God.
The Petals of the Lotus and the arms of the Cross are beautifully intertwined together with the fiery tongues of the Holy Spirit. This again is an authentic Indian expression of people’s communion with God. The colours being
Red (for life), purple (for piety and ecclesiastical) and the white backdrop (for
purity) implicitly communicate the nature of the mystical union, where, an inseparable companionship is established which, again is a typical Indian thought
form.
The words “THAT THEY ALL MAY
BE ONE, CHURCH OF SOUTH INDIA” are
embossed in a circle around the Lotus and the
Cross. The words, as we know, are taken from
the high priestly prayer of our Lord Jesus Christ
who prayed not only for the ‘Church’ but also
for the whole world. This universality is expressed by placing the words in a form of a circle symbolizing not only the universe but also
the inclusive nature of the church.
“That they all may be one; as thou, father,
art in me, and I in thee that they also may be one
in us…..”(John17.21) is an inclusive affirmation
showing explicitly that Christ is the Head and
the Church, His body. It also symbolizes they
prayer of the Church that not only Churches
need to be united but all people of this country which can be interpreted as a meaningful
prayer for national integration.
The imposing central position of the
cross in the Logo conveys the idea that the indefatigable, self less supreme sacrifice of Jesus
on the cross in the basis of the Church and its faith. The cross runs through
the Lotus depicting its cleansing act working in the hearts of the members of
the Church and restoring them to the pristine purity of heaven. The four ends
of the cross made of equal size symbolize the equality and also the contextual
peaceful co-existence and communal harmony.
It is important for us to know the meaning of the symbol of our church,
Church of South India.
Page VI
SPECIAL SERVICE IN THE VANNI ON ADVENT SUNDAY
Seventeen persons - twelve from Church of Christ the King, Kilinochchi, three from St. James Church, Akkarayankulam and one each from St. Andrew’s Church, Mankulam & St. Paul’s Church, Murikandy - were confirmed
as full members of the JDCSI at a special service conducted by the Rt. Rev. Dr
Daniel S. Thiagarajah, the Bishop, on Advent Sunday, November 30, 2014 at St.
Paul’s Church, Murikandy.
The two Area Ministers in the Vanni viz., the Rev. John Devasagayam
& the Rev. S. Kuganeswaran and the Presbyter of St. Paul’s Church the Rev. S.
Robinson assisted the bishop. While the Scripture Lessons were read by Ms.
Gowsalya Suthagaran of Kilinochchi, Ms. Stella Samankumar of Murikandy
and the Rev. S. John Lingeswaran, the rev. Robinson led the congregation in in-
tercessory prayers. Most of the Clergy serving in the Vanni were also present.
A child from the church in Murikandy was baptized by the bishop prior to the
confirmations. A fellowship tea was organized by the parishioners of St. Paul’s
church at the close of worship.
Celebration of International Children’s Day in Vanni
Giving every single child the chance to be the best they can be,
Whatever their talent or background,
is not the betrayal of excellence; it is the fulfillment of it.’
Ministry among children especially after the civil war and unrest in the
country has become one of the most important ministries handled by the Centre for Holistic Healing of the Jaffna Diocese of the Church of South India.
Even during the war period the Day Cere Centers have been functioning with
the bare minimum situations, conditions, affairs and circumstances. The Day
Care Centers not only helped the working class of people who depend on hand
to mouth existence by leaving the children at the Day Care Centers to be fed but
also to be educated and nurtured in every aspect.
It is apt that for this reason nearly 25 years ago, the world made a promise to children: that we would do everything in our power to protect and promote their rights to survive and thrive, to learn and grow, to make their voices
heard and to reach their full potential. In spite of the overall gains, there are
many children who have fallen even further behind. Old challenges have combined with new problems to deprive many children of their rights and the benefits of development.
It is to be noted that the 20th of November marks the day on which the
Assembly adopted the Declaration of the Rights of the Child, in 1959, and the
Convention on the Rights of the Child, in 1989.
There are nine Day Care Centres run by the Centre for Holistic Healing
for which Dr. Mrs. Thaya Thiagarajah is the Director. They are Kilinochchi,
Murikandy, Shalom Nager, Mankulam, Thunnukai, Mallavi, Maravankulam,
Viwamadhu and Kalmadukulam. However, the demand for more Day Care
Centres has become a challenge as more displaced population are slowly getting settled in their land. The task of caring for the children seems to be a real
challenge for the centre with inadequate finance and trained teachers. Building
up the damaged Day Care Centre buildings is another monstrous task we face.
In spite of the entire obstacle, the centre’s main task remains the same
for the following reasons. Each Child is born with variety of talents. To bring
out the talent of each child helps to build their self esteem, and to promote
leadership skills. The kids absorb information and is most engaged when activities involve action and movement. If the children are guided in the right
path, we can certainly expect a healthy population in the future.
The International Children’s day provide the children to express freely
their hidden talents and the energy which helps to grow in any circumstance.
On the 7th of November 2014, all the preschool children and especially Day
Care Centre children celebrated the International Children’s day at Kilinochchi. A variety of entertainment programs were organized according their talents from the percussion band to dance, singing, and other different entertaining activities. Around five hundred children from the Day Care Centers
participated along with 40 teachers. The chief guest was our bishop the Rt.
Rev. Dr. Daniel S. Thiagarajah. Special guests from the community were the
person in-charge of Child Care Authority Centre, the Grama sevaka, the Principals of the schools, the security forces and the parents.
It is to be noted that this day was also observed to honour the little
children in various ways. The children were garlanded, given gifts and entertained in other ways. The area ministers the Rev. John Devasagayam, of the
Kilinochchi area and the Rev. S. Kuganeswaran, of Mullaitivu worked hard
with the help of the other priests of the Church to make the event a successful
one.
“Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for
the future”
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Carols of ‘Good News’ in the
War Hit Area of Vanni, Sri Lanka
Give me the money that has been spent in war and I will clothe every
man, woman, and child in an attire of which kings and queens will be proud.
I will build a schoolhaouse in every valley over the whole earth. I will crown
every hillside with a place of worship consecrated to peace. ~Charles Sumner
The thirteenth of December 2014 has to be inscribed in the history of the Jaffna Diocese of the church of South India. After thirty long years of war, years
of life spent in the interim camps, detention camps, temporary sheds for the
first time all the CSI churches is the Vanni gathered together for a meaningful
carol service. The every brick of the Church of Christ the King in Kilinochchi
rejoiced along with the survivors in celebrating the Combined carol service of
Vanni region.
The Diocese just went on with its ministry wherever and whenever
needed. It never hesitated to embrace those who came back to join the flock. It
was indeed a surprise to know that there are 18 CSI churches and Church Centres in the Vanni area. Twelve pastors are toiling day and night to make the the
message of Christmas “Peace on Earth and good will to men” a reality.
The churches participated are Church of Christ the King, Kilinochchi, St. James
Church Barathipuram, St. Paul’s Church Murikandy, St. Andrew’s Church
Mankulam, Holy Trinity Church Viswamadu, Shalomnagar Church, St. Mark’s
Church in Mallavi, Church of the Good Shepherd Chettikulam and Churches
in Akkarayan, Vavuniya, Adappankulam. Poovarasankulam, Maravankulam,
Kalmadukulam.
A New pulpit, donated by families of Rev. K.W. John Thevasagayam
family and Mr. K. Nadarajalingam was dedicated by the bishop the Rt. Rev.
Daniel S. Thiagarajah who also preached the first sermob from it.
The atmosphere of spiritual joy which is a state of the heart and the soul was felt
by everyone present. The serenity is produced when the Heart and Soul unite
in the service of a greater good such as the unfolding of the Divine Plan on the
wounded world. No doubt it created within each person a sense of contentment, acceptance, and serenity during the event.
After the carol service, the people were entertained with a variety of
entertainment from children of all churches in the Vanni. The Day Care Centre
teachers were honored with gifts by the Center for Holistic healing. A fellowship tea brought the day’s event to a close.
We Thank the Area ministers for Killinochchi and Vavuniya-Mullaitivu
viz., the Rev. John Devasagayam, and the Rev. Kuganeswarn and all the pastors
and church members who made this event a successful and meaningful one.
Such events, especially during the Christmas season, help the people to overcome the traumatic incidents of the past to be re-energized by the power from
above. There is no doubt that they carry the message of ‘peace’ to the community.
“Make me a channel of your Peace
Where there is hatred let me bring your love
Where there is injury your pardon Lord
and Where there is doubt true faith in you.”
(St. Francis of Assisi)
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Opening & Dedication of
Bishop Daniel Thiagarajah Child Care Centre,
Nuwera Eliya
The Reverend Sanjeewa Weerarathne’s initiation of establishing a Centre
for Children (boys) in Nuwera Eliya was realized on our Bishop’s 59th birthday
on 9th November 2014 when the new Home was declared open and dedicated
by the Bishop. The Executive Committee of the Jaffna Diocese of the Church of
South India (JDCSI) gladly accepted the proposal of Rev. Sanjeewa’s team that
it be named after our bishop as a mark of respect for the bishop and his services
in the Hill Country.
The function began after a Holy Communion worship at our church in
Nuwera Eliya conducted by the Rev. Dr J.G. Thiagarajah assisted by the Rev. S.
Yogeswaran. All dignitaries were taken in a grand procession to the location.
The Bishop blessed the centre after flag hoisting and speeches made by person-
nel from Child Protection Authority, Police Officers and other Officials present.
The function was graced by the presence of responsible personnel for
Child Care and pastors (Reverends D.S. Solomon, V. Pathmathayalan, S. Kuganeswaran. J.G. Thiagarajah, S. Daniel Mohan, V. Annalingam, S. Yogeswaran,
P.W. Nelson Balakumar, Jude Romesh Fernando & Daniel Sathees; Pastors
W.D. Sudath Sameera, Hewaranasinghalage Thisaru Gimhana Perera & Prema
Thennakoon & Lay Persons (Messrs N. Victor Jeyakumar and R.M. Ratnaraja)
from the diocese. The Rev. Sanjeewa Weerarathne also organized a fellowship
lunch at Race Course Hotel, Nuwera Eliya. The centre will start functioning in
January 2015.
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Deacon Ordination Service at Colombo Church
Five workers from the South of Sri Lanka and from Kurunagella received Deacons’ ordination on the 7th of
December 2014 at the CSI Colombo church. All those who get ordained are Sinhalese priests. The Service was
conducted in all three languages. More than 150 parishners from the areas of Kurunagelle, Bathegama, Galle,
Neluwa, Hambantota etc were present to witness the ordination. Bishop did the prayers for the ordination in
Sinhala language. Songs were sung in both languages. After the service all who attended participated in a fellowship breakfast.
Montessoris in the Vanni
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The Family Reunion...........
1st Page Continues
groups who have been estranged or separated, to restore and heal the broken
relationships between us, and it is important to open up to one another, clear
our prejudices, hurts, doubts etc.
Thus we planned a full day get-to-gather of all our clergy, the spouses
and the children as well at the Chavakachchei CSI Church on the 21st of December 2014 under the leadership of our Bishop Daniel S. Thiagarajah.
The presbyters, deacons, their spouses, their children and the workers
in the Diocesan office prayerfully started the day with praise and worship.
The clergy met with the Bishop in the church. They learned about the
tradition, symbol of the CSI and other related matters. The clergy had a good
opportunity to clear their doubts.
The children were taken care of by the older young children in the parish hall having games and other activities. The wives of the pastors had a good
time sharing their concerns with one another. Besides, Bishop Amma led a very
lively bible study cum stress management for the spouses of pastors.
The day’s programme ended up leaving a pleasant and happy feeling in
everyone’s heart. It is indeed the work of the Holy Spirit which inspiring each
and everyone to be reconciled and once again start the journey together in the
ministry.
In our experience of this particular day, the aspect of reconciliation, and
forgiveness which means complete and authentic acceptance of one another,
despite confusion, ignorance, offence, and other negative emotions was the act
of God. The forgiveness of God has different facets. There are several words
used for forgiveness in the Bible: three Hebrew words in the Old Testament and
four Greek words in the New Testament. The first Hebrew word is kafar, from
which we get the meaning “to cover,” as in “to cover or blot out our sins.” The
second word is nasa, which means “to bear, to take away.” The third word is
salach, which is used only with reference to God forgiving the sins of people. It
means “to pardon,” as in, “our God [who will] freely pardon” (Isaiah 55:7).
In the New Testament, first you find the Greek word apoluein, which
means “to release.” There also is the wonderful word charizomai, which comes
from the wordcharis, or “grace.” Charizomai means “to grace you,” to freely
give you heaven when you deserve hell. What a truly beautiful word! The third
word is aphesis, from the Greek word aphiemi, “to send away.” Finally, there is
paresis, which means “to disregard.” This word is used in the context that God
will not see our offenses, but rather will disregard them.
We all felt that Reconciliation is creating space for mutual acceptance
and restoration of our lives through worship, friendship and assistance.
21st December2014
Sophia
Page
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XI
‘Let Us Remember the purpose of the Birth of our Messiah’
“Best of all, Christmas means a spirit of love, a time when the love of God and the love of our fellow men should prevail over all hatred and bitterness, a time
when our thoughts and deeds and the spirit of our lives manifest the presence of God.”
- George F. McDougall
The season of Christmas brings joy and happiness to all. The commercialized cities, the cold dark slums, the Palace the houses with tattered roofs,
the adults the children ,the the rich and the poor. The difference is how we
celebrate it and where the people know the meaning of Christmas.
The Centre for Holistic Healing which came into being a few years ago, celebrated the birth of Messiah on the 14th of December 2014. The celebration
was a meaningful one considering the aim of our centre and the message of
the Birth of Messiah.
The word Messiah comes from the Hebrew word mashiach which
means the anointed one or “the chosen one.” The Greek equivalent word is
Christos which is in English, Christ. The name “Jesus Christ” is the same as
“Jesus the Messiah.” In biblical times, anointing someone with oil was a sign
that God was consecrating or setting apart that person for a particular role.
Thus, an “anointed one” was someone with a special, God-ordained purpose.
Jesus was ordained for a particular purpose by God. This is clearly said
in the Nazareth Manifesto by Jesus himself. We try to embrace this into our
ministry. “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to
bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives
and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim and
the year of the Lord’s favor.”(Luke 4;18-19)
The vision of our centre is ‘To stand in solidarity with the wounded
people, help them to heal the wounds in every way possible- both physical and
psychic trauma. In this way we give them courage to regain self respect, self
esteem and self determination’. In other words, coming of Messiah is to heal
the wounded people, sinners and bring the reign of God to the world.
Having this aspects in mind our centre organized a Christmas fellowship embracing the Mc.Leod Hospital, Green Memorial Hospital, the CSI
pleasant cottages of the elders’ home, the ‘Gitanjali Girls’ hostel for the Jaffna
university fine arts students, the 3ed batch of Diploma in counseling students,
the clients and the staff all of which come under the umbrella organization of
the Centre for Holistic Healing. Among the programs lighting of the oil lamp
the tradition of our culture by each member of the group, the opening worship
by the Rev. T.H. Vasanthakumar, chaplain, and the prayer by the Bishop the Rt.
Rev. Dr. Daniel Thiagrajah, and the ‘Thamil Vaalthu” by one of the students to
started the function.
The welcome dance ‘Baratha natyam’ by Sangeethavani from the Gitanjali Hostel was a treat to the audience. The welcome speech was rendered by
Dr. Mrs. Thayalini Thiagarajah, the director of the centre. Melodious Christmas songs were sung by the staff of the Elders’ Home, and the Green Memorial
Hospital accompanied by the back ground music of Mrs. Tharshini Daniel.
The centre continues its field work with the trained workers and midwives in the war zone areas. “Anpu (love), who was totally blinded by the war,
and his wife partially blinded were present with their child. Everyone was awe
stuck by the dance performed by him. Sasimal, who is a survivor of war entertained the audience with her singing.
Ms. Sasrubi, a B.Sc Nursing student, who finished her diploma in
counseling course in our centre, gave a brief introduction of the work of the
centre.
A silent drama staged by the counseling students with the message of
how to overcome the bad emotions replacing good emotions by coping mechanisms and overcoming trauma in our own context was well received by the
audience.
All the staff of the elders’ home and other members of the CHH were given
gifts by the centre as a token in appreciation of the hard work they do in the
mission of God for the upliftment of humanity.
Our sincere thanks to Ms. Prema the Warden of the Home for Elders,
Ms. Suganthi the assistant, Ms. Sasimala, the office assistant of CHH and all
others who helped in various ways to make the event relevant to all.
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