1Yazha Thoni

2 Yazha Thoni

OUR PROVINCIAL SPEAKS…Ever since I was installed as the Provincial of

Jaffna, on the 21st of May, 2008, the politicalsituation has become a complex reality in ourregion. The thirty- year war is now over (?) butthe complexity continues unabated. Thedestruction and loss caused to the resources ofthe country and to the whole population areimmense and irreparable. There still continuesamong the Tamil population a fear- psychosis, asense of hopelessness, loss, shame, humiliationand uncertainty about their present and future.Even in this uncertain and painful moment, it isconsoling that the members of the Provinceallow these realities to unfold into a new formof being Oblate Missionaries to address theemerging new ministries. Their commitment toserve the refugees in the IDP Camps, thedisplaced, the socially and mentally affectedvictims, to be with the sick and wounded in thehospitals is commendable. There are challengesand hurdles but we go forward trusting in theLord.

During the time spent as the Provincial Leader,I tried my best to address the following four areas;namely a) Emphasis on personal and collectiverenewal supported by strategies indicated andaccepted in the Immense Hope Project of theProvince b) Importance of the visitation of theProvincial leader to the members c) the presentpolitical realities be allowed to unfold into newway of being Oblates to respond to the signs ofthe times d) To become open to issues relatingto Justice and Peace and to foster peace, andHarmony among all citizens.

My grateful thanks go to all the members fortheir support and collaboration in our collectiveefforts to reorganize our disturbed ministries ina new environment. This is not easy at all to berooted in one place when you are uprooted andthrown out several times.

With our own limitations and failures,let uscontinue everything with a positive mind for thesake of our flock, “My sheep hear my voice, andI know them, and they follow me. And I give themeternal life, and they shall never perish; neithershall anyone snatch them out of my hand”, ( Jn.10/ 27-28).

Our particular thanksgo to His Lordship, theBishop of Mannar,R t . R e v. D r. R a y a p p uJoseph for allowing us tocontinue our differentministries in his Diocesetemporarily.

HEART-ACHING EXPERIENCEThe untimely demise of Rev. Fr.Philippiah

Jesunesan Omi is an irreparable loss to theProvince. He was a much loved and sought afterhuman person and Oblate. With outstandinghuman values and with a pleasant face andapproach he simply drew the attention of many.This was evident by the presence of the largegathering that thronged at his funeral servicesat St.Mary’s Cathedral, Jaffna on the 17th ofAugust. At the time of his death he was one ofthe Provincial Councillors, the Secretary of theprovincial Council, the Superior of De MazenodScholasticate, the Chairman of the formationcommittee and the supervisor of the Center forPeace and Reconciliation (CPR). It is remarkablethat he served as the General Councillor for Asia–Oceania.

Undoubtedly his passing away hascreated a deep void in our hearts and of coursein our Province at large. He was graduallybeginning to bring new life to us with his variedexperiences gained globally but God had his ownplans for Fr.Jesu. We, who are like fragile claypots, can do nothing but to accept theimpermanence of human power and to believeonly in the power of God, “For a thousand yearsin your sight are like yesterday when it is past,and like a watch in the night. You carry themaway like a flood; they are like a sleep. In themorning they are like grass which grows up; inthe morning it flourishes and grows up; in theevening it is cut down and withers” (Ps: 90/4-6).Jesu has kept the life span of seventy years. Asthere are others too who reflect on his death, Isalute our dear friend Jesu with the words, “Welldone, good and faithful servant; you werefaithful over a few things, I will make you a rulerover many things. Enter into the joy of your Lord”(Mt:25/21). May He rest in peace.

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RENEWAL PROGRAMME FOR THE WHOLE PROVINCERENEWAL PROGRAMME FOR THE WHOLE PROVINCERENEWAL PROGRAMME FOR THE WHOLE PROVINCERENEWAL PROGRAMME FOR THE WHOLE PROVINCERENEWAL PROGRAMME FOR THE WHOLE PROVINCE

20092009200920092009

The Oblates of the Jaffna Province gatheredtogether in Mannar and Jaffna for the annualrenewal programme. It was planned ahead bythe Provincial administration and accomplishedvery successfully. The first two weeks of August2009 ( 3rd – 14th) were grace-filled days to theprovince of Jaffna. Twenty five Oblates andfifteen Scholastics came together at“Gnanodhayam”, the Oblate Center for religiousStudies in Mannar, and twenty-two Oblates andthirteen Scholastics came together atThodarpaham, Jaffna for this renewalProgrammme. The animators were our dearOblates from India Anthony Jeevaratnam andFrancis Xavier. They did an excellent job fulfillingour expectations.

The theme they chose was “Personal andcollective renewal”. They developed the themesunder three areas namely: a)personal Identity-who am I as a Person-as an Oblate;b)Community- my relationship to the communityand c) the Oblate Mission in the present context.These reflections were treated by the animatorswith in- cooperated realities experienced by theTamil community in the aftermath of the thirtyyear war. The participants were actively andkeenly immersed in all the workshops, groupsharing and in listening to one another. It was aforum to identify the areas of concern in ourpersonal and community living, to learn to acceptour own vulnerability and to prayerfully addressthem to heal our wounds and our prejudicedminds towards the others. The participantsexpressed great satisfaction in the manner theywere treated in prayer and with meditationtechniques bringing new immense Hope to ourpersonal life. The animators did a good job and

Provincial’s VisitThe whole month of April 2009, I visited our

Oblate members working in Europe. FathersLinus and Amalathas(Paris), Anpurasa (Lourdes)Ratnaraja (Rome), Alrin (Denmark) andInpanathan (Norway) were visited by me.

I was with them listening and encouraging.We were able to regularize certain contracts andsome need more time and discernment. I wasvery happy to meet with the Bishop of Denmarkwho so nicely welcomed me and hosted mewith a sumptuous lunch. He helped us withsome mass stipends for which we are verygrateful. I can never forget the oblateCommunity in Denmark under the leadershipof Fr. Paulmarx Omi. It was really an oblate home

we hope to have such animation programme infuture as well. We are also aware that there isstill much need in our Province for continuedspiritual renewal and for active participationfrom the part of the members. There is also needto integrate both ministry and lives in ourpersonal witnessing. Sometimes we areabsorbed in our different ministries to the extentof forgetting our personal lives and witnessing. Iwas able to know myself and my limitationsthrough our open interaction we had in thecommon forum. Let us continue this spirit ofbeing supportive and standing for one another.Our sincere appreciation and gratitude are dueto the Oblate animators from India for theirpainstaking efforts to do their best andparticularly to Fr.Francis Nallapan OMI, theDelgation Superior for sending them here.

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Justice and Peace InitiativesFour of our members are working to

promote Peace through education, NVCprogrammes, seminars and other orientationProgrammes. This ministry is being looked uponwith suspicion by certain sector of people.

We have to carefully continue thisministry. Besides this, both the Provinces ofJaffna and Colombo are involved in the initialphase of Peace-Building Programmes initiatedby the general Administration and supported byMisereor.

M.Paul Nadchethiram Omi

A VERY BIG “THANK” TO YOU ALL

Words are insufficient to express our gratitude to you allfor the valuable and timely assistance that you so generouslyrendered to Fr. Jesunesan omi during his stay at the NationalHospital, Borella and at the Home for the Elders of the LittleSisters of the Poor.

We, the Oblates of the Jaffna Province, are in a specialway very grateful and indebted to Frs. ClementWaidiyasekara omi, Srian Ranasinghe omi, Noel Dias,Dileepa Jayamaha omi, Kelum Dias omi, Basti omi, Bros.Lebourn and Patrick Prasanth for all the assistance rendered.

Our deep sentiments of gratitude are due to the LittleSisters of the Poor at Darly Road, Maradana, for theirindefatigable service to Fr. Jesu. Their personal care andconcern for him are commendable. Dear sisters, we reallyvalue your services. We thank the Doctors, Nurses andAttendants of the National Hospital and all those who helpedus in various ways.

You all showed your love and solidarity, as children of God.We remain very grateful to you all. Please be assured of ourcontinued support and prayers

for me. I enjoyed their oblate hospitality duringmy stay there. They paid my air ticket from Paris- Denmark - Norway - Paris. I am very grateful tothem. Most importantly the Jaffna Provinceremains indebted to the Oblate Community inDenmark for their generous support andassistance to the Province. We greatly value theirgenerosity. My sincere thanks to all of you dearAlrin, Ratna, Linus, Amal, Anpu and Inpa for

welcoming me to your places and for your loveand concern extended. It is my responsibility tovisit you now and then, which I hope to do. Inthe meantime I wish you all the best in yourplaces. Take care of your health please andcontinue to pray for one another.

I visited Fr. Alfred who was recently releasedfrom the IDP camp and presently stationed atGnanodhayam, Mannar and Fr. Reginald who isstill kept at the Ananthakumaraswami - IDP camp.

Dear Rev. Fathers and Sisters,

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REMEMBERING FR. JESUNESAN Omi

I venture to recall a few sacred memories ofRev. Fr. Philippaia Jesunesan, OMI, whom we callaffectionately Fr. Jesu.

It is with profound sorrow, sympathy, love andaffection, I record the demise of Fr. Jesunesan.Of the nine children, six boys and three girls, hewas the last gift of God to his parents, Mr. andMrs. Caitampillai Philippaia and GnannammaAnnamma. He was born on September 19th, 1939in Puloli, Point Pedro. He was, indeed, a specialblessing of God to his family. Being the youngestin the family, he was the butt of special affectionand love of all in the family. He was born in aGod-fearing family, where a sure foundation waslaid for his future vocation for religious andpriestly life.

Fr. Jesus had his primary and secondaryeducation at St. Patrick’s College, Jaffna, wherehe already had a solid and sound foundationunder the guidance of the Oblate Fathers.Thereafter, he joined the Oblate Juniorate atKohuwela, Nugegoda to study Latin language,and proceeded to the Novitiate in Bandarawela.He made his first religious profession on August15th, 1959. Then he joined the Oblatescholasticate, Ampitiya, Kandy and did hisphilosophical and theological studies at theNational Seminary, Ampitiya. He was ordained apriest of God at St. Mary’s Cathedral, Jaffna, onDecember 21st, 1965, by his Lordship bishopJerome Emilianuspillai, Omi.

Fr. Jesu possessed many excellent qualities.He had inherited a faith built on the faithfulnessof his parents. His was a cause, worth committinghimself to. With single mindedness andsimplicity of life style, he, being not encumberedwith inessentials, was able to measure up to thedemands of a true disciple of Christ.

He engaged himself in several ministries,especially preaching, teaching, formation,

spiritual guidanceand parish. Theauthorities, recog-nizing in him hiscapabilities, committed him to thepreaching ministryas his first assignment. He excelledin this ministry sowell that he even joined a group of senior Oblatepreacher to conduct a grand mission in India.Young Fr. Jesu was not second to none in thisministry. He was not at all a budding preacher,but already a preacher par excellence, admiredby one and all. He could keep his hearers, youngand old, spell bound by his humorous and wittyexpressions, yet, opening their hearts to truth.In fact, later on he was assigned to work in Indiaas a missionary for a few years.

In the field of education, he exhibited histalents, especially during the period he heldoffice as the Vice Rector of St. Patrick’s College,Jaffna. His teaching was always lively andenlivening, and brought light into others’ lives.He disciplined the students with love, correctedthem wisely and understood each of the studentsin his uniqueness. He knew how to prod thehesitant, curb the rash ones, and never quenchtheir love for life. He also knew how much todemand and what to overlook. He affirmed theirworth, their life’s beauty and their gifts. Hehandled them understandingly and not feel putout when a youth acted out.

In his formation ministry he was a person whoexpressed willingness to have dialogue witheveryone. His concerns for others went beyondthe parameters of the institution, so to say,always directed to the welfare of the formandi.Every moment was precious to him in thepresence of God. He had a set time-table for each

6 Yazha Thoni

of his duties through proper education and sterndiscipline. Above all, he had to set an exemplaryexample and great sense of dedication in thedischarge of his duties. He is certainly a proudproduct of the congregation.

Within two years of tenure of office as theProvincial of the Jaffna Province, he was electedto the post of General Councillor for Asia -Oceania. For full six years he held this post, andduring this period his commendable contributionto the General Administration towards thewelfare of the congregation was very significantand magnanimous. On his return to the Province,he took charge of Amalautpavam, home forretired priests, in Jaffna. After a year he acceptedthe responsibility entrusted to him as thesuperior of the Scholasticate at Colombuthurai,Jaffna, without hesitation.

Fr. Jesu was a man of God who mirrored thequalities expected of him. He had a care freeheart to see the one great truth, God alonematters. His prayer life was not seen duringprayer. It was seen in his spontaneous commentsand reactions. He communicated great serenityand warmth and a good understanding of thehuman heart that, no wonder, people of all walksof life were drawn to confide to this man of God.He would admit a laugh at his inevitablemistakes. He had the heart to enjoy thenumberless occasions for laughter, but never inscorn or the desire to hurt another. He was onewho could feel at home with any one and at anyplace. He taught the others the essential thingsof life in simple ways. He even believed that theworld could be a better place because of him.The beautiful memories that Fr. Jesu left behindwill ever remain green in our hearts.

Though Fr. Jesu was crippled with dreadedillness, he was never overtaken by despair ordisillusion. On the contrary, he remained closeto his master experiencing him as his lifelong

companion. After a brief illness borne patientlyin peace with the crucified Saviour, he passedaway on August 13th, this year. On the 17th ofAugust, after the last funeral services performedat St. Mary’s Cathedral, Jaffna, presided over bythe Provincial of the Jaffna Province, Very Rev Fr.Paul Nadchethiram, OMI, amidst a great numberof priests, religious men and women and laity,the remains of our dear Fr. Jesunesan wereinterned in St. Mary’s burial ground, Jaffna.

“We thank you, Lord, for making Fr. Jesunesancapable of such love. We thank you for thebeauty we have discovered in him,the sparklein his eyes, the gesture of tenderness,the warmth glow of his face,The radiance thatcame from within his heart. Tiny though hislife be compared to your splendour, What alovely ray it was, and what unspeakablebeauty it has shown us. Having awakened hisheart through life’s tender touch, lead him tothe unending ecstasy for which you createdhim.”

Rev. Fr. P.P. Philip OmiSuperior, ‘Amala Utpavam’,

Columbuthurai.

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PLACEMENTSPLACEMENTSPLACEMENTSPLACEMENTSPLACEMENTS

Rev. Fr. F. A. Thevaraj Omi was installedby Very Rev. Fr. Provincial on the First of June2009, as the Superior of the Preaching Communityat Vavuniya in the presence of many Oblatesfrom Mannar- Vavunia Districts. With hisexperience in the preaching ministry for a longperiod and his new knowledge of mass mediacommunication, Theva will bring new life to thePreaching Community. The Oblates of the JaffnaProvince heartily congratulate Fr.Theva on hissuccessful completion of his studies in Manilawith M.A., degree in Mass Media Communication.All the best Theva.

Rev. Fr. A. Confucious Omi is appointedthe vice Rector of St.Joseph’s Juniorate,Columbuthurai, and will serve also as the bursarof the Community. He has already taken up hisresidence there. It is to be noted thatFr.Confucious was working in Mullaitivu at ourPsycho-Social Center, “Amaithy Thendral” withthe Director Fr. Maria Sebastian. We are certainthat Fr.Confucious will give his best to theformation of the young candidates, and supportFr. G. Wenceslaus omi, the Rector in all hisendeavors.

Rev. Fr. Eugene Amalraj Omi, whowas ordained on 18.6.2009, is appointed theassistant Pastor of the Oblate Parish, Happutale.He will assist Fr.G.Atputharajah OMI. Fr. Amal, wewish you a pleasant stay at this salubrious stationand a successful ministry. You will do well in yourresponsibilities as you begin your first ministry.All the best.

Rev. Fr. A. Sylvester Omi, who wasinvolved very enthusiastically in the Parish ofHaputale as co-pastor, has been appointedDirector of the Oblate Social Service(OSS) of ourProvince and is stationed at Vavunia to ministeramong the people who became socially andeconomically poor and destitute due to 30 yearwar. He will also concentrate on the welfare ofthe returnees from the Refugee camps. Rev. Frs.Yogarjah Omi, Meno Basti Omi and Godfrey JoelOmi will be coordinating the OSS with Fr.Sylvesterfor Mannar, Jaffna and Trincomalee respectively.

Rev. Fr. Francis Daniel Omi flew toLondon on the 22nd of June 2009, and wasassigned to a Parish in Kilburn. He has to cookhis own meals besides his pastoralresponsibilities. Danie, we are a little sad thatyou may not have sufficient time to talk if youare confined to the Kitchen. Wish you a happystay and a successful Ministry over there.

Rev. Fr. A. Emmanuel Omi is continuingthe ministry of teaching to the students of Vanniat Arunachalam Relief Centre, at Cheddikulam.He was the Pastor at Amathy Puram, OblateMission in Kilinochchi, and now he has movedout of Vanni with his people. He is temporarilyresiding at Cheddikulam. He also helps the Pastorof Cheddikulam for Sunday masses. Heconducted a seminar for three months for 50Catholic students who were preparing to sit theG C E A/L. examination which was organized bythe Department of Education. Being aGovernment teacher, he takes up Mathematicsfor the G C E O/L students, English andChristianity for the G C E A/L students. We arehappy to note that our Oblates move with thepeople wherever they go. Best of luck.

Rev. Fr. Meno Basty Jayantha Omi isappointed the secretary to the Provincial. He willcoordinate also the services of OSS in Jaffna andthe publication of Yazaha-Thoni- our News Letter.Being a person with various gifts and talents, Bastiwill contribute much to the Province. He hasalready laid a good foundation for his service.Well begun is half done but a caution: this is onlyyour first Obedience.

Rev. Fr. A. Jesurajan Omi is appointedChaplain of Vavunia Hospital and the College ofEducation. He will take up residence at thePreaching Community at “Amathi Aham”,Vavuniya, forming part of the Community. Weare certain that he will do this ministry well withhis knowledge and experience gained in Indiathrough many work-shops.

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Fr. General will be arriving in Sri Lanka on 30.12.2009.His presence in our Province is scheduled from the 12th

of December, 2009. He will preach the annual retreatfor the Oblates of the Province of Jaffna from the 14th

of Dec, 2009, at Sangamam, Kopay, Jaffna.

The Organizing Committee for the visit of Fr.GeneralRev. Fathers F.L.N. Croos (Chairman) S. Damian, P. Mahesan,S. Peter , J. Beshman and M. Basti

Accomodation: Fr. C. S. Croos

Meals: Fr. M.Sebamalai Perera

Transportation: Fr. J.S.Rene Beshman

“IN A DAY, WHEN YOU DON’T COME ACROSS ANY PROBLEMS,YOU CAN BE SURE THAT

YOU ARE TRAVELLING IN A WRONG PATH”- Swami Vivekananda

Rev. Fr. S.J. Francis Omi is appointedthe resident Spiritual Director at De MazenodScholasticate, Columbuthurai. He will assumethis new responsibility from the 1st of October,2009. Our Scholastics will greatly benefit fromhis spiritual wealth. Thank you Father foraccepting this important ministry. We value thepresence of senior Oblates like you in ourFormation Houses.

Rev. Fr. M. Sebamalai Perera Omi isappointed the Director of our Wholistic HealthCentre (WHC) Jaffna with effect from the 1st of

September, 2009. Presently Fr.Sebamalai is thehospital Chaplain in Jaffna and the Bursar of theprovincial House. He shoulders this new post asan additional responsibility. He succeeds Fr.Soosai Damian OMI.

Rev. Fr. P. Vimalarajan Omi isappointed the co-vocation promoter of ourProvince. He will cover the districts of Mannar,Vavuniya and Trincomalee. Vimal can catch lot ofyoungsters when he moves about in differentParishes to preach the Word of God. Vimal, weare sure that you will make use of the opportunitywell.

THE VISIT OF MOST REV. FATHER SUPERIOR GENERAL

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The Visit of Most Rev. Fr. Superior General:

Our Superior General Most Rev. FatherWilhelm Steckling Omi will be visiting ourProvince and will be with us from the 12th to the23rd December, 2009. He will preach the AnnualRetreat to the Oblates at Sangamam, Kopay,Jaffna from the 14th - 18th. His schedule for therest of the days will be notified to you later.

The Provincial Council that met on16.08.2009 appointed Rev. Frs. F.L.N. Croos(Chairman), S. Damian, P. Mahesan, S. Peter,J. Beshman and M. Basti as members of theOrganizing Committee for the visit of Fr. General.

Rev. Fr. Eugene Benedict Omi, after havingserved as the Director of JRS in Trincomalee, leftfor Rome to pursue his post graduate studies onFamily and Marriage. The Province whishes hima pleasant stay at the Oblate General House anda successful study programme. Come out withflying colours.

Rev. Fr. A. Linus Soysa Omi took up theresponsibi lity as the Chaplain of the TamilCatholic Communiy in France on 22nd August,2009. He was in Paris studying French almost forone year prior to his assuming the Chaplaincy.With his knowledge and experience as a seniorOblate, he will serve well our people over there.The province wishes him a fruitful ministry.

Rev. Fr. S. Philips Omi, left for USA on26.04. 2009 to be with his family members andreturned to the Province on 11.07.2009. In hisabsence Rev. Fr. C.s. Croos omi, took charge ofthe Shrine of our Lady of Good Voyage, Chaddy.Stan, be careful of your weight, we are reallyconcerned about you.

Rev. Fr. P. Benignus Omi, being theDirector of Anpaham, is busy organizing thereturn of our orphans. Presently he is buildingsome sheds, study hall and other residentialfacilities to our orphan children in Mannar. He isalso visiting the internally displaced people inthe camps and helps our Oblates in their socialassistance.

“IF YOU JUDGE PEOPLE YOU HAVE NO TIME TO LOVE THEM”

- MOTHER TERESA

Rev. Fr. A. Jeevendra Paul Omi, the GrantDirector of the Missionary Oblates of MaryImmaculate, Rome, was in Sri Lanka during themonth of May. He visited the internally displacedpeople in the camps both in Jaffna and Vavuniya.Along with Fr. Provincial, he held meetings withthe Oblates in Jaffna and Vavuniya and expressedhis support and collaboration in our efforts toprovide immediate relief to the refugees and theinternally displaced people.

WELCOME BACK Fr. AMALRev. Fr. Arulraj Amalathas Omi has

returned to the Province after serving for six yearsin France as the Chaplain to the Tamil Catholicsin France. Fr. Amal has done a wonderful job inFrance and has won the great admiration of thepeople. Fr Amal! While congratulating you foryour excellent service to the people in Franceand for your love for the Province, we wish youwell in your new ministry, as the Director ofSangamam at Kopay. Well done Fr. Amal

Mission Superior of South Korea:Rev. Fr. S. James Jeyachandran Omi, the

Mission Superior of South Korea, was in Sri Lankafor a short holiday. He visited his home town,Urumpirai, and met his friends and relatives. Hereturned to the Mission on the 18th of August,2009. It was a pleasure to meet him after a longtime. It was unfortunate that we could not spendquality time with him as we all were busy withthe Renewal Programme.

News and Views

10 Yazha Thoni

Our Scholastic Brothers Packianathan Christy Nirmalarajan andRobert Robinson made their Final Profession of Vows in the OblateCongregation, on the 18th of July at St. Joseph’s Juniorate Chapel,Columbuthurai in the presence of the Oblates, the Diocesan clergyand relatives of both candidates. Fr. Provincial officiated at theliturgical services.On the following day, both of them were ordained deacons in thesame chapel by His Lordship Rt. Rev.Dr.Thomas Savundaranayagam,the Bishop of Jaffna. Presently both of them are exercising theirministry , Bro. Christy with Fr. Alban Rajasingam Omi atVanchiyankulam and Bro. Robinson with Fr. Vincent Patrick Omiat Center for rehabilitation of Alcoholic and Drug Addicts (CRADA)in the diocese of Mannar. We wish them a successful pastoralministry under our senior Oblates.

JOINT PREPARATION FORFINAL COMMITMENT

Scholastic Brothers from Colombo and JaffnaProvinces, together with the Scholastics fromPakistan Delegation, began a one-month jointpreparation in view of perpetual vows at the Pre-Novitiate at Maggona on the 25th August, 2009.There are eleven scholastics from our Provinceparticipating. Fr.Emmanuel Fernando Omi iscoordinating the Programme. Our ProvincialSuperior Fr.M.Paul Nadchethiram Omi also tooktwo lectures for the scholastics. They will be atMaggona till the 25th of September. It is a God-given opportunity for our scholastics to have anintense preparation with deep prayer andreflection.

Third year Scholastic Brothers A. Vimalanathan,V. Anton Justin, A. Theva Vasantharasa,J. Robinson Satheeskumar, J. Gerald, S. Reginald,S. Antony Sebastian Reval, S. Arul Sutharson, S.Patrick Leo and P. Antony Jesuthasan wereadmitted for the renewal of their vows for oneyear at the Provincial Council meeting held onthe 16th of August, 2009.

Fourth year Scholastic Brothers P.M. MatahnRaj, M. Jegan Kumar Coonghe, T. Jeno Harance, J.Lebourn Suthan and S. Philip Ranajana Kumarwere admitted for the renewal of their vows forone year at the Provincial Council meeting heldon the 16th of August, 2009.

FIRST VOWSFive Novices from the Province of Jaffna, Bros.

K. Bede Sujaharan, S. J. Surenthiraraj, A.X.Amalaraj, F. Srikanth and A. Siyanstan Jenis madetheir first profession of Vows on the 22nd ofAugust , at Sacred Heart Novitiate, Banadarawela.The Provincials of Colombo and Jaffna receivedthe vows of their respective candidates. Rt. Rev.Dr. Ponniah Joseph, the auxiliary Bishop of Trinco-Batti presided over the Eucharist. There werepresent a number of Oblates, religious andrelatives of the Novices. Though the climateturned unfavourable, the ceremony went onwell. Congratulations brothers! They willproceed to the Oblate Scholasticate, Ampitya topursue their philosophical studies at the NationalSeminary.

RENEWAL OF VOWS

First year Scholastic Brother S. Alstan Rochewas admitted for the renewal of his vows forone year at the Provincial Council meeting heldon the 16th of August, 2009.

Second year Scholastic Brothers T. Jesupalan,A. Jesuraj Croos, J. Alphonse Seger, S.Varatharajan Croos, L. Regini jude Avalin, M.Deloshan Rajeeve, M. Patrick Prasanth and J.Sahayarajan Lambert were admitted for therenewal of their vows for one year at theProvincial Council Meeting held on the 16th ofAugust, 2009.

FORMATION

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Four pre-Novices from our Province, namely.Thires Puspam Jenistan benedict, SanthioguVincent Michael, Vethanayagam Anucious andGerman Brighten Fernando were initiated intothe Novitiate Programme on the 21st of August,at the Novitiate, Bandarawela by Fr.ClementWaidiyasekara Omi, the Provincial Superior ofColombo Province. Our Provincial too waspresent on the occasion. They were wellprepared by Fr.Jerome Lambert Omi, the Directorof the Pre-Novitiate. Thank you Jerome for yourclose accompaniment with them.

St. Joseph’s Juniorate

All the six students, Thomas Marious Croos,Santhiyapillai Santhirathas, S. JesuratnamJeevaratnam, Rasathurai Vimal Raj, CanijudeBenet Singer and Xavier Justin Rajah.who sat theEnglish Entrance Examination of the NationalSeminary, Kandy, from our Oblate Juniorate,passed successfully. They will be moving toGnanodayam, Mannar after a month holiday to

prepare themselves to enter the pre-Novitiate.Fr. G. Wenceslaus Omi, the Director of theJuniorate is very proud of their (his)achievements. He toiled hard to make themlearn the English Language. Congratulationsboys and the Rector. If you have any confusionin future, you can consult Fr. Confucious Omi,who is fresh on the staff.

OUR NOVICES

The Death of Another Son of De Mazenod

The Oblates of the Jaffna Province have experiencedanother irreparable loss by the death of Rev. Fr. Mariampillai,Pavilupillai OMI. Fr. Pavilupillai was born on the 19th ofOctober, 1921 at Sillalai, Jaffna. He pronounced his firstprofession of religious vows on the 08th of September, 1946and made his final profession on the 08th of September, 1949.He was ordained a priest on the 06th of July, 1952 in Rome. Heserved the Lord and His people in various capacities. Fr. Pavibreatehed his last on the 08th of September, 2009. The funeralservices took place on the 10th of September, 2009, at StMary’s Cathedral Jaffna, and his mortal remains wereinterned in St. Mary’s burial ground, Jaffna.

May He Rest in Peace

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Rev. Fr. A.V. Alfred Omi, who was at Zone04 Relief Centre at Cheddikulam, Vavuniya,taking care of the children of Anapham, wasreleased on the 25th of August. He is at“Gnanodhayam” (Oblate Center for ReligiousStudies) in Mannar. He continues his teachingministry temporarily at Pesalai, Mannar, whilevisiting our Children now and then. He isteaching science to the GCE O/ L students, andEnglish and Christianity to the students of GCEA/L . The province owes him a lot as he remainedtill the end with the children and brought themout safe. His heart must be still with the childrenbut he needs some rest and recuperation. Welldone Allu. You are soft but strong. Relax.

Rev. Fr. S. E. Reginald Omi is still stationedat the Anandakumaraswami Relief Centre atCheddikulam. We expected his release with theother Priests but was postponed. We hope andpray that Fr.Regie comes out soon and joins us.He is a little relaxed as he is with his parents.Regie, we are with you, concerned about you andpraying for you incessantly.

The Emergency Relief for the I.D.P in SahanagamaWelfare Centre Pulmoddai, Trincomalee

Nearly 1500 internally displaced families arestationed at the Sahanagama Welfare Centre, atPulmoddai, Trincomalee. It is 80 miles away fromour Oblate House. Fathers Antony Poncian,Godfrey Joel and myself were able to reach thecentre with much difficulty to assist the people. Priorpermission had to be obtained from the Local CivilAuthorities to visit as well as to assist the samewith cooked food and milk-food and other essentialitems. We, as Oblates, were able to be presentamong the suffering people and help them in everyway possible.

Fr. Jeevanadas Fernando Omi

Mission and Ministry

Fr. C. S. Croos Omi, in the absence ofFr. S. Philips OMI, took charge of the Shrine ofOur Lady of Good Voyage, Chaddy, and Jaffnaand continued the regular services at the Shrinewhile enthusiastically organized the feasts of St.Philip Neri’s Church and St. Mary’s Church atAllaipiddy. He also preached to the Jaffnadenary Fathers for the monthly day of recol-lection that was held at the Bishop’s House,Jaffna. Fr. Stan Philips OMI may have to undo somany things.

Narrow Escape

Rev. Fr. S.M. Sebastian Omi and Bro.Amirtharaj Daberera Omi met with anaccident on the Mannar-Vavuniya road whilereturning after visiting the IDP camps. Bro. Amirsustained a fracture in his leg while Fr.Seba had abig wound and minor injuries. Thank God theyare fine now though Amir took many days fortreatment at Vavuniya hospital. The motor cycleis repaired now and is being used by Fr.Seba. Becareful when you go behind long vehicles.

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Psycho-socio-spiritual Renewal Programmeat Thalvupadu, Mannar

Preparative work was initiated by visitinghouses at random for one month prior to the actualprogramme. Antagonism towards us and ourwork, particularly from those seriously addictedones, was expressed resentfully against renewal.We also observed that there was lack of unitybetween some of the egocentric youths and thepublic. This sort of anti-feeling was expressed bynearly 4% of the population at Thalvupadu, while36% remained passive and 50% of the peopleexpressed their desire to help us in this project.

15.08.2009 - 30.08.2009

Rev. Fr. P. Mahesan Omi , the Director of CPRwith the help of a few NGOs conducted seminarsto 45 pre-school teachers on various topicsrelated to Peace, Justice and Non-ViolentCommunication at schools for three months.

The certificate awarding ceremony took placeon the 21st of July 2009 with cultural programmes.

The Director of Education for Nallur zone, whowas the chief guest among many other guestsfrom the NGOs, honored the programme by hispresence. The participating teachers were verygrateful to CPR for the very relevant and usefultopics treated and requested the CPR to conductsuch seminars in all schools. Fr. Praveen is to becommended for the excellent organization.

Centre for Peace and Reconciliation

for the planning of the project. A systematic planof action was made.

In project proper, all the houses were visited,totalling 480 families. Eight psycho-social helpersvisited the houses and filled up the forms. ThenRev. Fr. Leon, Rev.Fr. Beno Omi , Rev. Fr.Yogaraj Omi, Rev. Fr. Jesurajan Omi and 4 OblateBrothers blessed all the houses. 114 men havebeen found addicted to alcoholism. The peoplewere open in exposing their problems particularlyrelated to addiction. We were able to identify theaddicts with the support given by their wives andchildren. The courageous attitude of the wives andchildren towards identifying the addicts isremarkable. On the part of the addicts, theirreadiness to give up addiction was positive. Ourfrequent visits to the affected families were takenup well by the families concerned. Our visits lateat night were welcomed without any remorse.

Shifting of the toddy tavern far away fromthe public:

A meeting was held under the leadership of theParish Priest for the tavern owners and villageleaders. Consequently in that meeting, the followingdecisions were made:

I. Shifting of the toddy tavern far away fromthe public;

A net work was created having the core groupconsisting of Rev. Fr. Stephen the Parish Priest,some active members from the Parish Council, afew Catholic Youth Union members and the keymembers of the community-based-organizations.The creative participation of the Parish Priest washighly appreciated. This consistent support madea great impact on the smooth implementation ofthe said project. Group meetings were organized

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II. Reduction of selling hours to one hour inthe morning and two hours in the evening.

Awareness programmes to parents, students,youth, and village leaders were organized at grouplevel. Non-violent communication, life skills, andstrategy to overcome addiction were some of thetopics covered during the session.

The special feature of this event is the successfulaccomplishment of the residential addictiontreatment camp. 29 Beneficiaries came forwardvoluntarily for this treatment camp.

Medical treatment was attended by medicalofficers from Mannar Hospital.

Dr. Ganeshan, a well-known psychiatrist camefrom Colombo as a special resource person. Hehighly appreciated this venture emphasizing on thepositive outcome of this project.

Individual counselling, family counselling, groupcounselling, meditation, street dramas entertainmentprogrammes and documentary film shows weresome of the special features that highlighted thisproject.

Eucharistic rally was arranged on29.08.2009:

The whole village was joyously involved in thepreparation for this gracious occasion. Rev. Fr.Rockson, Rev. Bro. Robinson Omi and Rev.Fr.Jerome Lambert Omi were the preachers. The finalblessing was given by Very Rev Fr. Victor Sosai,the Vicar General.

Thanksgiving concelebrated Mass waspresided over by Rev. Fr. Xavior cross, the formerVicar General. Rev. Fr. Vincent Patrick Omipreached the homily at which he reiterated theprinciples for happy life without alcohol.

Finally a cultural programme from 6.45 pm to10.15 pm was held. The whole village attendedthis programme. Drama competition, dances,meaningful songs, and action demonstrations werestaged, motivating the public for a new life withoutsocial evils.

Our team consisted of eight trained psychosocial helpers, four Oblate Priests, four Oblatebrothers, and three psychiatric workers from Mental Health Unit, Mannar hospital.

Plan for sustainability:* Daily follow up programme for the beneficiaries

from 5.00 pm to 8.00 p.m.

* Monthly gathering on the last sunday of everymonth.

* Strengthening youths through residential threeday awareness programme in September.

* Strengthening women through residential threeday awareness programme in October.

* Monthly cultural programme emphasizingpositive outlook on life.

Fr. Vincent Patrick OmiThe Director, CRADA,

Konnaian Kudirruppu, Mannar.

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The Jubilarians of the Year - 2009

Silver Jubilee of Religious LifeRev. Fr. Edmund Reginald Omi celebrated the Silver

Jubilee of his Religious Life on the 8th of September, 2009.It is very unfortunate that he still stays at theAnanthakumaraswami – IDP camp at Cheddikulam withhis parents. He was lovingly remembered and prayed forduring the mass on the 8th of September, the day of hisOblation. Dear Fr. Regie we assure you that we are takingall the necessary steps to take you out as early as possible.

Dear Jubilarians we congratulate and wish you manymore years of fruitful service in the vineyard of the

Lord.

The Jubilee of these Oblates will be celebrated in December at theconclusion of the Retreat.

Fifty years as Oblate ReligiousRev. Frs. Celestine Soosaithasan Croos Omi, S.M.

Selvaratnam Omi, Stanislaus Philips Omi and P. Jesunesan Omicompleted fifty years of religious life on the 15th of August,2009. They made their first profession of vows as Oblates onthe 15th of August ,1959. We the members of the JaffnaProvince join them in thanking God for the gift of religious lifethat God has generously blessed them with.

Silver Jubilee of PriesthoodRev. Fr. Victor Jeyasingham Omi celebrated the Silver

Jubilee of his Priesthood on the 2nd of May. He was ordaineda Priest of God on the 2nd of May, 1984 in Jaffna . At presentFr. Jeyasingham is serving the Tamils at Plermo, Italy. DearFr. Jeya, we wish you well and pray that God may bless youwith many more fruitful years of service in his vineyard.

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The Birthdays, the Feast days and the OrdinationAnniversaries of our Oblates

Month of September03rd September Fr. Chandrabose Croos Birthday 195904th September Fr. Vincent Patrick Ordination 198112th September Fr. A. Francis Kulas Birthday 1924

Fr. G. Wenceslaus Birthday 196913th September Fr. Jeevendra Paul Birthday 195517th September Fr. Linus Soysa Birthday 195619th September Fr. Jacob Yogarajah Ordination 199420th September Fr. C. Soosaithasan Croos Birthday 193723rd September Fr. Linus Soysa Feast24th September Fr. S. Joseph Francis Birthday 1933

Fr. Jeevanathas Fernando Birthday 195626th September Fr. S. Damian Feast27th September Fr. A. B. Vincent Feast28th September Fr. Jeyarajan Coonghe Birthday 1974

Fr. Wenceslaus Feast29th September Fr. Edmund Michael Feast30th September Fr. Jerome Lambert Feast

Month of October02nd October Fr. A. Amalathas Birthday 197103rd October Fr. Eugene Amalaraj Birthday 197605th October Fr. Jerome Lambert Ordination 1981

Fr. Francis Daniel Ordination 196807th October Fr. M. Sebamalai Perera Feast

Fr. S. Sebamalai Thuram Feast11th October Fr. Sebamalai Anpurasa Birthday 197016th October Fr. Patrick Gnanapragasam Birthday 194517th October Fr. Anthony Sylvester Birthday 196919th October Fr. Anthony Sylvester Ordination 200221st October Fr. H. Vethanayagam Feast

Fr. Antony Poncian Ordination 1998

29th October Fr. Benedict Eugene Birthday 1970

Month of November11th November Fr. Confucious Birthday 197812th November Fr. T. Edwin Ordination 200719th November Fr. Antony Poncian Birthday 196522ndNovember Feast of Christ the king:

Fr. G. AtputharajahFr. Sebamalai AnpurasaFr. Vijayakamalan AlfredFr. Emmanuel RatnarajFr. P. Vimalarajan

Fr. V. A. Jerome Feast

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Fr. M. Anton JesurajanFr. Jeyarajan Coonghe

23rd November Fr. J. J. Bernard Birthday 1974

24th November Fr. Vijayakamalan Alfred Birthday 1976

Month of December01st December Fr. Edmund Michael Birthday 194403rd December Fr. Francis Daniel Feast

Fr. S. Joseph Francis FeastFr. A. Francis Kulas FeastFr. Francis Loshington Feast

06th December Fr. Sebasty Nicholas FeastFr. N. Chandrabose Croos Feast

08th December Fr. S.M. Selvaratnam FeastFr. Juvanal Kamalanathan Bithday / FeastFr. Jeevanathas Fernando Ordination 1990

13th December Fr. Confucious Ordination 200717th December Fr. Peter Rajanayagam Ordination 200518th December Fr. S. M. Selvaratnam Birthday 194121st December Fr. Emmanuel Jesuthasan Ordination 1964

Fr. Edmund Michael Ordination 1970Fr. S.M. Selvaratnam Ordination 1966Fr. Stanislaus Philips Ordination 1966

23rd December Fr. Jeyanthan Pachchek Birthday 197025th December Fr. Emmanuel Jesuthasan Birthday/Feastday 1940

Fr. A. Emmanuel Feast27thDecember Fr. Sebamalai Thuram Birthday 1953

Editorial board:Rev. Frs. F.L.N. Croos, P.P.Philip , S.P. Mahesan & D.A. M. Basti JayanthaRev. Frs. F.L.N. Croos, P.P.Philip , S.P. Mahesan & D.A. M. Basti JayanthaRev. Frs. F.L.N. Croos, P.P.Philip , S.P. Mahesan & D.A. M. Basti JayanthaRev. Frs. F.L.N. Croos, P.P.Philip , S.P. Mahesan & D.A. M. Basti JayanthaRev. Frs. F.L.N. Croos, P.P.Philip , S.P. Mahesan & D.A. M. Basti Jayantha