Majority of Lankans survive on a single daily meal: Cardinal

by Norman Palihawadane

Colombo Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith says that the majority of people in the country manage on only a single meal a day.Addressing the Colombo Regional Catechists Day held at Good Shepherd Convent, Kotahena, the Cardinal said that the prevailing country situation is so desperate that people cannot find food. Majority of families have come down to consuming only a single meal a day. “We are passing a period of troubled times,” he said.

He thanked all catechists for dedicating their lives to teach children without expecting any privileges or benefits in return at a time the country was going through unprecedented hardship. “Thank you for your commitment and hard work. God will do miracles in your life,” he said.

Talking to catechists present, the Cardinal said: “If you want to become a good preacher, become a saint. If we realize our purpose in life and live according to God’s plan we too can become saints. Becoming a saint is accepting God’s will. We cannot achieve any of this without our own strength. All our accomplishments and victories are because God is there to guide us and strengthen us. Allow the Holy Spirit to guide you,” he said.

Catechists who served more than 25 years and 50 years were felicitated during the event. Rev. Fr. Daya Shelton Welikadarachchi, Episcopal Vicar Colombo Region. Rev. Fr. Manokumaran Nagaratnam, Archdiocesan Catechists Coordinator, Rev. Fr. Darrel Coonghe and Rev. Fr. Suranga Fonseka were present.