"Learn from the past"- Anuradhapura Bishop

[TamilNet, Sunday, 26 September 2004, 13:02 GMT]
"We should learn from our past mistakes. We should learn to respect and accept diversity. We should rise above all differences, breaking man-made barriers and demolishing walls around us," exhorted Anuradhapura Bishop Rt. Rev.Dr.Norbert Andradi participating as the chief guest at the annual prize day of the 137 years old Trincomalee St.Joseph's College held Saturday in the college auditorium.

Anuradhapura Bishop Rt Rev Norbert Andradi speaking

A group of students, teachers and parents of Anuradhapura St.Joseph's College led by Bishop Norbert Andradi participated in the event.

"We have come to Trincomalee to express our deep respect to your language, culture and religions and to respect your courage and will to achieve peace in Sri Lanka," said Rt.Rev. Dr.Norbert Andradi who at the commencement of his speech blessed the audience in Sinhala and Tamil languages.

He delivered his main speech in English.

The Bishop said the worst victims of the conflict are children. The bright future of the country solely lies in our children. Children should be safeguarded from all evils, the Bishop said.

"Better understanding between different communities would pave way for the reconciliation that would lead to the achievement of permanent peace. Goodwill visits by communities would bridge differences between the North and South," Bishop Andradi said.

Bishop Dr.Norbert Andradi handing over certificate to a student who excelled in studies

Rt. Rev.Dr.Kingsely Swampillai, Bishop of Trincomalee-Batticaloa district, presiding over the event said peace is possible and not elusive if all citizens worked in unity shedding all differences. The Bishop blessed the audience in all three languages.

College Principal Rev.Fr. Jeevanathas Fernando described in his speech that Bishop Dr.Norbert Andradi has always been "a believer in peace and have served as a bridge between the two communities in conflict, spreading the gospel of peace and harmony among all Sri Lankans."

"We remember with gratitude several instances in which you have extended a helping hand to the people of the Tamil community. May your efforts for peace bear fruit," the Principal said in his report.



Anurdhapura Bishop Rt Rev Norbert Andradi blessing the student who garlanded him, Trincomalee-Batticaloa Bishop Rt.Rev Dr.Kingsely Swampillai blessing the student who is with garland to receive him, guest of honour Mr.S.Krishnakumar and special guest Mr.Rajarammohan are seen


At the commencement of the event the chief guest, special guest Mr.R.Rajarammohan, a leading industrialist, guest of honour Mr.S.Krishnakumar, Assistant Director of Education were received at the entrance by Principal and staff of the college. The guests later awarded prizes and certificates to students who excelled in studies, sports and extra-curricular activities. Variety entertainment events followed.

St.Josephs College was founded in 1867 by Fr.Mary Keating, a member of Oblates of Mary Immaculate and subsequently administered by the priests of the Society of Jesus.