Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Colombo (Fides Service) - Young inmates at Nochchiyagam Home and Training Centre a home for children in need in the diocese of Anhuradhapura, run by the Salesian Fathers are offering their daily rosary for the Pope: a member of the staff Salesian Fr. Anthony Ranjith told Fides. The priest said he is deeply moved to see how these little Catholics love the Pope. “Our little ones were so sad to hear that the Holy Father is unwell- the Salesian told Fides - they coulc hardly believe that the Pope could be ill at all. But they are reassured when we say that with their prayers they can help him get better”.
Nochchiyagama Training Centre in central Sri Lanka, is a point of reference for child care in the diocese of Anhuradhapura. Its doors are open not only to orphans, abandoned children, street children, poor children whose families cannot feed them but also to children with a mental or physical disability. More recently the Salesian Fathers have welcomed former child soldiers in need of special counselling and care.
The Home at present cares for 68 children all under 15, about half are Catholics and the rest are Buddhists. The children live at the home and receive primary instruction and regular medical care. “Even our Buddhist children are interested to hear about the Pope”, Fr Anthony told Fides.
The Nochchiyagama complex also has a Training Centre where 150 older boys and girls are taught various trades. “For all of our youngsters at Nochchiyagama - the Salesian concluded-the Pope is a great father who loves them and loves all children and all people”.
(PA) (Agenzia Fides 3/3/2005 righe 22 parole 233)
