The year 2023 is almost 2 months away and we are enjoying the first signs of spring. We are really getting ready for that, how about you? And even though the year is just beginning, a lot has already happened in the world. Of course, the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria have not escaped our attention. Terrible images and we sympathize with the victims and the bereaved.
In this newsletter you will read about:
- The current situation in Sri Lanka
- The installation of the new Provincial OMI, Father Jeyanthan
- The festive presentation of diplomas to students who participated in an OBTEC course
- The status of the construction of the clinic in Batticaloa
- Our projects, including the new project with Wilde Ganzen
- Violet action 2023 of the soroptimists for Anna’s Home
Let’s start. Are you reading along?
The current state of affairs in Sri Lanka
Despite the terrible earthquakes in other parts of the world, our focus remains on northern Sri Lanka. A comparison in terms of misery and despair cannot be made and we’re not getting into that. We stick to the fact that the people in our project area are having a hard time. Very hard, because of the abject poverty, the climate (very hot and dry weather and then too much water resulting in floods). The country has been declared bankrupt, thus lacking basic needs and materials. Social services do not exist, fuel is unobtainable leaving villages in isolation, and there is much inconvenience from the prolonged power outages, often lasting hours.
The Fathers OMI work around the clock to assist the poorest of the poor. Sometimes they don't know where to start either, and for that we are in daily contact. Firstly to provide mental support, and then to spar about what is needed and can be done. The Fathers are extremely grateful for the support they receive from the Netherlands. Support that would not be possible without you. We are therefore very happy to convey their gratitude to you and hope we can keep experiencing your support.
The installation of the new Provincial OMI, Rev. Fr. Jeyanthan Pachchek and his counsellors
On the weekend of February 18 and 19, the time had come. Father Jeyanthan was installed as the new Provincial. His predecessor Father Eugene, was called to Rome, the center place of OMI, to continue his work there. The new Provincial has worked in Norway for about 8 years and is therefore somewhat familiar with Western culture. More importantly however, we feel that the Fathers we work with on our projects are very pleased with his arrival.
The Fathers assured us that cooperation with this Provincial will go well. The extensive - digital - introductory interview with our new Chairman did indeed carry the promise of good contact and cooperation. We wish Father Jeyanthan a very pleasant, meaningful and fruitful time as Provincial and look forward to a pleasant partnership.
The festive presentation of diplomas to students who participated in an OBTEC course
Due to the situation in the country, OBTEC courses started only after overcoming several obstacles. Nevertheless, we can proudly inform you that a group of students were able to receive their diplomas in November 2022. We did not manage to tell you about this earlier. Therefore, we do so here and now, because positive news should not be missing from this newsletter.
We are proud that we were able to personally hand over the diplomas to the students on this festive day.
and the little ones got a sports medal
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Our projects, including the new project with Wilde Ganzen
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Activities in the community houses are being restarted. That is, as far as possible, because some houses are difficult to reach because of poor roads, dangerous surroundings or remote location. The farm in Iyakachchi is growing and thriving. Right now a plantation is set up for coconut, cashew etc. At the same time, classes are being held in the course rooms. The YEC provides classes for young people. In short: in Iyakachchi everything is up and running. In May, our president will probably visit Sri Lanka again. She will come up with another update and beautiful photos. We’ll keep you informed. |
Violin action 2023 of the soroptimists for Anna's Home
We are delighted to tell you that the proceeds of the 2023 violin action of the soroptimists in Raalte will go to Anna's Home this year. Unfortunately you cannot order them anymore; we hope you have already done so.....
The status of the construction of the clinic in Batticaloa
The clinic in Batticaloa is nearing completion, much to the delight of the Fathers OMI and especially Father Ramesh. This clinic, where addicted youth and youth who did attempt suicide are taken care of, was a fervent wish of Father Ramesh. As a trained psychologist, Father Ramesh cares deeply about the fate of these young people. A place for these youth where they are taken care of and guided is very much needed.
This brings us already to the end of this news item. We thank you for your interest and support of our work. Your donation to alleviate hunger remains very much needed, so please continue to give. On behalf of the residents in our project area: thank you very much!
Until next time!