Dear Reverend Fathers Brothers and Sisters,

1. In our day and in our diocese that comprises the entire Eastern Province, we are in a tremendous battle between the Gospel of Life - which is Resurrection and the culture of death (Pope John Paul II). Whenever it is time to vote in our world today, whenever the question of a political decision is raised, these issues come to the fore in a particular way. What is imperative in the formation of one's conscience which if properly enlightened will be able to make the choice of the Candidate. Or the church does not wish to impose her beliefs on others. She respects freedom of conscience of her people. Pope John Paul II reiterated from the beginning, "The Gospel of Life is at the heart of Jesus' Message". May I invite the Pastors and Sisters in Churches and Schools - that they should promote, urge and encourage everyone to exercise his / her responsibility to vote, followed by a formation of conscience. The rest is in God's Hands.

2. I must thank the Jubilee and Ordination Committee members, who have taken upon themselves the arduous task of making all things possible for the occasion of putting up a Cultural Show on 23rd May and looking into every detail for the Liturgy of Ordination for the next day. Let us take this occasion, make it an opportunity for a revival, rejuvenation of our Local Church, since every Parish will be represented at the premises of the Co-Cathedral and who will also be fed like a multitude! Let us pray that God and our Blessed Mother bestow their graces on us during these days!

3. There is a piece of good news from Fr. George Dissanayake of Trinco Cathedral-that he has already set up a website of our own name: Diocese of Trincomalee - Batticaloa (with the URL: htpp://www. trincobattidiocese.com). 4. Since Fr. P. Joseph has been appointed Auxiliary Bishop, the task of Editor of Inter Nos has been given to Fr. George Jeevaraj, Director of the Minor Seminary. Wish him well and extend your kind cooperation always. With every good wish and blessings…