Caritas Sri Lanka – SEDEC in conjunction with Caritas SEDGalle commemorated the Second year of tsunami with the handing over of houses to 76 beneficiaries at Walauwatta on Wednesday 20 th December, 2006.

“It is a great day for our village” says a Caritas coordinator at Walauwatta. “We are here to tell the Tsunami survivors that we can wipe away their tears by tending a loving hand through solidarity.”

His Excellency the Most Rev. Dr. Mario Zenari, Apostolic Nuncio was the chief guest at this event. The Honourable Minister Jeyaraj Fernandpulle, The Chief Minister of the Southern Province, Mr.Shan Wijelal, Alwi Mawlana, The Governor of the Southern Province were some of the important guests present to honour the celebrations. Other religious dignitaries such as Ven. Dewa Malalagama Sarana Thero, Bishop of Galle Rt. Rev. Dr. Bishop Harold Anthony Perera graced the occasion. Duncan Maclaren, Secretary General of Caritas Internationalis, too, participated.

The Apostolic Nuncio together with other distinguished guests symbolically opened 12 new houses at the ceremony after the hoisting of the flags. The lighting of the traditional oil lamp was followed by one minute silence to remember those who lost their lives in the tsunami. Religious observances were held by different dignitaries thereafter.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Harold Anthony Perera, Bishop of Galle delivered the welcome speech. Thereafter Rev. Fr. Damian Fernando, National Director of Caritas Sri Lanka – SEDEC said that by joining hands together in a spirit of solidarity, the Caritas network was able to bring new hope in the hearts of the beneficiaries affected by tsunami.

Thereafter the keys to the houses were distributed among the 10 beneficiary families. “ I think I am dreaming, but it is true, a new life has started for me today” said Shyamali with tears after receiving the keys of her new home.

The Honourable Minister, Mr.Fernandpulle declared that “Caritas had accomplished a wonderful mission and that it helps all families irrespective of caste, ethnic difference or religion. ” He promised he would build the internal roads leading to the housing scheme in two months as a gift from the government. Alwi Mawlana the Governor of the Southern Province, too expressed his gratitude to the church and Caritas for the wonderful contribution they made to alleviate the sufferings of the people.

Addressing the gathering, the Secretary General of Caritas Internationalis, Mr.Duncan Maclaren emphasized that people were gathered not as Christians, Muslims, Buddhist or Hindus, but as people united by a common vision to promote solidarity in order to help the victims effectively. He recalled how on the aftermath of the disaster, the network members gathered together to work closely with Caritas Sri Lanka to bring a smile back on the faces of the survivors.

The Apostolic Nuncio, in his key note address emphasized the good work of the Church and Caritas Sri Lanka and it's commitment to help the people in communities.

Fr. Damian Arasekularatne , Dioceasan Director of Caritas SEDGalle, thanked all those who contributed to the success of the days proceedings.

One of highlights of the programme was an exhibition organised by the livelihood beneficiaries supported by Caritas SEDGalle. “I am very happy about todays's proceedings. Caritas Sri Lanka supports us in our business endeavours and provides us with the necessary tools and financial support. “said 41 year old Rupika, who was selling mushrooms at one of the stalls.

The most touching part of the day was the song composed by 4 tsunami children who had lost their fathers to the tsunami. It was named “ Dala Rala Pella “. In the song they expressed their woes and how they suffered in the hands of the tsunami disaster. The song underlined their untold sufferings with dignity and simplicity.

They said they felt as if the main root of a tree had been detached when they heard that their parents were lost in the tsunami. “We know that so many in the world love us and have given us a ray of hope in our hearts.” they added.