Building a Foundation for a new Future

IN THIS ISSUE

Building the
Foundation for a
New Future

Finding God in
Ordinary Things

Building the
Foundation
for a
New Future

As reported in recent issues of Oblates magazine, the Oblates who have been running the St. Vincent’s orphanage in Maggona, Sri Lanka, for over 150 years, are reaching out to thousands who lost everything in the tsunami. Immediately following the disaster, the Oblates opened the grounds of the orphanage to set up shelter and offer immediate relief for over 1,500 people.

In the many months that have passed since the merciless waves terrorized their beloved communities, the Oblates have continued to reach out to the people of Sri Lanka. To accommodate the many people who have found refuge at St. Vincent’s, the Oblates have built additional sheds and sanitary facilities. In addition, the Oblates have been reaching out to the surrounding communities, helping to provide food, water, medicine, clothing, and counseling.

The Oblates have also been heavily involved in the reconstruction of property, as well as forming initiative projects for individuals and villages who would otherwise slip by the attention of the major relief organizations. The Oblates have also offered to take in some of the many newly orphaned children. This will require the expansion of the present orphanage which has been providing safe haven for over 200 orphans. However, now the Oblates must find additional funds to provide these children with food, clothing, education, and protection.

As each day passes, the Oblates are assured that God is listening to their constant prayers for the thousands of people who were devastated by the great disaster. They pray the survivors may find strength in God and hope in the kindness of the millions of people who have been reaching out to them in their hour of need.