Catholic publication in S. Lanka marks 25 years

(January 20, 2012) Catholic faithful in Sri Lanka are marking 25 years of a publication they say has enhanced their faith and helped spread the message of the Gospel. Using the writings and reflections of ordinary laypeople, the Sudathum Gamana (Walk in the Spirit) bulletin, published by the Catholic Renewal Movement, directs readers to change their society and move it towards communion with God. “At a time when the need for people living the fullness of Christian life is becoming vital, the role played by the booklet in moving towards this goal is indeed praiseworthy,” wrote Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, the Archbishop of Colombo in a message to Sudathum Gamana. The bulletin, which began publication 25 years ago and will this year mark its 300th edition, is rooted in the promotion of love between all people, respect for the environment, the support of human rights, discouraging drug use and social reconciliation, among other such issues. Nihal Fernando, a member of the Catholic Renewal Movement said the booklet not only provides daily Bible readings and reflections but also helps in raising awareness of citizens’ rights and duties in a democratic society. Sudathum Gamana is read in places like the Middle East, Australia and countries in Europe where Catholic Renewal Movement communities are. Currently 30,000 copies are printed in Sinhala, Tamil and English, but is expected to double.