Special mass to be held

In honor of those affected by the Easter Sunday attacks in Sri Lanka, a special mass will be held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church on Sunday, May 5.

Father Jude Fernando, T.O.C., who lost more than 20 former students and seven family members as a result of the bombing, invites the public to attend the mass to pray for the victims and those left to mourn the loss of family, friends and acquaintances.

“We are in need of prayer for peace in the country and good harmony among all Christians,” said Fernando.

Fernando said suicide bombers attacked St. Anthony’s Shrine in the capitol city of Columbo and the Sebastian Church in Negombo, a populated fishing area.

“Both are very special churches and each place was packed with nearly 1,000 people at the time of the attacks,” said Fernando. “Nearly 300 people were killed as of this time and approximately 500 are hospitalized with injuries.”

He said there is nothing left of either of the buildings or surrounding areas.

Fernando said he worked in the affected area for seven years, making many connections and friends.

“I taught catechism classes and other Bible studies so I saw many of the students grow from a young age. I was very involved with their families,” said Fernando. “As of now I have lost more than 20 of my former students.”

Fernando said it is difficult for him to hear the news because he was close to the children after having spent so much time with them.

Fernando said he has also lost seven members of his extended family.

He said the entire country is in mourning now.

“For the first time in history, no mass was held in Sri Lanka on the following Sunday,” said Fernando. “Some churches are still closed due to the fear of another attack.”

Fernando said he feels it is important for people to come together and pray for all.

“We need prayers for peace after this great tragedy,” he said. “Prayers for good harmony among all Christians will be offered.”

The mass will be held at 11 a.m. on Sunday and anyone is invited to attend, no matter what beliefs they share, he said.

“We will also include a candle service in remembrance of those who did not survive the attacks,” said Fernando.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church is located at 920 S. Broad St. in Jennings.