Always spare a thought for those in need - Chilaw Bishop

CHRISTIE FERNANDO, Chilaw special correspondent

“We are obliged to give an account not only of our own actions, but, also for the lives of others who are often destitute and bereft of all worldly glory and glamour; riches and wealth, said His Lordship Bishop of Chilaw Rt. Rev. Dr. Valence Mendis.

He was speaking at an evening service held at the grotto erected at the Chilaw round-about, in connection with the 41st anniversary of Our Lady, the Protectress of Chilaw town on August 12.

His Lordship said that some are so poor that they have nothing to eat or call their own; they see that there is no significant meaning in life for them and are compelled to live a life of squalor and go a-begging for their food and sustenance. Their necessities and wants are meagre, few and far between. Even their frugal needs cannot be met. Their lives have assumed such alarming proportions of deprivation, degradation and poverty. They are so impoverished and deplorable that they cannot eke out a proper living.

He emphasised that it was inconceivable but yet true how on the day of judgement we will be compelled to render an account of our deeds, and the lives of others who are so near and far. We are also accountable for the pathetic lives of others who live in want. They can be seen loitering on the streets and by-lanes.

His Lordship said, “Their dismal and feeble lives are deteriorating and failing and are being decimated day by day.

“It is our responsibility to accomplish what we can possibly do to obviate their vexed uncertainties and worries and the hardships of their day-to-day living. If people can be more aware and mindful of the desperate needs of countless other lives of persons who are often bereft of mundane riches and requirements and are relegated to the background without any imminent economic support, we will be counted worthy of attaining bliss and happiness in our next life. We will be unquestionably rewarded in our next life if, we can take the trouble to alleviate their woes and travails,” he said.

“Jesus Christ said that he, who feeds the hungry and thirsty, will not forfeit or forego their reward. For, I was hungry, and you fed me. I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger, and you welcomed me.

“There are hundreds of such poignant stories of people who suffer enormous pain and suffering due to various reasons; and there is no one to offer assistance or a helping hand. There are millions who suffer pain and anguish from diseases and illnesses and there is not a single person to come forward and relieve their suffering and agony or come to their help.

“We should instil hope and confidence in the lowly and downtrodden. There are so many who are disadvantaged and underprivileged who need to be succoured and need our assistance. They are beckoning for material and spiritual support and help.

“We should also live for the sake of others in their plight to overcome their sorrows. They feel a pang of remorse in mind and heart; and anguish for their failings and drawbacks.

“We should therefore help the needy who are hampered and weighed down with teething troubles and difficulties,” His Lordship added.