Impending War

Our children in Trincomalee live under the threat of war daily and as a result the daily necessities such as basic food become scarce. Please pray for the children and those who have given their lives to look after them. The nuns ask us to pray for a way forward to have a lasting peace in the land. Suzie has spoken with Sister Arul today. Below are some bullet points to give a glimpse of thier situation. Those with access to internet can see the full story on www.lankanewspapers.com

It seems like the Norwegians are about to pull out of their involvement with the peace talks as they are now concerned about their own safety.

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  There are the usual landmines and bombs still causing disruption to roads, water supplies, and everyday living, causing over 800 deaths this year.
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  The president, Mahinda, has been talking to India about the current situation and security measures within S.L
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  An army bus was ambushed by the tigers in Trincomalee and 18 army personel are feared dead. This the area our children are in.
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  August 1st the terrorists attacked a Naval vessel carrying 850 unarmed navel passengers as they were entering Trincomalee. Although 3 boats were destroyed no one was killed.
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  August 2nd - fierce shelling was reported early morning in the Trincomalee district where the Tamil Tigers are stated to have overrun 4 of the Sri Lankan army´s outposts.

The nuns continually thank all those who make it possible for them to feed and educate the children that manage to get to them. There is the constant fear of death. The new school room building begun last year is still unfinished as the workers are afraid to come to work and materials needed cannot be bought. There is also a problem with water being scarce. The sisters are trying to dig a well in order to provide for the children. Many families live under such high levels of fear that shelling, curfew and death bring. However the sisters say that knowing you care brings them hope in a hopeless situation. Suzie is in regular contact with Galle and Trincomalee.