It 's the first ever national retreat organized by the Apostolate for families. Three days of meetings, for reconciliation and peace attended by Tamil and Sinhalese families who lived through the war. Two hundred thousand people from all over Sri Lanka expected to attend.

Colombo (Asia News) – The "national retreat for families" began today, October 29, at the shrine of St. Anne's Thalawila, Puttlam district in north-west of Sri Lanka. It 's the first national retreat ever held by the National Apostolate for Families. "Developing reconciliation and peace, and involving more people in a life of prayer to build a good family is the main purpose of this national gathering," said national director of the Apostolate for families. In the coming days a message from Archbishop Malcolm Ranjith, who will become cardinal in November, will be read. All diocesan directors of this pastoral activity were involved in the organisation of the event.

AsiaNews spoke with Father Patrick Julian Perera, national director of the apostolate, at the Thalawila shrine. "I was appointed national director four months ago - he said - and we thought we would give an opportunity for Catholics in the north and south meet, and begin a dialogue, exchanging views and ideas. We thought that a "family retreat" would be the most effective way to do this. This is just the first step on a long journey".

Under the theme, “Lets come to gather as families to build family of the Sri Lankan Nation”   organizers expect about 200 thousand people, including children, from across the dioceses. The retreat will last three days, from Friday to Sunday. Father Perera has outlined some plans for the future, linked to this theme. "One of our future plans is to create a bridge between North and South. To do this we are now slowly building up a small communities including at least 10 – 20 families in each diocese to implement this bridge building. To build up a National family through these families will be leaders and there will be awareness building programs at a diocesan level".

The Director said that due to social changes and new problems, some Catholics are moving away from prayer and spiritual life. "We want to change this trend and bring them back on the path of God." Those responsible for diocesan Apostolate for the Family, Father Rajanayagam, Father Jude Jonson and Father Sunil Gunawardana attended the event, as well as a lay spiritual leader, Lalith Perera, and the group "Community of the Risen Lord." Sinhalese and Tamil families participate in the meeting and will have the opportunity to exchange opinions and views.

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