THE holy Mailady Virgin Mother’s Church in Jaffna, a sacred shrine that boasts a history of more than 300 years, but has remained abandoned and dilapidated for over 12 years due to terrorist threats commenced its daily holy masses last Saturday (20) after Army troops with the support of devotees renovated the place fully.
Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe, Commander Security Forces, Jaffna after taking the initiative for its revival, harnessed civil support in the area for the project and completed repairs and renovation within a few weeks. Paints and raw materials were provided by donors and the Army.
This legendary Christian Church, built by Portuguese some 300 years back in Mailady area, was later vandalized by the Dutch who invaded the country for economic and religious interests. History also says the Dutch hated Christians at that time and tried to propagate Catholic faith among northerners, instead.
Reinvigorated religious sentiments in Jaffna had however reached authorities requesting for revival of the sacred place which was a very popular holy shrine of worship during and after the British rule.
The Church saw its renovation under the supervision of Brigadier B.C.J.A.F. Rodrigo, Brigadier General Staff Headquarters Security Forces (Jaffna) as hundreds of soldiers in Units and Brigades in the High Security Zone enthusiastically joined hands together with Christian devotees in the area.
After rehabilitation of the Church, the inaugural feast was conducted on 20th March 2010 by Rev. Father Jayadin, Deputy Diocese in the peninsula and several other Christian clergy. Brigadier B.C.J.A.F. Rodrigo, Brigadier General Staff, Headquarters Security Forces (Jaffna) represented the Jaffna Commander at the inaugural feast and re-opening of the Church.
A record 2000 devotees amidst rhythms of Church bells attended the inaugural feast and prayers which went on until afternoon. All the devotees were provided meals and refreshments by philanthropists in the area last Saturday (20). The devotees and the Christian priests attending the feast praised the Army for the assistance provided to them.
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