John Paul II Institution for Higher Education:

A boon to future academics

by Gwen Herat

Whither after A/Ls? A question to many bright scholars who wish to further their studies. Many of them around here are underprivileged or have no one to guide them to make their future dreams come true. They are talented, bright and are aware of the opportunities that lie ahead if they can only pursue their higher studies.

The Scholar-Bishop of Chilaw, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Valence Mendis.

But how and where and when?These young men and women are blessed in that they have a shepherd to put them on the correct path. Their scholar-Bishop knows what a sound education means. This problem had stimulated his mind for some time. His drive towards its goal was spiritually stirred and inspired.

And then it dawned on him with several of his visits to Italy and co-ordinating with the influential Monsignor Neville Joe who is based there, he persuaded the Episcopal Conference in Italy and the Carita Ambrosiana and Rotary Milano to sponsor the construction of the building.This humble tribute dedicated to the late His Holiness, Pope John Paul II, was opened by the Chilaw Bishop, His Lordship, the Rt. Rev. Dr. Valence Mendis, in the presence of Monsignor Battista Gandolfo of the CEL, a large number of priests and nuns, Ministers, along with the Kandy Bishop His Lordship Vianey Mendis, and the Rector of the Institution, Rev. Neville Coonghe.

The institution is the brainchild of the scholar-Bishop targeted at talented underprivileged students who would be tomorrow's leaders.

The funding of this plush building was initiated in Italy by Monsignor Neville Joe and sponsored by the Episcopal Conference in Italy and Caritas Ambrosiana and Rotary of Milano. Delegates from Italy were present.

Studies

The institution with its professional staff will not only qualify for scholastic studies that will eventually take them to universities but will also cater to IT studies and foreign languages.

John Paul II Institute of Higher Education in the Chilaw diocese.

After the inauguration, blessings and prayers, everyone gathered in the new auditorium led by its Rector, Neville Coonghe. In his speech, Senior Minister, Milroy Fernando traced the generous woman who 40 years ago had gifted the land on which the institute is sited and thanked his Lordship for all his support. Rev. Frank Tissera outlined the 40-year history and how everything fell into place.

His Lordship, the gentle eloquent orator who always captured the imagination of one and all, said 'Today is a very special day in the history of the Diocese of Chilaw. We shall commence with a dedicated staff with students who have already been admitted. There will be 10 scholarly subjects along with IT studies and majoring in many foreign studies. The students will have the opportunity to decide on their future, from today.He said, studies alone from books do not maketh a man nor an academic. There has to be discipline, at college and home, overpowered by spirituality. Young people as they march towards future must feel and be aware that the Lord is also walking along with them. They have to pause and give ear to His Word. Then, and only then, will a responsible and humble academic will finally emerge.

Glory

'The Lord has blessed us today more than what we deserve and we should celebrate His glory. The young men and women who pass through the portals of this institution should stand as a shining example to Christianity and spread its aura among all.His Lordship thanked those who made this dream a reality, especially the prelates from Italy. He took all of us by surprise when he spoke in perfect Italian diction. The day was very emotional to me because this academy is dedicated to the late Pope John Paul II and brings back memories when my husband and I had two audiences with him.

The Pope had touched my heart with love... never to forget.