Words of Book of Lamentations

We call ourselves Christians. We proclaim that we follow Jesus who lived and died for the oppressed. Isn't it a crime for us to call ourselves Christians and to live as deaf and blind people amidst our oppressed brothers and sisters who cry for freedom to live in peace in their own land and homes? You may not agree with me but I would say this is a wiping out or slow genocide of the Tamil people from their own land.

Let me conclude this write up with words of Book of Lamentations. No doubt this would be the mournful cry of our helpless and oppressed brethren.

"Remember O Lord, what has happened to us.

Look at us, and see our disgrace.

Our property is in the hands of strangers;

Foreigners are living in our homes.

Our fathers have been killed by the enemy,

And now our mothers are widows.

We must pay for the waters we drink;

We must buy the wood we need for fuel……….

We are ruled by men, who are no better than slaves,

And no one can save us from their power.

Murderers roam through the countryside;

We risk our lives when we look for food.

Hunger has made us burn with fever,

Until our skin is as hot as an oven……..

Our leaders have been taken and hanged;

Our old men are not shown respect

Our young men are forced to grind corn like slaves,

Boys go staggering under heavy loads of wood…….

Happiness has gone out of our lives;

Grief has taken the place of our dances…….

We are sick at our very hearts

And can hardly see through our tears.

But you O Lord are king forever,

And rule to the end of time.

Why have you abandoned us so long?

Will you ever remember us again?

Bring us back to you, Lord! Bring us back!

Restore our ancient glory…………"




Fr. Terence Fernando.