Tamil parents have appealed to Catholic priests and parish councils in north and eastern Sri Lanka to respond to the effects of war on the young people of the region.

The parents expressed their concerns after a special Mass marking Indigenous Clergy Day on July 25.

Special Masses were held around the country to commemorate the post-Vatican II handover from missioners to local clergy.

“Evangelizing youths is a challenge for 2010,” said Father Justin B. Gnanapragasam, vicar general of Jaffna diocese.

“Today, youths go to church but stand outside. The situation has become alarming,” a worried parent said.

“We know our sons have trouble owing to less support from parish councils,” said  87-year–old Sebasti Gnanamuthu.

“We need a supportive parish community to guide the younger generation,” added Gnanamuthu, who is father of two priests.

“Sermons or preaching do not improve the morality of the children,” commented 84-year-old Mary Theresa, who is also the mother of two priests.

Father Gnanapragasam also pointed out that priests cannot do it all alone.

“Parental help is vital. The priest alone cannot do this,” he said.

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