It is a well known fact that even though we, as a nation gained independence from foreign dominations in 1948, it did not take us long to have disputes among races in our own country. All of us have experienced the evils of a civil war that raged for 30 long years erecting a high-rising wall of hurt and suspicion between peoples. Therefore, we admire the spirit of dedication of the Sisters of Trincomalee and elsewhere, who have expressed their willingness to live and work among those affected by war and violence. Indeed they have been the message and messengers in their own way. 

Although the present government has brought about a seeming end to the military operations, the internally displaced continue to live in camps for almost a year now. At this juncture our Congregation was able to reach out to these war victims offering our services in numerous ways. We had 7 Sisters who voluntarily worked in the Vanni camps amidst trials and difficulties for 3 months. Most of the schools and the communities made numerous sacrifices to provide the people with water, dry rations and clothing. 

Amidst this turmoil of war, we were very unfortunate to be struck by the Tsunami of 26th December 2004 that devastated the coastal belt. This was no doubt a disheartening event that shocked many, and played havoc in the lives of the people dragging them backwards. The tragedy was so unforeseen that we were ruthlessly awakened to the fact of man’s helplessness against the powers of nature. 

Nevertheless, amid cries of pain and anguish it was strengthening to see the Holy Angel Sisters standing in solidarity with the Tsunami victims, ever willing and ready to help not counting the cost. 

Very generously the communities of Joseph Vaz, Nagoda, Kalegana, Ganegama, Tangalle, Trincomalee, Elpitiya and the Generalate either opened their doors to welcome the displaced or extended their hands to provide them with basic needs – materially and morally. Over 50 Sisters beside the Novices joined hands with Jesuits and other religious to serve the displaced in the camps organized and run by the dioceses of Colombo and Galle. Other communities also contributed in cash, kind and time sharing whatever they had at that point of time. 

Fully aware of the tragic situation, our Sisters initiated a new project – that of a home for the children orphaned by the calamity. Kuda Kusum at Tangalle and Nazareth at Kalegana are the results of this effort. 

In partnership with the Jesuits, we were able financially to help many to purchase land, re-build their houses and settle down. We managed to re-establish the people in their careers by providing them with boats, fishing gear and sewing machines. About 90 schoolchildren were granted scholarships lasting for a period of five years, offering them a secure footing in education. 

In collaboration with our Sisters, Mr. Horst, a German benefactor had already launched an aid program to support poor children in their education. After the tsunami he launched a new project named ‘The Hikkaduwa-Friendship Village’. This has enabled us to extend the scholarship program to 105 children, to last all their student years. 

Our missionaries in Australia reached out to us with funds and a container-load of goods for the tsunami stricken. The Kenyans too rushed with help for the victims.