Articles

SONGS OF PRAISE – AMAZING GRACE – BY Charles Schokman “Who am I, O LORD God, and what is my house, that you have brought me thus far?”-                               1 Chronicles 17:16. While this prayer by King David teaches us a lesson of thanksgiving and humility, it is a passage that was used in a popular hymn written by John Newton. Have you ever wondered who wrote some of the most popular hymns? Have you wondered for what purpose they were written? There are hundreds of hymns in the world, some incredibly well-known across numerous countries. The growing popularity of these hymns may make one wonder, how or why they gained so much traction in their journey throughout the world. Let’s dive deeper into the story behind the song of “Amazing Grace.” It was December 1772, in Olney ...

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Health & Views May 2nd issue 2023 – By Dr Harold Gunatillake Download the PDF file .   Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for general information purposes only, and whilst the author will endeavour to keep the information up to date and correct, eLanka makes no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability or availability with respect to the eLanka website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in this article for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. In other words, eLanka In no event will we be liable for any loss or damage including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, or any loss or damage whatsoever arising from loss of data or profits arising out of, or in connection with, the use of this ...

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Unleashing Your Inner Motivation: Ignite Your Passion and Achieve Greatness – By Nadeeka – eLanka In today’s fast-paced world, where distractions abound and obstacles seem insurmountable, maintaining motivation can be a challenge. However, within each of us lies a wellspring of potential, waiting to be tapped into. By understanding the power of motivation and harnessing it effectively, you can unlock your true potential and achieve remarkable success in every aspect of your life. In this article, we will explore strategies and techniques to fuel your motivation, overcome hurdles, and make your dreams a reality. Discover Your “Why”: Motivation begins with a clear sense of purpose. Ask yourself: What drives you? What are your deepest desires and aspirations? Identifying your “why” gives you a strong foundation on which to build your motivation. Whether it’s personal growth, professional success, or making a positive impact on others, knowing your purpose will fuel your ...

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Ensuring the safety of children-BY PRAMOD DE SILVA Source:Sundayobserver The recent spate of incidents of sexual and physical abuse of children has again brought this important issue to the fore. From the mysterious death of a 16-year-old girl in Kalutara to the disturbing incidents reported from Jaffna, these incidents point to a major moral decline in society. Worse, these type of incidents have even been reported from places of worship in recent days. We can also recall the rape and murder of Seya in Kotadeniyawa and Vidya in Jaffna a few years ago. But it is not only girls who have become victims in this manner. Many boys too have been subject to physical or sexual abuse and even killed. These incidents no doubt lead to sensational headlines in newspapers, but thousands of incidents of verbal, physical and sexual abuse of both boys and girls go unreported every year. Corporal ...

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AWESOME AND AWE-INSPIRING CHORAL PRESENTATION   The Apostolic Nuncio, Archbishop Brian Udaigwe, St. Joseph’s Rector Rev. Fr. Ranjith Andradi with the choirs Source:Dailymirror Numbering over 300 singers, a combined choir of girls and boys rendered the glorious Jubilee Anthem “Gloria Te” to conclude the magnificent Josephian Holy Week Choral Presentation. Choir master Francis D’ Almeida The beautifully renovated historic chapel of St. Joseph’s College reverberated with majestic choral harmony rarely seen and heard in the country. What preceded the concluding Anthem was a tapestry of chants, hymns and choruses capturing the final days of Jesus of Nazareth, leading up to his death and resurrection.  ...

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Hindu Ladies College and Peninsula idyll-by Goolbai Gunasekera   Source:Island Mrs. Visaladhy Sivagurunathan, a philanthropic Hindu lady, had gifted the property of Hindu Ladies’ College to the school in 1943. Mother was the school’s fifth Principal. Under her, the first Past Pupils’ Association was formed, with Mrs. Jeevaratnam Rasiah as its first President. Miss Thambu (Mother’s long suffering Tamil tutor) was its Secretary. Just recently, I was invited to speak to the Colombo branch of the HLC alumni. I met a former HLC teacher there – Mrs Navaratna, formerly Leela Ponniah – along with many old friends. The reverence in which Mother was held was very heart- warming, and it was a moving experience to hear the stories they related of instances in which Mother had touched – and sometimes directed – their lives. ...

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Nerada Tea to ‘pause’ production at its Far North Queensland plantation   More than 6 million kilograms of tea is produced a year on the Nerada plantation at Malanda.(ABC Rural: Charlie McKillop) Source:Abc Australia’s largest tea producer will stop production at its Far North Queensland plantation, citing rising costs and a drop in demand for black tea on supermarket shelves. Key points: Nerada Tea will stop production at its Far North Queensland plantation next month The company is seeking funds to transition into making higher-value tea products It says fewer people are buying black tea in supermarkets Nerada Tea will send its 360-hectare estate on the Atherton Tablelands, west of Cairns, into “hibernation” from the end of next month while it tries to transition into producing higher-value products such as tea extracts and aromas. “All of us are very sad it’s come to this; there’s no doubt about that,” company ...

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Why the Sri Lankan spices are called some of the best in the world? – By Ceylon Especias Agro (Pvt) Ltd Source :  Ceylon Especias Agro (Pvt) Ltd linkedin Sri Lankan spices are highly regarded and often considered some of the best in the world for several reasons: 1. Climate and Soil: Sri Lanka’s tropical climate, with its abundant rainfall and moderate temperatures, provides ideal conditions for growing a wide variety of spices. The country’s rich and fertile soil, coupled with its geographic location, contributes to the development of flavors and aromas that are unique to Sri Lankan spices. 2. Biodiversity: Sri Lanka is known for its remarkable biodiversity, and this extends to its spice production. The country cultivates a diverse range of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, and black pepper, among others. The diverse plant species and ecosystems contribute to the complexity and richness of Sri Lankan spices. 3. Traditional ...

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Jetavanaramaya: the third tallest ancient structure in the world! – By Silkroute Source : Silkroute linkedin Jetavanaramaya is a famous Buddhist temple located in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. It is one of the largest stupas (domed structures) in the world and holds great historical and religious significance. Here are some key details about Jetavanaramaya: Location: Jetavanaramaya is situated in the ancient city of Anuradhapura, which is located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. Construction: The stupa was built during the reign of King Mahasena (273-301 AD) of the Anuradhapura Kingdom. It took nearly 15 years to complete and stands as a testament to ancient Sri Lankan engineering and architectural prowess. Dimensions: Jetavanaramaya stands approximately 122 meters (400 feet) in height, making it the tallest stupa in the world and the third tallest ancient structure in the world. The base of the stupa covers an area of about 2.3 hectares (5.7 acres). Architectural Features: The stupa ...

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Sri Lanka High Commission in Canberra celebrates Vesak 2023 Source : slhcaust Celebrating Vesak, the High Commission of Sri Lanka in Canberra organized a dhamma program to commemorate the birth, the enlightenment and the passing away of Lord Buddha under the theme “Serenity of the Mind” at the High Commission on 13 May 2023, with the participation of the staff and their families. On the invitation of the High Commission, the Chief Incumbent of the Sri Lanka Buddhist Vihara in Canberra Venerable Aparelle Soratha Thero conducted the buddhavandana and dhammadeshana. High Commissioner Chitranganee Wagiswara highlighted the importance of “Vesak“ to Buddhists all over the world and spoke on the value of serenity of the mind for our lives followed by reading the Vesak Day message of the President Ranil Wickremesinghe. The Prime Minister’s message was read by Deputy High Commissioner Chamari Rodrigo. The High Commission was illuminated with colourful Vesak lanterns ...

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