-By A Special Correspondent
(Lanka-e-News -11.Jan.2025, 11.20 PM) When Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith was just a priest assigned to Kalutara’s Holy Cross Church, his vision for empowering the poor took root in an extraordinary initiative that changed the lives of countless underprivileged students. His work with the St. Vincent de Paul organization turned the Holy Cross College Evening Education Center into a beacon of hope, providing free education and nourishment to children who otherwise had no access to quality schooling.
Holy Cross College, managed by the Maristella Brothers, is a renowned institution located in Kalutara. However, like many prestigious schools, it was accessible only to families who could afford it. Fr. Malcolm Ranjith, as he was known then, observed the stark divide between the privileged students attending the school and the many children from surrounding impoverished areas who were deprived of education.
Guided by his faith and commitment to social justice, Fr. Ranjith envisioned a solution: bringing education to these children outside regular school hours. With the support of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, an international Catholic organization dedicated to helping the poor, he established the Holy Cross College Evening Education Center.
The Evening Education Center welcomed children from the poorest families in Kalutara and neighboring areas like Dodangoda. These children would arrive after their daily chores or informal schooling, and under the guidance of volunteer teachers, they received free lessons in core subjects.
But education wasn’t the only focus. Understanding that hunger was a significant barrier to learning, Fr. Ranjith ensured that every student was provided with a cup of milk—a simple yet powerful gesture that demonstrated his care for their overall well-being. This small act of kindness became a lifeline for many children, often being the only nourishment they received after a long day.
The success of the Evening Education Center wasn’t solely due to Fr. Ranjith’s efforts. Teachers, both volunteers and local community members, played a vital role in nurturing these young minds. Individuals like Ranjith and Nimal, along with the Freman Ayya , dedicated their time and expertise to the center. Over time, some of these volunteers were even offered permanent positions at Holy Cross College, further solidifying the initiative’s legacy.
The annual prize-giving ceremony, organized by the St. Vincent de Paul Society, became a celebration of the students’ achievements. It was not just a recognition of academic excellence but also a testament to the resilience of children who had overcome immense obstacles.
One of the most memorable moments in the history of the Evening Education Center was a visit by Vincent Pereira, a parliamentary minister, who served as chief guest during a prize-giving ceremony. Pereira was moved by the stories of the students, particularly a group of siblings who traveled all the way from Dodangoda to attend the evening classes. When asked how the program had impacted them, they spoke with gratitude about the extra assistance they received, which had significantly improved their academic performance.
This endorsement from a prominent leader brought greater visibility to the center and underscored the value of Fr. Ranjith’s initiative.
Fr. Malcolm Ranjith’s background played a crucial role in shaping his commitment to education. Coming from a humble family himself, he understood the transformative power of education for those living in poverty. He often emphasized that education was a tool to break the cycle of poverty and empower individuals to create better futures for themselves and their communities.
His efforts at the Evening Education Center left an indelible mark on Kalutara. Hundreds of children who otherwise would have remained marginalized were given the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Many went on to excel in their chosen fields, carrying forward the values instilled by Fr. Ranjith and his team.
Today, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith is celebrated not only as a spiritual leader but also as a tireless advocate for the poor and marginalized. His work at the Holy Cross College Evening Education Center stands as a testament to his deep compassion and unwavering commitment to social justice.
Through the St. Vincent de Paul Society and the support of dedicated volunteers, he created a model that demonstrated how even limited resources could be used to create profound change. The initiative was not just about providing education but also about fostering dignity, hope, and a sense of belonging among the most vulnerable members of society.
The story of Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith’s work at Holy Cross College is a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when one person dares to act on their convictions. Like Jesus, who embraced and uplifted the poor, Cardinal Ranjith opened his arms to the forgotten children of Kalutara, offering them not only education but also hope and opportunity.
In a world often driven by self-interest, his legacy serves as an enduring inspiration. The hundreds of students whose lives were transformed by the Evening Education Center are living proof of the impact that compassion and commitment can have. As we reflect on his journey, we are reminded that true greatness lies not in power or privilege but in the service of others.
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by (2025-01-11 19:33:54)
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