8/6/2007

The Sri Lanka defence authorities have decided to reopen the road to sacred Madhu Mary's Church in Mannar. The annual 10-day festive season of Our Lady of Madhu, began yesterday(05). Pilgrims are allowed to go through Uylankulam - Madhu Road, Mannar district Government agent A Nicholaspillai said.

A spokesman for Media Centre for National Security said that ICRC was informed of the decision by the Ministry of Defence to reopen the road from Sunday night(05). The Medawachchi- Mannar road will be open until 17 August to allow devotees to attend the annual Madhu festival.

Thousands of pilgrims from the South are expected to visit the 450-year-old Catholic shrine. According to Rt. Rev. Bishop Rayappu Joseph, a month ago, both sides agreed to avoid fighting during the festive season.

Rt. Rev. Bishop Joseph Rayappu said the Bishop of Galle, Rt. Rev. Harold Anthony and Bishop of Anuradhapura, Rt.Rev.Norbert Andradi will join him during the festive season.