Bro. Sumeda Fernando shares an unforgettable moment of the Parents’ Day celebration
The Redemptorist Parents’ Day of the Region of Colombo was not simply a program or gathering for me—it became a deeply personal and emotional experience that touched my heart in a special way. It was held from the lunch of 10th April until lunch on 11th April, bringing together the parents of Redemptorist priests and brothers, along with priests, brothers, and lay mission partners.
The gathering began with lunch, where everyone came together as one family. From the very beginning, there was warmth, joy, and a sense of belonging in the atmosphere. In the evening, we prayed the Rosary together. As I prayed among so many parents, I felt a quiet emotion within me. I remembered my own parents, who are no longer with me in this world. Their absence is something I always carry in my heart.
After prayer, the evening turned joyful with games, laughter, and togetherness. Watching parents smile, priests and brothers play freely, and everyone enjoying one another’s company was something beautiful. Fireworks lit up the sky, and singing and dancing filled the night with happiness. Yet in the middle of all that joy, I felt something deeper—God gently reminding me that love still surrounds me.
The next morning, after breakfast, we listened to the talk given by Reverend Sr. Yogarani SCJM. Her words about faith, vocation, and family were inspiring and meaningful. Later, the rituals of lighting candles and handing over plants moved me deeply. The candles reminded me that even when loved ones are gone, their light continues to shine within us. The plants reminded me that life still grows, even through pain and loss.
The Holy Mass was the most touching moment of all. Standing there in prayer, surrounded by so many mothers and fathers, I felt a mixture of sadness and gratitude. Sadness, because I missed my own parents. Gratitude, because I realized I am not alone.
Though both my parents have passed away, during this gathering I truly felt that I still have a family. I saw mothers who smiled at me with kindness, fathers who spoke with care, brothers who stood beside me, and priests who guided me with love. In that moment, I understood that God had not taken family away from me—He had given me a bigger one.
I am grateful to Fr. Pelix, who organized this beautiful event with much care and dedication.
This Parents’ Day was more than a gathering. For me, it was healing. It was a reminder that even in loss, love remains. Even in absence, family can still be found. And even when I miss my parents, I am never truly alone.
Bro. Sumeda Fernando
