Br. Sunanda Alwis is the first Provincia

On August 6th, our newest Province commenced ? that of South Asia. This Province brings together the communities and ministries in Sri Lanka, India and Pakistan. Br. Sunanda Alwis is the first Provincial.

Marist presence commenced in South Asia in 1911 in Sri Lanka, being founded by Brothers from France. Today the Brothers conduct three large schools, have key roles in three others, and have an extensive network of non-formal education ministries. Marist mission expanded to Pakistan in the 1960?s where today the Brothers lead two schools and a hostel, and have a role in another school. In the 1970?s Sri Lankan Brothers went to Trichy in India to study. Local men were attracted by the example of these Brothers and our mission in India commenced. Today there are two schools and some fine outreach projects including one for children affected by AIDS and another for families affected by the 2004 tsunami. In summary, the Province is responsible for the education of more than 14,000 young people.

The Chapter which inaugurated the Province had as its theme: to be a blessing [Gen 12: 2]. Indeed this was the experience of the delegates. In a Province with such cultural diversity, the Chapter showed that within this richness there can be ?one heart and one mind,? as our Founder would have wished.

The members of the first Provincial Council are: Brothers Santhosh (India), Savarimuthu (India), Shanthi Liyanage (Pakistan), Nicholas Fernando (Sri Lanka), Godfrey Perera (Sri Lanka).