EDUCATION

MARIAN GROVE

A SANCTUARY FOR RETIRING OBLATES

Priests and religious brothers dedicate their entire lives to serving the flock. They baptize us, officiate our marriages, share in our deepest joys and sorrows, and continuously pray for our families. However, like everyone else, they too experience the fragilities of aging. As they enter their golden years, they require a peaceful sanctuary where they can be supported, loved, and cared for by the community they spent their youth serving.

To meet this profound need, the Oblate Province of Colombo established Marian Grove—a dedicated home for retiring and ailing Oblates.

Our History and Foundation

The establishment of Marian Grove was the brainchild of former Oblate Provincial, Rev. Fr. Bernard Quintus, OMI. During his second term in office, he brought to life a vision that had been on his heart for years: to create a dedicated, restful haven for retiring Oblates, those needing a temporary period of rest, and those requiring specialized medical attention.

Constructed on the former playground of the Juniorate, the house was solemnly blessed and officially opened on December 8, 1981, by the Most Rev. Dr. Nicholas Marcus Fernando, Archbishop Emeritus of Colombo. Today, well past its Silver Jubilee, Marian Grove stands as a testament to the Province's enduring gratitude for its senior members.

A Community of Care

Managed directly by the Oblate administration, Marian Grove is more than just a retirement facility; it is a vibrant spiritual home.

Because the house is located close to the Juniorate, young Oblate students are readily available to assist and spend time with the aging priests. This beautiful proximity fosters a deep intergenerational connection, allowing the wisdom of the senior Oblates to inspire the next generation, while the youth provide vital care and companionship.

An Invitation to the Faithful

For the priests who now live away from the public eye and the active parish limelight, the love and remembrance of their former parishioners mean the world. They do not seek material things; the simple knowledge that they are remembered and cared for brings them immense joy.

We warmly invite the faithful to remember these devoted servants in their prayers. Marian Grove offers a wonderful opportunity for anyone willing to show gratitude, reconcile, or simply share a loving conversation with the priests who have walked alongside them throughout their lives.

Moving Forward: A Call for Compassion

Today, Sahana Medura provides full-time care for approximately 40 male and female residents. Tragically, many of these individuals have been neglected or marginalized by their own families and communities. The Oblates firmly believe that as God’s children, we all share a responsibility to care for the vulnerable.

Looking to the future, the Colombo Province envisions elevating Sahana Medura into a fully equipped mental health hospital, utilizing advancements in science and therapy to help these special individuals reclaim their happiness and independence.

Achieving this dream requires the collective effort of the community. Rev. Fr. Prasanna Rodrigo warmly welcomes anyone willing to join hands in this mission. Whether through financial assistance, the donation of dry rations and alms, or simply taking the time to visit and make the residents feel loved and accepted, your generosity brings authentic Christian charity to life.

Directives Regarding the Admission of Patients

To ensure the highest standard of care and coordination, Sahana Medura follows strict admission guidelines:

  • Medical Documentation: The individual seeking admission must currently be under medical treatment, and detailed reports from their doctors must be submitted.
  • Responsible Guardian: The patient must have a designated guardian who takes full responsibility for them. This guardian is required to visit the patient at least once a month to ensure the continuity and coordination of the therapy process.
  • Financial Contribution: The party responsible for the patient is expected to make a financial contribution toward their care (the amount is always negotiable based on capacity).
  • Board Approval: The Director will prepare a comprehensive report on the proposed therapy process for the patient. This report is submitted to the Board of Directors, who hold the final decision regarding all admissions.

Contact - SAHANA MEDURA