Writing on behalf of the country’s Catholic bishops, he insisted that “a sincere commitment of everyone is needed in creating this environment in our country”. “This country has witnessed a free and fair election and there is hope among the people to see the dawn of a healthy political culture devoid of corruption and injustice.” Sri Lanka’s bishops urged that economic development be sustainable and respect the lives of people and the environment.
He said that “with so many of our brothers and sisters still suffering intensively, it is not proper for us to make the birth of the Divine Saviour, who deigned to be born among the poor and the suffering in a humble manger, an event of noisy celebrations.”
The cardinal added: “Instead this Christmas should be a moment for us to reflect about and bear in mind this painful situation afflicting many of our brothers and sisters, to pray for them and for our beloved motherland, to commit ourselves to work for peace, harmony, and reconciliation among the various communities living in Sri Lanka.” UcaNews
