Multi-faith call for peace in Sri Lanka

By Neville de Silva in London

Representatives of Sri Lanka's four main religions called for peace in the country as International Day of Peace was observed in the presence of a multi-ethnic and multi-religious gathering at the High Commission offices at Hyde Park Gardens last Thursday.

The religious observances were led by the Ven Bogoda Seelawimala Thera of the London Buddhist Vihare followed by Swami Ramanathan, RG Amanudeen of the Islamic Cultural Centre and Rev Father Nimal Ponweera on behalf of the Christian community.

Ven Seelawimala said that it was a challenge to speak of peace in a climate of violence.

He said that no peace is possible at home or in society as long as one's mind is not at peace.

The venerable thera said that diversity should be welcomed. It was like the five fingers of the hand. They were of different sizes and shapes but they all formed the hand and acted together, he said.

Quoting the Buddha he said that hatred is not overcome with hatred but with love.

Swami Ramanathan prayed that a Sri Lanka without weapons will one day enjoy peace and joy, something that every Sri Lankan looked forward to.

He said that diversity in society should be recognised.

He prayed that genuine peace will come to the country.RG Amanudeen read from the Koran while F Nizar speaking on behalf of the Muslim community said all communities in Sri Lanka should live in peace and harmony.

In a message, President Mahinda Rajapaksa said the problems facing humanity could only be solved through the concerted efforts of all nations and world peace was an essential pre-requisite for such efforts to succeed.

High Commissioner Kshenuka Senewiratne said the occasion had been organised by the High Commission in collaboration with an organisation called ‘Campaign for Peace and Unity in Sri Lanka’ (CPUSL).

The campaign has enlisted the support of organisations representing all ethnic and religious groups in Sri Lanka present in the diaspora with the objective of working towards achieving peace in the country through dialogue.