The International Day of Peace, observed worldwide on September 21 to promote non-violence and harmony, was marked in Sri Lanka with a special commemorative programme organized by Caritas Sri Lanka-SEDEC, the social arm of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference. The event was held at the SEDEC Auditorium in Colombo on September 22, 2025.
This year, the United Nations (UN) urged all communities to “take concrete action to mobilize for peace,” highlighting the urgency of building just and harmonious societies under the theme “Act Now for a Peaceful Society.”
The SEDEC event aimed to emphasize the shared responsibility of building peace, justice, and reconciliation in the country.
Rev. Fr. Luke Nelson Perera, National Director of Caritas Sri Lanka, in his welcome address, noted that “peace stands with a smile, and we together try to make a peaceful society.”
Guest of Honour, Most Rev. Dr. Valence Mendis, Bishop of Kandy and Chairman of the Catholic National Commission for Missionary Activities, emphasized that “there is no peace without justice, and peace depends on justice and morality.”
Chief Guest Mr. Vijitha Rohana Fernando, Chairman of the Office for National Unity and Reconciliation (ONUR) and Senior Lecturer at the University of Kelaniya, highlighted the close connection between equality and peaceful coexistence. Quoting Saint Ambrose, he said: “You are not making a gift of what is yours to the poor man, but you are giving him back what is his,” underscoring that giving to the poor is an act of justice rather than charity.
The programme featured a panel discussion with Rev. Fr. Bennette Mallewa, ONUR Deputy Director Sanduni Ariyawansa, and Venerable Nawadankulame Medanandha Thero. Panelists explored pathways to strengthen equality, protect human rights, build trust, and secure justice as essential elements of lasting peace.
Two new publications were also launched during the event: After the Storm by Caritas Sri Lanka–SEDEC, and Seeds of Peace, funded by Agiamondo. Introduced by Ms.Oshadi Senuri and Mr. Priyantha Fernando, the books reflect stories of reconciliation and highlight the voices of war-affected communities.Sr. Ushani Perera, Head of the Sustainable Peace and Justice Unit of Caritas Sri Lanka-SEDEC, was also present at the ceremony.
By Ishu Bandara
A short while later, the official car of the Commander of the Navy, bearing plate NAHA 5006, departed from Navy House, Longdon Place, Colombo 7.
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