September 14, Colombo (LNW): During a deeply symbolic visit to the revered Our Lady of Matara shrine, Prime Minister Dr Harini Amarasuriya called for strengthened interfaith harmony as an essential path toward achieving justice, equality, and lasting peace in Sri Lanka.
Her remarks came as part of the 118th anniversary celebrations of the historic Marian sanctuary, which drew religious dignitaries and community leaders from across the country.
Marking more than a century of religious significance, this year’s annual festivities saw a ceremonial blessing led by the Bishop of Badulla, Most Rev. Dr Jude Nishantha Silva, and the Bishop of Galle, Most Rev. Dr Raymond Wickramasinghe, offered on behalf of the Prime Minister. Their prayers served not only as a spiritual tribute but also as a gesture of goodwill and shared commitment to national reconciliation.
In a special gathering that followed the religious rites, the Prime Minister engaged in a warm and constructive dialogue with leading Buddhist monks, Catholic clergy, and other interfaith figures from the Matara region. The meeting, held in the main hall of the shrine, was aimed at fostering greater collaboration across religious lines in addressing societal challenges.
Speaking on behalf of the Government and the President, Dr Amarasuriya expressed her appreciation for being part of the venerated celebration. She emphasised that the harmony displayed between the shrine and other religious institutions in the region should serve as a model for the rest of the nation.
“The unity and mutual respect nurtured among faiths in this region is not just admirable—it is necessary. We must carry that spirit of solidarity beyond Matara, into every corner of the country,” the Prime Minister stated. “I am thankful to all the venerable theros and reverend fathers for exemplifying this path. May you continue with renewed strength in your efforts towards social justice and communal wellbeing.”
The event was attended by a diverse array of dignitaries, including the Vicar General of Galle, Very Rev. Fr Michael Rajendram; Shrine Administrator Rev. Fr Jude Sampath Wilegoda; and leading Buddhist clergy such as Shastravedi Panditha Ven. Indrananda Nayake Thero of Tissamaharama and Ven. Yatigala Somatilaka Nayake Thero of Kotuwegoda Jayasumanaramaya Temple. Also present were members of the Venerable Maha Sangha, political figures including Leader of the Opposition Mr Sajith Premadasa, Minister of Women and Child Affairs Ms Saroja Paulraj, and Southern Province Governor Mr Bandula Harischandra.
