PM promotes peace and reconciliation at annual feast of Madhu Church

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe participated in the annual feast of Our Lady of Madhu, becoming the second state leader to participate in the feast. A large number of people participated in the annual feast of the historical Church of Our Lady of Madhu in Mannar yesterday. Archbishop of Colombo Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith led the festive mass. Bishop of Mannar Emmanual Fernando and several other bishops were also present - Pic by Pradeep Pathirana

Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe yesterday said the Unity Government is working to deliver long-term peace to the island nation, and that religious festivals are important to promote peace and reconciliation.

The Prime Minister made this observation while participating in the annual festival of the historic Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu in Mannar, presided over by the Archbishop Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith and Bishop of Mannar Emmanuel Fernando.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe said the Madhu feast is a symbol of reconciliation in the country.

“Our large religious festivals are important moments to promote and embrace the values of peace and reconciliation as we work to deliver long-term peace in Sri Lanka,” the Premier said.

The Prime Minister said that the Madhu Church has been venerated by all the quarters of Sri Lankan society, irrespective of their religious backgrounds, and it is an important place to strengthen ethnic and religious ties. He also said that no room should be allowed for hatred to conquer the society.

The Prime Minister also made a donation for the future development activities of the Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu.

A number of Government ministers, officials and a large number of devotees attended the event.