Multi-faith service in Bangkok in memory of victims of Sri Lanka’s Easter Sunday attacks

Saturday, 11 May 2019 00:00 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Bangkok organised a multi-faith service on 28 April, which was the seventh day since the incident, to bestow merit and blessings to the victims of the Easter Sunday bomb attacks. Deputy Director General, South Asia Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Thailand, members of the Sri Lankan community and well-wishers participated at this event.

Religious dignitaries of the four main religions of Sri Lanka conducted the religious observances and extended prayers for the departed and give strength to their families in bearing the loss and for speedy recovery of the injured. They also emphasised on the importance of togetherness and harmonious co-existence and the need to expel hatred for harmonious living which is important personally and for the development of the country.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Kshenuka Senewiratne observed that the religious doctrines espoused centuries ago have been senselessly radicalised and the practice of such extremism is an insult and attack on them, culminating in making global terrorism the means to achieve the misconceived objectives of those organisations. She pointed out the need to reverse such radicalisation. While bestowing merit to those victims, Ambassador Senewiratne also called on the gathering to elevate from possible bitter emotions and pray for the misguided extremists steeped in fanatical religious ideology to return to the correct path of moderate and genuine religious teachings. She emphasised the need to conquer hatred through loving kindness as taught by all religions. In conclusion, the Ambassador advised the community to draw strength from these dastardly acts and resolve to not let the recent incidents affect the unity among them, and seek to contribute towards ensuring a stronger and prosperous future for Sri Lanka. The participants also lit candles in memory of the innocent lives lost in the attacks.

The multi-faith service was followed by a Holy Mass dedicated specially to Sri Lanka at the Holy Redeemer Church Bangkok, with the participation of foreign ambassadors, diplomats, members of the Sri Lankan community and parishioners from various countries including Thailand. During the Mass, special blessings were invoked on all those who are affected by the recent tragic incidents and for the peace and security of the people of Sri Lanka.

The Embassy had a condolence book opened for signing from 23 to 28 April at the Embassy premises. On behalf of the Thai government, Virasakdi Futrakul, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Thailand signed the condolence book on behalf of the Thai government and expressed deep sorrow and condolences to the bereaved families of Sri Lanka who lost their loved ones and stated that the Royal Thai Government stands in solidarity with that of Sri Lanka, during these trying times and always.

A significant number of foreign Ambassadors, diplomats, representatives from international organisations and Thai businesses, members of the Sri Lankan community and well-wishers visited the Embassy to sign the condolence book.