Archbishop of Colombo, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, has called on Sri Lankans to observe this Christmas with compassion and restraint, as the nation continues to recover from one of its worst natural disasters in recent memory.
In his message, the Colombo Archbishop has highlighted the scale of the crisis, noting that more than 1.5 million people have been displaced, while an “uncounted number” remain buried under debris in the hill country following landslides and severe flooding.
“It is a most painful situation,”
he has written acknowledging the difficulty of celebrating a season traditionally associated with joy while thousands are mourning lost loved ones, living in refugee centres, or left with nothing but the clothes they were wearing.
The Cardinal has urged the faithful to temper excessive celebrations and extravagance, instead focusing on helping those affected. “Celebrate, by all means, yes, but make it a moment of spiritual happiness and concern for the needs of those who suffer,” he said. “Assist as much as possible those who lost their loved ones, their homes, and their belongings.”
He has called for a Christmas marked by love, sharing, and solidarity, describing it as an opportunity to make the season “a deeply spiritual and joyful experience.”