Archives

"Pope John Paul II accomplished his mission guaranteeing World peace and harmony through unity among the diverse nations in the world. He was in fact, dedicated to ensure a decent livelihood to the world community by uniting the Catholics and the adherents of various religions together.

Solutions to the threats confronting peace underscore the need for his guidance. The vision of such great personages irrespective of difference of religion is the best answer to the current problems which have affected the world community", said Minister of Mass Communication, Imthiaz Bakeer Markar on the occasion where a postage stamp and First Day Cover were issued to commemorate the 25th Anniversary of the pontificate of His Holiness Pope John Paul II at the Ministry of Christian Affairs recently.

The new postage stamp and First Day Cover was later presented to Mgr. Thomsa Yeh Sheng Nan, the Apostolic Nuncio in Sri Lanka.

Minister Bakeer Markar said "The Pope was not confined to his high office alone, but embarked on a mission among the over-mastered and the social underdoges. Despite his physical infirmities even today the Pope continues his mission unabated.

Born a Polish citizen, the Pope moulded his character in later life on the first-hand experience of the suffering his compatriots were subjected to with the debacle of Communist society.

The trials and tribulations he suffered himself at the hands of Hitler and Stalin helped him to acknowledge and respect diversity of opinion and implement the majority decisions.

All religions condone peace and harmony among the various people. The Holy Quaraan holds Jesus Christ and Virgin Mary in high veneration. Mutual respect for each others religious value provides solutions to most of the present day problems.

Minister of Interior and Christian Affairs, John Amaratunga said "Pope John Paul II is the 265th to hold the high office of Pontificate. His papacy remains the longest.

He has travelled widely to more than 100 different countries and delivered his message of peace to the people. His visit to Sri Lanka in 1995 is remembered by Sri Lankans with much pride.

The Pope drew his special attention to the ethnic conflict in Sri Lanka and always wished a peaceful solution. He is the greatest religious leader in the current history of the world who delivered the message of peace to the world community," he concluded.

Rt. Revd. Frank Marcus Fernando, Bishop of Chilaw, Rt. Rev. Viyanni Fernando, Bhsip of Kandy, Rt. Rev. Winston Fernando, Bishop of Badulla, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Tyronne Fernando, Governor of the Western Province, Alavi Mowlana, Secretary to the Ministry of Interior and Christian Affairs, M.A. Nunaid, Secretary to the Ministry of Mass Communication, Kumar Abeysinge and several invitees participated.

Mrs. Rose Fernando, Addl. Secretary to the Ministry of Interior and Christian Affairs delivered the welcome address.

www.crescat.com

News | Business | Features | Editorial | Security
Politics | World | Letters | Sports | Obituaries

Produced by Lake House
Copyright © 2003 The Associated Newspapers of Ceylon Ltd.
Comments and suggestions to :Web Manager