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| Tuesday, 30 November 2004 |
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Rev. Fr. Oswald B. Firth, a peace activist and campaigner leaves Sri Lanka to assume a high portfolio in the Catholic church. Rev. Firth is a very distinctive person among those who gave leadership to civil society who demanded peace and wanted to end the unwanted war. He strengthened these people dedicating his life. He is one of those who is revered by clergy and members of all religious communities for being a Co-President of the inter-religious peace foundation. Being a witness to the beliefs of the Christianity he unhaltingly advocated that all religions as celestial medicine for development of humanity. Several religious leaders have expressed their belief that the inter-religious understanding activities of Rev. Fr. Firth, his dedication and enthusiasm has led to resolve a large number of inter-religious conflicts that would have destroyed the unity. It is very necessary to state that his unblemished character, strong personality, professionalism in service, classical education and the ability to speak several languages made him unique among all peace workers in strengthening the peace process. He was able to meet the LTTE leaders long before the 2003 peace accord, with other civil society leaders by going into the battle headquarters of the LTTE in the center of forests in the Wanni. He was also able to get ten hostages freed in this journey organised by the association of relatives of soldiers missing in action, and lay the foundation for basic cessation of hostilities. He received his primary education at the Moratuwa St. Sebastian's College and joined the National Seminary, Straasberg University in France and the Gregorian University in Rome and was awarded doctorates. He served as the Director of the National Seminary, SEDEC and the Center for Society and Religion. He worked very closely with Samasevaya, National Peace Council, People's Peace Front, Paffrel and National Anti-War Front and other peace organisations. He was appointed the provincial in the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, a high rank in the Catholic Church and his international vision, wide ranging knowledge recognised have made him being appointed to the world post of Assistant General in the OMI. Samson Jayasinghe, National Secretary, Samasevaya |
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