Responsibility of religion and religious freedom

Statement by Heads of Churches of the National Christian Council of Sri Lanka:

The Heads of Churches of the National Christian Council of Sri Lanka issuing a statement call upon all Christians and Buddhists to remain calm and not be provoked by rumours that aggravate religious tensions. This is the best that most of us can offer in such sensitive situations.

It said two recent and very unfortunate incidents that aroused religious tensions have received much publicity in the media.

At an open air healing event conducted by a Christian group, two women who had been brought for healing, died. Soon afterwards the church where this group worshipped at was attacked by a mob.

It is alleged that at the first event, the relatives of the women were prevented from removing their loved ones for medical attention. It is also alleged that at the second event, Buddhist monks, seen on camera in acts of violence, were impostors; and that police officers watched as the Prayer Hall was damaged.

In such situations, investigations need also to be accompanied with mediation, drawing assistance from impartial leaders of civil society and the Religions so that current and any further tensions may be diffused.

Our Churches are very willing to co-operate in any such initiative since the Christian Communities we represent desire a fair and peaceful resolution of this issue.

We extend the prayers and sympathies of our Churches to the families of the deceased persons. While we await the outcome of the investigations, it is still a matter of deep regret that these persons who sought healing, lost their lives through participation at an event organised by a Christian group.

We also extend the prayers and solidarity of our churches to the members of the Christian group whose Church was attacked. Violence as a form of problem solving, by any group, religious or secular, no matter what the provocation may have been, is wrong and must be condemned.

We appeal to Christian group engaged in this type of public healing event to review their stance in the light of the wider teaching of Christ on healing and to engage in dialogue with other Christians. The former is necessary since we live in a multi-religious society which calls for sensitive Christian witness. The latter is necessary since the actions of one group has repercussions on the life and work of all.

In the meantime we request all Christians to go about their religious observances with calm and dignity and in faith and companionship with Christ. We also urge all Christians to rise above any attempts to divide us or to stereotype our brothers and sisters of other faiths.

We assure our brothers and sisters of all religions of our goodwill and loving kindness and affirm our commitment to the building of inter-religious trust with all so that religious freedom and religious responsibility may co-exist for the good of all.