Information service of the Pontifical Mission Societies since 1927
Colombo (Fides Service) - A Catholic church in the diocese of Anuradhapura centre north Sri Lanka has been sacked and set on fire by a group of masked extremists. Fides only just received the news of the incident which happened in the afternoon of Saturday 16 July. Investigating police suspect one of the fanatic Buddhist extremist groups which are spreading intolerance with anti-Christian actions all over the island. The local Church is deeply concerned. The Catholic Bishop of Anuradhapura Mgr Norbert Andrai told Fides that he is dismayed by the “spread of anti-Catholic sentiments” . While expressing his sadness the Bishop said “Christians will not be drawn into the spiral of violence”. “We will protest but we will do it peacefully”, the Bishop told Fides. He has already informed religious and civil authorities of the serious incident. Besides praying to God to stop the violence the diocese is planning peaceful demonstrations to protest against this uncalled for violence.
As anti-Christian feelings spread parliament is due shortly to discuss soon two bills which will ban religious conversions and this would increase unrest in the Island’s religious panoram.
Fides will give more details on the attack on the church in the diocese Anuradahpura as soon as possible. (to be followed)
(Agenzia Fides 20/07/2005 Righe: 20 Parole: 202)
