Introduction
As Sri Lanka approaches a critical presidential election, Catholics in the country have launched a week-long prayer campaign from Sept. 8-15. They are praying for a free and fair election and for the election of a visionary leader who can navigate the country through its ongoing economic and political turmoil.
The Role of Faith in the Election
Bishop Jude Nishantha Silva of Badulla has urged Catholics to fulfill their civic duty by voting responsibly. He called upon the faithful to pray for divine guidance, asking them to elect a leader who can address Sri Lanka’s long-standing issues and steer the nation towards recovery.
Key Message from the Bishop
In his message, Bishop Silva emphasized that voting is both a right and a responsibility. He encouraged Sri Lankans to not shy away from electing a leader who prioritizes the nation’s welfare. “Seize this crucial opportunity to choose a leader who can create a legacy suited to our current needs,” Silva said. He also stressed the importance of maintaining peace during the election process to ensure a fair outcome.
Prayers for Unity and Peace
Catholics across Sri Lanka are coming together for Holy Hours and special prayers in their parishes. The focus of these prayers is to ask for unity and peace among voters, especially as the country faces a critical election in a time of national crisis.
A Nation in Crisis
Sri Lanka is currently grappling with its worst economic crisis in decades. Years of political mismanagement and corruption, particularly under the Rajapaksa family, have left the country in financial ruin. This led to widespread public protests, which eventually forced former President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe, who stepped in after Rajapaksa’s resignation, has attempted to reform the economy. However, his efforts have been met with public discontent due to increased taxes and the failure to curb inflation. Many accuse Wickremesinghe of continuing the legacy of political corruption, while shielding those responsible for economic mismanagement and human rights violations.
The Role of Catholics in Political Change
Catholic leaders and laity alike are advocating for meaningful political reform. Many Catholics, like Nuwan Antony, have been participating in prayer services for the election of a good leader. Antony stresses the need for a president who prioritizes the people over personal power and political gain.
“We need a president who can transform the political culture of the country,” Antony shared.
Similarly, Roshini Ruwanthi, a Catholic from Negombo, mentioned that her community has been earnestly praying for guidance in electing the right leader, particularly in light of the hardships the nation’s children and families have faced due to economic instability.
The Catholic Bishops’ Call to Action
On Aug. 27, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Sri Lanka issued a statement urging voters to elect a leader who upholds democracy and protects democratic institutions. Bishop Raymond Wickramasinghe of Galle echoed this call, emphasizing that voters should remain vigilant and prayerful in electing the right leader.
Conclusion
As Sri Lanka heads to the polls on Sept. 21, the Catholic community is playing a pivotal role in fostering peace and encouraging responsible voting. Through prayer and a strong sense of civic duty, Sri Lankan Catholics hope to see the election of a visionary leader who can guide the nation out of its current crisis.