Colombo: Archbishop of Colombo, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith has said that Catholics in Sri Lanka have forgiven the suicide bombers, who have taken the words of Jesus Christ, ‘Love their enemies,’ on the Easter Day last year. The Cardinal said this in a speech during the Holy Mass, which was broadcast live at the Bishop’s House this past Easter.
A suicide attack by a group of youths led by the wrong people killed not only Catholics but also Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims. As human beings, we have been humane and selfish. But because we think of Jesus’ teachings, we forgive and feel sorry for them. He said that the resurrection is a total rejection of selfishness. Although no special commemoration ceremonies have been held for Easter following the coronation, the Sri Lankan Church has decided to hold a private funeral on April 21.
On April 21 last year, nine suicide bombers associated with the Islamist militant group, the National Tawheed Jamaat, bombed churches and luxury hotels, killing 279 people, including 37 foreigners. About 500 people were injured. The Sri Lankan bishop’s committee has also called on the government to seek an independent commission with an independent commission, following allegations that the country’s intelligence system had failed utterly after the bombings.
