SRI LANKAN EMBASSY HOLDS INTER-FAITH
RELIGIOUS SERVICE FOR TSUNAMI VICTIMS
An inter-faith religious service was held on December 29th at
4.00 PM at the Sri Lankan Embassy in remembrance of the victims
of the Tsunami tragedy that struck the country. Sri Lanka has
suffered the second highest casualty figures with approximately
25,000 citizens reportedly killed so far. Reflecting the multi-religious
make up of the country, prayers were led by Buddhist monks, a
representative for the Christian and Hindu communities and a Muslim
Imam. The ceremony was witnessed by Embassy staff and their families,
members of the general public and the national media.
The ceremony was officiated by Chief Judicial Sangha Nayaka of
the United States, Bhante Katugastota Uparatana Maha Thera and
Banthe Katugasthota Vidura from the Wheaton International, Buddhist
Center. Other Buddhist monks were also present. Mrs. Renganathan
Hindu community representative read scriptures. Dr. Gregg Fernandopulle
said Christian prayers and Imam Johari Abdul Mohammed, Imam of
Howard University and Director of Outreach at Dar-al-Hijrah Islamic
Center, Falls Church, Virginia read prayers from the Holy Koran.
Speaking at the conclusion of what was a moving and an emotional
event, Ambassador Devinda Subasinghe thanked the religious dignitaries
for their prayers and blessings. He also noted that “Help
was forthcoming from the US government and the general public
around the country, this tragic event will also provide us with
an opportunity to work together past ethnic and religious lines.”
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington DC
USA
30 December 2004
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