Brian Udaigwe, Apostolic Nuncio to Sri Lanka, delivered a heartfelt message during the commemoration of the 2019 Easter Sunday attack victims, stressing unity, justice, and forgiveness.
He conveyed Pope Francis’ message of consolation to the victims’ families, survivors, and all those still grieving.
Udaigwe reminded the gathering of Jesus’ prayer of forgiveness on the cross, highlighting the Church’s commitment to justice while also promoting forgiveness and repentance.
Citing Fratelli Tutti, he emphasized that true forgiveness breaks the cycle of revenge and halts the spread of destruction.
He praised those who have resisted the temptation of retaliation and have worked tirelessly in pursuit of justice.
Udaigwe underscored that terrorism can only be tackled through unified international cooperation, as terror transcends national borders.
He urged the global community to prevent terrorists from finding the conditions to thrive, including funding, recruitment, and coordination.
He called for accountability for those who support extremism and violations of international humanitarian law.
Highlighting the Church’s role in education, Udaigwe stated that Catholic institutions worldwide foster peace and responsibility among youth.
He encouraged Sri Lanka’s religious communities to unite for the common good and actively oppose the misuse of religion to justify violence.
