by Melani Manel Perera

Catholic and Hindu communities most affected by the war remember the visit of Francis to the Marian shrine of Madhu, in the north of the country with joy. "His example teaches us to respect all religions and to allow everyone to practice their own."

Colombo (AsiaNews) - "For the first time in the history of Sri Lanka, we Tamil had the chance to see the Pope in our native places. It was truly a great blessing, not only for us but for all the people of this country": This is the reaction of some Tamils from the north of the island describing to AsiaNews the significance of Francis' visit to the shrine of Our Lady of the Rosary in Madhu, in the Diocese of Mannar, on  January 14. The moment of prayer together with the victims of the civil war was one of the pivotal moments of the journey made by the pontiff to the former Ceylon.

"We believe - said an elderly couple - that Pope Francis' visit is a good thing not just for us Tamils, but also for all civilians in the country, without distinction. In addition, we are pleased that he was welcomed by a leader with a good heart, kind and disciplined, not a corrupt president".

A Tamil Hindu doctor, says he is "happy that the Pope, spiritual leader of the Catholics, has come to visit his flock. And it was nice that he visited a Buddhist temple. His example teaches us to respect all religions and to allow everyone to practice their own. I appreciate Pope Francis: He cameat a  good time, when the country has changed government and nourishes a new hope for a better future. "

For a Catholic nun, the visit of Francis to the Marian shrine of Madhu "will remain engraved forever in our hearts. It is the first time for a Pope to come here to the north, meeting the most affected by the conflict. The credit also goes to Msgr. Rayappu Joseph [bishop of Mannar, ed], who strongly wanted his presence here".

 

• sri
• lanka
• pope
• francis
• marian
• shrine
• tamil
• catholic
• buddhist
• civil
• war