President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, in his Christmas Day message, has called on the nation to rise above divisions and embrace the universal values of unity, peace, and humanity exemplified by Jesus Christ.
In his statement, the President highlighted the significance of Christmas as a time to reflect on the teachings of Jesus Christ, who transcended social and economic barriers to spread a message of love and salvation.
Acknowledging the challenges currently faced by Sri Lanka, President Dissanayake emphasised the need for a “transformative social revival” to achieve a just, compassionate, and equitable society. He urged citizens to commit to building a strong, stable economy, ensuring social justice, and promoting a democratic and integrity-driven political culture.
Reflecting on the spiritual essence of Christmas, the President stated, “Transforming our nation into a land where peace reigns and divisions are replaced by mutual understanding is a journey we are on together.” He called on Sri Lankans to embrace values of empathy, equality, and coexistence, rejecting the selfish competition that often dominates society.
Below is the full text of President Dissanayake’s Christmas Day message:
“Christmas, the day that marks the birth of Jesus Christ, is celebrated with great reverence by Christians worldwide. Jesus Christ, who came into this world to bring salvation to all, saw no divisions among people, be they rich or poor. His birth among humble shepherds, and the divine message delivered to them by angels, underscores the profound truth that Christmas calls us to transcend divisions and act with unity, peace, and humanity.
Today, as a nation, we stand at a pivotal moment, united in our shared commitment to the future. We are witnessing the dawn of a new era for our country, one illuminated by the message of love and unity brought by Jesus Christ. Transforming our nation into a land where peace reigns and divisions are replaced by mutual understanding is a journey we are on together. Jesus Christ’s life, rooted in the pursuit of human freedom and justice, serves as an enduring inspiration for our work today.
Today, Sri Lanka stands at a crossroads, requiring a transformative social revival. This is a call for a collective national renewal, a shift towards a just, compassionate, and equitable society. It is a moment for us to unite, acting with determination, resilience, and courage, to achieve the shared vision of a prosperous nation and fulfilling lives for all.
Although society often compels us towards selfish competition, let us embrace the virtues of humanity this Christmas with empathy, respect for equality, fraternity, and coexistence. By fostering these values, we can work towards a society that thrives on mutual care and collective joy.
This Christmas, let us pledge to build a strong, stable economy, ensure social justice, and uphold a political culture rooted in democracy and integrity. Together, with firm resolve, we can create a beautiful nation filled with humanity and freedom.
May all Christians in Sri Lanka and across the world have a blessed and joyful Christmas!”
In his concluding remarks, President Dissanayake extended warm wishes to Christians in Sri Lanka and around the world, encouraging all citizens to come together in the spirit of Christmas to build a brighter and more united future.
