Christmas celebrations were held in the Embassy of Sri Lanka in Paris on 21st December 2016, with the clergy of the four main religions being present along with the community representatives and the Embassy staff.
A short sermon delivered by Rev Fr Nimantha Peiris, was followed by the messages of the other religions echoing the importance of unity in the country while celebrating diversity as a strength. Ambassador Tilak Ranaviraja, in his address, spoke of the need to cultivate faith as a means of ushering in peace and requested the diaspora to reach out to the government and engage in a meaningful manner in contributing to the prosperity of the country.
Thereafter, in keeping with the traditional Christmas cheers, the gathering joined in singing Christmas carols and sharing a treat of Sri Lankan food which also depicted the diversity of the country in adding a distinct flavor to the celebrations.
Apart from the celebrations in the Embassy, the Ambassador and staff attended many events organized by the community in relaying the message of communal harmony to forge ahead as a reconciled nation in the coming year.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Paris
22nd December 2016
