Half a century of diplomacy, but can faith truly unite a nation still healing from tragedy? This week marks a significant milestone as Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, the Vatican’s Secretary for Relations with States and International Organizations, visits Sri Lanka to commemorate 50 years of diplomatic ties with the Holy See. But here’s where it gets thought-provoking: while the visit celebrates partnership, it also confronts the shadows of the 2019 Easter Sunday attacks, a tragedy that claimed over 250 lives. Can such a visit truly foster healing and unity in a nation still grappling with its wounds?
From November 3-8, Archbishop Gallagher’s itinerary is packed with symbolic gestures and high-level meetings. Upon his arrival, he was warmly received by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Arun Hemachandra, setting the tone for a week of dialogue and reflection. But here’s the part most people miss: beyond the official handshakes, the archbishop’s visit includes a deeply personal journey to the sites of the Easter attacks, where he will pay his respects and celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving at St. Lucia’s Cathedral in Colombo. This act of solidarity raises a bold question: Can religious leadership play a pivotal role in bridging divides in a multicultural society like Sri Lanka?
The archbishop’s schedule is a masterclass in diplomacy. On Monday, he met with Prime Minister Harini Amarasuriya, followed by encounters with President Anura Kumara Dissanayake and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath on Tuesday. That same day, he participated in a conference titled The Holy See’s Perspective and Commitment to Dialogue and Peace, a nod to the enduring relationship established on September 6, 1975. Controversially, some might argue that such conferences, while symbolic, often fall short of addressing the root causes of conflict. What do you think? Can dialogue alone heal deep-seated wounds?
The visit also highlights interfaith engagement. On November 6, Archbishop Gallagher will meet with Malwatta and Asgiriya religious authorities in Kandy, followed by a visit to a Buddhist temple. This gesture underscores the Holy See’s commitment to fostering mutual respect across religions. But here’s a counterpoint: In a world increasingly polarized by religious differences, are such gestures enough to build lasting trust?
To cap off his visit, the archbishop will meet with seminarians and faculty at the National Seminary of Our Lady of Lanka, investing in the future leaders of the Church. This final act symbolizes hope and continuity, but it also prompts a reflection: How can religious institutions better prepare their leaders to address modern challenges?
As we reflect on this historic visit, we invite you to join the conversation. Do you believe faith-based diplomacy can truly unite a nation? Or are there deeper issues that require more than symbolic gestures? Share your thoughts in the comments below. And don’t forget to stay informed—subscribe to our daily newsletter by clicking here to keep up with stories that matter.
