172 Acta Apostolicae Sedis - Commentarium Officiale

er. But, as experience has shown, for such dialogue and encounter to be

effective, it must be grounded in a full and forthright presentation of our

respective convictions. Certainly, such dialogue will accentuate how varied

our beliefs, traditions and practices are. But if we are honest in present-

ing our convictions, we will be able to see more clearly what we hold in

common. New avenues will be opened for mutual esteem, cooperation and

indeed friendship.

Such positive developments in interreligious and ecumenical relations

take on a particular significance and urgency in Sri Lanka. For too many

years the men and women of this country have been victims of civil strife

and violence. What is needed now is healing and unity, not further conflict

and division. Surely the fostering of healing and unity is a noble task which

is incumbent upon all who have at heart the good of the nation, and indeed

the whole human family. It is my hope that interreligious and ecumenical

cooperation will demonstrate that men and women do not have to forsake

their identity, whether ethnic or religious, in order to live in harmony with

their brothers and sisters.

How many ways there are for the followers of the different religions to

carry out this service! How many are the needs that must be tended to

with the healing balm of fraternal solidarity! I think in particular of the

material and spiritual needs of the poor, the destitute, those who yearn

for a word of consolation and hope. Here I think too of the many families

who continue to mourn the loss of their loved ones.

Above all, at this moment of your nation's history, how many people

of good will are seeking to rebuild the moral foundations of society as a

whole? May the growing spirit of cooperation between the leaders of the

various religious communities find expression in a commitment to put rec-

onciliation among all Sri Lankans at the heart of every effort to renew

society and its institutions. For the sake of peace, religious beliefs must

never be allowed to be abused in the cause of violence and war. We must

be clear and unequivocal in challenging our communities to live fully the

tenets of peace and coexistence found in each religion, and to denounce

acts of violence when they are committed.

Dear friends, I thank you once again for your generous welcome and

your attention. May this fraternal encounter confirm all of us in our efforts

to live in harmony and to spread the blessings of peace.