Anglican bishop: Religious diversity, a gift for people of Sri Lanka
Colombo (AsiaNews) - "Using the gift of religious diversity to bring benefits to the people of Sri Lanka". Kumara Illangasinghe, Anglican Bishop of Kurunegala, tells AsiaNews that this is what motivates him in his appointment as ambassador of former Ceylon to the Parliament of World Religions in Chicago. With him, a total of 63 personalities have been selected from all over the world. Ten from Asia - five from India, two from Pakistan and one each for Sri Lanka, Nepal and Russia. Including the United States, Canada and Mexico, there are 42 delegates; six from Europe; two from Africa; three from Oceania. Interviewed by AsiaNews, the bishop speaks of what he expects from this new position. Kumara Illangasinghe was president of the Theological College of Lanka from 1992 to 1999. In 2000 he was consecrated the fourth Bishop of Kurunegala, after Msgr. Andrew Kumarage retired.
Your Grace, how long will you
hold this position?
Typically the appointment
is two years.
Why do you think you were chosen
as ambassador?
Sri Lanka is an
important country in respect of religions, as we are the home for four major
living religions and a few other religions in the world. They have recognized
my involvement in religious work for the welfare of human beings and my efforts
to foster understanding and respect for each other and to truly use the gift of
diversity of religions in Sri Lanka for human benefit. This diversity is
something to be celebrated and to be frightened of. It is important locally,
regionally as well as globally to build and nurture relationships. We need to
learn from each other. May be also because I have always encouraged our people,
especially the Christians to work in corporation with people of all religions.
During the time of the war I encouraged all our clergy to set up peace
committees with leaders of all religions in their respective areas. I have
never been in favor of religious extremism or religious violence and stood for
peaceful co-existence. These may be the reasons.
What are the most immediate responsibilities awaiting you
in this new mission ?
The next Parliament session takes place at the Salt Palace
Convention Centre in Salt Lake City, Utah, US, for five days from October 15,
2015. So, ahead of that I am
expected to create awareness about the Parliament among all our people and to
encourage as many persons as possible to participate in the Parliament.
How will this position
benefit the people of Sri Lanka?
Yes, in Sri
Lanka we have experienced religious extremism in the recent past and some of
our leaders have been responsible for religious violence in the country. This
should not happen in our beloved nation. And our people should live in harmony
and peacefully. Our people should be encouraged to love each other and try and
learn from each other, while respecting and understanding each other.
Inter-faith work in Sri Lanka needs more space and encouragement. I committed
myself for that very reason.
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