Government to restore Catholic Churches in Sri Lanka
(June 4, 2009) The President of Sri Lanka, Mahindra Rajapaksa, on Wednesday 3rd
of May, announced Rupees seven million grant to the Catholic Churches in Kurunegala
and Kalutara districts for development activities under a programme to develop religious
establishments. President’s Media Unit quoted the President, "Religious leaders provided
the strength and spiritual support to the people to live peace and harmony." The Media
unit made it clear that the announcement was done at a ceremony held at the temple
trees on Wednesday. St. Anne’s church, Udubaddava, Kattimahana, was given Rs.3.4
million to build a hostel for priests.Rs.1.2 million was granted to Mother of Holy
Rosary’s church, Polpithigama, Morotta to develop the facilities for its devotees.
Yet another Rs.2.2 million was given to St. Philip Neri’s church, Katukurunda, Kalutara
for repairs. Thus the development grant for the Churches was mainly concentrated in
Kurunegala and Kalutara areas. According to the Media Unit of the President he recalled
the troubles that the priests faced at the hands of the terrorists and expressed his
gratitude towards the church for saving the religion and the country. The Media Unit
also reported the President as saying that the step was taken to ensure the respect
of the public towards religious activities and places of worship in the country.