The people of Sri Lanka need an abundance of love which is at the core of Christianity that will build new bridges of tolerance and understanding, to rebuild the shattered lives of our people who have suffered through three decades of terror and restore our land to one of peace and harmony, said President Mahinda Rajapaksa in his Christmas message.

The birth of Jesus Christ in a stable at Bethlehem is symbolic of the love that should transcend all barriers and extend to all, from the humblest of people, to all other beings that share our land, and to nature that sustains us all, the President further stated.

As the world celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ the Prince of Peace this year, Christians in Sri Lanka have more cause for the joy of Christmas in a country that is no more threatened by the dark clouds of terror.  

The spirit of Christmas is one of loving and giving. It brings together families and communities to share the joy of the birth of Jesus Christ who brought with him the great teaching of love that is at the core of Christianity. The people of Sri Lanka need an abundance of this underlying love that will build new bridges of tolerance and understanding, to rebuild the shattered lives of our people who have suffered through three decades of terror and restore our land to one of peace and harmony.

The birth of Jesus Christ in a stable at Bethlehem is symbolic of the love that should transcend all barriers and extend to all, from the humblest of people, to all other beings that share our land, and to nature that sustains us all.  

The sound of Christmas bells will spread far and wide the joy of Christmas announcing the dawn of a New Era of Peace to all those of goodwill.