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“Today an atmosphere has arisen in which humanity is measured by selfish human yardsticks such as wealth, power, social status and contribution to the production economy, which do not consider spiritual values,” said Colombo Archbishop Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, participating as the chief celebrant at the Christmas Midnight Mass at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Ja Ela, on Tuesday.
He said that the people spend their lives without any goal, meaning or freedom. “Despite the outward appearance of joy during the Christmas season, we often lead lives devoid of goals, purpose, and true freedom, ensnared in illusions that ultimately cause suffering to others,” the Cardinal said.
He said that there is no room for God in such a society. “Many individuals today believe they can sustain their physical existence indefinitely, but they soon come to know that it is not so.”
The Colombo Archbishop said that those who prioritise material pleasures often find their lives lacking in meaning. “It is essential to recognise the intrinsic value of every person. Factors such as social status, financial wealth, and societal rank hold little significance in this understanding,” he stressed. “We should always give our kindness and help to those who are marginalised in society, especially the poor and needy, but also give them dignity. These are very important principles of the Christian life,” the Cardinal said.
Tissa Kotinkatuwa , Ja Ela Spl. Corr.
