The President says Sri Lanka received the blessings of Our Lady of Madhu during trying times.
President Ranil Wickremesinghe announced his government’s plans to transform Mannar into an energy hub shortly. He made these observations when he participated in the annual festival of the Madhu shrine dedicated to Mother Mary in Mannar district.
He also revealed that inter-city express train service between Thalaimannar and Colombo will commence on September 15th, aiming at enhancing connectivity and facilitating
smoother travel between the two cities.
“It must be acknowledged that the annual feasts of the National Shrine of Our Lady Madhu are an integral part of our local culture. Consequently, considering this festival as a national event, the government bears the responsibility of safeguarding and supporting its continuation”, he said.
The President said that numerous devotees come here to seek solace through prayers to Our Lady of Madhu. During last year’s economic crisis, a substantial number of devotees gathered here to pray for Mother Mary’s assistance and protection. It can be said that Our Lady of Madhu’s blessings provided us with strength. during that challenging time”, he added.
He added that the Mannar region, where the National Shrine of Our Lady of Madhu is located, possesses abundant renewable energy resources. “With access to solar, wind, and green energies, the Mannar district can be developed into an energy hub”, he said.
“We have also formulated plans to transform Pune into an energy city. It is important to note that all these development initiatives are designed to preserve this sacred land and its forests”.
The Vatican Apostolic Nuncio of Sri Lanka,Most Rev. Dr. Brian Udaigwe, who attended the main service, commended President Ranil Wickremesinghe’s statement in Parliament regarding
National Peace and Reconciliation He mentioned that this statement has received the blessings of the Vatican and the Catholic Church.
Rev. Dr. Brian Udaigwe emphasised that religious leaders have a crucial role in maintaining peace and harmony in the country. He also stressed that whether a religious figure divides or What unites the country is determined by its own actions.
It is also noteworthy that President Ranil Wickremesinghe participated in the morning service of the feast this year. Subsequent to the main ceremony, a revered statue of Our Lady of Madhu was respectfully carried in procession throughout the church grounds to pay homage to the devoted attendees.
A significant number of devotees from various parts of the island gathered for the annual feast. The year 2024 marks the completion of 100 years since the enshrinement of the revered statue of Our Lady of Madhu. The church management board has decided to hold services throughout the year to commemorate this occasion.
