News

“True message of Christ’s birth is the profound humility and simplicity of His birth”

Published

4 months ago

December 25, 2024

editor

Colombo Archbishop Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith shared his Christmas message, extending warm wishes for a joyful and holy celebration.

In his message, the Cardinal reflected on the birth of Jesus Christ, emphasising the humble and challenging circumstances under which it took place. The Holy Family journeyed from Nazareth to Bethlehem, only to find themselves with no place to stay, ultimately seeking refuge in a manger. This scene, he explained, illustrates the profound humility and simplicity of Christ’s birth, far removed from the grandeur of a royal palace.

Cardinal Ranjith highlighted the significance of Jesus being born among the poor and marginalised. The first to welcome Jesus were the humble shepherds, and the angels sang praises in this modest setting.

He pointed out that this event underscores God’s preference for the poor, reminding us of the Biblical principle that God is the God of the poor.

He urged people to focus on the spiritual and interior joy of Christmas rather than getting caught up in material gifts and external celebrations. True happiness, he said, lies in empathy and solidarity with those in need. “By reaching out to the less fortunate and embracing the spirit of giving, we honour the essence of Christ’s birth,” the Cardinal said.

(DailyNews)

(This story, originally published by DailyNews has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

Heat Index expected at ‘Caution’ level

Published

3 hours ago

April 16, 2025

editor

Heat index, the temperature felt on human body is expected to increase up to ‘Caution level’ tomorrow (April 16) at some places in Northern, North-central, North-western, Western, Southern and Eastern provinces and in Rathnapura and Monaragala districts, the Meteorology Department warned.

Effect of the heat index on the human body is prepared on the advice of the Ministry of Health and Indigenous Medical Services.

Accordingly, people at jobsites are urged to stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade as often as possible.

Also, constant checks should be made up on the elderly and the sick.

Adults are advised to not leave children unattended and limit strenuous outdoor activities, find shade and stay hydrated.

The public is also urged to wear lightweight and white or light-colored clothing.

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News

Heavy traffic on Ella-Wellawaya road

Published

4 hours ago

April 16, 2025

editor

Heavy traffic congestion has been reported along the Ella-Wellawaya road due to continuous rainfall.

According to the police, vehicle queues had stretched up to five kilometres.
Motorists are advised to use alternate routes to avoid the traffic congestion.

News

Govt. needs a plan to face US taxes – RW

Published

7 hours ago

April 16, 2025

editor

Former President – Ranil Wickremesinghe has emphasized that the Sri Lankan government needs to unveil a plan to face the situation created by the US reciprocal taxes.

Making a special statement, Mr. Wickremesinghe points out that although the taxes have been paused at the moment, it will not be scrapped altogether as it is a part of Trump’s manifesto.

As a direct consequence of these taxes, around 100,000 jobs are at risk, he warned, adding that the consequences would ripple across the broader economy.

“Even if the taxes imposed on Sri Lanka are slashed, we will be compelled to pay taxes of 25% – 30%, resulting in exports still declining” he said.

Noting that Sri Lanka will have to generate funds to start setting its debts by 2028 as per the debt restructuring programme, Mr. Wickremesinghe emphasizes that the Government will have to treat this as an emergency situation and come out with a plan to face the situation.

He emphasizes that firstly, discussions must be held with the US and secondly, it must be planned how to solve this issue domestically.