News

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

Published

5 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

COVID subvariants spreading in Asia detected in Sri Lanka

Published

7 hours ago

May 31, 2025

editor

The Medical Research Institute of Sri Lanka has confirmed that the COVID-19 variant currently spreading in the Asian region has also been identified in the country.

Dr. Jude Jayamaha, a specialist in viral diseases at the Medical Research Institute, stated that patients infected with the Omicron subvariants LF.7 and XFG are being reported locally.

Dr. Jayamaha explained that this finding was confirmed through research conducted on biological samples collected from several hospitals across the island.

However, he emphasized that there is no need for undue fear regarding these COVID-19 variants.

Health authorities have also stressed the importance of vulnerable groups—such as pregnant mothers, the elderly, and those with chronic illnesses—following health guidelines, including wearing face masks and avoiding crowded places.

Dr. Jayamaha reiterated that new COVID-19 variants emerge periodically, and health authorities are continuously monitoring the situation, so the public should remain calm.

(newswire.lk)

(This story, originally published by newswire.lk has not been edited by SLM staff)

News

Anudi misses out from Miss World Quarter-Finals

Published

8 hours ago

May 31, 2025

editor

The Miss World organization has announced its quarter-finalists, selecting 40 contestants from across Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas.

Sri Lanka’s Anudi Gunasekara, was not selected in the top 40, despite being recognized for her impressive performances in the Multimedia and Head-to-Head challenges.

The top 40 consisted of 10 contestants each from Asia & Oceania, Europe, Africa and the Americas.