President Ranil Wickremesinghe, in his Christmas Day message, has invited everyone to unite in shouldering their responsibilities, recognizing the genuine adversities confronting the nation.

This year, Christmas is celebrated amidst a backdrop of numerous challenges, Wickremesinghe said highlighting the importance of concentrating on the ‘authentic significance’ of Jesus Christ’s birth in a manger, which is embodied by the theme ‘sharing a meal with the less fortunate.’

The Head of State also noted that the true significance of Christmas is the spiritual transformation within us.

Attached below is President Wickremesinghe’s  message for  Christmas Day:

“Christmas represents the celebration of hope. “The individuals who traversed in obscurity, burdened with tears and sighs, have witnessed a profound light.” In the pursuit of revitalizing that hope, I extend my wishes for all of us to conscientiously fulfil our responsibilities and duties, fostering a Christmas that instils fresh hopes in our nation.

“Amid our celebratory mood, it is crucial to maintain focus on the authentic significance of Jesus Christ’s birth in a manger, encapsulated by the theme “Sharing a meal with the less fortunate.”

‘Christmas serves as a reminder of the birth of Jesus Christ, who, in self-sacrifice on the cross, redeemed humanity from sin. Guided by Christian teachings, we are urged to forgive those who oppose us, those who have wronged us and to relinquish all feelings of animosity and resentment.

“While the external festivities of Christmas may be apparent, I posit that its true significance remains elusive unless accompanied by a profound spiritual transformation within us.

“This year, as we commemorate Christmas amidst a backdrop of numerous challenges burdening our society, I extend an invitation to everyone to unite in shouldering their responsibilities, recognizing the genuine adversities confronting our nation.

“I wish you all a blessed and meaningful Christmas!”