The Archbishop of Colombo, His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith, says that religion occupies only a minimal place in modern human society.
He made these remarks while addressing the evening Holy Mass held to mark the 150th Jubilee of the Divine Saviour's Church in Makevita.
The Cardinal noted that in many developed countries, people no longer attend churches during weekends, opting instead to engage in various forms of leisure and entertainment.
He further pointed out that basilicas across Europe remain largely empty, while crowds gather in large numbers at football stadiums, describing the trend as a reflection of misplaced priorities.
Cardinal Ranjith said that despite being regarded as developed, such societies are increasingly displaying signs of moral and spiritual decline.
He added that people have forgotten the noble values of humanity and are placing greater emphasis on fulfilling their physical needs.
The Archbishop further stressed that in such societies, spiritual life has been relegated to only a marginal place.
