In July, a complaint against the Jesus Jeewamanai Revival Church in Polgahawela was issued by some villagers and Buddhist leaders who opposed the worship services that were taking place at the pastor's home. In response, police requested that the church restrict the number of people attending the gatherings, particularly by limiting participants who were visiting from outside of the community, until guidance was received from the authorities on how to handle the situation. For more information about this incident, go to this report.
On August 16th, the local Divisional Secretary received a letter from the Department of Christian Religious Affairs. The correspondence stated that the department does not register clergy or churches, nor does it have the legal authority to deal with such situations. The letter further advised that any action relating to such concerns from the community would need to be addressed based on local laws pertaining to public nuisance.
One week later, on August 23rd, the church's pastor received a letter from the local Divisional Secretary. This letter stated that, according to the previously made agreement on July 15th, worshippers must be limited to include only the immediate members of the pastor's family. The pastor denies that any such agreement was reached, stating that he only consented to reduce the number of outside visitors. The Divisional Secretary's letter further twisted the statement received from the Department of Christian Religious Affairs by claiming that the pastor had not been granted permission to hold worship services. It concluded with a statement that any further action would be determined by the Department of Buddhist Affairs, and that in the interim the pastor is not permitted to gather for worship with anyone except those residing within his home.
While Christians in Sri Lanka are generally free to worship, local authorities frequently succumb to opposition from those opposed to Christianity, particularly when instigated by Buddhist religious leaders. For further details addressing the challenges experienced by followers of Jesus in this South Asian island nation, see our country report.
Please pray for wisdom on behalf of this pastor as he navigates how to best deal with the ongoing conflict caused by those who have rallied against his church. Also prayerfully uphold the other affected believers of this village who are now unable to meet together, asking God to minister greatly needed encouragement to each one of them and provide a way for their spiritual needs to be met. Continue to remember the many other Christians throughout the country – particularly those residing in rural areas – who are frequently subjected to hostility from local Buddhist leaders and other opposing community members.
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