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Evangelical 'conversions' cause concern

Cardinal calls for government committee to monitor activities of new churches
Evangelical 'conversions' cause concern
Published: November 07, 2011 09:01 AM GMT
Updated: November 08, 2011 06:03 AM GMT

Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith has urged the government avert possible conflicts between Buddhists and Christians by forming an inter-religious committee to decide whether to approve the activities of evangelical churches. Many evangelical churches similar to those in the US are springing up in and around Colombo, according to Church sources. They organize public prayers, healing services and religious speeches. However, they are seen by many as actively trying to convert people, angering many in the Buddhist majority and among Catholics. “Some evangelical churches are offering financial inducements to Buddhists and Catholics to convert them,” Cardinal Ranjith told politicians and journalists at a meeting at the archbishop’s house in Colombo on Friday. He said if there is an inter-religious committee, it can help prevent religious conflicts. “The committee can monitor their [evangelical church] activities and decide whether they can continue what they are doing or build church buildings,” Cardinal Ranjith said. Buddhist leaders have also expressed concern at what they say is attempted conversions by these churches. Venerable Professor Kamburugamuwe Wajira Thero, chancellor of Sabaragamuwa University agreed with cardinal’s view that the new churches should be monitored. “They have converted many Buddhists already,” said the Buddhist monk. “I appreciate the Cardinal’s suggestion; the country needs something like this,” he added. He cited the fact that many evangelical and mainstream Christian churches have been attacked in recent years. However, Pastor Rohan de S. Ekanayake, general secretary of the National Christian Fellowship of Sri Lanka (an association of evangelical churches) said every Christian has a mission to spread the Good News and denied offering bribes to potential converts. “We don’t talk about religion when we help a beggar. Our pastors never offer money to join their churches,” he insisted. “Our pastors follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ. They live a simple life,” he said. Related reports: Vandals repeatedly target crucifixParliament defers debate on anti-conversion bill Reporter: Lawrence

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