Caritas Sri Lanka in collaboration with its local and international partners has been constantly engaging in work of humanitarian aid to strengthen and empower the less privileged communities of our nation. Especially the partners contribution as funding and capacity building has been brought about better living conditions, improved coexistence and positive appeals within inter-cultural setups is the force behind leading positive social change and shaping the development trajectory more human oriented than economic driven
With the successes and accomplishments, Rev. Fr. Mahendra Gunatilleke, National Director, Caritas Sri Lanka organized a ‘Virtual Partners Forum’ on 16th and 17th September 2021 to present and discuss the progress made through projects in the past, and to consider the way forward within the new normal context amidst the pandemic.
CSL Partners’ Forum commenced with the remarks of the Rt. Rev. Dr. Justin Gnanapragasam, Bishop Chairman, Caritas Sri Lanka and successfully ended with the blessings of Rt. Rev. Dr. Maxwell Silva, Bishop Vice Chairman, Caritas Sri Lanka.
There were more than 17 global partner organization including Caritas Internationalis, Caritas Asia and Caritas Europa participated in the meeting. Mr. Aloysius John, Secretary General, Caritas Internationalis and the Mr. Zar Gomez, Asia Regional Coordinator, Caritas Asia reiterated their support and solidarity with Sri Lankan people whenever it is needed.
International partners also supplemented with the context analysis presented by resource persons and Diocesan Directors. This forum also gave opportunities for Caritas partners for better communication and dialogue. They also learned from each other and shared their knowledge and experience. During the second day of the meeting, His Eminence Malcolm Cardinal Ranjith shared his view on environmental and human rights related issues in Sri Lanka. He also emphasized justice for the victims of the Easter Sunday bombing.
Caritas Sri Lanka will utilize this forum to strengthen partnership with Caritas organization and work together for peace, harmony and fraternity among communities.