After a member of the Grama Missionary Church in Karukkamunai, Sri Lanka passed away, the family arranged for a funeral to be held at the public cemetery on 27 September.
However, a local public official, along with other members of the community, intervened and refused to allow the family to hold a Christian funeral.
Source: National Christian Evangelical Association of Sri Lanka
Claiming that the public cemetery was a ‘Hindu’ burial ground, they argued that no Christian rites could be performed. Instead, the community members, led by the official, conducted the funeral according to Hindu customs.
As the two daughters of the deceased woman were intimidated into compliance, they didn’t file a police complaint.
This is a recurring issue facing Christians in the area. While local followers of Jesus have tried intervening in such matters, and they reported this incident to the police and civic authorities, no action has been taken against the opposing community members.
Let us pray.
- Pray that these believers will experience the comfort and strength of the Holy Spirit in this time of loss and disappointment.
- Pray the public official and other opposing Sri Lankans in the area, realise their need to coexist peacefully with all villagers, regardless of differing religious affiliations.
- Pray for the church throughout Sri Lanka, may they, with God’s help have the strength to overcome opposition from authorities and members of the community.
Our Gracious God and Heavenly Father, you reign over your world and your purposes will prevail despite the efforts of the evil one or those who oppose your Son. Give grace to these believers that they will experience the comfort and strength of the Holy Spirit in this time of loss, intimidation and disappointment. We ask that the public official and opposing Sri Lankans in the area, realise a need to coexist peacefully with all villagers, regardless of differing religious affiliations. Blessed Lord Jesus, we especially pray for your church throughout Sri Lanka that with your help they will have the wisdom, endurance, grace and strength to overcome opposition from authorities and members of the community so that their witness might prove fruitful and of eternal value to your glory and the salvation of the unsaved. Have mercy Lord and show your unfailing love.