MINISTRY OF JPIC & INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE
OTHER MINISTRIES
MINISTRY OF JPIC & INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE
The Ministry of Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) and Interreligious Dialogue represents the Oblates' profound commitment to building a more equitable and harmonious Sri Lanka. Recognizing that true spiritual liberation is inseparable from social justice, this ministry steps beyond traditional boundaries to champion human dignity, advocate for the oppressed, and foster mutual respect across diverse faiths.
In a culturally pluralistic nation, the Colombo Province actively pursues a "dialogue of life," working alongside communities of all religions to transform unjust social structures. This vital mission is carried out through three primary institutions, each serving a distinct and critical role:
-
Centre for Society and Religion (CSR) - Maradana: Serving as the national voice for systemic change, CSR focuses on human rights advocacy, socio-economic justice, and research. It challenges policies that dehumanize the poor and stands in active solidarity with urban slum dwellers, displaced persons, and marginalized workers across the country.
-
Suba Seth Gedara - Buttala: Deeply rooted in the rural heartland, this center embodies a grassroots ministry of presence. Continuing the prophetic, martyred legacy of Fr. Michael Rodrigo, OMI, it focuses on daily Buddhist-Christian dialogue, rural empowerment, and the integral human development of struggling farming communities in Lower Uva.
-
Rajabima Oblate Centre - Anuradhapura: Situated in a sacred Buddhist city, this center bridges the gap for a scattered Catholic minority. It serves as a vital hub for fostering ecumenical harmony, facilitating inter-religious dialogue with the Buddhist majority, and providing spiritual and social support throughout the North Central Province.
Together, these institutions ensure that the Oblate charism remains actively engaged in the struggles of the people, striving for a society built on freedom, equity, and peace.