A short sermon delivered by Rev. Fr Nimantha Peiris, was followed by the messages of the other religions echoing the importance of unity in the country while celebrating diversity as a strength.  Ambassador Tilak Ranaviraja, in his address, spoke of the need to cultivate faith as a means of ushering in peace and requested the diaspora to reach out to the government and engage in a meaningful manner in contributing to the prosperity of the country.  

The gathering joined in singing Christmas carols and sharing a treat of Sri Lankan food.

Apart from the celebrations in the Embassy, the Ambassador and staff attended many events organized by the communityin relaying the message of communal harmony to forge ahead as a reconciled nation in the coming year.