Greed for money caused the disaster – Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith

26-Dec-2025

.

Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith stated that landslides and floods were caused by politicians accepting money and permitting environmentally destructive activities.

Speaking at the national Christmas service held at Uswetakeiyawa Church on Dec 25, he said politicians enabled deforestation, wetland filling, and construction on hillsides.

He emphasized that the disaster resulted from selfish destruction of the environment and lack of discipline, including public littering. Greed for wealth caused this situation, yet wealth cannot be taken beyond death.

He stressed that Christianity is rooted in renunciation, citing Jesus Christ’s humble birth and life. He criticized the commercialization of Christmas and stated that its true meaning lies in following the path shown by Christ, not consumer symbols.