We as the Interfaith Leaders of Greater Lafayette wish to condemn the tragic acts of violence in churches and hotels in Colombo, Negombo, and Batticaloa, Sri Lanka.  We respond with a sense of deep sadness and grief that nearly 300 worshipers were killed and countless more injured on Easter, the holiest day for most people of the Christian faith.  We believe all people have the right to worship as they please and deserve to do so without fear of violence. 

While the individuals and groups who perpetrated this horrific act are still being sought by authorities and will likely be brought to justice by the authorities in Sri Lanka, it is also well to remember that radical factions of any group do not represent the broadest and best of any group or faith.  We continue to encourage people to work towards the freedom of all people in all places to worship as they see fit, and for all of us to work for justice and peace.   Let us join in prayer for the families touched by this tragedy and work as we are each able for a better world for all people.