Victims of Sri Lanka Easter church bombings still waiting for justice

Victims of the Easter suicide bombings in Sri Lanka last year are still waiting for justice 18 months on, says Open Doors. 

The string of attacks on churches and hotels left more than 250 people dead, including scores of children.

Open Doors spokesperson Tala Dela Cruz said the tragedy was "still so heartbreaking" for the Christian community in Sri Lanka. 

A year and a half later, some of the injured are still receiving medical treatment.

"These targeted attacks have brought so much pain," he said. 

"We are still praying for justice for the victims and healing for their families."

Three luxury hotels and three churches - Zion Church, St Anthony's shrine and St Sebastian's Church - were targeted on Easter Sunday last year.

The Islamic State later claimed responsibility for the attacks. 

While investigations are ongoing, Open Doors said several suspects have been released, with the Sri Lankan government blaming lack of evidence. 

Earlier this month, relatives of the victims gathered in front of St Sebastian's Church to protest, and call for a fair and thorough investigation. 

The Archbishop of Colombo, Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith, has also criticised the failure of the authorities to bring the perpetrators to justice. 

He said at a recent press conference: "It is sad and unfortunate that those who are alleged to have been involved in the attacks are released.

"Those who are affected physically and mentally wait for justice to be meted out, but it is unfortunate that the investigation is not going the way it should."

News
The first Christmas song to be sung in churches
The first Christmas song to be sung in churches

Every Christmas, people sing the song “While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks by Night”. Unlike many other songs and carols that include elements of non-biblical tradition and myth, this song is pure Scripture. It was the first Christmas song authorised to be sung in the Church of England. This is the story …

The story of the Christmas Truce of 1914
The story of the Christmas Truce of 1914

On Christmas Eve in 1914, many men were in the trenches fighting the war, but the spirit of Christmas halted the conflict for a brief period. This is the story …

Report highlights injustices experienced by Christians in the Holy Land
Report highlights injustices experienced by Christians in the Holy Land

Jerusalem Church leaders have released a report detailing the struggles and challenges currently faced be Christians living in the Holy Land.

Have you lost the wonder of Christmas?
Have you lost the wonder of Christmas?

For you who have been followers of Jesus Christ for a long time, maybe the pain and suffering of this world and the darkness you have had to live through this past year has gotten you down to the point of complete and utter discouragement. But all is not lost.