🇱🇰 Pope Leo XIV Visit to Sri Lanka: Prospect & Controversy 🇻🇦

• A potential visit by the new Pope, Pope Leo XIV, was reportedly discussed during the recent trip of Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher (Holy See’s Secretary for Relations with States). • This would be a momentous event for Sri Lanka, but the prospect has sparked controversy regarding the local Catholic Church's leadership. • Critics argue a papal visit risks legitimizing Cardinal Ranjith’s views, which are seen as reactionary and opposing social progress, human rights, and equality. • Issues cited include opposition to sex education and non-support for banning corporal punishment, contrasting with the global Church's recent move towards inclusion and dialogue. • While the Cardinal was praised for his courage in demanding justice after the 2019 Easter attacks, it is argued that a visit under his current leadership would be a "tragic misstep," potentially emboldening divisive elements rather than inspiring unity and reform.