It is with deep sorrow that we at Arigatou International mourn the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis. A moral and spiritual leader to millions around the world, Pope Francis leaves behind a profound legacy of compassion, humility, and tireless commitment to human dignity, peace, and justice.
His unwavering dedication to the promotion of human fraternity and his calls for solidarity across religious and cultural divides have deeply inspired our work in interfaith dialogue and cooperation. His vision for a world rooted in shared values and mutual respect echoes the very heart of Arigatou International’s mission—to build a better world for children – through our work ethics education, intercultural and interreligious collaboration, and the promotion of children’s rights and well-being.
Pope Francis was a steadfast advocate for the protection of children from all forms of harm, violence, and abuse. He confronted painful truths with courage and called upon religious and political leaders alike to uphold their responsibilities to safeguard the dignity and safety of every child. His moral leadership on this issue challenged institutions to change and inspired countless efforts to ensure that no child suffers in silence or fear.
He reminded the world that caring for children, especially those most vulnerable, is not only a moral imperative but a sacred duty. His support for holistic education and his emphasis on nurturing the spiritual and moral development of young people have been a beacon for all those striving to create safe, inclusive, and nurturing environments for children everywhere.
At this time of mourning, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Catholic community and all those whose lives have been touched by his words and deeds. May we honor his memory by continuing to walk the path of dialogue, peace, and solidarity—together building a future where every child can grow up with dignity, joy, and hope.
With respect,
Arigatou International
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Arigatou International is deeply saddened to learn about the passing of Dr. A.T. Ariyaratne, founder of Sarvodaya Shramadana Movement in Sri Lanka.
Dr. Ariyaratne’s remarkable contributions to society as well as his unwavering commitment to peace, social justice and community empowerment have left an indelible mark on the world, transforming the lives of countless individuals and fostering positive change on a global scale.
Dr. Ariyaratne was a close friend of the late Rev. Takeyasu Miyamoto, founder of Arigatou International. They both shared a vision of a more just, peaceful and sustainable world. Dr. Ariyaratne was a founding member of the Global Network of Religions for Children (GNRC), inaugurated in Tokyo in the year 2000. Working closely with Rev. Keishi Miyamoto, the current President of Arigatou International, Dr. Ariyaratne served as its first Regional Coordinator for the South Asia sub-region. Dr. Ariyaratne led the organization of the very first regional conference of the GNRC, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to the advancement of children’s rights and well-being. He was also a member of the Interfaith Council on Ethics Education for Children that helped advancing the development of Arigatou International’s Ethics Education Initiative.
Dr. Ariyaratne founded and developed the Sarvodaya Sharamadana movement through a holistic approach to development, rooted in the values of compassion, equality, and social justice. Througouth his life, Dr. Ariyaratne dedicated his efforts to uplifting rural and underprivileged communities across Sri Lanka and beyond. Following the Buddhist principles of loving kindness, compassionate action, service to others and working in a spirit of equality, he championed interfaith collaboration in Sri Lanka to promote a peaceful resolution of the conflict, and calling for the spiritual awakeness of its people towards unity.
May his legacy continue to inspire hope and transformation for generations to come, and his teachings and principles he strived for, continue to impact local communities and individuals, including children around the world.
Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Dr. Ariyaratne’s family, friends, and all those whose lives he enriched. May his spirit live on in the hearts of all those who were fortunate enough to know him and be touched by his presence.
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