BY RUWANI FONSEKA

The Miracle Dome, the Katunayake based church built by Pastor Jerome is not closed for the public, but is under police security due to the risk of clashes that might break out between people, says Police Spokesman SSP Nihal Thalduwa.

He mentioned this while speaking to The Morning yesterday (09).

"The church or church building is not closed to the public. But there is tight security around the Dome as there have been threats of a clash that would take place. We don't want violence and to maintain peace, we have placed police security with barricades," said Thalduwa.

He further noted that even though the CID is currently investigating into the financials of Pastor Jerome Fernando and his ministry, the 'place of worship' was not asked to be closed.

Jerome Fernando has been preaching to his congregation via video calls or pre-recorded sermons since he left the country to Singapore. Despite promises to his congregation of his return, he has failed to do so to date.

His wife, Melanie Fernando, and his children, arrived into Sri Lanka last week and encouraged the congregation to 'remain in prayer' for the 'Prophet' for his safe passage back into Sri Lanka.

Jerome Fernando is currently under investigation for Money Laundering and for his controversial statements made in reference to other religions during his sermons.