This contribution traces the journey of Fr. Tissa Balasuriya's personal conviction through 50 years of activism to the role of the Centre for Society and Religion (CSR) as a cornerstone of civil society and dialogue in Sri Lanka today. Founded in August 1971 by Fr. Tissa Balasuriya OMI, with support from Bishop Leo Nanayakkara OSB, CSR emerged during a period of deep socioeconomic crises, marked by youth insurrections and violent governmental responses. CSR maintains that the root issue in Sri Lanka and Asia is not ideological supremacy—be it socialism versus free-market economics—but the people's struggle for a dignified life. Fr. Balasuriya believed this struggle required equitable resource distribution, transcending religion, culture, and ideology. However, Sri Lanka's values, structures, and religions often failed to provide alternatives or analyses, exacerbating injustice and division. CSR has consistently emphasized the link between justice and spirituality. Inspired by Vatican II's push for the Church to engage in human struggles and interfaith dialogue, CSR sought to harness the liberative potential of religion for the people's pursuit of full humanity. Its name underscores this vision of connecting societal and religious concerns. While its Vatican II-inspired mission initially received lukewarm Church support, CSR persisted, and today its approach has gained greater acceptance within the Catholic community. Currently, CSR organizes forums, workshops, and gatherings, offering a trusted space for addressing critical issues. It collaborates with Catholic, religious, and secular actors to promote reconciliation, justice, peace, and dialogue. CSR also provides research, advisory services, and support to marginalized groups, activists, and academics. It stands as a vital institution for Sri Lankan civil society and religious activism, fostering peace and dialogue across divides.