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| London
mission honours leading monks This was probably the first time that 25 of Sri Lanka's prominent Buddhist monks were offered a dana at the High Commission. The dana was prepared by members and families of the High Commission staff. Besides the leading monks from Sri Lanka, the ceremonies in connection with the anniversary were attended by monks from India, Europe, Canada, Brazil, Singapore, Vietnam, China and Malaysia. After religious ceremonies at the Thames Vihare, the distinguished gathering reassembled at the Arnhem Gallery, Fairfield Hall in Croydon. In his welcome address, the head of the vihare, Ven Pahalagama Somaratana Chief Sangha Nayaka Thera, briefly outlined the history of the Thames Vihare which started in a humble way and has now emerged as one of the leading religious institutions in the country. The Ven Thera paid a glowing tribute to High Commissioner Faisz Musthapha saying that in his opinion Mr. Musthapha was a good Buddhist though he was a follower of Islam. Referring to the presence of the Ven Maha Nayake Thera of the Asgiriya Maha Vihare the Most Venerable Udugama Sri Buddharakkita, he said he was aware that Mr. Musthapha had very close contacts and association with the Asgiriya Chapter. Mr. Musthapha's services to the Asgiriya Vihare had been acknowledged by the Ven Maha Nayake Thera himself. The Ven Thera also thanked the High Commission staff for the invaluable service they had rendered the Thames Vihare. Other speakers included the head of the London Buddhist Vihare in Chiswick, Dr Medagama Vajiragnana Chief Sangha Nayake Thera. A special souvenir issued to mark the occasion contained, among others messages of goodwill from Queen Elizabeth II, President Chandrika Kumaratunga and Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe. |
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