The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington, D.C. hosted a Buddhist religious ceremony on 24 January 2025 to invoke blessings on individuals and families affected by the devastating wildfires in Southern California. The event, held at the Embassy was attended by members of the Sri Lankan diaspora and well-wishers. The ceremony was also streamed live for the benefit of virtual participants from around the United States.
The event was led by the Maha Sangha, with the proceedings presided over by Chief Judicial Prelate of North America and Chief Incumbent of the Maryland Buddhist Vihara, Venerable Katugastota Uparathana Thero. The Maha Sangha conducted a sacred Buddha Pooja and the chanting of Pirith, including the Wattaka Pirith, offering spiritual solace, protection, and blessings to the affected communities. This event brought together participants from diverse backgrounds, reaffirming a shared commitment to compassion, unity, and hope in the face of adversity.
Spokesperson for South and Central Asian Affairs, Alice Chu, along with officials from the Office of Press and Public Diplomacy of the U.S. Department of State attended the event as distinguished guests.
Delivering the welcome address, Ambassador of Sri Lanka in Washington, D.C., Mahinda Samarasinghe stated that the event was organized with the concurrence and blessings of President Anura Kumara Disanayaka and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath demonstrating the goodwill from the highest authorities of the Sri Lankan government towards the people of the U.S. at a time of difficulty. “This ceremony reflects our collective prayers for healing and hope for the communities devastated by the wildfires. The Embassy of Sri Lanka stands in solidarity with the people of Southern California and extends its heartfelt gratitude to all who participated in this meaningful endeavour. As much as the U.S. has stood by the people of Sri Lanka at times of need, Sri Lanka also stands firmly with the people of the United States during their time of need”, the Ambassador added.
Following the Ambassador's remarks, Spokesperson Alice Chu offered her reflections on the shared resilience and compassion demonstrated during such challenging times, underscoring the importance of unity and collective support.
The Embassy acknowledges and extends its deepest gratitude to the Maha Sangha, including Chief Incumbent of the Maryland Buddhist Vihara, Venerable Katugastota Uparathana Thero; Chief Incumbent of Dhamma Hadaya, Virginia Buddhist Vihara, Venerable Thanthirimale Mahanama Thero; Venerable Nadungamuwe Pragnaloka Thero and Ven. Mandaramnuwara Upashantha Thero from Maryland Buddhist Vihara; Venerable Vathuliyadde Rathnaseeha Thero from Washington Buddhist Vihara; Venerable Matale Amitha Khema Thero from Mahamevnawa Meditation Center, Greater Washington, D.C. and Venerable Yogavacara Rahula Thero from Lion of Wisdom Meditation Center, Gaithersburg.
The Embassy also expresses its sincere appreciation to community leaders and participants who contributed to the success of this event, reflecting the spirit of compassion and collaboration that defines this initiative.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington, D.C.
27 January 2025
