In celebration of the 2021 Vesak Poya Day, the Consul General and the staff of the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Frankfurt am Main organised an almsgiving ceremony to monks of Sri Lankan Buddhist Temples located in the Federal State of Hesse and the Federal State of Lower Saxony, Germany on the 27 of May, 2021.
In keeping with the Covid-19 safety guidelines in Germany, a limited number of people attended the event comprising the Sri Lankan Community and German entrepreneurs.
Ven. Rathmale Punyarathana Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Buddhist Maha Viharaya in Lower Saxony, a senior lecturer of Johannes Gutenberg University, Mainz, Germany, Head of the Sri Lanka Buddhist and Pali University (German Branch), Director of Karuna Samadhi Organisation and Chief Sanganayake of Germany delivered an erudite sermon. The Venerable Thero outlined the teachings of the Buddha on ways of ensuring a successful life. He enumerated aspects which lead to continued development, in accordance with the dhamma, based on sincere efforts, protection of assets, faithful friends and living within means. Ven. Bodhananda Thero of the Mahamewna Temple in Frankfurt too invoked blessings on those present.
Sri Lanka’s Consul General in Frankfurt am Main, Madurika Joseph Weninger in her welcoming address said Sri Lanka which is predominantly a Buddhist country brings together not only the Buddhists but also the Hindus, Christians and Muslims to celebrate Vesak as children of one Mother.
She also drew the attention of the guests to the artistic and cultural expression of beautiful Vesak decorations created by the staff of the Consulate General and expressed her appreciation for their efforts.
The Vesak Day Message of H.E. Gotabaya Rajapaksa, President of Sri Lanka was read by the Attache, Ashini Perera while the Programme for the Event was conducted by Consular Officer, Anusha Kingsley.
The Vesak Programme concluded with offerings of Ata Pirikara and Dana.
Consulate General of Sri Lanka
Frankfurt am Main
31 May, 2021
