Dhamma Voice International Centre assists Bodhiraja Pirivena in Panama

The Ampara-Panama Bodhiraja Pirivena, attached to the Mani Naga Pabbatha Bodhigiri Purana Rajamaha Viharaya, Shasthrawela, Panama, is one of the most underprivileged Pirivenas in the country.

This year, the Dhamma Voice International Centre (DVIC) at Pattivila, Kelaniya, on the advice and directives of the centre’s Chief Executive Ven. Yatamalagala Sumanasara Thero, had selected the Bodhiraja Pirivena to offer assistance to under the project ‘Give the Best to Underprivileged Pirivenas’.

The DVIC last week visited the Pirivena, which was being run under trying conditions, and conducted a pirith chanting ceremony at the Shasthrawela Pirivena premises, presided over by Ven. Sri Chandrasrathana Nayaka Thero of the Sri Boodhirukkarama Maha Viharaya, Panama. Bodhiraja Pirivena Parivendhipathi Ven. Unavatune Vajirawansa, Ven. Naaravila Vijithavansa Thero, and Ven. Vithiyala Kavidhaja Thero, along with the student monks, joined in the chanting of pirith. 

This was followed by the offering of robes and other essential items worth more than Rs. 300,000 to a group of 30 samaneras and monks who were residing at the Pirivena. 

The Singaporean, Malaysian, and Chinese devotees had donated the money required to purchase the robes and other essential items upon a request made by Qinlin Viharaya, Singapore Adviser Ven. Yatamalagala Sumanasara Thero, who addressed the devotees and the Buddhist monks present at the ceremony.