OCDS COMMEMORATES 15TH VICTORY DAY ANNIVERSARY WITH A GRAND RELIGIOUS ENDEAVOUR
In a significant tribute marking the 15th Victory Day, the Office of the Chief of Defence Staff (OCDS) orchestrated a remarkable religious spectacle at the serene Jethawanarama Vana Senasuna Buddhist Monastery in Ingiriya. Themed 'Virudina Panchaanisansa Mahaa Poojawa', this profound gathering was meticulously curated under the esteemed guidance of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Shavendra Silva WWV RWP RSP VSV USP ndc psc MPhil, with invaluable support from the dedicated members of the Seva Vanitha branch of OCDS, presided by Mrs. Sujeewa Nelson.
The festivities commenced with a majestic procession, graciously ushering 135 revered monks to the tranquil grounds of the monastery. At the forefront of this solemn march, the CDS dignifiedly bore the sacred casket of relics atop his head, symbolizing reverence and respect, followed in procession by the venerable Theros. This auspicious inauguration set a reverent and harmonious tone for the day's sacred proceedings.
After instilling the Pancasila, General Shavendra Silva reverently invited the Maha Sangha to accept the alms. Alms were offered with great reverence to the Lord Buddha following the Buddhist customs, the reverend Theros, and over 2000 Buddhist Upāsakas and Upāsikās present.
Following the alms offering, the Chief Incumbent, Most Venerable Handapangoda Nivathaapa Thero, delivered a poignant sermon. He emphasized the immense sacrifices made by the brave members of the tri-forces to liberate the nation from the ravages of war, drawing profound connections between their actions and Buddhist philosophical teachings. Additionally, Venerable Nivathapa Thero lauded General Shavendra Silva for his leadership in initiating religious functions and his deep engagement in spiritual activities and observances. The Thero also admired General Shavendra Silva's compassionate attitude, noting his equal regard for all lives lost during the protracted conflict.
A particularly touching highlight of the event was the presence of differently-abled soldiers, who bear severe injuries from the prolonged conflict, residing and receiving care at Mihindu Seth Medura. These brave individuals were given the honour of offering alms and ata pirikara to the Maha Sangha. Recognizing their importance and the immense sacrifices they made to liberate this country from ruthless terrorism, General Shavendra Silva earnestly arranged this meaningful opportunity, reflecting his deep commitment to honouring their noble devotion to the nation.
Established in 2017 under the patronage of Chief Incumbent, Most Venerable Handapangoda Nivathaapa Thero, the Jethawanarama Vana Senasuna Buddhist Monastery serves as a haven for those seeking respite from life's tribulations and aspiring to attain the supreme bliss of Nibbana. The monastery welcomes over 2,000 local and international visitors each week, who engage in a wide array of programs held both on-site and at various external locations, as well as through online platforms.
The monastery is home to a thriving community of over one hundred monks, complemented by an equal number of male and female Anagarikas. The female Anagarikas reside at the sister monastery, situated a short distance from the main campus, ensuring a dedicated space for their spiritual practices and growth.
At the special invitation of General Shavendra Silva, his former deputy Division Commander of the 58 Infantry Division, Major General Suraj Bansajaya, along with two former Brigade Commanders, Major General Deshapriya Gunawardena and Major General Sanjaya Wanigasinghe, as well as then a Battalion Commander under 58 Division Major General Lal Chandrasiri, graced the event with their presence.
29 авг 2024
