On 03rd November 2024, the Maryland Buddhist Vihara, under the distinguished leadership of Ven. Katugasthota Uparatana Thero, Chief Judicial Prelate for North America and Chief Incumbent of the Vihara held its annual Katina Robe Offering Ceremony. This significant event, held at the temple premises, marks the conclusion of the Vassa (Rainy Season Retreat), allowing the community to express gratitude and offer support to the Sangha.
This year, the honour of inviting the Sangha for the Vas observance was extended by Bandula Gunasekara, Chamila Senevirathne, Rohan De Seram, Nimmali De Seram, Janka Epasinghe, Chamindi Gunarahne, Sunil Polmottawegedara, Chamila Jayatilake, Tilak Panapitiya, Kaushalya Atapattu, Nipuna Kuruppu, Ananda Herath, Lalitha Herath, Tissa Adikari, and Mareeta Perera. Students from the Maryland Vihara Dhamma School enriched the robe procession and other rituals by actively participating in the traditional Sri Lankan-inspired robe offering ceremony.
The presence of resident monks observing Vassa at the Vihara and visiting Sangha members from various states, including the Chief Prelate of North America, Ven. Maharagama Dhammasiri Thero lent a dignified and spiritual atmosphere to the ceremony. Adhering to Theravada Buddhist traditions, the event featured the meticulous preparation and ceremonial offering of the Katina Cheevara by Buddhist devotees as a symbol of dedication and reverence.
Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe and members of the embassy staff participated in the ceremony, highlighting the importance of this annual gathering as a time for reflection, community solidarity, and merit-making.
Embassy of Sri Lanka
Washington D.C.
08th November 2024
