The Embassy of Sri Lanka in Washington, D.C., hosted a Buddhist religious ceremony on 24 January 2025 to invoke blessings for individuals and families affected by the devastating wildfires in Southern California. This meaningful event, held in the Embassy’s Buddha Shrine Room, 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 the Venerable Katugastota Uparathana Thero, Chief Judicial Prelate of North America and Chief Incumbent of the Maryland Buddhist Vihara. Distinguished attendees included Ms. Alice Chu, Spokesperson for South and Central Asian Affairs, along with officials from the Office of Press and Public Diplomacy of the U.S. Department of State.

Delivering the welcome address, Ambassador Mahinda Samarasinghe mentioned that the event is being organized with the concurrence and blessings of President Anura Kumara Disanayaka and Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath which demonstrated the goodwill towards the people of U.S. at a time of difficulty from the highest authorities of the Sri Lankan government.  The Ambassador emphasized the significance of the event, stating, “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.”

Following the Ambassador's remarks, Ms. 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 Venerable Katugastota Uparathana Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Maryland Buddhist Vihara Venerable Thanthirimale Mahanama Thero, Chief Incumbent of Dhamma Hadaya, Virginia Buddhist Vihara, Venerable Nadungamuwe Pragnaloka Thero and Ven. Mandaramnuwara Upashantha Thero from Maryland Buddhist Vihara, Venerable Vathuliyadde Rathnaseeha Thero, Washington Buddhist Vihara, Venerable Matale Amitha Khema Thero, Mahamevnawa Meditation Center, Greater Washington, D.C., and Venerable Yogavacara Rahula, Lion of Wisdom Meditation Center, Gaithersburg.

The Embassy also expresses 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.

24 January 2024