From BuddhaƒÆ’‚¢ƒ¢-¡‚¬ƒ¢-¾‚¢s Light International Association (BLIA) Sri Lanka Chapter

Just like the Tsunami that hit Sri Lanka destroying lives and property in December 2004, the Morakot Typhoon which hit Taiwan during the late hours of 8th August 2009 has left the tiny island shattered and destroyed. According to reports received, almost the entire southern region of Taiwan covering Chaiyi,Tainan, Kaohshiung and Pingtung Counties as well as parts of Taitung and Nantou Counties faced the worst floods in recent recorded history due to the Morakot Typhoon. 461 people have been reported dead while over 192 have been reported missing. Thousands have been left homeless.

When a region faces natural disasters, there are no separations of age, religion, race, nations or property-everyone is equally affected and untold misery, illness and sadness is found everywhere around us. Therefore, it is extremely important for us to reach out to these unfortunate people and offer comfort whether it be material or spiritual and show our sense of brotherhood and solidarity at this time of calamity.

On the 22nd August 2009 when BLIA-Sri Lanka chapter held its Annual General Meeting all members present, felt that it was our bounden duty in the true spirit of The Buddha Dhamma, to offer spiritual support to all those who suffered and are still suffering due to the after effects of Morakot Typhoon. It was decided to conduct a Buddhist religious ceremony on 30th August 2009 at 3.00 p.m. and invoke Blessings of The Buddha Dhamma to console affected victims. The venue for this meritorious act will be the Kelaniya Vihare, Kelaniya. A Pahan Pooja and Bodhi Pooja followed by chanting of The Suttas will be conducted by the Venerable Maha Sangha and laity present. The BLIA branches in other countries of the region will be conducting similar religious activities during this time.

All concerned Buddhist sympathizers (both Clergy & Laymen) are most welcome to join BLIA members on the 30th of August at Kelaniya Vihara at 3.00pm in conducting a truly meritorious act to invoke the Blessings of The Buddha Dhamma and The Devas to help Taiwanese people have the strength to face this disaster with strength and determination. May the Noble Triple Gem bless them!

Ven. Porawagama.Somalankara Nayake Thero

President

BuddhaƒÆ’‚¢ƒ¢-¡‚¬ƒ¢-¾‚¢s Light International Association (BLIA) Sri Lanka Chapter

24th August 2009

For further details, please contact:

1. Ven. P. Somalankara Thero, President BLIA Sri Lanka ƒÆ’‚¢ƒ¢-¡‚¬ƒ¢¢”š¬…” 060-278-3802 / 0716-648-703

2. Mr. Padmashanta, Secretary BLIA Sri Lanka ƒÆ’‚¢ƒ¢-¡‚¬ƒ¢¢”š¬…” 011-2865-579 / 0716-816-061