Kathina and 30th Ordination Anniversary
Aloko Buddhist Center successfully concluded its annual Kathina Ceremony on October 24, 2024. The event coincided with the 30th Ordination Anniversary of Venerable Bhante Dhammaloka. Mdm. Manori Jayakody and her family graciously served as the primary sponsors for this auspicious occasion.
Invitation and Vassana Season
On July 20, Madam Manori Jayakody, along with her family and friends, graciously extended an invitation to the monks of Aloko to observe the rainy retreat. She also expressed her heartfelt desire to sponsor the Kathina Cheevara offering at the retreat’s conclusion.
Vassana Pooja Blessing
Throughout the Rainy Retreat, weekly Vassana Poojas were conducted to bless devotees and express gratitude for their generosity. The poojas were led by Venerable Dapane Sumanadhamma, who also adorned the altar daily with beautiful floral arrangements. Devotees, including Mr. Vijaya and family, Mr. Ashoka’s family, Mr. Lalith & family, Mr. Ranith & family, and Mr. Shan Rajapakha, participated both in person and online. Mr. Sumith arranged refreshments, Mr. Buddhika handled the live broadcast, and Sister Mallika contributed to content creation.
Resuming Construction
With improving health and economic conditions, Aloko Buddhist Center resumed construction efforts to prevent further deterioration of the unfinished building. On July 16, 2024, construction began on the second-level roof of the Monks’ Quarters. This phase involved pouring a concrete slab and erecting supporting columns and beams, followed by brickwork.
This part of the building has to be done at once. Therefore we had to obtain a soft loan before we commenced the work to make sure we have enough funds to complete it. Mr. Ming (Barhmacariya) strengthened our brotherhood, granted the loan and made all this possible. Just before the kathina we managed to complete the structural layout with the roofing slab graciously. We have no words to express our blessing to those who contributed toward this project. May you all be blessed with prosperity in a thousand folds. Detailed article on this will be published soon on our website, for your information.
Kathina Ceremony and Offerings
The Kathina Ceremony honored Venerable Bhante Dhammaloka’s 30th Ordination Anniversary. While Mdm. Manori Jayakody was the primary sponsor, numerous devotees contributed to this meritorious act.
The following individuals and families generously sponsored monks’ requisites:
- Rev. Dapane Sirisumana Thero
- Mrs. R. A. Janis and Mallika Rajapakse
- Mrs. Manori Jayakodi
- Mr. Sunil Jayakodi
- Mrs. Mangala
- K. T. Jestin Mendis
- Mrs. Sepali Jayasuriya
- Mrs. Nilashi Liyanapathirana
- Mr. Ashoka Nirmal & family
- Mr. Ranjith Priyantha
Thirteen monks, led by the Most Venerable Koppakande Sumanathissa Nayaka Mahathera, participated in the ceremony. The Kathina Cheevara was offered to Venerable Kotapola Rahula, concluding the event on a successful note.
A Heartfelt Thank You
Aloko Buddhist Center extends its sincere gratitude to all who contributed to the Kathina Ceremony and the ongoing construction efforts. May all participants and donors be blessed with good health, peace, happiness, and prosperity.
With Metta,
Bhanthe Dhammaloka
Bhanthe Rahula
& Aloko Team