P I T T S B U R G H B U D D H I S T C E N T E RO P E N I N G C E R E M O N YA P R I L 2 8 - 2 9 , 2 0 0 7

EventsAll events to be held at Pittsburgh Buddhist CenterAt Natrona Heights unless otherwise noted. All events are open and free to public.

Weekly Meditation SessionsEach Wednesday from 6:30-7:30 PM Vipassana Meditation Event

Monthly Dhamma DiscussionsConducted once a month by a head resident monk or a visiting.monk. See website for more details.

Monthly Scholarly TalkConducted once a month by a Buddhist scholar conducting research on the Buddhist Religion.

Dhamma School for ChildrenOffered once a month for children ages 4-16, Dhamma SchoolProvides an opportunity for children to learn Buddhism in aninteractive setting. The class teaches children how to be a live a happy and successful life according to the Buddha’s teachings.

RetreatsOffered by resident monks, visiting monks or visiting scholars,Buddhist retreats provides participants the opportunity to practiceBuddhism for an extended period of time.

Visit http://www.pittsburghbuddhistcenter.org and click onEvents for details

The Pittsburgh Buddhist CenterPittsburgh Buddhist Center is a not for profit organization serving the needs of Buddhists and friends of Buddhism in and around greater Pittsburgh. This is the first Theravada Temple established in western Pennsylvania. Pittsburgh Buddhist Center was establishedon September 06, 2006.

PresidentVenerable Nehinne Ariyagnana

SecretaryDamitha Karunaratne

TreasurerThilaka jayakody

Pittsburgh Buddhist Center111, Route 908,Natrona Heights, PA 15065 (724) 295-2525info@pittsburghbuddhistcenter.orghttp://www.pittsburghbuddhistcenter.org

All Rights Reserved. No Part of this document may be

Pittsburgh Buddhist Center Dedication

Ceremony

With Complements of

K. Siripala (M.D) and AssociatesAltoona, PA

I N S I D E C O V E R

B L A N K P A G E

S C H E D U L E ( I N T H E M I D D L E P A G E )Saturday, April 28th, 20076 pm – 7 pm Special Buddha Pooja

Conducted by Ven. Thalangama Devananda Thero, Chief monk of Indiana Buddhist Temple

7 pm – 8 pm Bhakti Geeta and Lighting of Wesak lanterns

8 pm – 12 amPirith Chanting CeremonyLead by Ven. Katugastota Uparatana Thero, Chief monk of the International Buddhist Center, Maryland

Sunday, April 29th, 200710 am – 11 am Opening of the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center Sign (Plaque?) and

Formal Dedication Ceremory

11 am – 11:30 pm Buddha Pooja

11:30 pm – 12 pm Dana Pooja

12 pm – 1 pm Lunch

1 pm – 2 pm Dhamma Talk by ????? andSpeech by the Sri Lankan Ambassador to USA His Excellency Bernard Goonetilleke

2 pm – 2:15 pm Bhakti Geeta

2:15 pm – 2:30 pm Concluding Remarks by Ven. Nehinne Ariyagnana Theor, Chief monk of the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center

page 9 of 44

M E S S A G E F R O M M A H A N A Y A K A - M A L W A T T E C H A P T E R

w;smQcH ;sífndgqjdfõ Y%S isoaOd†_ iqux., uyd iA:úrYHdfudamd,s uyd ksldfha u,aj;= md¾Yjfha uyd kdhlu,aj;= uyd úydrhuykqjr

iqNdYsxikhhs

wm ;:d.; iïud iïnqÿ rcdKka jykafiaf.a Y%S ioaOu_h" kùk úoHd ksIamdok je,|.;a ngysr iudchg wk._ T!IOhla ù we;s nj b;d meyeos<sj olakg ,efnk fohls'

ta i|yd wmf.a Y%S ,dxlsl NslaIQka jykafia,d uy;a Wkkaÿfjka lghq;= lrK njo fmfka' nqÿ oyu fkdokakd ngysr cd;Skag wmg ,nd osh yels jákdu jia;=j ;:d.; Ou_hhs' úúO o¾Ykhkaf.ka fyïn;a ù isák ngysr cd;slhka wo nqÿ oyu jeä jeäfhka je<| .ekSfï m%jK;djhla o¾Ykh fjhs' ta i|yd wmf.a NslaIQka jykafia,d wem lem úh hq;=h hkak wmf.a m%d¾:khhs'

lsisÿ fNaohlska f;drj fuu W;=ï ldhH_fhys fhoSug wmf.a NslaIQka jykafia,d ffOhH_u;a lsÍu ,xld jdiS ldf.a;a hq;= lu fjhs'

weußld tlai;a ckmofha fmkais,afõkshd m%dka;fha msÜian¾.a ys wdrïN lr mj;ajdf.k hdug iQodkï jk msÜian¾.a fn!oaO uOHia:dkh jeä oshqKq lsÍug;a" thska nqÿ oyfï mrud¾: uqÿka muqKqjd .ekSug;a úydrdêm;s kEyskafka wßh[dK iA:úr ;=uka m%uqL fn!oaO ¥; msßig yels fõjdhs wdYsxikh lrïy'

page 10 of 44

M E S S A G E F R O M M A H A N A Y A K A - A S G I R I Y A C H A P T E R

w;smQcH Wvq.u › nqoaOrlaÅ; uyd ia:úrYHdfudamd,s uyd ksldfha wia.sß md¾Yjfha uyd kdhlwia.sß uyd úydrhuykqjr

nqÿ oyfï ÑriaÓ;sh Wfoid fn!oaO NslaIQka jykafia,df.ka isÿjk wkqmfïh fiajh tod isg wo olajdu b;du;a wk¾> nj i|yka l< hq;a;ls'

úoHd ;dËKfhka cSú; yev.iajd .;a ngysr f,daljdiSkag wmf.a uyd>_ fn!oaO o¾Ykfhka cSú; ilia lr .ekSug yelsnj fmkajdoSu wmf.a fn!oaO NslaIQka jykafia,df.a hq;=lu úh hq;=j ;sfí'

újdodmkak f,dalhl hqo .sks ksùug" ÿla.sks ksùug" lreKdj-ohdj-ffu;%sh we;s lr,Sug nqÿoyug úfYaIs; n,hla we;s w;r th f,dalhd fj; fmkajd oSug wfma NslaIQka jykafia,dg yels nj wmf.a úYajdihhs'

ta i|yd wmf.a NslaIQka jykafia,d wdo¾Yj;a msßila úhhq;= w;r tu mrud:_ uqÿka m;a lr.ekSug wem lem úhhq;= nj wmf.a n,dfmdfrd;a;=jhs'

weußld tlai;a ckmofha fmkais,afõkshd m%dka;fha msÜian¾.a ys wdrïN fldg mj;ajdf.k hdug n,dfmdfrd;a;=jk fn!oaO uOHia:dkh u.ska fuu hym;a lghq;= bgqfjkq we; hkq wmf.a n,dfmdfrd;a;=jhs' tu.ska ngysrjdiSkaf.a Ou_×kh oshqKq fldg Tjqkaf.a hym;a n,dfmdfrd;a;= bgqlr,Sug .re kEyskafka wßh[dK ia:úrhka m%uqL msßig yels fõjdhs wms wdYs¾jdo lruq'

page 11 of 44

MESSAGE FROM MAHANAYAKA – AMARAPURA SANGHA SABHA

w;smQcH ojq,afok {dKsiair uyd ia:úrY%S ,xld wurmqr uyd ix> iNdfõ uydkdhlúoHd úchdrduhmdf.dv mdr kqf.af.dv

iqNdYsxikhhs'

f:rjdoS nqÿ oyu y÷kajdoSfïoS Y%S ,dxlsl NsËqj tod fukau wo;a iqúfYaI fufyjrla isÿ lrhs' fudrgqj fldr<je,a, jd¨ldrdudêm;s úkhdpdhH_ mQcH kEyskafka wßh[dK iA:úrhka úfoaYhkays Ou_m%pdrj, ksr; fjñka isák úÑ;% Ou_ lÓlhka jykafia kula fukau wdoY_iïmkak ysñ kuls' mQcHmdo kEyskafka wßh[dK iA:úrhka jykdfiaf.a wkqYdil;ajfhka yd fodia;r fla' isßmd," rxckS isßmd, fukau oñ; lreKdr;ak" moaud lreKdr;ak hk msxj;=kaf.a m%Odk odhl;ajfhka 2007 wfm%a,a ui 28 jk osk weußld tlai;a ckmofha fmkais,afõkshd m%dka;fha msÜian¾.a fn!oaO uOHia:dkh uyd ix>hdg mQcdlsrSfï ufyda;aijh meje;afjk fï wjia:dfõ wm ix> iNdfõ i;=g m%ldY lrk w;r fuu msxlu i|yd uQ,slj l%shd lrk kEyskafka wßh[dK" mQcH lUqremsáfha uqkskaojxY hk iA:úrhka jykafia,d yd NdKavd.dßl ;s,ld chfldä uy;añh we;=¨ msÜian¾.a odhl msxj;=ka g f:rjdoS nqÿ oyfï mKsúvh weußldkq ckhd w;r me;sr ùug ;=Kqrejka irKska wdhqrdfrda.HdoS iem; mefíjdhs iqNdYsxikh lrñ'

page 12 of 44

M E S S A G E F R O M M A H A N A Y A K A - R A M A N N A C H A P T E R

w;smQcH fõje,afoksfha fïOd,xldr uyd ia:úrY%S ,xld rdu[a[ uyd ksldfha uydkdhlYdikj¾Ok msßfjka uyd úydrhY%S iqukidr udj;óß.u

iqNdYsxikhhs'

Ou_¥; fiajdj fn!oaO NslaIqjla úiska wjYHfhkau isÿl< hq;a;ls' j;aukays fndfyda fn!oaO NslaIqka fulS ld¾hNdrh uekúka bgqlrK wdldrhla oelsh yelsh' uy;a fjfyilr yd wdhdihlr lghq;a;la jk fulS Ou_¥; fiajdj j;aukays ;reK NslaIqka uy;a lemùfulska issÿlrK wdldrhla o oelsh yelsh'

fï wkqj Y%S ,xld rdu[a[ uyd ksldhg wh;a NslaIqjla f,iska fudrgqj fldr,je,a, jd¨ldrdudêm;s mQcH kEyskafka wßh[dK yd mQcH lUqremsáfha uqkskaojxY hk uyd ia:úrhka úiska weußldfõ msÜian¾.ays isÿlrKq ,nk wd.ñl fiajdj meiish hq;=h' Y%S ,xld rdu[a[ ksldfhys wkqkdhl rdclSh mKaä; fndamsáfha jxYdkkao uyd ia:úrhka jykafiaf.a u. fmkaùu hgf;a yd fmkais,afõkshdfõ fodia;r fla' isßmd," fodia;r rxckS isßmd," oñ; lreKdr;ak" moaud lreKdr;ak hk uy;au uy;añkaf.a odhl;ajfhka yd Wmldrfhka isÿlrKq ,nk fuu fiajdj meiish hq;=h' weußldj jeks iqúYd, rdcHhla ;=, oyï mKsjqvh fnod yeÍu ;rula fyda ieye,a¨ lghq;a;la jkqfha nqoaêu;a msßia nyq, rdcHhla jk fyhsks' úfYaIfhka ,dxlsl msßiays wNsjDoaêh i|yd yd iodpdr ixjO_kh i|yd bÈj we;s fuu fn!oaOd.ñl uOHia:dkh ksrdhdifhkau wefußldkqjkaf.a wjOdkhg ,la jkq we;'

úfYaI jYfhka fujka wd.ñl uOHia:dkhla Y%S ,xld rdu[a[ uyd ksldhsl NslaIqka msßila úiska we;slr,Su ms,sn|j ud o w;sYh i;=gg m;afjñ' bosß lghq;=o uekúka isÿlrkakg yeug f;rejka fnf,ka Yla;sh yd ffOhH_ ,efíjdhso fuys,d iqNdYsxik m<lrïy'

page 13 of 44

M E S S A G E F R O M A N U N A Y A K A - R A M A N N A C H A P T E R

Most Ven. Bopitiye Wansananda Maha TheroAnunayake of the Sri Lanka Ramanna NiyakeSri Dharmaguptha PirivenaMulamaha ViharayaPayagala SouthSri Lanka

My felicitation at the precious moment of offering the first Buddhist center in America to the Ramanna chapter by the sane devotees of Buddhism in Pennsylvania on the 29th of April 2007.

The endeavor by Ven. Nehinne Ariyagnana Thero to redeem the restless people of America from their untold sufferings and grievances is praiseworthy, I am sure the Buddhist center at Pittsburgh will be a fountain spreading peace, mutual understanding and loving kindness over the continent.

May the Buddha Dhamma pervade over America giving warmth to a serene surrounding and mindfulness to all human beings.

page 14 of 44

M E S S A G E F R O M T H E C H I E F M O N K - P B C

mQcH kEyskafka wßh[dK ysñúydrdêm;smsÜian¾.a fn!oaO uOHia:dkh

nqÿka jykafia ;u Y%djlhka oekqj;a lrkq ,enqfõ .ñka .ug f.dia foõ ñksiqka we;=¨ fndfyda fokdf.a hym; msKsi Ou_h foaYkd lrk f,ih' th lreKq ;=kla uq,a fldg foaYkd l,hq;= úh'

zinn mdmii wlrkx l=i,ii WmiïmodiÑ;;mßfhd omkx t;x nqoOdk YdikxZ

ish¨ mõ ÿre lsÍu" isf;a ikaiqka ^oukh& nj f.dvke.Su i|yd nqÿka jykafia we;=¨ Y%djlhka iuia: iudch mqrdu md .ukska jäñka ffu;%sfhka hq;=j oyï foiSug l%shd l<y'

fuu úYsIaG fiajdfjka Ndr;fha kj m%fndOhla f.dv ke.=ks' i;H iy úuqla;sh .ek Wkkaÿ jQ fndfyda fokd nqoaO foaYkdj flfrys oeä wjOdkhla fhduq l<y' úúO ;rd;srfï ^rc" ue;s" weu;s" f.dú" lïlre" Wiia my;a l=,hka yd iudcfha W.;a kQ.;a úúO mSvdjkag f.dÿrejQ& iudc fldgia nqoaO Ydikhg we;=¨j by; lS lreKq ;=kg wkqj Ôú;h fufyhjd iekiSu ,Õd lr .;ay' tfukau iudcfha .;dkq.;sl wd.ñl yd iudc iïu;hkaf.ka fkdfhla mSvdjkag ,laj isá ck fldgia j,g wd;au f.!rjhlska hq;=j lghq;= lsÍug u. mEÿks'

j;_udk NsËq iudch tu nqoaO foaYkhg wkqj iuia: f,dalh mqrdu ;u wdOHd;auh imqrd .ksñka uyck ys;iqj msKsi lemù isà' tjeks mrud:_hlska hq;=j ngysr fmkais,afõkshd m%dka;fha msÜian¾.a k.rfha “Pittsburgh Buddhist Center” kñka kj uOHia:dkhla wdrïN lf<uq' fuu Wiia lghq;af;a oS nqoaO Ydikfha oshqKqj;a iudcfha hym;;a m%d:_kd lrk we,agQkdj,

page 15 of 44

mosxÑ fodia;r fla isßmd," fodia;r rxckS isßmd, hqj,;a iafÜÜfldf,aÊj, mosxÑ jHdmdßl oñ; lreKdr;ak" moaud lreKdr;ak hqj, we;=¨ msÜian¾.a odhljre o ld,h Okh Y%uh lem fldg iyfhda.h fokakg fhÿks'

nqÿka oji Ydikhg Wodr fiajhla l, wfkams~q isgq;=ud" úYdld jeks ieoeyej;=ka fldaá .kka ;u Okh jeh fldg fÊ;jkdrduh" mQj_drduh jeks wdrdu idod nqÿ mdfudla uy iÕkg mqod uyckhd ,nk Wodr iekiSu oel wmßñ; i;=gla w;aú|s nj Ydik jxY l;dfõ oelafõ' wdrdu bos lsÍu Wiia úmdl we;s wguyd l=i,hla nj Ou_fha b.ekafõ' tneúka fuu lghq;af;aoS weußld tlai;a ckmofha fkdfhla m%foaY j, jdih lrk ieoeyej;a ck;djf.ka ,efnk iyfhda.h ksy;udkSj msxoSfuka hq;=j w.h lrñ' Ou_¥; fiajh i|yd ud yg weußldjg tafïoS;a fuys jdih lsÍfïoS;a udyg Wmldr l, .sys meúos ish¨ fokdgo wm yd tlaj oyfï yrh w;aú|Sug l%shdlrk weußldkq cd;sl msxj;=kago yo ne;sfhka ia;=;sjka; fjñ'

fuu úydria:dkh Ydiksl iïm%odhkag wkqj uyd ix>hd jykafiag mQcd lsÍu 2007 jif¾ wfm%a,a ui 29 osk isÿ flfrk neúka .sys meúos ieuf.a i;=g;a wdYs¾jdoh;a msfokq we;ehs úYajdi lrñ'

fuys wdrïNfha isg wd.ñl lghq;= lrf.k hdfïoS wmyg Wiia iyfhda.hla ,ndfok mQcH ;fmdajkfha iq;Or ysñhkag;a ñÑ.ka äfg%dhsÜ fn!oaO úydrjdiS hákqjr ixlsÉp ysñhkag;a wmf.a wkkH;djhka iy;sl fldg wm osßu;a l, fïß,kaâ ys ùgka cd;Hka;r fn!oaO uOHia:dkdêm;s W;=re weußldfõ wêlrK ix>kdhl w;smQcH lgq.iaf;dg Wmr;k kdhl iAjdóka jykafiag;a wmf.a úfYaI ia;=;sh mqolruq'

wmf.a wkqYdikhkag wkqj l%shd lrñka fuu mQckSh lghq;a;g iyfhda.h ,ndfok ieug yDohdx.u ia;=;sh mqo lrñ' fuu ia:dkh ;=,ska iqúfYaIS fiajhla ls Íug Tn ieuf.a iyfhda.h;a wdYs¾jdoh;a ,efíjdhs fu;a is;ska m%d:_kd lrñ'

Tn ieug f;rejka irKhsæ

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M E S S A G E F R O M T H E A M B A S S A D O R

His Excellency Bernard GoonetillekeSri Lankan Ambassador to the USAEmbassy of Sri Lanka 2148 Wyoming Avenue NWWashington, DC 20008

I am very pleased to send this message on the occasion of the offering of the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center to the Maha Sangha and the Vesak Celebrations.

Services provided by the temple, such as conducting a Dhamma school and Dhamma discussion, practicing meditation etc., to all communities in Pittsburgh are commendable tasks, taking into consideration the fact that these services are being provided by venerable Sri Lankan Buddhist monks within the confines of limited space.

I would like to highlight the major role being played by Buddhist temples as hubs of socio-religious activities in traditional Sri Lanka society. In addition to being places for practicing Buddhism, temples have also functioned as centers for spiritual empowerment, religious education and where the rural communities gathered for important social activities. Even thought this kind of setting is typical of rural Sri Lankan life, it also demonstrates the manner in which a place of worship can influence the society, while improving the spiritual well being of people.

More than 2500 years ago Lord Buddha spoke of the important role the Buddhist missionaries should play by urging venerable monks to spread the word of Dhamma saying “Charatha Bhikkave Charikan Bahujana Hithaya Bahujana Sukhaya”. Thus, the Lord Buddha asked the monks to travel and spread the supreme truth to enlighten people. Therefore, it is certainly a great satisfaction to see the commendable efforts being taken by the most Venerable Nehinne Ariyagnana Thero of the newly established Pittsburgh Buddhist Center, supported by the devoted dhayaka sabha of the temple spreading the supreme truth and enlightening people in and around Pittsburgh.

I wish the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center success in all its virtuous efforts.

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M E S S A G E F R O M T H E S E C R E T A R Y T O T H E P R E S I D E N T - S R I L A N K A

Mr. Lalith WeeratungaSecretary to the President of Sri LankaPresidential SecretariatColombo, Sri Lanka

As a Sri Lankan, I feel proud and extremely pleased to send my greetings on the rare occasion of a Theravada Buddhist Center being opened in the Pittsburgh area. Establishment of the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center (PBC), I am sure, has been no easy task, and at the outset I must pay my tribute to all those who were deeply involved and dedicated to make this a reality. In particular, I would like to commend Dr. K.A. Siripala of Altoona, PA and Mr. Damitha Karunaratne of State College, PA for their untiring efforts. I also pay my respectful tribute to the resident monks headed by Ven. Nehinne Ariyagnana Thero whose guidance and dedication has been central to the success of the PBC.

Today, there is a clear trend towards people seeking solace and guidance from Buddha Dhamma, the preachings of the Enlightened One. The contribution of the Maha Sangha is the most valuable component of this process. In a Buddhist center, people are able to seek the guidance of the Maha Sangha and align themselves to a path of righteous living. As such, the establishment of a center of this nature, no easy task by any standard, is bound to be a solace to all those who seek guidance through Dhamma. The venerable monks resident in the center will act with compassion and loving kindness to bring tranquility to the lives of all those who visit this noble institution.

Whilst establishing a center for numerous activities pertaining to Buddhist way of life, such as meditation sessions, discourses on Dhamma and discussions by erudite Buddhist monks, celebration of important dates in the Buddhist calendar, and conducting a Sunday school for children, constitutes a difficult task, it is more daunting to maintain and sustain such activities continuously and consistently. It is important therefore to support the activities of this institution for its continuance. Undoubtedly, those who live in the Pittsburgh area will find it very rewarding to be able to interact with the erudite Buddhist monks in this center towards seeking the righteous path in life.

On this momentous occasion of the opening of the center and celebration of 2551 Vesak, therefore, let me offer my warmest and sincere best wishes for the success of this great institution and congratulate all those who worked tirelessly towards its establishment and sustenance.

page 18 of 44

May the Noble Triple Gem shower its blessings on all.

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M E S S A G E F R O M T H E C E O – A L L E G H E N Y C O U N T Y

Dan OnoratoAllegheny County Chief ExecutiveOffice of the Chief Executive436 Grant StreetPittsburgh pa 15219

Dear Friends:

It is my great pleasure to welcome the opening of the first Sri Lankan Theravada Buddhist Temple in Western Pennsylvania. The newly established Pittsburgh Buddhist Center will be a wonderful addition to the diverse cultures and religions here in Allegheny County.

On behalf of the 1.2 million citizens of Allegheny County, I welcome you and hope that the opening celebration is successful and fulfilling. Best wishes for many years of peace and prosperity in your new temple.

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M E S S A G E F R O M T H E M A Y O R – C I T Y O F P I T T S B U R G H

Luke RavenstahlMayor, City of PittsburghOffice of the Mayor,414 Grant StreetPittsburgh PA 15219

Dear Friends:

On behalf of the residents of the City of Pittsburgh, I am honored to welcome you to our beautiful City to celebrate this important occasion – the formal opening and dedication of the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center of April 29, 2007.

As the first Sri Lankan Theravada Buddhist Temple established in Western Pennsylvania, the Center serves the needs of Buddhists and friends of Buddhism in and around Pittsburgh. Since the establishment of the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center in September 2006, the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have benefited from the insightful and educational meditation classes and other religious programs conducted on a weekly and monthly basis at the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center. The Center welcomes all people with open arms and we are truly lucky to have this wonderful venue here in Pittsburgh.

Pittsburgh is a very exciting place to be right now. We have exceptional universities and medical facilities, a diverse economy, cutting edge research and technology facilities and Downtown revitalization projects in the works. Our REDD UP campaign is in full swing, aimed at making our city one of the cleanest and safest in the country. We are hosting the U.S. Open in June and our 250 th Anniversary is just around the corner. Recently, we were ranked 9th smartest place to live in America by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance magazine. In addition, Expansion Management magazine named us the 9th best place to locate a company in America.

Now is a perfect time to discover the cultural treasures that surround us each day in Pittsburgh, as well as the individuals of our communities who make it a special place. I am confident that you will enjoy your stay here and hope that you will come back and visit us often.

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M E S S A G E F R O M T H E I N T E R N A T I O N A L B U D D H I S T C E N T E R

Ven. Katugastota Uparatna Maha TheroAdhikarana Sangha Nayake International Buddhist Center2600 Elmont StreetSilver Spring MD 20902

The International Buddhist Center is delighted to hear a new Buddhist temple is opening in Pittsburgh. We would like to send our greetings and congratulations on this auspicious occasion.

Theravada Buddhists in the Pittsburgh area now have a place to worship the Buddha, hear the Dhamma, serve the Sangha and practice meditation. Sri Lankans also have a place to congregate where their children can learn our traditions and preserve our culture.

Founder and Abbot Ven. Nehinne Ariyagnana Thero has tremendous knowledge and years of experience teaching and practicing, both in Sri Lanka and America. We are confident that this Buddhist Vihara will blossom under his guidance.

We appreciate the effort of Dr. K. Siripala and Mr. Damitha Karunarathna in establishing the Pittsburgh Vihara. They serve as the model for the lay community to serve the Sasana and gain merit in this lifetime.

We are excited to welcome the Vihara and look forward to opportunities to offer our support. We wish the best in your service to the Sri Lankan community and the American people.

May the Triple Gem bless you!

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M E S S A G E F R O M N E W Y O R K B U D D H I S T V I H A R A , N Y

Ven. Kurunegoda Piyatissa Nayaka Maha TheroNew York Buddhist Vihara214-22 Spencer Ave.Parkside HillsNew York 11427 - 1821

The advice of the Awakened One for the monks was to go about the four corners of the country and propagate the Dhamma for the benefit of the vast majority of people. In faithful obedience with this advice, his disciple monks engaged themselves in the task with extreme enthusiasm.

The lay devotees took up the cue from the monks with equal zeal, amply supported by the rulers of the day. It is worth mentioning here the yeoman services rendered to Buddhism by devotees of the nature of Anatha Pindika, Visakha and many other lay people and also Kings such as Bimbisara, Kosala, Ajatasattu and Emperor Asoka of ancient India. Almost all our ancient rulers particularly the Kings Dutugemunu, Vattagamini Abhaya and Parakramabahu, ruled the country, always having at the top of their mind, the best interests of the religion. This is because, unless the people were religious enough, both their present and future spiritual advancement would certainly be in jeopardy.

Following the tradition, the venture initiated by Ven. Nehinne Ariyagnana by way of a Buddhist Centre in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania is highly commendable and needless to say, immensely meritorious. Launching an establishment of this nature primarily serves the purpose of educating the people in the ways of the Dhamma. Furthermore, this kind of effort enables both the divine and the human beings to benefit as long as the institution lasts and even beyond, through the enormous amount of merit accruable in the process.

In the circumstance, I would like to urge the public particularly those living in the area and the environs to make the best use of the services available to them at this centre.

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May we all rejoice the merits of this good deed and attain the ultimate bliss of Nibbana!

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M E S S A G E F R O M G R E A T L A K E S B U D D H I S T V I H A R A , M I

Ven. Brahmanagama Muditha TheroGreat Lakes Buddhist Vihara21491, Beech Road Southfield, MI 48034

Birth of a Buddhist Vihara in this hemisphere is a welcome event and augurs well for the propagation of Buddha Dhamma. It’s always a boost to the valiant efforts of Buddhists committed to the preservation of the religion and the culture of their forefathers. The time honored Buddhist Temple concept has a twofold purpose; one, to propagate the Dhamma and the other, to cater to the well being of the community.

Teaching Buddhism in the context of a society such as here all too willing to embrace materialistic values is no easy task. Running a temple is even more difficult. Pitfalls are many and often unexpected. Therefore, it becomes imperative that the venerable monks and the laity understand their different roles and help each other with compassion.

However, much depends on the purity of intention of the parties concerned and the mutual respect and compassion with which they treat each other. The importance of a clear understanding that the temple is an integral part of each Buddhist family cannot be overemphasized. A temple is not only a place of worship but also a forum that brings different members of a community together. For our Buddhist compatriots, it is a place of spiritual uplift and quiet rest from their day to day challenges and the confusion of life. For their children whose lives will be fashioned through its routine religious exercises and Sunday school, it becomes a safe haven ensuring character building and a truly Buddhist upbringing conducive to pursuit of excellence in their chosen fields of endeavor.

Bhante Ariyagnana has taken a giant step in establishing a new Buddhist Vihara, Pittsburgh Buddhist Center, in the State of Pennsylvania with dedication; and of course, the support of a few like-minded devotees! Bhante Ariyagnana is eminently qualified for the task before him. His charisma, his endearing humility and his capacity to relate to people will go a long way!

There are many temples belonging to the Sri Lankan Theravada Tradition that have taken root in the fertile soil of the USA serving communities from coast to coast. May this new Temple in the State of Pennsylvania, the great State of Independence,

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bloom in due season spreading the fragrance of Dhamma attracting all seekers of Truth! May the Triple Gem bless all!

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MESSAGE FROM WEST END BUDDHIST

CENTER , CANADA

Photo Here

Ven. Kulugammana Dhammawasa TheroAbbot & PresidentWest End Buddhist CenterMississauga, OntarioCanada L5E 2P8

May Buddha Dhamma Ring Through Mountains and Valleys of Picturesque Pittsburgh!

While Buddhists the world over are busy making preparations for the advent of the festive season of Vesak, the State of Pennsylvania, together with the entire North American Continent is richer today, as yet another Buddhist Temple of the Theravada tradition marks its dedication and canonical presentation by its lay trustees and promoters to the Maha Sangha in the City of Pittsburg!

Locating a Buddhist Centre in Natrona Heights in Pittsburg was an idea that took wings six months ago in response to a crying need so forcefully expressed by a handful of committed Buddhist devotees in the region for resident Buddhist monks to cater to the their spiritual well being on a regular basis.

As a member of the Theravada tradition in North America, it is indeed with great pleasure that I along with my fellow-monks hasten to welcome the Maha Sangha of the Pittsburg Buddhist Centre into the North American fraternity with open arms! Success of a Temple is mostly dependent on the quality of leadership the founding monks can provide the lay community. We have no doubt whatsoever that in the sure hands of its charismatic director, the Venerable Nehinne Ariyagnana, Pittsburg Buddhist Centre will grow from strength to strength making the echo of Buddha Dhamma ring through the mountains, valleys and the plains of the picturesque Pittsburg region in the years to come! Such is our heartfelt wish and prayer for the fruition of the sincere efforts of our brother, Ariyagnana Thera! May the Triple Gem bless the Venerable Thera and keep him in good health for the tasks ahead!

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M E S S A G E F R O M N E W J E R S E Y B U D D H I S T V I H A R A , N J

Ven. Hungampola Sirirathana Nayaka TheroChief IncumbentNew Jersey Buddhist Vihara

“Caratha Bhikkha Carikam Bahujana Hitaya Bahujana Sukhaya”

As a monk his main duties and aim should be traveling place to place, state to state, abroad and worldwide teaching the Dhamma and protecting religious life with doing religious services. Bhukkhus do all these great service keeping temples as a centre. In very recent a new temple established at Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania named by Pittsburghg Buddhist Center. It may be a new step for propagate Buddhism in United State. This new temple could be help for arising Buddhism further. The United State is one of the greatest states in the world. So, I think it is the most suitable time for establish new centers to expand Buddhism in large state such as United State. Today, which we have centers these are not enough for work properly. This center help for create good qualities in American civil society in their heart such as loving kindness, Compassion, sympathetic and equanimity.

Sri Lanka is an Island which sufficient with Buddhism and Buddhist Culture. We can give only one thing for the world. It is pure Theravada Buddhism. In worldly well developed American people, we have nothing to give except Buddhism. So, we must introduce those people what is Buddhism? Who is Buddhist? What is the basic teaching in Buddhism? What is Meditation? What is the use of meditation? What is the valuable of meditation and gain result from the meditation? For do these jobs properly we need enough temples and centers. So, newly built Petersburg Buddhist Vihaya could be helpful for approach those great goals.

There are many Sinhalese people live in United State. Most of them are our Buddhist people. They built their lives with Buddhist teaching and lived with Buddhist culture when they were in Sri Lanka. They can not away from religious rite and rituals. For their religious purpose they need temple. Here, temple play great role to Sri Lankan for their religious activities. At the end, I would like to wish Pandit Nehinne Ariyagnana and all the devotees that you may able to offer great service for Buddha Sasana.

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M E S S A G E F R O M DHARMA V I JAYA BUDDHIST V IHARA , CA

Ven. Walpola PiyanandaAbbot and PresidentDharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara, Inc.1847 Crenshaw Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90019

On behalf of the Sri Lankan Sangha Council of America and Canada and Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara in Los Angeles, We wish to congratulate you on the occasion of the celebration of the first Vesak in your new Temple.

It gives all of us great happiness to know that another temple has been established here in the United States. We are confident that you will be successful in the endeavor of sharing the Teachings of the Buddha with all who are interested.

We wish you the Blessings of the Triple Gem and wish we could be there to share in Vesak, but unfortunately our temple’s Vesak is that same day.

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M E S S A G E F R O M ZEN BUDDHIST CENTER OF P ITTSBURGH

Rev. Koyiki RobertsHead Priest, Deep Spring TempleZen Buddhist Center of Pittsburgh 124 willow Ridge RoadSewickley, PA 15143

Deep Spring Temple, a Soto Zen Buddhist community, is delighted to welcome you to the western Pennsylvania area. As a Zen Buddhist priest, I have found many people here to be struggling with their lives. It is said to find the Dharma is as rare as a blind turtle in the vast ocean sticking her head up through a floating board with hole cut in it. Just think! There is just such a place right here in Pittsburgh! Your wisdom and guidance are much needed. With your presence, we will now all have a wonderful opportunity to seek the Dharma. Your Sangha is so fortunate to have you here as are we of the larger Buddhist community. Our deepest gratitude to you and all who have made Pittsburgh Buddhist Center a reality. If there is anything I, or my community can do to help you, please do not hesitate to call.

May you and your community find Great Joy and Deep Peace in your new home! May the wonderful teachings of the Buddha spread in all directions! Congratulations!

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MESSAGE FROM SR I DHARMODAYA P IR IVENA, SR I LANKA

mQcHmdo úkhdpdhH_ .=refoksfha Wos; uyd iA:úrúydrdêm;sY%S Ofu_daoh msßfjkje,a,j;a;fld<U 6

idr Ou_ oshqKqjg f;da;ekakla

nqÿrcdkka jykafia ;u Y%djl ix>hdf.ka n,dfmdfrd;a;= jQ tla wfmaËdjla kï pdßldjhs' ta nj m%:u jrg ieg kula uy ry;ka jykafia,dg zpr: NsCLfj pdßlxZ hkqfjka jod< fial' tu pdßldj bnd.df;a hk pdßldjla fkdfõ' meyeos,s wruqKlska hdhq;= pdßldjls' th fndfyda fokdf.a ys; iqj msKsi úh hq;a;ls' tu pdßldj ñksiqkag fukau foúhkago fmdÿfõ hym; i,ik pdßldjla úh hq;=h' nqoaOdkq Ydikfha mßos tfia pdßldfõ fhÿkq uyd ix> r;akfhka ie,iqkq fufyjr lshdmdk fkdfhla igyka ;%smsGl idys;Hfha tug oelafjhs' tn÷ pdßldj,oS l,hq;= ld¾hhka fudkjdoehs ;u Ydjl ix>hdg o meyeos,sj f;areï .ekSug nqÿrcdkka jykafiao oskm;du w¨hu uyd lreKd iudm;a;shg iu jeoS f,dj n,d jodrd l%shd l, wdldrh nqoaO pß;fha tk fkdfhla wjia:djka wOHhkh lsÍfuka jgyd .; yelsh' tod nqÿrcdkka jykafia fmkajd jod< tu ksYairKdoaOHY pdßldj j;auka uyd i>rejk fj;skao fkdwvqj bgqfjhs'

tu W;=ï ldhH_hka mrïmrdfjka mrïmrdjg odhdoj wLkavj bgqlrñka Y%S ,dxlsl NsËqka jykafia f,dalh mqrd tu Ou_ ¥; fufyjr bgq lsÍu m%S;shg lreKls' wfmka oshyels W;=ïu odhdoh jQ nqÿ oyu f,dal jdiSkag fnod yeÍu ms,sn| iaurKh lrñka fudrgqj flr<je,a, jd¨ldrludêm;s úkhdpdh_ kEyskafka wßhØK ia:úrhka jykafia j;_udkfha l%shd;aul fjñka wkd.; fn!oaO f,dalhg Ou_fha ñysr fnod oSug .kakdjQ W;aidyh m%YxikShh' Wkajykafiag fï Wodr i;a ldhH_ uekúka oshqKq lr,Sug Yla;sh we;snj m%;HËfhkau uu oksñ'

fuu i;a ldhH_hg wjxl iyfhda.h ,ndfok mQcHmdo lUqremsáfha uqKskaojxY ia:úrhka jykafiaf.a i;amqreI tl;=j o w.h l,hq;a;ls' fï Wodr fiajdj iïud iïnqoaO Ydikfha N+Ikhg nqÿoyfï yrh fidhk ish¨fokdf.a fuf,dj mrf,dj

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wNsjDoaêhg Wmldr fõjd' ta i|yd ish¨ fokdg r;ak;%fha wkka; .=K n,fhka Yla;sh ffOhH_h ,efíjdhs b;is;ska m%d:_kd lrñ'

ifnn nødks miik;= - ish,af,dAu hym; ols;ajd

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M E S S A G E F R O M A B U D D H I S T S C H O L A R

Clark Chilson, Ph.D.Assistant ProfessorDepartment of Religious StudiesUniversity of Pittsburgh

I want to express my warmest congratulations to the Pittsburgh Buddhist Center on this occasion when it will be formally handed over to the Sangha. As someone who teaches about Buddhism and pursues the academic study of it, I am delighted that the temple has opened and will now be a formal part of the Sangha. I have attended several Dharma discussions at the temple and have learned something each time. I have found the temple welcoming and open to all people, regardless of whether they are Buddhists, non-Buddhists, academics, or just someone curious about the teachings of the Buddha. The temple is an important local resource for learning about Buddhism. Bhante Ariyagnana is a knowledgeable priest who is adapt at explaining complex doctrines using insightful analogies. I expect that my students and I will learn much from him and others at the temple in the future. I commend the temple on its efforts to further intellectual discussions on religion and its willingness to promote inter-religious dialogue. I wish the temple great success in its endeavors to make a positive contribution to western Pennsylvania.

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M E S S A G E F R O M P R E S I D E N T , S L A A W P

Photo Here

Professor Ananda Gunawardena

President, Sri Lankan American Association of Western Pennsylvania

Message Here.

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P I T T S B U R G H B U D D H I S T C E N T E R - H I S T O R Y A N D F U T U R E

Buddhism - Religion of true realities, of deep philosophical, spiritual, and moral empowerment, metaphysical in its outer realms, and bringer of hope, vision and wisdom to a world un-assured of its past, present, future, and the beyond.

The first Theravada Buddhist Center of Pittsburgh was opened on 26th September 2006. Its benefactors, Dr.’s Mr. and Mrs. ___________and Ranjini Siripala, son Dhuminda, and daughter __________, together with Mr. and Dr. Mrs. Dhammitha and Padma Karuraratne, most generously ventured into establishing a temple in Pittsburgh for its Sri Lankan community as a means of conserving the faith and traditions of its country Sri Lanka, and its Buddhist occupants in Pittsburgh and its surroundings. Our community would like to thank these two families of Dayakas (those who serve the chief priests), for their overwhelming bounty and generosity in providing the means for all of Sri Lankan origin to participate in the religion of its ancient and cultural heritage.

Sri Lanka’s majority belong to the Theravada Buddhist faith. It is a religiously diverse country and many of other faiths in Sri Lanka relate to, and hold in esteem, this religion of high intellectual and principled disciplines; one of non-violence; one of refinement and dignity. In Sri Lanka, interdenominational relations are practiced and enjoyed by all.

On this day of auspices, April 28th, 2007, this temple is to be dedicated to the Ramanya Nikaya of Kandy/Moratuwa(?), Sri Lanka. This is the official handing over of the temple religious agenda to the very old and orthodox segment of Buddhism. The head of this Nikaya will be responsible for making sure that the staff assigned to PBC for years to come, are experienced and can meet the goals of the Ramanya Nikaya. A more formal operating structure for the temple will now be defined.

Discussions about the establishing of a Sri Lankan Buddhist center began in earnest in 2004, by the Sri Lankan community of Pittsburgh. The president of the Sri Lankan American Association of Western Pennsylvania, Dr. Ananda Gunawardane, together with secretary, Dr. Chandrasiri Jayakody initiated and conducted these discussions, and a monthly program was set up for our monks to visit Pittsburgh from the temple in Breezewood,

page 35 of 44Opening Day, 17th September 2006

PA. The Vietnamese temple in Homestead, PA kindly consented to letting us use their temple for our Dhane sessions (alms-giving), Dhamma discussions (discussions on the Buddhist faith) and meditation sessions. We are very grateful to the Vietnamese temple, and would like to thank them abundantly for letting our community use their temple prior to the opening of ours.

Dr.’s Siripala and Mr. and Mrs. Karuranatne stepped up and made a commitment to pay the down payment and the mortgage for a $150,000.00 for a property around Pittsburgh area, with no time-line, as long the temple was financially capable of undertaking the mortgage payment. A survey was conducted through the community web-site, pgh-lk on the Yahoo-groups, to find out our community’s interest in such an endeavor. Many responded positively, and a committee was set up to look for a suitable location for such a temple. Many sites were considered, and after much deliberation, Natrona Heights was chosen because of its convenience in driving time for most in the community. A car for the priests and its maintenance has been provided for by Mr. and Mrs. Karuraratne. Utilities and maintenance for the temple are supported through donations provided by visitors to the temple.

Many visitors of different faiths visit the temple, and are struck by the logic and rational of Buddhism, and its scientific viewpoints (preached in the ancient times of 500B.C. by Buddha, the enlightened one). Many ponder on its abstract concepts like that of the supernatural power of the mind, and the concept of reincarnation and rebirth, where connectivity between all living beings in this world and the worlds of the unseen, are contemplated. The weekly meditation sessions brings a certain calmness to the mind, an empowerment of the spirit, the easing away of old tensions and fears, a realization that one has a greater capacity for free will and self inspiration, and that one can find fulfillment of happiness in this life.

Both our priests have long experience …Venerable Nehinne Ariyagnana, the Chief Monk of PBC, …………………………with Venerable Kamburupitiye Munindawansa having a masters degree in studies of Divinity. Ven. Ariyagnana has a clear vision for the future of the temple. His main desires are *To contribute to the spiritual development of people (Buddhist and non-Buddhists) through Buddhist Philosophy, *To contribute to the ethical development (Sadaachaara Sanwardhanaya) and to stop the erosion of social values, *To educate people about the reasons for downfall (Piriheema), and *To provide an environment for Sri Lankan Buddhists to practice Buddhist traditions and especially introduce them to the kids.

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New Buddha Statue Donated by Mr. and Mrs. Lakshman Wickramaarachchi of Los Angeles, CA

The temple’s current activities involve a * Monthly Meditation Program (Saturday: 2.5 hours; days announced on the website), * Weekly Meditation Sessions (every Wednesday: 1 hour from 6:30-7:30), * Monthly Dhane Programs (remembrances of the departed with alms-giving - conducted on Sundays: 4 hours with the days announced on the website), and * Dhamma school (Buddhist teachings and practices for kids on Sundays of Dhane). All activities provide refreshment afterwards. Dhane sessions include alms-giving, where a Sri Lankan vegetarian meal (sometimes with the addition of seafood) is provided by the community for all who participate.

Plans for the future include * Addition of a new shrine room and meditation hall,* Regular meditation sessions and meditation retreats where people can stay longer time on the temple premises and concentrate on meditation, * Summer camps for those who are interested in learning Buddhist teachings, especially kids, * Annual Wesak celebrations (Birth, Enlightenment and Passing away of the Buddha, which happened on Wesak Poya, a day of full moon, and *Sil programs (calming oneself of Dangakara or excess energies by reflecting on Buddha’s teachings). All these programs, especially the meditation programs are open to people of all beliefs who would like to get its benefits. 

Venerable Ariyagnana and Venerable Munindawansa call the devotees to prayer and meditation by the ring of a bell. The main hall or prayer room is filled with seated people, and the deep and glorious resonance of priestly chanting (Pirith) fills the temple. One feels the true essence of being human and of its rare occurrence in the cycle and chain of re-birth. One is now transported into a rarer dimension of consciousness; into a deeper awareness of self-worth, of tranquility, and of peace. One is gradually moving towards Nirvana.

Pirith Chanting

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M E D I T A T I N G O N T H E B O D Y : A N A N C I E N T R E L A X A T I O N T E C H N I Q U EBy Ven. Tapovanaye Sutadhara Thero, Director - Ventura Buddhist Study Center,An Lac Mission, 901 South Saticoy Avenue, Ventura, CA 93004

Most of you are familiar with meditation techniques that use the breath as their object. This article will briefly introduce a meditation technique that focuses on the body.

Contemplation of the body (Kaayagataasati) is also known as PaTikkuula manasikaara, “the reflection on the repulsiveness of the body.” The ‘Discourse on the Foundations of Mindfulness’ in Majjhima Nikaya (Middle Length Discourses) explains this meditation technique as the Contemplation of the Body. Many authors translate the Pali word PaTikkuula as “repulsiveness.”. But as the Sutta explains this meditation technique, it reflects on the thirty-two parts of the body as Buddhist texts number them. PaTikkula also can mean ‘against the slope’/‘the bank (of a river)’. This meditation teaches us to train ourselves to see the body from a different perspective.

What benefits can we achieve by practicing this meditation?

The Buddha used a simile in discourses on this meditation that the practitioner should examine the body in the way some one would examine and identify different varieties of grain in a bag of mixed grains.

At this point we are not going to focus on all thirty-two parts given in the discourse. We are going to pay attention to following questions:

What is the posture for meditation?

Any posture other than walking is recommended. This could be practiced while standing, sitting, or lying.

How do you practice this method of meditation?

You can either close your eyes or keep them open. Pay attention to the following body parts and contemplate each of them in this order:

1) hair of the head, 2) )hair of the body,3) finger-and toenails, 4) teeth, 5) skin, 6) flesh, 7) veins,8) tendons, 9) bones, and page 38 of 44

10) marrow.

After reaching marrow, the last body part on the list, you come back marrow, bones, tendons, veins, flesh, skin, teeth, fingernails and toe nails, hair of the body, and hair of the head. Just visualize these body parts back an forth using your mind as a scanner. It is extremely important to keep focused on each body part to get the most benefit from this method. As time permits continue scanning back and forth. When you want to end the meditation session slowly move your fingers and toes and come back to normal everyday awareness.

What are the benefits?

By doing this your body and mind will be very relaxed. If you can practice this meditation right after physical exercise, a long workout, or at the end of a long day this benefit can be easily observed.

Is it appropriate to use a method of meditation in Buddhism for a worldly benefit?

Yes. At the beginning of the Discourse on Foundations of Mindfulness the Buddha himself explained the benefits of contemplation on the body, feelings, mind, and mind objects thus: ‘This is the sole way, monks, for the purification of beings, for the overcoming of sorrow and lamentation, for the destroying of pains in the body and mind, for reaching the right path, for the realization of nibbana (enlightenment), namely the four Foundations of Mindfulness.’

Benefits such as ‘overcoming of sorrow and lamentation, destroying of pains in the body and mind,’ are worldly to the core but essential aspirations. So the Buddha himself wanted us to be well and happy. On the other hand if we can overcome sorrow, lamentation, and pains in the body and mind, that is a good way to test the method of meditation. If you achieve these benefits you can assume that the rest of the benefits will follow if you continue to meditate. Imagine that you want to visit a place you haven’t visited. You get driving directions from the Internet. When you follow the directions you are still not sure that you will get there until you reach the destination. If you have directions with obvious landmarks that you pass, then your confidence in the set of directions increases. When you experience the immediate benefits of practicing this meditation technique, your confidence in the method grows.

Buddhism is not a set of secret teachings. It is for sensible people to practice individually and see the benefits that together are the sixth quality of the teachings of the Buddha, memorized and recited by Buddhists at any devotional or blessings ceremony at home or at a Buddhist temple. [I don’t get this. Can you explain a bit more?]

Why do we focus only on ten parts of the body rather than going into all thirty-two parts?

Traditionally, this meditation is listed along with the meditation techniques of reflection on the qualities of the Buddha, Loving-kindness, and Reflection on death which are called meditations that provide protection.

At an ordination ceremony, the candidate repeats after the preceptor the five constituents ending with skin (hair of the head, hair of the body, finger-and toenails, teeth, skin) as the preceptor cuts his hair in the direct and reverse order [frontward

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and backward? forward and back? back and forth?] several times. These five parts of the body are the most visible. In contrast, the parts from flesh to marrow go from the periphery to the core. This technique was modified for lay people after observing it as practiced at ordination ceremonies.

The purpose of this article is not to enter into a theoretical discussion on the subject but to share a simple idea on a meditation technique useful for reducing physical and mental stress. The best test is to put it into practice and see whether it helps or not. Give it a try!

MAY ALL BEINGS HAVE HAPPY MIND!

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R A N S I R I N I ’ S A R T I C L E

Ransi

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wdishdfjka ngysrg úysfok wdf,dalhmQcH lUqremsáfha uqKskaojxY ysñmsÜian¾.a fn!oaO uOHia:dkhfmkais,afõkshdj

óg jir 2550 lg fmr wdishdfõ my< jQ wd.ñl Ydia;DDjrfhls nqÿka jykafia' bkaoshdfõ bmoS nqoaO;ajh wjfndaO lrf.k p;=rdh_ i;H iys; iqúfYaIS Ou_ ud._hla f,dalhdg foaYkd lf<ah' fuu Ou_h iEu ukqIH j._hlgu fmdÿ jQ ,laIK j,ska hqla; ùu úfYaI isÿùuls' mshjfrka mshjr ukqIH cSú;h wdOHd;añlj f.dv ke.Sug u. fmkajkakls' m¾fhaIK" úYaf,aIK" úu¾Yk lrñka ñksia is;l uysu ienE f,I wdYajdokh lsÍug ;rï újD;j mj;sk oyuls' fuj lreKq ms,sn|j úfYaI wjOdkh fhduq l, ngysr W.;=ka nqÿ oyfï mKsúvh ngysr f,dalfha ck;dj w;rg f.khdug W;aidy lf<ah'

Y%S ,xldj ì%;dkH hg;a úcs;hlaj mej;s iufha iqÿ cd;slfhl= NslaIqka jykafia kulg úreoaOj wêlrKfha kvqjla mjrd ;snqks' tu kvq úNd.fhaoS NslaIqka jykafia ;u ks¾fodaIsNdjh m%ldY lsÍug ,sÅ; idlaIs jYfhka bosßm;a lf,a md,s NdIdfjka ,shk ,o mqiafld< fmd;a lsysmhls' Íia fâúâ keu;s úksiqre jrhdg fuu kvqj úNd. LsÍug mejÍ ;snqKs' Tyq fuj ÿ¾,N NdIdj ms<sn|j úfYaI wjOdkhla fhduq lf<ah' fuu kvq úNd.h wjika jQfha NslaIqka jykafia ksjeros lrejl= nj ikd: lrñks'

Íia fâúâ úksiqrejrhdj Tyqf.a rdcldß ld,h w;r u. k;r fldg hg;a úcs; uy f,alïjrhd úiska kej; ì%;dkH fj; f.kajd .kakd ,os' miq ld,hl isú,a mqrjeisfhl= f,iska ,xldjg meñK isxy, yd md,s NdIdj ukdj m%.=k fldg nqÿ oyu ms<sm| úYdrofhl= njg m;aúh' bka miq nqÿ oyfï jákd Ou_ .%ka: rdYshla /f.k Tyq kej; ì%;dkHhg meñKsfhah'

“Pali Text Society” kñka ixúOdkhka msysgqjd .;a fudyq md,s NdIdfjka ,shk ,o ;%smsglh bx.%Sis NdIdjg mßj;_kh lrk ,os' fuu j.lSu fudk ;rï lemùulska l,do lshf;d;a ;uka cSú;fhka iuq.kakd ;=reu th bgqlrñka isáfhah' t;=udf.a úfhdafjka miqj Tyqf.a ìß| Íia fâúâ ue;sksh fuu ixúOdkfha m%Odk ;ek .ksñka lghq;= bosßhg lrf.k .shdh'

Íia fâúâ fom,g oË YsIHdjla isáhdh' weh whs' î' fydak¾ ue;sKshhs' fuu fom,f.a úfhdafjka miqj wújdylj b¢ñka ;u cSú; ld,h md,s NdIdj;a nqÿ oyu;a wdrËd lr.ksñka j.lSfuka lghq;= l<dh' weh Wm;ska hqfojq cd;sl ldka;djls' wef.a fuu iqúfYaIS lem lsÍu yd oË;dj ksid tx.,ka;fha uy /csK M.B.E (Member of the British Empire) hk f.!rj kduh m%odkh lrk ,os' weh ,xldjg w;sYhska wdorh l, ;eke;a;shls' wef.a wka;su leu;s m;%fhka ;uka i;=j ;snQ jákd mqiA:ld,h ,xldfõ fmardfoksh úYaj úoHd,hg mß;Hd. l<dh'

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1879 j¾IfhaoS Y%Su;a tâúka wdfkda,aâ Light of Asia kñka nqoaO pß;h ldjHlg ke.=fõh' fuh nqÿ oyfï uQ<sl yrhka ms<sn|j wjOdkh fhduqfldg fYalaiamsh¾f.a .S;uh rpkd ffY,sfhka ,shjqkq fmd;ls' 1970 jkúg fuu .%ka:h tx.,ka;fha 60 jdrhlg jvd uqøkh ù we;s w;r weußldfõ fuh 80 jdrhlg;a jvd uqøkh ù we;' f,dalfha NdId .kkdjlg fuu .%ka:h mßj;_kh ù ;sîu fya;=fjka nqÿ oyu ngysrg me;sÍu;a hqfrdamh lrd .uka lsÍu;a isÿj ;sfí' miqj fuu lD;sh f;aud lrf.k bkaoshdfõ Ñ;%máhla ksu_dkh lrk ,os' Isidore de Lara fuh .S; kdglhla f,iska fõosld .; lf<ah' n¾kdâ fYdA mjd fuh krUd b;d Wiia ksu_dkhla f,i w.h lf<ah'

1918 oS weußldfõ le,sf*dakshdfõoS zfcdacshdkdZ fcda¾Ê fjda,ag¾ia úiska fõosld .; l, w;r th fkdlvjd osk 35 m%oY_kh úh' úúO ixksfõok l%u ;=,ska nqÿka jykafiaf.a Ou_h ms,sn|j Tjqkag oek .kakg ,eîu ksid nqÿ oyfï mKsjqvh Tjqkaf.a is;a ;=< ;ekam;a úh'

bkaoshdfõ fn!oaO Wreuhla jk nqoaO.hd mqoìu wdrËd lr.ekSu;a th fn!oaOhkag Wreu úh hq;= nj Y%S ,dxlslfhl= jQ wk.dßl Ou_md, ;=udg uq,skau m%ldY lf<a Y%Su;a tâúka wdfkda,aâ ;=udh' tx.,ka;fha uyrcqf.a K.C.I.E. khsÜ kduho Tyqg ysñúh' weußldfõ ydjâ úYaj úoHd,fha wdrdOkhla wkqj meñKs t;=ud nqÿ oyu ms<sn| foaYkhla mj;ajk ,os' Oj, ukaosrfhaoS Wkqiqï ms,s.ekSulg ,la jQ fudyq ckdêm;s yeßika úiska ms,s.kakd ,os' miqj Light of World keue;s lD;sh we;=¨j lD;s lsysmhla rpkd lf<ah' fï wdldrhg ngysrg meñKs nqÿ oyu ngysr ck;djf.ao fkduo we.hSulg ,laj ;sfí'

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A C K N O W L E D G E M E N T ( I N M I D D L E P A G E )

Message Here.

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Pittsburgh Buddhist Center Dedication Ceremony

Best wishesFrom

JABCO MAGGI ISUZU273 Benner pike, State College, PA 16801

866-699-2277

www.jabcomaggi.com

Pittsburgh Buddhist Center Dedication Ceremony

Best WishesFrom

JABCO MAGGI PONTIAC GMC TRUCKS9129 William Penn Highway, Huntingdon, PA 16652

814-643-3710

www.jabcomaggi.com

Pittsburgh Buddhist Center Dedication Ceremony

Best WishesFrom

TextCentric Inc.From Printed word to the Digital World

Colombo, Sri Lanka and Pittsburgh, PA

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