‘Sangha Day’ celebrated with joy

‘Sangha Day’ celebrated with joy

Four venerable monks arriving in the hall for the auspicious ceremony.

Four venerable monks arriving in the hall for the auspicious ceremony.

‘Sangha Day’ at Nalanda Centre yesterday was a joyous occasion and celebrated with much gratitude and reverence for monks and nuns who played a vital role in the preservation of Buddha-Sāsanā.   Nalanda Founder Bro. Tan said in his talk, “Today we have the Buddha’s teachings because it has been passed down through generations of monks, nuns and lay people, and for that we are forever grateful.”

Bro. Tan explained that in very broad terms, ‘Sangha’ means a community of monks, nuns, and laity; but in the Vināya, it specifically refers to the community of properly-ordained monks and nuns.   The Buddha had allowed four monks to represent the whole monastic community in certain circumstances, and hence offerings to four monks may be deemed ‘Sanghikadāna’ – offerings made to the entire Sangha.

Nalandians making offerings to the Sangha.

Nalanda officers making offerings to the Sangha on behalf of the Society, Nalanda Institute, Dhamma School, Free School, Library and Youth Centre.

After the Dhamma talk, many devotees came forth to offer robes and requisites to the four venerables who were at Nalanda Centre for the ‘Sangha Day’ celebrations.  We thank the venerable monks for their presence and generous devotees for their generosity and active participation.  Sadhu anumodana.

Young and old came to support the monastic community on Sangha Day.

Young and old came to support the monastic community on ‘Sangha Day’.

A young family came together to make offerings to the monks.

A young family came together to make offerings to the monks.

The venerable monks gave their blessings at the conclusion of the ceremony.

The venerable monks gave their blessings at the conclusion of the ceremony.