This evening, as every New Year, we will hold our Atthavisi Buddha ceremony, a traditional worship of 28 Buddhas. This year we will combine this with a memorial service for over 40,000 who perished in Sri Lanka as well as the 150,000 or more who died in all the countries affected by the tsunami. We anticipate attendance of about 200 at this service.

In response to the devastation of last Sunday, December 26, 2004, which touched many South and Southeast Asian nations in addition to our native Sri Lanka, the response has been overwhelming. The monks, members, and friends of Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara of Los Angeles mobilized efforts immediately, and have been fortunate to get some modest results.

Within a couple of days of the catastrophe, we have received over $20,000 in donations locally. In addition, we arranged with Americare USA of Stamford CT to deliver medical supplies immediately to Sri Lanka, and we continue to work to provide whatever help we can for short-term relief and for rebuilding. A resident monk left on December 30 with $2,000 in hand to distribute to displaced persons directly. Also, a San Diego-based company has pledged 95,000 pieces of clothing to be shipped to Sri Lanka.

We are encouraging people to help out as possible by sending monetary contributions. This is much more efficient than donating clothes or other physical items which will incur additional costs and involve transport difficulties. Spending the money inside Sri Lanka will also benefit the local economy. Details for donations are available on our website and at the temple.

Meanwhile, we are hopeful the memorial service will provide solace to all those who have suffered directly and indirectly.

Sincerely yours,

Venerable (Rev.) Walpola Piyananda

President & Abbot - Dharma Vijaya Buddhist Vihara
President - Sri Lankan Buddhist Sangha Council of the United States & Canad