In furthering their understanding of the different religions and their commitment to promotion of Unity of Faiths, members of the Sri Sathya Sai International Organisation of Australia & PNG’s NSW Region recently participated in a spiritually enriching visit to the Australian Buddhist Vihara in Katoomba to celebrate Wesak Day.
Their members, ten adults and four children from the SSE program, together with members of the local community were warmly received with a traditional breakfast and tea. The day’s proceedings began with a beautiful procession in which the members carried offerings, allowing all present to receive blessings in a shared act of devotion.
The resident priest graciously welcomed the gathering and spoke on the profound significance of Wesak Day, the sacred Buddhist festival that commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Lord Buddha. He highlighted the importance of the Five Precepts, ethical guidelines that promote a life of happiness and moral integrity.
Participants were also reminded of the Three Refuges—Buddha, Dhamma, and Sangha—which form the foundation of the Buddhist path. This was followed by serene chanting led by the priest and the Buddha Pooja, where offerings such as water, food, incense, and flowers were made in remembrance of the Buddha’s noble qualities.
An insightful discourse was then delivered by a Venerable from the Bilpin Monastery, who spoke on the nature of the human mind and the importance of service and self-discipline in daily life. The visit concluded with a sumptuous lunch for all present after the monks were presented with alms.
The event fostered mutual respect, spiritual learning, and interfaith unity and was appreciated by one and all.
