Albury, NSW – In an unprecedented display of multicultural harmony, the local Buddhist temple, Wat Phra Dhammakaya Albury hosted a Vesak celebration that brought together the Thai, Sri Lankan and local Australian communities for a night filled with meditation, reflection, and joy.

Under the soft glow of candlelight and lanterns, the temple’s meditation room was filled to capacity, with an outdoor setting that was transformed into a sacred space. Participants engaged in a traditional walk, chanting ‘Iti Pi So…’ , reflecting on the qualities of the Buddha, the Dhamma, and the Sangha.

The evening’s proceedings commenced with Venerable Phra Satit, the abbot of the temple, and Ms. Pitsamorn from the Thai Community extending a warm welcome to all. This was followed by chants that paid homage to the Triple Gem and a 30-minute meditation session to commemorate the enlightenment of the Buddha.

A talk on the significance of Vesak provided deeper insight into the day’s importance, after which the lay community requested the Five Precepts, reaffirming their commitment to ethical conduct. The highlight of the night was the procession led by the monks, with participants walking and chanting, culminating in the placement of candles around the Buddha image—a symbol of unity and peace.

The event concluded with a group photo that captured the essence of the celebration, leaving participants with memories of a night that was not only a first for many but also a testament to the enduring spirit of community and shared aspirations for peace across cultures.

The temple’s backyard, adorned with lanterns, shone brightly, mirroring the event’s inner beauty and transforming the natural setting into a picturesque scene.

This Vesak celebration was a simple yet meaningful program that resonated with joy, togetherness, and the wisdom of enlightenment.