On Saturday, 23 May 2026, the Australian Observance of the United Nations Day of Vesak was held at Minh Quang Monastery in Sydney, bringing together Buddhist communities from the Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana traditions to honour the birth, enlightenment, and passing of Gautama Buddha.

The Dhammakaya Temple in Albury played an important part in the national celebration. Our Abbot, Venerable Phra Satit, served as Secretary of the Organising Committee for the 2026 observance.

Venerable Phra Satit and a dedicated team of volunteers from the Albury temple also travelled to Sydney to help support the event alongside volunteers from host and visiting temples.

Held under the theme “The Buddhist Way of Building Peace and Harmony,” the program featured several meaningful activities, including:

• A traditional Alms Round and Lunch Offering to over 80 monks and nuns from various traditions.
• Official Vesak messages from UN Secretary-General António Guterres and Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, emphasizing compassion as an antidote to global turmoil.
• A Guided Meditation and Candle Lighting ceremony led by Venerable Phra Ronrawee, followed by the Bathing of the Baby Buddha ritual.

Distinguished guests included Dr. Patricia Jenkings, President of the UN Association of Australia NSW, along with Federal and State Members of Parliament and local community leaders.

The Organising Committee expressed heartfelt thanks to all volunteers whose support helped make the celebration peaceful, harmonious, and memorable.

We extend our sincere gratitude to every supporter, volunteer, and well-wisher whose kindness, generosity, and dedication helped bring this special day to life. Your contributions reflect the spirit of unity, compassion, and service at the heart of Vesak, and they are deeply appreciated by our temple community.