Kathina Ceremony

25^th Nov 2012. What a wonderful day, together with a est

attendance of 1200 people it was well worth the trip to East

Warburton to celebrate the opening of the Main temple in all its

glory together with the special presentation of the robes The

Kathina is held on any convenient date within one month of the

conclusion of the three month rains retreat season (Vassa) for

the monastic order. Attending the ceremony were officials from

the Royal Thai Embassy, representatives from Team Thailand,

Thai Community and Buddhists followers from all parts of

Victoria.

Kathina is a Ceremony which celebrates the mutual

appreciation between the lay Buddhist community and the

monastic Sangha (community of monks). The Sangha provides

teachings of the Dhamma (Buddha's teachings) freely every day.

Thus this Kathina celebration allows lay people to express

gratitude by making donations or offering material requisites for

the Sangha. It is also known as the "Robes Offering ceremony". It

is according to Buddhist tradition, that after the Rain's retreat,

robes are offered to monks that have spent the time in the rains

on their fixed abode. If you ever chance please visit this wonderful

Temple and It’s peaceful and beautiful surrounds.

The Ceremony consisted of
10.00 am     Opening Ceremony
10.30 am     Offering of Rice (Tak Bath)
11.00 am     Lunch for all participants
12.12 pm     Offering of the Royal Kathina robe
                    Chanting and Blessing
13.30 pm     Ceremony closed

Wat Buddha Bodhivana Monastery