United Nations Celebration At Buddhapadipa Temple

On Saturday 16^th October Buddhapadipa welcomed The Putney and Roehampton Branch of The United Nations association to our Temple.

Also we had the pleasure of the company of the deputy Mayor of Wandsworth, Jenny Nickels who was met and greeted by Barrister Philip Mobedji.
The programme began at 2pm with Buddhist chanting by Phrakru Samulom Pabhassaro
(PK.Lom) and Phramaha Sangthong Dhammacaro. The theme of the chanting was peace.

This was followed by Philip Mobadji giving a short speech based on the Buddha’s life.

He explained how the Buddha gained enlightenment and how his teachings can help us to obtain peace in our own lives. He explained about The Four Noble Truths and how we can see the significance of this message in the world at this time.

Next to speak was Rob Storey, chair of the association. Rob defined the role of The United Nations and told us of its early years and its founder members. He also read meaningful extracts from its handbook. The great aim is to achieve the friendship and understanding between peoples of different countries and seek their co-operation in the tasks of peace.

Last to speak was Andrew Brown, who is a long standing member of The Lay Buddhist Association. He spoke of our positive qualities that we can attain as human beings if we can relinquish our negative side. As The Buddha taught so we might live.

Phrakru Lom thanked all for coming and invited the guests to partake in refreshments.

This gave us the opportunity to meet and talk informally with each other.
Mr Peter Carpenter, Mr Rob Storey, Ms Catherine Pluygers, Miss Jo Stocks, Mrs Pauline Brueseke, Mr Dave Crookenden and Mrs Meena Storey all attended the celebration.

It was very enjoyable afternoon and we look forward to meeting our new friends again in the future.