A Special Thanks to Veyyāvacca Donors

The following passage is from our team leader about a recent donation event that we carried out to support education initiatives to poor children, and those from conflict zones. We appreciate any contribution of any size to support our effort!

We relocated to another monastic school situated in a different village. Our team was graciously received by the Sayadaw. Rather than awaiting us at his own monastery, he came to the initial monastery to ensure we didn't lose our way. Sayadaw's monastery provides complimentary education for 365 students and free accommodation for 30 boarding children, including novices and laypersons.

One of our volunteers from another monastic school, had informed him about the group of international meditators who intended to make a donation. As a result, Sayadaw anticipated the presence of the international meditators alongside our team. Clearly, he and his volunteer instructors were delighted to extend their welcome to us. His team of teachers gathered around us, engaging in discussions for approximately thirty minutes. Subsequently, we discovered that it was a Sabbath Day, and their school remained closed on both Pre-Sabbath Day and Sabbath Day. During the Buddhist Monastic Vassa Period (which spans from July to mid-September), many monastic schools and government-run institutions, such as public schools, generally close on Pre-Sabbath Days and Sabbath Days. Some establishments also close on Sundays and Sabbath Days, while others adhere to weekend closures in alignment with public offices.

Sayadaw also conveyed heartfelt Anumodan expressions to the international donors and volunteers (whom he referred to as "Veyyāvacca Donors" in Pali, according to Buddhist tradition) for their dedicated service. He additionally conveyed a message to the international meditators, inviting them to visit his monastery once the country's accessibility is reinstated.