Mass Ordination for Late King

BANGKOK, Oct 22 (TNA) - Thai Buddhist temples ordain monks in mass ordination ceremonies devoted for late King Bhumibol Adulyadej who passed away last week. Wat Praram Kao Kanchanapisek temple, which was built by royal initiative, held a mass ordination for 89 men on Friday. After entering the monkhood, the newly-ordained will study Buddha’s teaching at the temple for seven days before leaving to stay at another temple in Chon Buri province for eight days. Wat Bowonnives Vihara temple, a Buddhist temple under the royal patronage, also organized the Buddhist ceremony for 60 selected men from all over the country. King Bhumibol Adulyadej when entered the monkhood about 60 years ago also studied Dharma and performed religious practices at this temple. Participants will be in monkhood for 15 days until November4, studying not only Dharma but also the King’s royal duties and works. One of the monks, Anan Disara, 63, said he abruptly left his hometown in the southern Songkhla province as soon as learning the news of the King’s death. He strongly wished to be ordained and dedicate it to the King. (TNA)