"Oh, this time, the Sangha would be having our rice..."
We are happy to report on the delivery of a donation that was earmarked for monks and nuns, and has provided critical nourishment during this time of difficulty. We thank all donors who have stepped forward to help this noble effort!
Since the 2021 coup, Myanmar’s monks and nuns have faced unprecedented challenges. Their once serene monasteries have become sanctuaries besieged by the turmoil of political unrest. These spiritual havens, like the renowned monastery in Amarapura housing over 1,300 monastics, struggle to maintain their daily routines amidst scarcity and uncertainty. Monks returning from exams in Yangon and Bago, as well as others still engaged in their rigorous studies across the country, find their traditional support systems disrupted. The heartfelt words of a Chief Monk, emphasizing the significance of daily breakfast donations, underscore the critical role of community aid in sustaining these resilient monastics. This donation, he reminds, is not just a single act of charity but a lifeline, a daily reminder of solidarity amidst the storm.
When we went to visited this monastery in Amarapura, 127 candidate monks just arrived back in the monastery from their exams in Yangon and Bago. Other 50 candidate monks were still taking the exams of Majjhima Lankāra Samane-kyaw Association in Hlegu and other candidate monks were also taking the Sāsana Lankāra exams which was held by Yan Aung Myin Pariyatti Sāsana Lankāra Association in Nay Pyi Taw. One of the Five Nāyaka Sayadaws (Chief Monks) said that this donation did not mean only one-time donation and we all should note that this would truly be the breakfast offerings every day for all 1300 monks because the monastery’s kitchen would use this rice for their breakfast though there are regular lunch offerings by local donors almost every day and breakfast offerings just on a few days of the months. He reminded us to recall this donation to our memory every morning, “Oh. This time, the Sangha would be having our rice,” in delights.
To all the compassionate souls who have extended their hands in support, we offer our deepest gratitude. Your generous contributions are more than mere offerings; they are lifelines that sustain. As the Chief Monk so poignantly reminded us, every morning as the monks partake in their breakfast, your kindness is a tangible presence in their lives. This rice, this sustenance, is a daily testament to the enduring power of community and compassion. Your support is a beacon of hope and resilience, ensuring that even in these trying times, the light of the Sangha continues to shine brightly.