A Buddha holiday was celebrated last week in the temple in Mitchelstown, with some Thai people travelling from as far as Limerick city to celebrate it with the monks.

The head monk explained that the day allowed people to come to the temple and carry out meritorious actions, such as only saying good things and bringing gifts.

On the day, people brought offerings of food for the monks, before taking the blessed water and pouring it over a tree outside to symbolise peace, relaxation, growth and prosperity. This is also a way to remember loved ones who have passed away.

Weerawan Bachelet was one of the people who travelled from Limerick city and she said that being able to chant at the temple and bring food to the monks gives them 'a taste of home and tradition'.

She said that for people of any religion, the chanting and meditating are a way to relax and be calm.

The monk, Phramaha Rumpai Kaenkul told The Avondhu that since the article in this paper, a number of local people have come to see the temple and try out chanting and meditation. If anyone else would like to discover more, there are free meditation classes in the temple on Upper Cork Street every evening between 6pm and 8pm. To contact the temple, call 089-4641938 or 089-4997672.

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