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THE IV BUDDHIST - CHRISTIAN SYMPOSIUM
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Wat Phrathat Sri Chomthong Voravihara, 1 February 2010
In an afternoon with an intense sun the IV Buddhist-Christian Symposium initiated with the blessing of Phra Thammankalajarn (Ajahn Thong Sirimankalo) amidst 200 over participant from more then 10 countries around the world in a modern hall of the Wat Phrathat Sri Chomthong in Chiang Mai Province.
Ajahn Thong Sirimankalo wished all participants to “feel at home at the temple”. “Like the other previous symposia, we should reconcile teaching with life. I was very much enriched by the contact with the Focolare Movement during my visit to Italy, “ he added.” All that I received from ‘mother’ Chiara I treasure in my heart and mind.”
The logo of this symposium is the lotus flower with the Christian symbol of the cross it its middle, showing the unity in diversity of these two religions.
The ‘Focolare’ which means hearth, where people meet with the warmth of the family, overcome differences of race, nationalisms, religions bringing harmony among all – said Nichiko Niwano, Japanese, Presidente of the Rissho Kosei-Kai.
Echoing Niwano’s word, the Apostolic Nuncio to Thailand, HE Archbishop Salvatore Pennacchio has indicated the principal characteristics of the symposium: “Find a common ground, sharing in the same spirit of fraternity, experiences and challenges of the globalized world.
Phra Thep Koson, Abbot of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep togheter with innumerous other monks, nuns and lay Buddhists were present at the opening of the symposium giving their valuable support to the event. Local political authorities were also present.
Since 1946, Chiara Lubich has indicated the bases and scope of the dialogue among believers: “Set your gaze at the only Father of all; look at everyone as brothers and sisters of that same Father.”
The grand opening ended with a group photo in front of the venue hall. The warmth of new and old friendships, smiles, sharing and mutual benevolence are making way for a new communion and unity among all participants.
On that same evening, Maria Voce, known as Emmaus, the present President of the Focolare Movement arrived at the Chiang Mai airport.
Arrival of Emmaus more...>>
-- Day 2 -- -- Day 3 -- -- Day 4,5 -- -- Impressions -- -- download of documents --
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