A special Buddhist religious programme was held at the White House on April 16, amid the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, to invoke blessings for global peace, harmony among nations, and the well-being of Donald Trump and the American people.
The event was attended by the Chief Judicial Sanghanayake of the United States, Most Venerable Katugasthota Uparatana Nayaka Thera, along with monks representing the Theravada, Mahayana, and Vajrayana traditions. He also serves as the Chief Incumbent of the Maryland International Buddhist Temple.
The programme was organised by Mrs. Paula, identified as President Trump’s pastor.
Addressing the gathering, Ven. Uparatana Nayaka Thera described the invitation extended by the US President to conduct blessings for world peace in accordance with Theravada Buddhist practices as a significant honour, not only for him as a Sri Lankan monk but also for Sri Lanka as a whole.
He further noted that the gesture reflected the trust, respect, and recognition shown by the US leadership towards Sri Lanka and Buddhism.
