It is an undeniable fact that the bhikkus who join Overseas Buddhist Services need a thorough knowledge in English language as much as they need to possess a knowledge in Buddha Dhamma.
Yet, the knowledge of English among the bhikkus is poor and there is a dire need in educating those bhikkus who wish to dedicate their life in overseas Buddhist Services, disseminating Buddha Dhamma.
An educational institute in the Southern town of Matara, A. H. Godavitane Education Development Foundation at Matara Rahula Vidyalaya has given an impetus to this noble task by starting an English language course for bhikkus, who wish to join overseas Buddhist Services.
At the inauguration ceremony of the course where many religious dignitaries and lay-persons congregated, professor Bellanvila Wimalarathana Thera who addressed the gathering made a few comments which deserve thought.
"Irrespective of the country where one stays or one's status or position, one should respect our National Anthem" he said.
Explaining the meaning of Buddhist Mission Services he said: "It does not in anyway mean converting a person to a religion or plan strategies compelling a person to that end, or to get profits in return."
"Our bhikkus are rich in languages such as Pali and Sanskrit, but in the past, their Pirivena education has not provided them with the knowledge in the language of English.
So, they have become alienated in a world which is developing fast. To overcome this situation this programme will be of immense benefit."
Chief Sangha Nayaka of Southern Province and Chief Incumbent of Matara Manthinda Pirivena, Ven. Getamanne Dhammakeerthi stated that Godavitane who gave leadership to Matara Rahula College, as Principal of the school had potential for many innovations.
The programme which started today, and the programmes to felicitate teachers, principals and health services based in Matara hospital earlier are excellent examples. The Maha Nayaka Thera said that he would render any assistance and guidance for noble services such as this without any hesitation.
Former Minister for the well-being of those employed in foreign countries and Member of Parliament in Matara district, and President of A. H. Godavitane Education Development Foundation Lakshman Yapa Abeywardena stated that the Education Development Foundation spends a good sum of money annually for various activities of the Foundation which is Mr. Godavitane's personal wealth and it is the national responsibility of all of us to provide maximum service to the country and people.
He expressed his gratitude to the active steering committee of the Foundation.
Former Presidential Secretary Kusumsiri Balapatabendi in his speech stated that our Buddhist Doctrine would reach the world at large providing an opportunity for world religions prosperity which has been identified as a timely need by the State and it is essential to lend a hand for activities of this sort.
The financial sponsor of the Foundation A. H. Godavitane said that this is one of the important religious requirements which he identified in foreign countries and launched this programme to fulfil this requirement and money for this programme is from him and the dedication of the bhikkus to achieve the aims of the programme is his only pleasure.
He further stated that arrangements had been made to start the course in Colombo district on the 27th of March, in Vidyodaya Pirivena.
Ven. Pandit Deniyaye Sirinanda, teacher of religion at Mahanama Maha Vidyalaya, Chief Incumbent of Kotikagoda Rajamaha Viharaya, Ven. Hakmana Dhammerathane thera, and Hon. Secretary of the Foundation. Mr. P. K. Hettiarachchi addressed the gathering at the inaugural session.
Mayor of Matara, Nimal de Silva, Secretary of Education, Southern Province, C. D. Vidanapathirane, President of Y.M.B.A. Matara, Dr. Kularatne, Advocate Mr. Chandrakumara. Superintendent of Health Dr. Ekanayake and a large gathering of bhikkus and laymen attended the inaugural session and alms were offered to 100 bhikkus with atapirikara.
