The Vietnam Buddhist Sangha (VBS) has decided to celebrate Buddha’s 2565th birthday with a gathering of less than 10 people, given the complex developments of COVID-19.
The VBS had earlier planned to hold a celebration at its headquarters in Hanoi on Wednesday morning, attended by Buddhist monks, nuns and followers, and agency representatives.
Although the celebrations have been scaled down, all rituals will be maintained and broadcast live on the An Vien TV channel and the social network Butta.
On the occasion of Vesak Day, President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Đỗ Văn Chiến sent a congratulatory letter to the Buddhist community, calling on Buddhist dignitaries and followers to rally resources to contribute to the fight against COVID-19 and the building of a powerful and wealthy Vietnam.
In Da Nang city in central Vietnam, all pagodas have halted large gatherings to prevent cororavirus.During a visit to local Buddhist shrines on Tuesday, Can Tho municipal leaders asked people to join efforts to combat COVID-19 and ensure socio-economic growth.
“People should fully adhere to COVID-19 prevention measures. During this year’s Vesak Day celebration, we’ll be focusing on praying for an early end to the pandemic and for peace and people’s safety," said Most Venerable Thích Thiện Toàn, Deputy Head of the municipal Buddhist Sangha.
