On 11th May 2014, a Wesak celebration and almsgiving took place at the Buddhist Temple in Berlin organized on behalf of the German Dharmaduta Society, Colombo, by Mr. Tissa Weeraratna, vice-president of the society, with the cooperation of Sri Lanka Embassy in Berlin.
Ven. Santharakkhita Thero of the Buddhist temple in Berlin and Ven Pallegama Vijitha Thera of the Sri Lanka Buddhist Pilgrims Rest took part in the ceremony. Members of the Sri Lankan community living in Berlin, the Ambassador of Sri Lanka for Germany, Members of the Embassy staff and Germans of Buddhism faith participated in the celebration.
Ven. Santharakkhita Thero, Ven Pallegama Vijitha Thera of the Sri Lanka Buddhist Pilgrims Rest, New Delhi, and Mr. Tissa Weeraratna elucidated the meaning of the Triple festival of Wesak commemorating the birth, enlightenment and Parinirvana of the Buddha in their Dharma Deshaneya.
Ambassador Sarath Kongahage stated in his brief address to the participants that Buddhism was a religion of humanity, kindness, and equality. It strived to promote peace and harmony among men and had the best records of being a truly peaceful religion in the human history. Due to this fact, Buddhism was growing apace in many countries and enticing many followers, he added.
The Embassy premises were also colorfully decorated with Buddhist flags, illuminations and lanterns for the Thrice Blessed Day. The Ambassador and members of the embassy staff made religious observances on the Wesak day at the 'Buddhu Madura' situated in the Embassy premises.