"This
is foremost for those with faith,
For
those who know the foremost Dhamma,
Having
faith in the Buddha as foremost,
Worthy
of offerings, unsurpassed.
Having
faith in the Dhamma as foremost,
The
peace of detachment, bliss;
Having
faith in the Sangha as foremost,
A
field of merit unsurpassed."
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Traditionally, the temple is the heart of the village in Sri Lanka. Every morning, at five, the village wakes from its slumber to the chanting from the loudspeakers of the temple. Throughout the day, people filter into the temple for various needs, spiritual and otherwise. Through various religious programmes, the Foundation imparts the Buddha's teachings and instill a deep sense of faith among the devotees, both young and old. Besides being an essential part of spiritual development, the daily religious services also bring the villagers together, fostering a sense of community among them. The temple's Sunday Dhamma School plays an important role in the upbringing of children in this traditional Buddhist area.
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Poya or Full Moon Days which fall on the 15th day of the month on the Lunar Calendar are considered holy days in the Buddhist tradition. On this day, more than a thousand devotees visit the temple – to observe sil (8 precepts), to listen to sermons, to meditate or simply to enjoy the atmosphere. The most significant days on the Buddhist calendar are Vesak and Poson Full-Moon. The first marks the enlightenment and pari-nibbana or passing away of the Lord Buddha. The second commemorates the landing of the first Buddhist missionary Arahant Venerable Mahinda from India and the official arrival of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. These festivals are celebrated with colourful lanterns, elaborately decorated displays, and street processions.
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