PREAMBLE


The congregation of Buddhist monks who participated in the
Staten Island Buddhist Vihara inauguration ceremonies. 
The Chief Priest of the  New York Buddhist Vihara
Ven Pandith Kurunegoda Piyatissa Nayake Thera is seated in the center.

The need for a Buddhist Vihara in Staten Island for the benefit of the large number of Sri Lankan and other Buddhist residents of the island and its vicinity was felt several years ago. However, until recently, the religious and spiritual needs of the Sri Lankan and other Buddhists were fulfilled by the New York Buddhist Vihara in Queens, New York. On account of the keen interest, enormous effort and the kind generosity of a large number of Buddhists, it was possible to inaugurate a Buddhist Vihara in Staten Island on July 11th, 1999. Already a large number of Buddhists and their families visit the temple on a regular basis. We are hopeful that many who were unable to travel to Queens regularly to participate in religious events and activities will be able to visit the Staten Island Buddhist Vihara more frequently. With the World Wide Web being a popular medium and internet access readily available, we are hopeful that both adults and children would be able to visit the Vihara Homepage to learn about the programs and current activities. If you need travel directions or any other information please feel free to contact the temple at (718) 556-2051.

May the Blessings of the Triple Gem be with you always !

VEN. BHANTE KONDANNA
Chief Administrator