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As many Buddhists prepare to observe Vesakh on 29 April - a day commemorating the life and legacy of Gautama Buddha - WCC general secretary Rev. Dr Olav Fykse Tveit extended his greetings to Buddhists across the world.
“As you reflect upon the life, teachings and death of Gautama Buddha on this auspicious occasion, may you be inspired by his vision of a world free from inequality, injustice and all forms of suffering,” Tveit wrote. “The WCC’s engagement with our Buddhist sisters and brothers in recent years has touched some of the most crucial issues of our times including corporate greed, climate change, just finance and gender justice.”
There is a lot that Christians and Buddhists can do together, Tveit added. “Our friendship and partnership can be a strong basis for a future with hope in a divided world," he wrote. “As you light your colourful lanterns in prayer and reflection, I wish and pray that you, your families and your communities will be blessed with health, happiness and harmony.”
Learn more about the work of the WCC in interreligious dialogue
WCC letter on the occasion of Vesakh 2018
The meaning of Vesakh explained by the Ven. Dhammanandha Bhikkuni
