Retired Chonburi soldiers, police and teachers joined to cast a principal Buddha image for a temple is Si Saket to celebrate the New Year.
Retired Col. Adisak Sirikarn led the group of 400 residents, including retired lecturers from Chachoengsao University, to Thaewachai Foundry in Phanat Nikhom District Jan. 1 for the casting of the Phra Ming Molee Srisanpetch Buddha image.
The principal Buddha has a lap size of 49 centimeters and will be flanked by smaller Buddha images also cast that day in the style of Phra Mokala and Phra Salibuth.
Ten monks were invited to chant on the occasion to bring good luck. The lead priest also initiated prayers for the Brahman god Indra, King Naresuan the Great, Somdet Phra Suphan Kanlaya, King Phra Eakatodsarod, King Taksin the Great, Tao Suranari and King Chulalongkorn.
The participants paid their respects with incense, candles, flowers and fruits before making merit with the monks.
Once finished, the Buddha statues will be placed in the main hall of Ban Kan Yai in Si Saket, which is currently under construction but has no principal Buddha icon.
