BANGKOK, Thailand – His Holiness Somdet Phra Ariyavongsagatayana, the Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, has presided over a merit-making ceremony at Wat Ratchabophit in tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, who passed away on October 24 at the age of 93.
The ceremony paid homage to Her Majesty’s lifelong compassion and generosity toward the Thai people. Revered as a virtuous queen, Queen Sirikit was deeply respected for her dedication to Buddhism and her continuous support for the Sangha throughout her life.
Her Majesty frequently visited Wat Ratchabophit to perform religious observances and provide royal patronage. She established the “Kitiyakara Religious Patronage Fund,” which continues to provide monks and novices with essential items and medical care, ensuring that her contributions to the Buddhist community endure.
During the ceremony, the Supreme Patriarch joined the Sangha and lay devotees in performing merit-making rituals to honor Her Majesty and express gratitude for her lifelong devotion to religion, culture, and the spiritual well-being of the Thai people.
His Holiness also dedicated merit to the 18th Supreme Patriarch and former abbot of Wat Ratchabophit. The monthly Sanghadana ceremony, held on the last Saturday of each month, has continued uninterrupted since his passing in 1988. (NNT)
