On September 8, 2024, Miss Somjai Taphaopong, Consul General in New York, presided as the lay chairperson over a Buddhist merit-making ceremony on the occasion of the 13th anniversary of the passing of Phrathep Kittisophon, the late Chief Abbot of Vajiradhammapadip Temple, New York, and former President of the Council of Thai Bhikkhus in the U.S.A. The ceremony was attended by Ven. Phra Videsratanaporn, Secretary-General of the Council of Thai Bhikkhus in the U.S.A., along with 29 other Buddhist monks from across the country and more than 50 Buddhist followers residing in the U.S. This remembrance honored the late Chief Abbot’s dedication to the Thai community as well as the establishment of the Temple, which has long served as a center for the dissemination of Buddhism and as a spiritual anchor for Thais in New York and vicinity.

 

     The Consulate General wishes to extend its admiration and support for the Temple’s significant role and contributions to the Thai community.