05/06/2026
His Eminence Somdej Phra Phutthacharn, Chief Abbot of the Eastern Region, emphasized that the position of Buddhist missionary comes with responsibility for the Buddhist religion.
Yesterday (June 4, 2026), His Eminence Somdej Phra Phutthacharn, member of the Supreme Sangha Council and Chief Abbot of the Eastern Region, acting on behalf of His Holiness Somdej Phra Ariyavongsakhatayan, the Supreme Patriarch, presided over the closing ceremony and presented certificates to the 32nd class of overseas Buddhist missionaries and graduates of the 3rd class of the Buddhist Missionary Certificate program. He also presented awards and certificates to honorary Buddhist missionaries, distinguished Buddhist missionaries, and various types of lay Buddhist missionary awards. The event was attended by Mr. Nikorn Somklang, Minister of Social Development and Human Security; Mr. Praphan Tribubpha, Deputy Governor of Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province; executives from Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University; members of the clergy; senior monks; representatives from government agencies; Thai Buddhist missionary organizations abroad; and representatives from various nations. Over 400 people attended the ceremony at the 48th Anniversary Building, Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Wang Noi District, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province.
On this occasion, Phra Kru Palat Rattanaveerawat (Rangsarit Itthichintako), Advisor to the Provincial Chief Monk of Pathum Thani and Abbot of Wat Phra Dhammakaya, received a certificate as a patron of the Dhamma Missionary Training Project. He also led abbots of overseas branch temples and administrators of monastic affairs from various continents to receive certificates for Dhamma Missionaries, including the Merit Dhamma Missionary Award and other certificates.
His Holiness Somdej Phra Phutthacharn gave an address stating in part: “The position of Dhamma Missionary is not an adornment to glorify oneself, but a great duty and responsibility to Buddhism. Therefore, it requires patience and wisdom to overcome obstacles in order to proclaim the true Dhamma of the Lord Buddha as a refuge for the world.”
The Overseas Dhamma Missionary Training Project. The training program has been conducted continuously since 1995, and this year marks the 32nd cohort. 118 monks from across the country are participating, with 18 monks from Wat Phra Dhammakaya passing the selection process. The training takes place from March to May 2026 and consists of three parts: Vipassanā meditation, theoretical studies, and practical training. The instruction is conducted in two languages, Thai and English, by highly qualified Thai and international instructors. This marks a significant step for the Thai Sangha in developing well-rounded Buddhist missionaries for overseas missionary work. These monks will be prepared in terms of academic knowledge, practice, and cross-cultural communication, serving as a vital force in spreading Buddhism, promoting peace, and fostering Buddhist values throughout the global community in a sustainable manner.
