Leeds Buddhist Vihara

The vibrant and diverse community of Leeds and Yorkshire County, home to a significant population of Sri Lankan Buddhists, had long felt the absence of a dedicated place of worship. This longing for a spiritual sanctuary, a central point for community cohesion and religious practice, persisted for many years.

In 2017, this deeply felt need was fulfilled with the auspicious inauguration of the Leeds Buddhist Vihara. This achievement was made possible through the visionary leadership of the Most Venerable Pidiwille piyatissa Nayaka Maha Thero, Most venerable Galpottayaye Pemananda Thero and the unwavering support of the Sri Lankan Buddhist community.

What began as a small gathering of devoted individuals has blossomed into a leading centre for the cultivation of Buddhist religious and Sri Lankan cultural heritage.

The Leeds Buddhist Vihara Trust, now a registered charity in England, is meticulously governed by a dedicated board of trustees, ensuring its sustainable growth and continued service to the community. The esteemed members of the trust board are:

• Most Venerable Pidiwille Piyatissa Nayaka Maha Thero (Chair)

• Most Venerable Galpottayaye Pemananda Thero (Head of operations)

• Mr. Shalindra Panditarathne (Secretary)

• Mr. Chanaka Mudalige (Treasurer)

• Dr. Chaminda Weerasekara (Operational Co-ordinator)

In 2013, under the esteemed guidance of Most Venerable Pidiwille Piyatissa Nayaka Maha Thero and Most Venerable Galpottayaye Pemananda Thero, and through the dedicated efforts of parents across Leeds and Yorkshire County, Leeds Dhamma School was established.

This initiative arose from a recognised need within the Leeds Sri Lankan community to provide a structured and accessible platform for children and youth to cultivate a deeper understanding of the Buddha’s teachings.

Driven by the shared vision of Maha Sangha, parents and community members, Leeds Dhamma School has evolved into a centre of excellence, dedicated to providing children and young people with a comprehensive understanding of the Buddha Dhamma and ethical values.

The Dhamma school’s mission extends beyond traditional academic boundaries, aiming to cultivate individuals who embody ethical awareness, community responsibility, mindfulness, and a deep appreciation for human virtues. This holistic approach seeks to equip students with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of modern life with compassion and wisdom.

Currently, over fifty students benefit from the school’s enriching curriculum, delivered by a team of dedicated volunteer teachers. Through engaging lessons, interactive activities, and traditional practices, these educators impart invaluable knowledge and foster a love for Dhamma. The impact of Leeds Dhamma School resonates far beyond its classroom walls, contributing significantly to the creation of a prosperous and ethically conscious society.

Guided by the overarching theme of “creating a generation perfect in wisdom and virtue” the Dhamma school takes immense pride in the achievements of its alumni. Graduates, having received a strong foundation in Dhamma education, have gone on to lead successful spiritual lives and excel in diverse professions, including medical engineering and other high-level fields, both in England and across the globe. Their accomplishments serve as a powerful testament to the transformative power of the school’s teachings.

In a world often preoccupied with material progress, Leeds Dhamma School stands as a centre of spiritual development, emphasising the importance of inner growth and ethical conduct. Recognising the intrinsic link between physical and spiritual well-being, the institute underscores the responsibility of every individual to nurture both aspects of their being.

By providing children with the tools and knowledge necessary to achieve this balance, Leeds Dhamma School plays a vital role in shaping a generation that is both intellectually and spiritually enriched, contributing to a more compassionate and harmonious society.

A shining example of community dedication, Leeds Dhamma School cultivates a legacy of wisdom and virtue, proving that spiritual education can profoundly shape the character of generations to come.

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