Ven. Gunaratana was addressing a meeting to mark the opening of a new Buddhist place of worship at the new Karunagama Tsunami housing scheme in Galagoda built at a cost of Rs. 10 million under the sponsorship of the Singapore Sri Lankaramaya Dayaka Sabha.

The Centre is replete with a Budu Medura, Dharmasala and a Dana Sala.

Ven. Gunaratana thera said a large number of Sri Lankans died in the tsunami which displaced Thomands of others.

Singaporean Buddhist devotees who heard of the catastrophe volunteered to help the affected people to rebuild their lives.

The housing scheme at Galagoda with 100 housing units and the new religious centre were the result of their philanthropy. Ven. Gunaratana said man without religion would have animal traits. It was the responsibility of the clergy ‘including religious leaders to lead man on the correct path. Singapore Buddhists were looking forward to assist the children in the Galaboda scheme in the future. Ven. Rajakeeya Panditha Galagama Dhammaransi thera also spoke.

Sri Lankaramaya Dayaka Sabha President Sunil Jayantha, Vice President Bennet Manukularatne and Singapore Maha Karuna Sangamaya Secretary Thema Quick were also present.