Passing of the Oldest Monk at Wat Rai Khing Mourned by Nakhon Pathom Community

The Buddhist Channel, October 9, 2023

Nakhon Pathom, Thailand -- The Buddhist community of Nakhon Pathom is plunged into mourning following the peaceful passing of Pranee Intawaso, an esteemed royal ecclesiastical advisor. Pranee Intawaso, who served as the advisor to the head of the 14th region and as assistant abbot at Wat Rai Khing, a prestigious royal temple in Nakhon Pathom, breathed his last on October 7 at Sam Phran Hospital in Nakhon Pathom.

Pranee Intawaso, an icon of devotion to the monastic order, spent an impressive 71 years in service, making him the eldest monk at Wat Rai Khing. The temple authorities have solemnly announced that the royal bathing ceremony for the late monk, who lived to the age of 93, will be conducted at the Royal Pavilion in Wat Rai Khing, situated in Sam Phran District, Nakhon Pathom.

A poignant funeral procession was held yesterday. At noon, Pranee's remains were transferred from Sam Phran Hospital to the dignified setting of the Royal Pavilion. At 2 pm, a steady stream of monks, disciples, and devout Buddhists came to pay their last respects to the venerable monk.

Today, the royal bathing ceremony is set to take place. At 1 pm, monks, disciples, and faithful adherents will have the opportunity to offer their tributes at the Royal Pavilion. The distinguished ceremony, paying homage to Pranee Intawaso, will be officiated by the venerable Phutthajaray, the head of the eastern region and a member of the Mahatherasamakom committee, from Wat Traimitr Withayaram, at 5 pm.

Over the course of the next 15 nights, from today until Monday, October 23, a merit-making ceremony and Abhidhamma recitation will be observed every Buddhist Sabbath and Sunday. At 6:30 pm, the monks will reverently recite the Abhidhamma, followed by a Dhamma sermon, a single round, at 7 pm.

This period of reflection and spiritual commemoration allows the community to honor the profound legacy left by Pranee Intawaso, whose life was dedicated to the path of Buddhism and service to humanity.