February 9, 2004

MORE THAN SERENDIPITY:

Sri Lanka: Buddhists on warpath: Lord Buddha may have stood for peace and benevolence, but his disciples in Sri Lanka are an angry lot. Buddhist monks in the country allege that Christian groups are busy weaning away Buddhists from their ancient religion, reports OneWorld. (Indo-Asian News Service, 31 Jan 2004)

The monks have taken to the streets and held noisy demonstrations, urging the authorities to intervene and "protect" Buddhism in a country where the religion, constitutionally, occupies a pride of place.

In the melee, some churches have faced the wrath of hardcore Buddhists. The National Bhikkhu Front (NBF), a grouping of Buddhist monks, rallied here last week urging President Chandrika Kumaratunga to clamp down on foreign NGOs allegedly promoting conversions to Christianity.

They also want a law by the end of February banning religious conversions. "We are prepared to take drastic steps if the government fails to keep the February-end deadline. It is bound to protect Buddhism as per the provisions of the constitution," NBF secretary Venerable Galewala Chandraloka Thera said.


Asia's future isn't Buddhist.

Posted by Orrin Judd at February 9, 2004 7:15 AM
Comments


Meanwhile, Buddhist monks across Asia are mimicking Christianity, creating canonical ancient texts, Sunday worship services, and a priestly class.

They're feeling the competitive heat.

Posted by: pj at February 9, 2004 8:01 AM

Just think what competition could do for Christianity in a heathen country like England.

Posted by: Twn at February 9, 2004 10:45 AM

And the muslims are killing them in Thailand.

They're not paying attention.

Posted by: Sandy P. at February 9, 2004 11:06 AM
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