Wat Pa Lao Buddhadham
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About the Event
The Kathina ceremony begins with a joyful procession where community members carry the ceremonial robe and other offerings around the temple three times before entering. The main offering includes a specially designated robe along with "forest of gifts" trees decorated with monk requisites, monetary donations, and other necessities. During the formal ceremony, laypeople present these offerings to the entire Sangha rather than individual monks. A senior monk then leads the Sangha in a formal procedure to determine which monk will receive the principal Kathina robe based on need and seniority. This monk accepts the robe on behalf of the entire community. The ceremony includes special chanting, Dhamma talks explaining Kathina's significance, and the formal transfer of merit. The atmosphere combines reverence with celebration, as this is considered one of the most meritorious offerings laypeople can make. The ceremony often concludes with a festive community meal and cultural performances.
Requirements
- Arrive by 09:00 AM to join the ceremonial procession
- Dress in traditional Lao clothing if possible, or white/light-colored modest attire
- Participate in the procession by helping carry offerings around the temple
- Maintain a respectful yet joyful demeanor throughout the ceremony
- Remove shoes before entering the temple hall
- Women should not hand items directly to monks but place them on the receiving cloth
- Photography is permitted but should be unobtrusive during formal portions
- Families with children are encouraged to attend this significant merit-making opportunity
- Be prepared for the ceremony to last several hours
- Those who contributed to the offerings should be present for the formal presentation
- Listen attentively to the Dhamma talk explaining the significance of Kathina
This profound ceremony welcomes all community members to participate in one of Buddhism's most significant traditions. By supporting the monastic community through Kathina, participants not only make tremendous merit but also help ensure the continuation of Buddhist teachings and practice. The collective nature of the offering reinforces community bonds and the interdependent relationship between monks and laypeople that has sustained Buddhism for millennia.
History of the Event
Kathina (or Gathinna in Lao pronunciation) is one of Buddhism's most ancient and significant ceremonies, established by the Buddha himself over 2,500 years ago. The ceremony occurs only once a year during the month following the end of Buddhist Lent (Vassa). Kathina originated when the Buddha allowed his disciples to accept new robes from laypeople after completing the three-month Rains Retreat. Unlike regular alms-giving, Kathina is a formal Sangha (monastic community) ceremony where the entire monastic community collectively receives and designates offerings. This ceremony holds profound significance in Theravada Buddhism as it represents the special relationship between monks and laypeople, creates tremendous merit for participants, and ensures monks have proper requisites for their continued practice and study. The ceremony's name derives from the wooden frame (kathina) used to measure and cut robes in ancient times.