The Tibetan Community of Australia (NSW) Incorporated held a candlelight vigil for the victims of the natural disasters in China and Burma in Sydney earlier tonight, Sunday 1 June 2008.
The first evening of winter in Sydney brought rain and a chill, but participants came along undeterred. The vigil was attended by the Tibetan community, Tibetan monks, Chinese and Burmese attendees, and many supporters who wanted to share in prayers and thoughts for those who have died or who are suffering because of these disasters.
Tibetan Buddhist monks led the gathering in solemn and unified prayer.
The speaker for China was Chin Jin, Federation for a Democratic China, and Benya spoke on behalf of the Burmese community.
The Tibetan Community of NSW decided to organise this candlelight vigil to show solidarity with both Chinese and Burmese brothers and sisters, to let them know that many are with them at this very difficult period of time in their countries.
Donations collected at this event will be forwarded to both Burmese and Chinese communities.
Tibetan Buddhist belief is that every life is precious, so it is natural to want show our sympathy with our Chinese and Burmese brothers and sisters at this unspeakable time of grief and hardship. Our thoughts and prayers are with them to give them strength and hope to overcome this tragedy with unity and dignity.
