The boy priest is assisted in his studies of the English language and religious subjects by his senior, the High Priest, the venerable Saddhatiesa.
He's a priest at fourteen: The young Buddhist life is devoted to meditation, study and his exercise is cot by scrubbing floors - The youngest priest in London has just joined his temple. English Buddhists will see him at the Vihara (temple in Knightbridge) when they visit if for devotions, study, or consultations with the senior priest. The boy is the Rev. K. Dhammaratana, and comes from Anuradhapura the ancient capital of Ceylon. He wears the traditional saffron robe, and his head is shaved like elders. As yet he speaks no English. This young priest, devout in motion and of voice, with seldom a smile appearing on his young face, joined the priesthood three years ago, whom he entered a monastery in his native Ceylon. Now in his first overseas posting, he will assist the High Priest and will continue his studies, his meditations and his prayers, as well as having the duty of looking after the library. As a priest he does not play games. To keep him physically fit, he scrubs floors and does other domestic chores. In Ceylon, and all over the Buddhist world, there are many youngsters who leave the world for a little such as this.
Photo measures 8 x 10.25 inches.
Photo is dated 2-2-1976.
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