Scholarships for local youth and a celebration of the abbot’s promotion, Ban Tha Champi, Chiang Mai

Phrakhru Withetkalyanatham, Dr., abbot of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep USA and president of the Chittasobhana Bhavana Foundation, returned to his home village of Ban Tha Champi, San Pa Tong, Chiang Mai, to give scholarships to local students and celebrate his royal promotion in monastic rank.

Phrakhru Withetkalyanatham, Dr. (Thitikorn Kalyanadhammo), abbot of Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep USA in Chino Hills, California, travelled home to Ban Tha Champi in Thung Satok, San Pa Tong District, Chiang Mai, to preside over a scholarship ceremony for young people and a celebration of his promotion in monastic rank.

The occasion marked His Majesty the King’s royal command elevating Phrakhru Withetkalyanatham to a rank equivalent to assistant abbot of a special-class royal temple, under his existing title. It was a joyful and auspicious day for his students and supporters, both at the wat in America and in his home village.

At the scholarship ceremony, the education fund of the Chittasobhana Bhavana Foundation gave scholarships totalling 88,880 baht to local students at several grade levels. Local government officials in white ceremonial uniform attended and handed the scholarships to each student, and gifts were also given to elderly villagers.

The foundation believes education is the foundation of a good life. These scholarships come from the generosity of supporters in Thailand and the United States, carrying opportunity from a wat overseas back to the abbot’s home village and encouraging young people to study and grow into good members of society.

Wat Phrathat Doi Suthep USA rejoices in the merit of everyone who gave to the education fund, and offers its congratulations to Phrakhru Withetkalyanatham on this auspicious occasion. To contribute to next year’s scholarships, please contact the wat.