Source: The Buddhist Channel

http://www.buddhistchannel.tv/index.php?id=65,3567,0,0,1,0

Seattle, WA (USA) -- Sayadaw Gyi U Vimalaramsi Maha Thera, American Buddhist Monk, preferring to be known today as Venerable Bhante Vimalaramsi, received word Friday, December 15th that he was officially confirmed as the first Representative from the United States of America to the Buddhist Summit, World Buddhist Supreme Conference.

As part of his new position he will coordinate U.S. representation at the Summit Conference to be held in Kobe, Japan in the Spring of 2007. The goal of the summit conferences is to bring together the many traditions of Buddhism in the world, and unify them to produce a united position dedicated to working towards balance, harmony, and world peace for mankind. The Conferences meet every two years.

Venerable Bhante Vimalaramsi is beginning the process of unification during his U.S. tour which includes a three-week stop in Seattle in January of 2007. Venerable Bhante Vimalaramsi will be residing at the Atammayatarama Buddhist Monastery in Woodinville, WA during his visit.

He will be giving dhamma talks on Loving Kindness-Vipassana or Tranquil Wisdom meditation at Nalanda West and various venues throughout the Puget Sound area. For detailed information on the schedule, please go to www.dhammasukha.org/Seattle .

Venerable Bhante Vimalaramsi's position as a Representative for the World Buddhist Supreme Conference representing the United States of America is a hallmark for Buddhism in this country. Until now there has been no American monk sitting at such a conference to represent U.S.

Buddhist interests and discuss a common point future for various Buddhist traditions. There are representatives from over 50 different countries who attend the World Buddhist Supreme Conference. To be confirmed as a member, a monk representing their country has to be nominated by other members. For this country to be presented on the council, an American born monk with a sufficient sphere of influence was needed. Venerable Bhante Vimalaramsi is the first American born monk who gained the attention of world Buddhist leaders.