Drepung Monastery pray for peace and BJ Olympics

One of the three major monasteries in Lhasa has held a prayer ceremony. The monks were praying for world peace and a successful Beijing Olympics on Monday.

More than 400 monks in Drepung Monastery prayed during the ceremony. According to the director of the temple's management office, the aim of holding such a ceremony is to pray for world peace and bless the upcoming Beijing Olympics.

Awang Dongjue, Director of Management Office of Drepung Monastery said "The Buddhist services at our monastery have been affected to some extent by the unrest. A series of legal education classes conducted by the local government have helped greatly in resuming normal Buddhist activities."

80-year-old monk Dan Ba Long Duo said he was happy they were able to hold the ceremony in such a peaceful and harmonious environment. He said all the monks in the monastery are willing to pray for world peace, for a better life for the people, for a stronger country and for a successful Olympic Games in Beijing.

A few days ago, a similar prayer ceremony was also held in Sera Monastery. The Sera Monastery reopened ten days ago and has seen the return of worshipers and tourists alike.