The World Fellowship of Buddhists
Second
Two-Year Plan
of the World Fellowship of Buddhists
(B.E.
2544-2545/2001-2002)
Secretariat
The
World Fellowship of Buddhists
Bangkok, THAILAND
The 21st General Conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) and inauguration of the World Buddhist University (WBU) as part of celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the WFB (B.E. 2493-2543/1950-2000) organized in Bangkok from 5-10 December, B.E. 2543 had been ended successfully with active participation from all concerned including the Royal Thai Government as a host country as well as all the Buddhists both local and abroad.
The visions and messages from various heads of States and Sanghas as well as the Dhamma show and Exhibition on 50 Years of the WFB presented at the Opening Ceremony at the Thailand Cultural Centre on 6 December, B.E. 2543 (2000) should be regarded as a hallmark of the WFB for the past and present which will be continuously integrated into an action plan and strategy for the future.
In this connection, the World Buddhist University established by the 20th General Conference of the WFB will play an important role among all the other Buddhist Universities, educational institutes and the WFB Regional Centres where Buddhism is taught and disseminated through the context of the globalization. The application of IT for the progress of Buddhism as referred by Most Venerable Shayasaro Bhikkhu who gave the lecture on “Buddhism and Globalization” at the 21st General Conference of the WFB should enhance our ideas and wisdom to re-think, re-design and re-apply the strategy for propagation of Buddhism in coming years.
The International Buddhist Year of Metta (Loving Kindness) B.E. 2544-2545 (2001-2002) approved by the 21st General Conference should be a good precedent of the appropriate means which should result in peace and co-existence among all the human beings in accordance with the instruction given by the Buddha to the first group of his disciples prior to their going forth for propagation of the Dhamma to different regions of the world which is quoted “Go ye now, and wander for the gain of the many, for the welfare of the many, out of compassion or the world”.
Finally the WFB Secretariat wishes to extend sincere thanks and appreciation to all concerned for their contributions to realize the WFB’s Aims and Objectives as pertaining to the Second Two-Year Plan B.E. 2544-2545 which has been endorsed by the WFB Executive Council at its 63rd session in Bhutan.
May the Grace of the Triple Gem bless you all.
Dr. Nantasarn Seesalab
Hon. Secretary-General
WFB Golden Jubilee Declaration 2000
Approval of the Two-Year Plan of the World Fellowship of Buddhists (B.E. 2544-2545/2001-2002)
Resolutions passed by 2nd Plenary Session of the 21st General Conference of the WFB.
Excerpt from Mr. Sunao Miyabara’s letter to the WFB President
Plan 1 International Buddhist Year of Metta Programme
Plan 2 Establishment of WFB Trust Fund
Plan 3 Network of the Networks for Publicity and Cooperation in the WFB Affairs
Plan 4 Propagation of the Buddha Dhamma for Peace in African Continent
Plan 5 Goodwill Mission to the WFB Regional Centres and Recommended Countries
Plan 6 Buddhist Forum and Spiritual Practice
Plan 7 Youth Development for Globalization Culture
Plan 8 Conceptual Framework for Development in the Context of Buddhism
Plan 9 Roles of Women in the Context of Buddhism
Plan 10 Promotion of Buddhist Pancasila Samadana for Peace and Happiness
Annex: A letter to All Chairpersons of the WFB Standing Committee.
WFB Golden Jubilee Declaration 2000
We, the participants of the 21st General Conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists, marking its Golden Jubilee, do hereby solemnly and ardently declare that we
1) express our veneration and gratitude to the Mahasangha of all participating countries for their spiritual guidance;
2) thanks in all sincerity and gratitude to His Majesty the King of Thailand for his patronage to the Fellowship and the gracious leadership in the promotion of Buddha Dhamma in the world;
3) offer our grateful thanks, with appreciation, to all previous and present Presidents, Office-bearers, Regional Centre Officials and all others whose devoted efforts have rendered the Fellowship an effective forum for Buddhists the world over;
4) rededicate ourselves on this auspicious occasion to continue to serve the cause of Buddha Dhamma by achieving the aims and objectives of the Fellowship;
5) welcome, and pledge our fullest support to the World Buddhist University whose nerve centre in Thailand was established to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the Fellowship;
6) note with admiration the steps taken by the United Nations to recognize the Buddhist holiday of Vesak and endorse the proposal to declare and implement the International Buddhist Year Programme, where each year will be dedicated to a theme, event, personage, etc.
7) agree to observe the year Buddha Day (Vesak) 2001 to Buddha Day (Vesak) 2002 as the International Year of Metta (loving kindness):
8) continue to make every effort through the Regional Centres to work towards world peace through the pursuit of preventing of alleviating environmental deterioration, poverty, armed conflict and violence.
9) express our sincerest thanks to His Excellency the Prime Minister, the Government and the People of Thailand for their generous hospitality and to all those who serviced the General Conference for their efficiency and effectiveness with which the sessions were conducted.
Approval of the Two-Year Plan of the World Fellowship of Buddhists
(B.E. 2544-2545/2001-2002) (Document Reference : EXCO 63/10)
The Secretary-General presented progress reports of activities of all Standing Committees scheduled in the Plan.
Decision
The EXCO took note of all the reports with the suggestion that Chairpersons of all Standing Committees be invited to participate in the EXCO Meeting in order to assist them in the implementation of their resolutions.
List of Names of The Members of the Executive Council of the WFB
(2544-2545/2001-2002)
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1. H.E. Phan Wannametthee President |
Chairman |
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2. Nantasarn Seesalab Hon-Secretary General |
Hon-Secretary |
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3.Mr Ambhorn Arunrangsi Hon-Treasurer |
Hon-Treasurer |
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4. Rev. Eiko Sakurai |
Member |
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5. Dr. Pal Khn Chon |
Member |
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6. Mr. Loke Darshan |
Member |
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7. Mr Stanely Willia (Passed away) |
Vacancy |
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8. Venerable Bhiksuni Chuch Men |
Member |
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9. Dr. Hsiang-Chou Yo |
Member |
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10. Mr. Sunao Miyabara |
Member |
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11. Venerable Bhante Chao-Chu |
Member |
The Executive Council shall exercise general supervision over the administration of the affairs of the World Fellowship of Buddhists. It shall be responsible to the General Council (Article 9.1 of WFB Constitution).
Vacancies among the additional members of the Executive Council shall be filled by the General Council. (Article 9.4 of WFB Constitution).
Resolutions Passed by 2nd Plenary Session of Council Conference of the WFB
The endorsement of the resolutions is based on the Reports of Standing Committee as follows:
Resolution 1
The International Buddhist Year of Metta (Loving Kindness) B.E. 2544-45 (2001-2)
The proposal to declare and implement the International Year of Metta (Loving Kindness) from B.E. 2544-2545 (2001-2002) for enhancement of the Vesak Day recognized by the United Nations has been cordially approved by 21st General Conference of the WFB. All the Regional Centres of the WFB are encouraged to observe the Year through working towards world peace by preventing or alleviating environmental deterioration, poverty, armed conflict and violence. (Find more detail from Plan 1)
Resolution 2
The WFB Trust Fund
The proposal of the Standing Committee on Finance to establish the WFB Trust Fund has been endorsed to meet the required financial cost of activities for realization of the WFB’s aims and objectives. (Find more detail from Plan 2)
Resolution 3
Network of the Networks for Publicity and Cooperation in the WFB Affairs
The Standing Committee on Publication, Publicity, Education, Culture and Art will establish the Network of existing Networks of the WFB Regional Centres to communicate more effectively with its members as well as those concerned through the five guidelines adopted by the Meeting. The proposal has been endorsed accordingly. (Find more detail from Plan 3)
Resolution 4
Propagation of the Buddha Dhamma for Peace in the African Continent
The Dhammaduta Committee resolves that the WFB should take positive steps for propagation of the Buddha Dhamma for peace in the African Continent with the Tanzania Regional Centre as the Nucleus.
The proposal is accepted accordingly. (Find more detail from Plan 4)
Resolution 5
Goodwill Mission to the WFB Regional Centres Recommended Countries
The Standing Committee on Humanitarian Services suggested that WFB Goodwill Missions to the WFB regional Centres and Recommended countries such as Vietnam etc. be assigned to those who are voluntarily prepared to do that on behalf of the WFB at their own expense. This includes an invitation to His Holiness the Dalai Lama to attend the next General Conference. (Find more detail from Plan 5)
The Conference takes note of the recommendations and assigned the WFB Secretariat to coordinate with those concerned for an appropriate action.
Resolution 6
Youth Development for Globalizational Culture
The Committee on Youth chaired by the President of the WFBY proposed that youth development for Globalization Culture is one of the high priorities as part of the approved Two-Year Plan of the WFBY. It is therefore strongly recommended to be included in an action plan of the Standing Committee on Youth for the next two years based on the following objectives. (Find more detail from Plan 7).
(1) To enhance Buddhist leadership and management skills with youth training Programmes and Human Resources list of Buddhist experts.
(2) To utilize available Regional Centres expertise for in-country or for export to the needy Regional Centres.
(3) To incorporate host Regional Centre’s Buddhist Culture and media during leadership training sessions.
The resolution has been endorsed accordingly.
Resolution 7
Conceptual Framework for Development in the Context of Buddhism
The Standing Committee on Socio-Economic Development proposed that the Research on the Conceptual Framework for Development in the Context of Buddhism be conducted to define concept of GDH and come out with tangible ways to measure it as a indicator of the Socio-Economic development of the countries (Find more detail from Plan 8)
The proposal has been adopted further recommended that the project should be a joint venture between the World Buddhist University and the Standing Committee on Socio-Economic Development.
Resolution 8
Roles of Women in the Context of Buddhism
The Standing Committee on Women proposed that the Committee will focus on providing the Buddha’s Teachings for all women, to help raise the awareness of women to be happy to be born women and to know how to a perfect Buddhist Woman based on Roles of Women in the Context of Buddhism. (Find more detail from Plan 9)
The Conference took note of the proposal and recommended that broadening in participation of women in Buddhist Activities should be encouraged by the Committee.
Resolution 9
Promotion of Buddhist Pancasila Samadana for Peace and Happiness
The Committee on Buddhist Pancasila Samadana proposed that Promotion of Buddhist Pancasila Samadana for Peace and Happiness be jointly undertaken among the WFB Regional Centres and the world leaders based on the following concepts:
(1) Let our mind and body become healthy and peaceful
(2) world become a peaceful world without conflicts and
(3) We revive in a better place (Pure Land) after death.
If we are honest in the present, we will face the perfect future. (Find more detail from Plan 10)
The proposal has been endorsed accordingly.
Excerpt from Mr. Sunao Miyabara’s Letter to the WFB President
Following is an excerpt from the letter of Mr. Sunao Miyabara dated April 9, 1999 addressed to H.E. Phan Wannamethee, President of the World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) concerning the Two Year Plan of the WFB (B.E. 2542-2543/1999-2000)
Dear President Phan,
Thank you for your letter of April 7, 1999 (WFB. C63/2542) and for the draft of “Two-Year Plan For the World Buddhists” proposed by the WFB Secretariat.
I wish to compliment you for initiating a plan to be used as guideline for implementation of proposals and resolutions endorsed by our last General Conference in Australia. The Secretariat has been credited for the proposal, but you are to be complimented for initiating such a plan in the new administration under your leadership. I personally think it is an excellent idea, and we as an organisation can accomplish much by using such a plan as guideline for implementation. In fact I think there is a need for us to go back a number of years and pick up some unfinished implementations from past General Conferences. Somehow, someway we should have all office bearers, charimen of standing committees, and regional centers should all be involved in actively implementing these proposals and resolutions.
Yours in the Dhamma,
Sunao Miyabara
WFB Vice president & EXCO Member
Plan 1 : International Buddhist Year of Metta Programme (B.E. 2544-2545/2001-2002)
1. Background
The World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) at its 1st session in B.E. 2493 (1950) has passed Resolution 2/2GC 1/2493 (1950) which is quoted that this Conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists, while recording its respectful appreciation of the gracious act of His Highness the Maharaja of Nepal in making the full-moon day of Vesak a Public Holiday in Nepal, earnestly requests the Heads of Governments of all countries in which Buddhists communities are to be found, either large or small, to take steps to make the full-moon day of the month of May declared as Buddha Day and observed as a Public Holiday, in honour of the Lord Buddha, who is universally acclaimed one of the greatest benefactors of humanity. This Resolution has been continuously modified and used as a base for a practice and celebration of the Vesak Day by subsequent General Conferences of the WFB through various resolutions including Res. 48/23/GC 3/2497 (1944), Res. 50/25/GC 3/2497 (1954), Res. 99/14/GC 6/2504 (1961), Res. t33/3/GC 9/2512 (1969), Res. 182/25/GC 11/2519 (1976), Res. 202/10/GC 12/2521 (1978) and the latest one adopted by the 21st General Conference of the WFB held in Bangkok, Thailand from 5-10 December B.E. 2543 (2000).
The Resolution of the WFB General Conference, all in all, recognizes the day of the fullmoon in the month of May each year as the most sacred to Buddhists, who commemorate, on that day, the birth of the Buddha, his attainment of enlightenment and his passing away. It also considers that the international recognition at the United Nations Headquarters and other United Nations offices will constitute acknowledgment of the contribution that Buddhism, one of the oldest religions in the world, has made, for over two and a half millennia, and continues to make to the spirituality of humanity.
2. Support by the World Fellowship of Buddhists
The World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) at 21st session in Bangkok, Thailand from 5-10 December, B.E. 2543/2000 has unanimously approved the Resolution to carry on activities on the Vesak Day which reads that the President of the WFB issue in January each year a special message to the Regional Centres as well as all Buddhist organisations of the World (a) appealing for the worldwide observance of Vesak on the relevant date and (b) declaring that the year Vesak 2001-Vesak 2002 be declared the INTERNATIONAL BUDDHIST YEAR OF METTA (Loving Kindness).
3. Principle of Action
Broadening participation in organizing various activities based on Buddhism to meet the aim of the Year: the Year of Metta by all the WFB and WFBY Regional Centres and the World Buddhists.
4. Target for the Year (B.E. 2544-2545)
4.1 Pancasila (Five Precepts of Buddhism) be observed as the way of life for all Buddhists with special reference to the first precept on nonviolence and noninjury to all living beings, and in doing so the following be given priority in the WFB International Year of Metta (Loving Kindness):
(1) Installing into day-to-day behaviour and relations the Buddhist ideals of loving kindness and compassion through charity, tolerance nonviolence and peaceful resolution of conflicts;
(2) Contributing to the protection of environment by assuring the purity and non-pollution of the four great Elements (earth, water, fire and wind)
(3) Continuing appeals to promote global disarmament with special reference to the abolition and non- utilization of Nuclear and biological weapons of destruction;
(4) Promoting harmony and cooperation among religions and peoples;
and
(5) Helping old peoples, orphans, the poor and disabled.
4.2 The intra-religious dialogues among the Buddhist Leaders be organized for promotion of fellowship and better understanding.
5. Action Programme.
5.1 The WFB and WFBY Regional Centres organize activities to observe the Pancasila;
5.2 The Study on Intra-religious Dialogue is conducted by the World Buddhist University to realize the aims of the Year.
5.3 Cultural visits and exchange are promoted in cooperation k of all the Regional Centres.
5.4 Periodicals and publications will assign priority to the theme of Metta so as to generate awareness not only among Buddhists but also all segments of the population.
5.5 Buddhist organizations at both local and international levels conduct activities as defined in No.4 (Target of the Year) to realize the Year of Metta.
5.6 After the end of the seminars/meetings and/or religious performances the diffusion of Metta (Loving Kindness) is recommended by reciting the following Pali and English versions:
Diffusion of Metta or Loving Kindness
Sabbe Satta May all sentient beings,
Avera hontu Be free from enmity,
Abyapajjha hontu Be free from ill will,
Anigha hontu Be free from suffering,
Sukhi attanam pariharantu Live a happy life.
6. Feedback
Reports and information on activities of Regional Centres and other Buddhist organizations may kindly be sent to the Secretary General of the World Fellowship of Buddhists for incorporation in the annual report on the International Year.
7. Celebration of the Vesak Day
In addition to planned activities to be implemented at both the WFB Headquarters and the WFB/WFBY Regional Centres during the International Buddhist Year of Metta, the Celebration of the Vesak Day at the WFB Headquarters in Bangkok and Buddha Monthon, Nakhon Pathom Province, Thailand will be scheduled as follows:
1) B.E. 2544 (2001), the observation of the Vesak Day will be held at the WFB Headquarters, Bangkok, Thailand on Monday 7 May B.E. 2544 (2001);
2) B.E. 2545 (2002) the observation of the Versak Day (Sunday 26 May B.E. 2545) will be held at Buddha Monthon in conjunction with the World Congress of Buddhist for Peace and Co-Existence to be jointly hosted by the Department of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Education, Royal Thai Governments from 26-28 May. B.E. 2545 (2002).
8. Responsible Bodies
8.1 Secretariat of the WFB serves as a coordinating body.
8.2 The WFB/WFBY Regional Centres act as implementing bodies with cooperation of the Buddhists and Buddhist Organizations in their respective localities.
8.3 Others to be assigned by the WFB Executive Council.
Plan 2 : Establishment of WFB Trust Fund
1. Background
The Meeting of the Standing Committee on Finance at the 21st General Conference of the WFB was held on December 5, B.E. 2543 (2000) at Tara Hotel, Bangkok; Thailand chaired by Rev. Eiko Sakurai, Japan Buddhist Federation; discussed about the financial problem of the WFB since its inception (50 years ago) and agreed to the conclusion as follows:
1. Budget for WFB’s future activities should be presented at every General Conference; ways and means of fund raising to meet the required financial cost of the activities should also be presented at time of budget presentation.
2. Regional Centres of WFB should pay up their annual dues to up to date by the 1st January of each year. Treasurer should send a reminder to Regional Centres who are in arrears.
3. WFB financial resources should be used effectively. For example, subsidies of the registration fees for the General Conferences should be limited only to delegates and observers of Regional Centres. Other partes should bear the full cost of attending the Conferences.
4. WFB should rely on its own resources to achieve the required fund raising target. Reliance on outside resources for fund raising should be as minimal as possible.
5. WFB audited financial report should be provided to the Regional Centres annually.
6. WFB Trust Fund should be established to manage WFB finance.
2. Statement of the Problem
The First Two Year Plan (B.E. 2542-2543/1999-2000) of the WFB had been established since the 20th General Conference of the WFB in Australia in late B.E. 2541/1998 but could not be implemented as planned due to lack of financial support from both the WFB Headquarters and the WFB Regional Centres.
3. Principle of Action
3.1 WFB Regional Centres should pay up their annual dues up to date or by the 1st January of each year. The WFB Treasurer should send a reminder to the Regional Centres who are in arrears.
3.2 WFB financial resources should be used effectively.
3.3 WFB Trust Fund should be established to manager the WFB finance in terms of Programme and Budget Concept and broadening participation in fund raising among all the WFB Regional Centres.
3.4 Each plan/project approved by either the WFB General Conference or EXCO Meeting should be subsidized by the WFB Headquarters based on discretion of the WFB Executive Council who exercises general supervision over the administration of the affairs of the World Fellowship of Buddhists.
3.5 Appropriate strategies for financial support to the Approved Plan/Programmes are should be urgently established by the EXCO if the aims and objectives of the WFB are to be realized accordingly.
4. Target for B.E. 2544-2545/2001-2002
4.1 Appropriate strategies for financial support to the Approved Plans/Programmes are established by EXCO for assurance of implementation of the plans.
4.2 WFB Trust Fund is established as recommended by the Standing Committee on Finance in cooperation of all the WFB Regional Centres and those concerned.
5. Action Programme
5.1 Comprehensive consultation among all the members of the Standing Committee and those who attended the Meeting of the Standing Committee on Decembers, B.E. 2543/2000 has to be organized by the Chairman of the Standing Committee through various means including facsimile, E-mail etc. for better understanding and more recommendation.
5.2 Project for establishment of the WFB Trust Fund is formulated by the Standing Committee on Finance in cooperation with the WFB Secretariat.
5.3 Fund raising from financial sources and others will be implemented as planned.
6. Resource Indications
Existing resources of the Office of the Standing Committee in Japan and all of its members in terms of 4 Ms. will be utilized for this purpose.
7. Responsible Bodies
7.1 The WFB Executive Council is responsible for strategy and policy for financial support to the approved plans/programmes.
7.2 The WFB Standing Committee on Finance is responsible for implementation of the Project for fund raising for establishment of the WFB Trust Fund.
7.3 The WFB Secretariat is responsible for coordination.
Plan 3 : Network of the Networks for Publicity and Cooperation in the WFB Affairs
1. Background
The Meeting of the Standing Committee in December B.E. 2543 (2000) chaired by Assoc. Prof. Pataraporn Sirikanchana (Ph.D.) and its members including those who are interested in this field agreed to establish the Network of the Networks for Publicity and Cooperation in the WFB Affairs based on publications, publicity, education, culture and art including the following ideas and suggestions as well as resolutions :
A. Ideas and suggestions from the meeting.
1. Publishing of an English translation of the complete Pali Tripitika on CD-ROM for free distribution around the world with support from the Venerable Hsin Ting, the Foguangshan Religious Affairs Committee, Taiwan.
2. Access to electronic communication technology for organisations with limited funds, such as communication Centres with free E-mail access
3. Training programs for the activities within the WBU for organisations such as how to open up an E-mail address.
4. Buddhist Art Exhibition in Sydney by the Australian-Buddhist Sangha Council.
5. Exhibition of Buddhist Art at the next Conference of the WFB.
6. Members made donations towards the Standing Committee funds.
B. Resolutions :
1. The Committee Members will enhance the existing Network to communicate effectively with the Members of the Standing Committee. To be effective and timely, members will set up E-mail addresses.
2. Website : www.buddhanet.net operated by the Buddha Education Association Inc. P.O. Box K1020 Haymarket Syndey NSW Australia 2000 will function as a clearing house for the Members of the Network. The Web master is Venerable Pannyavaro, Vice President of the Buddhist Federation of Australia. Buddhanet is at 14 Smith Street SURRY HILLS SYDNEY NSW 2010 AUST +612 92123071
Email : buddhanet@pobox.com
An alternative E-mail address is to Dr. Dao. M. LE PhD at : Lemaudao@msn.com which is the address of Trung Tam Phat Hox Quan, The Am-Avalokiteshvara Buddhist Study Center at 321 Lamont Road, Fort Pierce Florida 34947-USA Tel (561) 595 5915 Fax (561) 5955915
An alternative E-mail address is to Assoc. Prof Pataraporn at E-mail: pataraporn@bangkok.com which is at the WFB Headquarters 616 Benjasiri Park Soi Medhinivet Off Soi Sukhumvit 24 Bangkok 10110
3. Members will bring Dhamma objects such as Buddha and Bodhisattva images, paintings, tanka, etc to set up a programme of cultural exchange and exhibition for the next WFB Conference.
4. Each Regional Centre and each individual Member of this Standing Committee will contribute towards the establishment of an operational fund for the Standing Committee activities.
5. Each WFB Regional Centre will set up its own Internet Site and communicate with Venerable Pannyavaro, Dr. Dao M. Le or Dr. Pataraporn Sirikanchana for inclusion into the Buddhanet website.
2. Statement of the Problem:
Due to location of the WFB Regional Centres in different parts of the world, it is more difficult to contact each other effectively for exchanging information and implementation of the WFB Plans/Programmes approved by the WFB General Conference. The new strategy on electronic communication is therefore a must for all the WFB systems for more effective communication.
3. Principle of Action
Establishment of the Network of Networks for Publicity and Cooperation in the WFB Affairs to strengthen communication among Standing Committee members and WFB Regional Centres; to collect, process and disseminate information on Buddhist activities at regional and world levels; to encourage joint programmes and cooperation among all the WFB Regional Centres through electronic communication.
4. Target for 2544-2545 (2001-2002)
4.1 All the WFB Regional Centres and the WFB Standing Committee will be encouraged to establish their networks based on the traditional and electronic communication through cooperation with the Office of the Standing Committee on Publication, Publicity, Education, Culture and Art at the WFB Headquarter in Bangkok;
4.2 To formulate the Project for establishment of the Network of Networks for Publicity and Cooperation in the WFB Affairs and
4.3 To implement the Project as planned.
4.4 Others to be assigned by WFB Exco.
5. Action Programme
5.1 To study in depth the recommended and resolutions approved by the Meeting of the Standing Committee to be used as part of the Project.
5.2 To carry on various activities as integrated in the Project with cooperation of the Standing Committee Members, the WFB Regional Centres and those concerned in the field of electronic media.
5.3 Others to be assigned.
6. Resource Indications
It has been suggested that the sources of funds should be allocated partially from the general funds of the WFB and partially contributed by the Members of our Standing Committee for implementation of the Project.
7. Responsible Bodies
7.1 The WFB Executive Council is responsible for strategy and policy for financial support to the Project implementation.
7.2 The Standing Committee on Publication, Publicity, Education, Culture and Art is responsible for implementation.
7.3 The WFB Secretariat is responsible for coordination.
Plan 4 : Propagation of the Buddha Dhamma for Peace in African Continent
1. Background
The Meeting of the Standing Committee on Dhammaduta chaired by Mr. Nemsiri Matukumara at the 21st General Conference of the WFB was held at Tara Hotel, Bangkok on December 8, B.E. 2543 (2000); discussed and evaluated about success and failure of the last Two Year Plan B.E. 2542-2543 (1999-2000). It can be said that the Standing Committee have achieved some targets as planned but there are some to be re-evaluated for more effective performance.
Following are the approved resolutions by the Meeting of the Committee.
A. Resolutions of the Dhammaduta Committee
1. To create a Dhammaduta Website to assist communication for members. This website will facilitate:
Assisting Regional Centres in setting E-mail addresses and their own Websites
House all Dhammaduta members details including E-mail addresses to enable effective communication between members.
Information on Dhamma Books for free publication & distribution
Members of this sub-committee include: Ven. Dang Pham Jotika, Jocelyn Hughes & Graeme Lyall
2. To send a WFB team nominated & organized by the Dhammaduta Committee to meet the Bhikkhu Sangha & Buddhist leaders of Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos & Mongolia.
Members of the Vietnam team include: Ven. Dr. Karuna Dharma, Ven. Hsieh Lieh Chan, Ven. Lien Chan, Mrs Kanthie Perea, Mr. Nemsiri Mutukamara
Members of the Mongolia team: Ven. Dang Pham Jotika, Ven. Chon Tri Members of the Cambodia & Laos team should be also included.
3. To assist the WFB Tanzania Buddhist Centre in Dar-es-Salaam with both Dhamma Materials and other needed resources.
4. To maintain our support of the activities of the Lumbini Development Committee.
5. The Dhammaduta Committee shall have an advisory committee comprising of Bhikkhu Sangha & laypersons to advise the Committee on its activities of the Sangha and the Laity in their respective countries. This committee will consist of Ven. U. Pandita Mahathero, Ven. Choijamts, Ven. Sandtthito.
6. The Dhammaduta Committee will also nominate Regional Representatives as liaison officers between their countries and the Dhammaduta Committee in order to facilitate the smooth functioning and implementation of all relevant activities.
7. The Dhammaduta Committee appointed a media watch comprising Graeme Lyall, Ven. Santitthito and Ven. Lien Chan to monitor the media with the view to prevent any offensive material appearing in print and electronic media.
B. Resolution to the General Council of the WFB
Resolutions from the Dhammaduta Committee
1. To request the United Nations and UNESCO and the International Buddhist Organisations to take positive steps to prevent the commercialism of Buddhist Beliefs.
2. The Dhammaduta Committee resolves that the WFB should take positive steps for propagation of the Buddha Dhamma in the African Continent with the Tanzania Buddhist Centre as the Nucleus.
3. The Dhammaduta Committee requests the WFB to explore all avenues possible to get Buddhist Countries in eastern Europe for example Kalmykia, Tuva, Buryatia as members of the WFB. We came to learn that in Kalmykia the President of the new republic is a Buddhist who has declared Buddhism as the State Religion of Kalmykia.
4. The Dhammaduta Committee requests the WFB to take all possible steps to accomplish the resolutions concerning the sending of WFB teams to Vietnam and Mongolia in the Year 2001.
5. In order to practice all the resolutions and planned projects by the Standing Committees, the Dhammaduta Committee requests the WFB Headquarters to maintain an uninterrupted and regular communication between the Headquarters and Chairpersons of the respective Committees.
6. The Dhammaduta Committee requests the WFB to include an English translation of Dhammaduta in the title to assist clear understanding of the Committees function and Dhammaduta Dhamma Dissemination.
7. WFB School of Buddhism in Iriyavetiya, Kelaniya, Sri Lanka founded by the Ven. Hevanpola Ratanasara Nayaka Thera shall be supported to continue its education of training Dhammaduta Bhikkhus particularly from the Indian Ocean Region.
8. The Dhammaduta Committee requests the WFB to voice objective to any material offensive to the Buddhists appearing in the electronic and print media.
2. Statement of the Problem
Propagation of Buddha Dhamma in Africa will enhance the peaceful coexistence among African people who have the conflicts based on race, religion etc. which are the critical problems of the continent today.
3. Principle of Action
The WFB and its Regional Centres in other continents should take positive steps for propagation of the Buddha Dhamma in African Continent with the Tanzania Buddhist Centre as the Nucleus.
4. Target for B.E. 2544-2545 (2001-2002)
4.1 Surveys and studies on social and cultural development in Africa should be conducted by the World Buddhist University in cooperation with the Office of the Standing Committee in Sri Lanka so that finding of the studies can be applied for formulating the strategy and plan for the propagation.
4.2 The WFB Regional Centre in Tanzania should be assigned to find out ways and means to establish more Regional Centres as the WFB Networks in Africa.
4.3 Others to be assigned by the WFB Exco
5. Programme of Action
5.1 The World Buddhist University will make survey of the African needs in terms of social, cultural and religious participation.
5.2 The Network for propagation of Buddha Dhamma in Africa based in Tanzania will be established through participation and cooperation of the Standing Committee on Dhammaduta and the WFB Regional Centres in other parts of the World.
5.3 Others to be assigned.
6. Resource Indications
It has been suggested that the sources of fund should be allocated partially from the WFB general funds and/or WFB Trust Fund and partially contributed by the members of Standing Committee for propagation of Buddha Dhamma in Africa.
7. Responsible Bodies
7.1 The WFB Executive Council is responsible for strategy and moral support;
7.2 The Standing Committee on Dhammaduta is responsible for implementation based on an approved resolutions by its Meeting.
7.3 The WFB Secretariat is responsible for coordination.
Plan 5 : Goodwill Mission to the WFB Regional Centres and Recommended Countries
1. Background
The Meeting of the Standing Committee on Humanitarian Services (SCHS) at the 21st General Conference of the WFB was held at Tara Hotel, Bangkok chaired by Mr. Khoo Kwan (Penang Regional Centre). It took note that two resolutions endorsed by 20th General Conference in Australia still pending are the WFB Goodwill Mission to Vietnam and an invitation to His Holiness Dalai Lama to attend the WFB General Conference. They were discussed at length.
The Resolutions were then revised for more concrete actions as follows:
1. Goodwill Mission to Vietnam
To send a WFB Goodwill Mission to Vietnam to investigate the condition of Buddhists in that country, in accordance with the aims and objectives of the WFB, which include:
to secure unity, solidarity and brotherhood amongst Buddhists
to organise and carry on activities in the field of social, educational cultural and other humanitarian services.
The Mission will comprise of two Venerables, Ven. Achariya Bhikkhu Karuna Shastry of India and Ven. Suddhananda Mahathero of Bangladesh, who have agreed to travel to Vietnam at their own expense.
This Mission would be carried out within the next six months.
2. An Invitation to His Holiness The Dalai Lama to Attend the Next General Conference
Strongly request the WFB to invite His Holiness The Dalai Lama to attend the next General Conference in Malaysia as a representative of the Tibetan people and the be the Guest Speaker.
3. Religious Freedom in Tibet
Strongly request the WFB to call upon the Government of China to:
1. Give more religious freedom to the six million Buddhists in Tibet:
2. Free the young Panchen Lama from detention; and
3. Free the young Tibetan Nun, Ngawan Sangdrol, and other Sangha Members from prisons in Tibet.
4. Appeals to be Published in WFB Publications
Strongly request the WFB to publish in its publications any appeals it receives so that other WFB Regional Centres can directly help those Regional Centres requesting assistance.
Two appeals were discussed during the Meeting.
1. An appeal by the Venerable Achariya Bhikkhu Karuna Shastri of the International Brotherhood Mission to assist them in any way possible to look after nearly 60 poor children from Tawang, Arunachae Pradesh, India.
2. An appeal by the Venerable Suddhananda Mahathero of the Bangladesh Bouddha Kristi Prachar Sangha, to assist them in any way possible with the Programmes run by the Dhammarajika Buddhist Monastery, including the Dhammarajika Orphanage and Technical School.
2. Statement of the Problem
Religious freedom is critical problem in the world today although the matter is stipulated in the Constitution of each country. The concept and reality could not therefore be integrated and resulted in the negative responses from the World religious people including the World Buddhists.
3. Principle of Action
To expedite and explore the necessary procedure in cooperation with the host Buddhist organizations or countries for sending a goodwill mission to the target country to enhance the understanding and friendship through the Metta (Loving Kindness) as defined in the framework of the International Buddhist Year of Metta (B.E. 2544-2545/2001-2002) of the WFB.
4. Target for B.E. 2544-2545 (2001-2002)
4.1 To assign the World Buddhist University to conduct the study on the Intra-Religious Dialogue and Inter-Religious Cooperation for more effective mission.
4.2 To design activities which can be accepted by both the WFB Goodwill Mission and the host country where the Buddhists are facing’ some difficulties and need a goodwill mission.
4.3 To do whatever the Standing committee can to comply with the resolutions of the Meeting.
4.4 Others to be assigned by the WFB EXCO.
5. Action Programme
To carry on the resolutions endorsed by the Meeting in consultation with the EXCO Meeting.
6. Resource Indications
Existing resources of the Standing Committee on Humanitarian Services in cooperation with some WFB Regional Centres who willingly wish to participate in the Mission.
7. Responsible Bodies
7.1 The WFB Executive Council is responsible for consultation and moral support.
7.2 The WFB Standing Committee on Humanitarian Services is responsible for cooperation and implementation.
7.3 The WFB Secretariat is responsible for coordination.
Plan 6 : Buddhist Forum and Spiritual Practice*
1. Background
The Meeting of the Standing Committee on Unity and Solidarity held on November 1, B.E. 2541 (1998) discussed at length about the strategy for promotion of unity and solidarity among the World Buddhists.
The Meeting began with an emphasis on the importance of unity and solidarity. Buddhism is our life. Our life is Buddhism. Among many things discussed, we understood that there are different aspects of unity and solidarity: the unity and solidarity within oneself, in a family, among Buddhists, among human beings and between human beings and nature. Solidarity is to be achieved mainly through unity in Buddha’s spirit, and unity through understanding. We should do our best to promote awareness of the people. Living beings are originally one, not two. It is easy to speak of love and compassion, but difficult to put into practice. We can start from daily practice, for example. self-sacrifice or small things such as a smiling face, loving face or loving words. However, in applying the old Buddhist tradition, we should make necessary modifications to fit the mentality of modern people. We passed the resolution to encourage more Buddhist organisations to apply to join the WFB, to hold seminars, workshops and meditation sessions, and to enhance further communications among Regional Centres. Besides, we would like to have the host country of the forthcoming WFB General Conference consider the resolution put forward at the last Conference to invite His Holiness The Dalai Lama as the keynote speaker.
2. Statement of the Problem
At present, the resolution for strengthening unity and solidarity among the World Buddhists is not yet concrete and conducive for more effective action.
3. Principle of Action
To invite more Buddhist organisations to apply to join the WFB, to hold meditation sessions, workshops and seminars, and to encourage further communications between WFB Regional Centres.
4. Targets for B.E. 2544-2545 (2001-2002)
Buddhist Form, Spiritual Practice and workshops are organized by the WFB’s Headquarters, the WFB Regional Centres and members of the Standing Committee for promotion of understanding and friendship in the Dhamma among the Buddhists in respective regions and communities.
5. Action Programme
5.1 The Buddhist Forum is an open discussion group featuring a brief presentation on a selected topic of spiritual interest. All attendants are invited to participate in a free exchange of ideas and questions.
5.2 Meditation Instruction/Practice is the second part of the program. This session id lead by a meditation master; usually a Buddhist monk from the meditation Centres.
5.3 The seminars/workshops/Exhibitions on Particular subjects are organized regularly at the WFB Regional Centres.
6. Resource Indications
Existing resources of each Regional Centres can be applicable for promotion of the action programme with cooperation of local people and community.
7. Responsible Bodies
7.1 The WFB Executive Council is responsible for strategy and moral support.
7.2 The WFB Standing Committee on Unity and Solidarity is responsible for implementation.
7.3 The WFB Secretariat is responsible for coordination.
Plan 7 : Youth Development for Globalizations Culture
1. Background
The 12th General Conference of the World Fellowship of Buddhists Youth (WFBY) was held at the WFB Headquarters from December, 7-8 B.E. 2544 (2001) in conjunction with to 21st General Conference of the WFB from December 5-10 B.E. 2544 at the Thailand Cultural Centre and Tara Hotel respectively. The Resolutions endorsed by the WFBY General Conference to be used as guidelines for formulation of the Plan under responsibility of the Standing Committee on Youth are as follows
Proposed plan and resolution approved and adopted by the General Assembly.
Youth Development
1. Enhance Buddhist leadership and management skills with youth training Programmes and Human Resources list of Buddhist experts.
2. Utilize available Regional Center expertise for in-country of for export to needy RC’s.
3. Incorporate host RC Buddhist culture and media during leadership training sessions.
International Relations
1. Develop bilateral relationships/fellowship among RC’s through international youth forum.
2. Gather and exchange information between RC’s through scholars.
3. Monitor important issues affecting Buddhists in the world and recommend actions to be taken by the WFBY.
Buddhist Education and Knowledge
1. Set up Dhamma schools in target countries.
2. Research youth needs.
3. Distribute hotel books in target countries.
4. Build library based on Buddhist knowledge, information and literature.
5. Set up media monitoring centers.
Buddhist Culture and Art
1. Share traditions and culture among countries through youth exchange, photo exhibitions, and newsletters.
2. Support the Buddhist arts.
3. Promote publications on Buddhist culture in magazine and newsletters with cooperation in financing with RC’s.
Information and Documentation (IT)
1. Set up a WFBY e-community through projects like home pages, e-mail contact, lists of Dhamma book publications.
Finance (Fund Raising)
1. “Funny, Lucky and Prosperity” are the new watchworks. The spirit of giving was inspired by a vocal rendition by Lui Chin Li of Taiwan.
2. Pilgrimages’ donations from members, sales of souvenirs, sales of books to raise funds. During presentation Mrs. Wang She Liu donated USD 200.
3. Treasurer’s Workshop
4. Increase in Membership in RC’s cooperation with current members and Standing Committee members.
Administration
1. Urgent need for communication between Regional Centres can be improved; through invitations to conferences, e-mail and electronic WFBY directory.
2. Need for drive to increase WFBY membership and assistance to Regional Centres in need with guidelines and cooperation.
3. Need to insure WFBY 12th Conference resolutions implemented to successful completion by submission of progress reports and activity plans.
2. Statement of the Problem
One of the main purposes of the WFBY (Found in B.E. 2525/1977) is to promote and strengthen relations among the younger generations, observance and practice of the teachings of Lord Buddha to play the role models for the youth who are facing many problems such as drug abuse, crime, etc. To solve such problems, many strategies and plans have therefore been formulated by the WFBY and the Meeting of the Standing Committee on Youth ranging from youth development to international relations.
3. Principle of Action
To implement the resolutions adopted by the WFBY General Assembly based on Youth development which are given high priority.
4. Target for B.E. 2544-2545 (2001-2002)
4.1 The target and framework of action as indicated in each resolution will be undertaken accordingly.
4.2 Target as defined under the Youth Development will be the first priority for implementation.
5. Action Programme
The WFBY Secretariat will play a coordinating roles for implementing the programmes and/projects based on the Youth Development and other resolutions.
6. Resource Indications
It has been suggested that the sources of fund should be allocated partially from the WFB general fund partially contributed by the WFBY and the members of the Standing Committee on Youth
7. Responsible Bodies
7.1 The WFB Executive Council responsible for strategy and moral support;
7.2 The Standing Committee on Youth responsible for implementation of the Plan.
7.3 The WFB Secretariat responsible for coordination.
Plan 8 : Conceptual Framework for Development in the Context of Buddhism
1. Background
The Standing Committee on Socio-Economic Development was set up to develop the quality of life of the Buddhists:
The Meeting of the Standing Committee on Socio-Economic Development at the 21st General Conference of the WFB chaired by Mr. Francis Wanigasekera, President of Sri Lanka Regional Centre took note that guidelines for more effective implementation of the Plan are badly needed. The Action Plans for B.E. 2544-2545 (2001-2002) endorsed by the Chairman of the Standing Committee (Mr. Francis Wanigasekera) are as follows:
1. Foster Parent Scheme
The foster parent scheme (1999) to provide assistance to 40 children living in dire poverty in villages in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka prone to terrorist will be continued
To date, sponsors have been found for 21 children who have contributed Rs. 6,000 each. Action will be taken to find sponsors for the remaining children.
2. Provision of Samadhi Statue
Greenvale Buddhist Center, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia will be provided with a Samadhi Statue of Lord Buddha.
Mr. Francis Wanigasekere, J.P., Chairman, Socio-Economic Development Committee, will donate up to Sri Lanka Rs. 50,000 towards the cost of this statue.
This statue, which will be a replica of the Samadhi Statue now sitting in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka will be placed in front of the temple for the veneration of Buddhists in Melbourne, Australia.
3. Disaster Relief Fund
The Disaster Relief Fund already established in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Australia will be continued.
In accordance with Resolution 1 of the Report of the Standing Committee on Socio-Economic Development presented at WFB Sessions held on December 8,2000; at the Tara Hotel, the Publications Committee should take early action to ensure that each Regional Center informs the Publications Committee (with copy to Headquarters of the WFB) the current information on the requirements and availability of funds for urgent disaster relief so that the Publications Committee can pass the information to each Regional Center.
4. Emblem to Identify Buddhists
At present we are unable to distinguish Buddhists from non-Buddhists in a gathering of persons.
In order to identify the Buddhists we plan to introduce a Brooch for the women and a Lapel pin for the men incorporating the Dhamma Chakka. Initially 25,000 price peaces of Broochs and 25,000 peaces of lapel pins of quality would be made and distributed at cost among the Buddhists. This project would initially be implemented by the Sri Lanka Regional Center and the other regional centers will be expected to follow suit.
2. The Statement of the Problem
2.1 The appropriate mechanism for effective communication for urgent disaster relief should be established through cooperation of the Standing Committee on Publications, Publicity, Education, Culture and Art.
2.2 Conceptual Framework for Development in the context of Buddhism is still not concrete for effective development based on Buddhism
4. Target for B.E. 2544-2545 (2001-2002)
All the resolutions endorsed by the Meeting of the Standing Committee will be implemented through recommendation of the WFB EXCO.
5. Action Programme
Details of action plans on the following programmes will be modified:
5.1 Foster Parent scheme
5.2 Provision of Samadhi Statue
5.3 Disaster Relief Fund and operational Plan
5.4 Emblem to Identify Buddhists
5.5 Research on the Conceptual Framework for Development in the Context of Buddhism
6. Resource Indications
6.1 Donation to the Disaster Relief Fund through the Socio-Economic Development Committee.
6.2 Sources of Fund should be allocated partially by the WFB and partially by the Standing Committee for implementation of the Programme.
7. Responsible Bodies
7.1 The WFB Executive Council is responsible for strategy and moral support;
7.2 The WFB Standing Committee on Socio-Economic Development for implementation.
7.3 The WFB Secretariat for coordination.
Plan 9 : Roles of Women in the Context of Buddhism
Background
The Standing Committee on Women was formed on October 30, B.E. 2535 (1992) by 37 members at the 18th WFB General Conference in Taiwan. The main objectives of Committee are as follows:
1. To uplift the status of women in the society
2. To promote the roles of women in Buddhism
3. To strengthen women’s roles in WFB
4. To improve women’s roles to assist the WFB in achieving its objectives
The Meeting of the Standing Committee on Women was held on December 8, B.E. 2543 (2000) at Tara Hotel at the 21st WFB General Conference in Bangkok (5-10 December, B.E. 2543). After discussion at length about the First Two Year Plan of the WFB on Roles of Women in Buddhism, the Meeting approved the guidelines and policies for realization of the Second Two-Year Plan on Roles of Women in the Context of Buddhism as follows:
1. To increase visibility by using Internet access.
Dr. Panitpan reported that the Buddhist Discussion Centre (Upwey) Ltd. has offered to place all four newsletters and the Committee’s brochure on their Web Site free of charge. Anita Svensson explained that publishing the newsletter on the Website is cheaper than publishing paper copy and posting. The Buddhist Discussion Centre (Upwey) Ltd. will also assist editing the newsletter. Articles and photos to be placed in the newsletter can be sent to either the WFB headquarters or the Buddhist Discussion Centre (Upwey) Ltd. Via post, fax or email.
The final draft will be approved by the Dr. Panitpan who is our Publications Officer.
2. To increase Membership of our committee through communication.
Approved by acclamation that the criteria for becoming a Member of the Standing Committee on Women are:
1. To be a member of a WFB Regional Centre
2. To be a Buddhist practitioner
3. To nominate the Buddhist Discussion Centre (Upwey) Ltd. to publish the committee’s newsletter and brochure on their Web Sites.
4. To create networks using the internet and other forms of correspondence.
Each Regional Centre represented on the Committee will nominate a Liaison Officer who will ensure that the correspondence from their Regional Centre is maintained. The following new Liaison Officers were accepted by acclamation.
|
Manuela Steer |
Order of the Arya Maitreya Mandala |
Germany
|
|
Mrs. Diki Wangchuk |
Dharma Chakra Centre |
Sikkim, India |
|
Madame Lee |
WFB & WFBY Korean Regional Centre |
Korea |
A contact list was prepared and will be distributed to each Liaison Officer. It is the Liaison Officer’s duty to ensure that articles are sent for the newsletter in time for publication, report on activities at their Regional Centre etc.
5. The committee will focus on providing the Buddha’s Teachings on women for all women, to help develop awareness of women to be happy and to know how to be a perfect Buddhist woman.
The committee will research on the Buddhist texts to locate the Buddha’s teachings on Women. These teachings will be published in tour newsletters and booklet.
6. To implement a cultural exchange programme, e.g. with Sri Lanka, Nepal, Korea, Australia and so on.
2. Statement of the Problem
The status and role of women are still limited due to social, cultural and religious factors in the countries where the WFB Regional Centre are located.
3. Principle of Action
The activities and guidelines approved by the Meeting of the Standing Committee on Women on December 8, B.E. 2543 will be formulated in forms of action plans and implemented in cooperation with its members and the WFB Regional Centres.
4. Targets for B.E. 2544-2545 (2001-2002)
4.1 Status and roles of women in the context of Buddhism will be widely accepted as partnership based on the four pillars of Buddhism; Bhikkhu, Bhikkhuni, Upasok and Upasika.
4.2 Social, cultural and religious programmes/projects will be partially operated through electronic communications in cooperation with the Network for Publicity and Cooperation in WFB Affairs hosted by the Standing Committee on Publication, Publicity, Education, Culture and Art and partially implemented by members of the Committee and the WFB Regional Centres in their respective country.
5. Action Programme
5.1 To publish a quarterly newsletter of the Committee
5.2 To assist Regional Centres in the formation of partnership;
5.3 To create networks between women groups of the WFB Regional Centres;
5.4 To increase membership of the Regional Centres’ representatives;
5.5 To publish a booklet on ‘Women’s role in Buddhist Activities in the WFB Regional Centres in B.E. 2542-45/2001-2002.
5.6 To conduct joint research on the social services; women and children updated issues;
5.7 To increase cultural exchanges and awareness of the women’s status in other cultures through field trips and trips and student exchange programmes; for example, planned visits to Sri Lanka, Australia and Nepal in B.E. 2544/2001.
5.8 To work towards ensuring educational equality for all children, regardless of gender.
5.9 To develop other activities deemed appropriate in the next two years.
6. Resource Indications
The resources to be used for implementation of the action plans will be as follows:
6.1 The Fund of the Standing Committee on Women.
6.2 Partial financial support from the WFB Headquarters.
7. Responsible Bodies
7.1 The WFB Executive Council is responsible for strategy and moral support.
7.2 The WFB Standing Committee on Women for implementation.
7.3 The WFB Secretariat for coordination.
Plan 10 : Promotion of Buddhist Pancasila Samadana for Peace and Happiness
Background
The participants of the first International Pancasila Samadaniya Movement Conference held in Seoul, Korea from October, 28-30 B.E. 2536 (1993) issued the Declaration on the international Pancasila Samadaniya Movement to propagate globally the Five Precepts Movement in the 21st Century.
The World Fellowship of Buddhists at its 20th Session in Australia in B.E. 2541/1998 adopted the proposal to be entitled “Buddhist Pancasila Samadana” and assigned the Standing Committee on the Buddhist Pancasila Samadana to carry on activities and resolution recommended and approved by the Conference.
The Meeting of the Standing Committee on Buddhist Pancasila Samadana was held on December 8, B.E. 2543 (2000) at Tara Hotel, Bangkok, chaired by Dr. Dong Ki Par. It was participated by its 17 members and participants attending the 21st General Conference of the WFB at the same hotel from December, 5-10 B.E. 2543. Following is the outcome of the Meeting:
1. The first point of business of this Standing Committee Meeting was a reading of the 20th WFB Conference Resolution 5 on page 4 form the Two Plan for the World Fellowship of Buddhists of the WFB Secretariat.
This is as follows:
Resolution 5
Buddhist Panacasila Samadana
a) That eminent leaders of the WFB in different countries will meet once every year to discuss the Buddhist Panacasila Samadana in order to have a mutual understanding of Buddhist Pancasila Samadana and to design methods for the propagation of Buddhist Panacasila Samadana, and similarly to explore the possibility of meeting with other religious leaders to have an exchange of views on understanding of Buddhist Pancasila Samadana.
b) That an environment be encouraged for other religious to open their gates widely to an acceptance of this basic understanding of the Five Precepts as general social morality.
c) That at the next WFB conference, a one-day public event be held, and that one day of the year be set when the Regional Centres concurrently hold a worldwide Pancasila service.
2. The second point of business was an introduction and discussion of the letter to the WFB President Wannamethee of June 3, 1999 from International Pancasila Samadana Movement (IPM) Headquarters that was published in V. 2, No. 7 (July 1999) of the WFB Newsletter. This letter requested that WFB Headquarters ask all Regional Centres to provide information regarding the details of Pancasila acceptance ceremonies in their respective regions and traditions. With this gathered information the Pancasila Committee may be able to come up with common Pancasila acceptance ceremonial procedures and opinions that may be shared with all Members in a book. No response has been received by this committee and IPM Headquarters to date, however.
An important feature of the Newsletter article we discussed was the “positive” and “negative” interpretations of the precepts which we want to bring to the attention of all members in attendance at the 21st General Conference in Bangkok.
3. We urge all participants to closely examine the Bulletin of the WFB Korea Regional Centre International Pancasila Movement pages 5-6 The essay, “How to Prepare for the 21st Century as a Buddhist?”, contains concise information about the nature of the reasoning behind the IPM and the symbols the IPM utilises to explain the uniting of the mind and the body, how to perform Anapana Sati and the creation of happiness and the construction of world peace through the Pancasila Samadana Movement.
4. We had a fruitful and important session today. New people from around the world contributed ideas and enthusiasm for the IPM. The results of this morning’s meeting are as follows:
a) We are seriously considering a tentative proposal for a Pancasila Samadana seminar or mini-conference with leaders of other faiths in Hawaii in the latter part of 2001. WFB members are recommended to contact Mu-RyangSa Broken Ridge Buddhist Temple in Honolulu for details next year. Fax 808-732-6402 and IPM Headquarters.
b) A new member from India suggested a public campaign to promote the Pancasila around the world that will bring the ethical precepts to the awareness of all people through the use of posters, banners, TV and radio spots and Internet ads and announcements. Pancasila teachings can be placed at airport entrances, bus stops, in taxis, etc.
2. Statement of the Problem
The world today is facing many crises religiously, culturally, socially, economically, ecologically and so forth. It is therefore necessary to find out appropriate and applicable Buddha Dhamma to solve and minimize the crises.
3. Statement of the Problem
3.1 All the recommendations and resolutions endorsed by the Meeting will be modified and formulated in forms of the projects for further implementation.
3.2 How to prepare for the 21st Century as a Buddhist? Following guidelines and principles are recommended for participation and cooperation.
Mind and Body: Spirit and Flesh
1. Is the mind different from or same as the body?
2. We become unhappy when our body does not act in concert with our mind, and vice versa.
3. The method of uniting the mind and the body together lies in Anapana Sati (a method of breathing control) which was discovered by the Buddha 2,500 years ago.
4. Tae Kwon Do resulted from a Koreanization of Buddha’s enlightenment that the method of uniting the mind and the body together lies in Anapana Sati.
How to Perform Anapana Sati
1. The main idea of Anapana Sati is that “inhale short and exhale long while you count from 1 to 10 in mind”.
2. Make the breathing body act in concert with the counting mind.
3. After we are will versed in phase 2, discrimination between breathing and counting will disappear and only Anapana remains. From this moment, you have to stick to a theme, which you want to realize, such as “what is my self?” or “what is emptiness?”
4. Our body which remains alive through breathing is a foundation of becoming a Buddha and emphasizing happiness. Accordingly, we have to be cautions not offered against Buddha’s Pancasila (5 precepts).
5. The mind which is counting breathing must abide by Anapana to prevent greediness, anger, and stupidity from emerging in our mind.
6. After we are versed in phase. 1) to 5), the purified and bright realization can be achieved. Gotama Siddhartha became Buddha after he had practiced Ananpana for six years.
The World Fellowship of Buddhists and Pancasila Samadana Movement
1. Enhance the first precept (“Refrain from killing living beings.”) to the extent of practicing great mercy and love.
2. Enhance the second precept (“Refrain from taking what is not given.”) to the extent of giving charity without desiring any compensation.
3. Enhance the third precept (“Refrain from unchaste conduct”) to the extent of establishing sound sexual ethics and being model parents to our children.
4. Enhance the fourth precept (“Refrain from false speech”.) to the extent of speaking honest, lovely, and responsible words.
5. Enhance the fifth precept (“Refrain from distilled and fermented intoxicants which cause carelessness.”) to the extent of suppressing all kinds of harmful drugs.
Creation of Happiness and Construction of World Peace through Pancasila Samadana Movement.
1. Our mind and body become healthy and peaceful always.
2. Our world become a peaceful world without conflicts.
3. We revive in a better place (Pure Land) after death.
4. Target for B.E. 2544-2545 (2001-2002)
4.1 The movement for practicing the Buddhist Pancasila Samadana based on the Preparation for the 21st Century as a Buddhist Principle will be broaden through participation from its members and the WFB Regional Centres.
4.2 All the members of the Standing Committee of the Buddhist Pancasila Samadana and the members of the WFB Regional Centres and Office of the WFB should play the role models based on the Pancasila Samadana.
5. Action Programme
All the projects based on the Principle Action will be implemented accordingly.
6. Resource Indications
6.1 The Fund for the Buddhist Pnacasila Samadana is established for financial support to the approved projects.
6.2 Partial Financial support from the WFB Headquarters.
7. Responsible Bodies
7.1 The WFB Executive Council is responsible for the strategy and moral support;
7.2 The WFB Standing Committee for implementation and
7.3 The WFB Secretariat for coordination.
Annex: A Letter to All the Chairpersons of the WFB Standing Committee
Copy
WFB.C. 141/2544
20 July B.E. 2544 (2001)
To: All the Chairpersons of the WFB Standing Committee
Re: The Second Two Year Plan of the World Fellowship of Buddhists (B.E./5544/2545/2001-2002)
Dear Friend in the Dhamma,
Please be informed that the 63rd Meeting of the WFB Executive Council in Bhutan from 7-8 June , B.E. 2544 (2001) has approved the Second WFB Draft Two Year Plan submitted by the WFB Secretariat based on evaluation for the implementation of the First Two year plan (B.E. 2542-2543/2001-2002). In this connection, the Meeting suggested that all the Chairpersons of the WFB Standing Committee be invited to attend the next EXCO Meeting for sharing views on the implementation of the Plan.
We will therefore appreciate it very much, if you will kindly reconsider, revise and/or modify the Two Year Plan of your Standing Committee based on the following criteria:
1. If the Plan can be implemented within two years from B.E. 2544-2545? If not, what strategies can be applied for realization of the Plan with respect to the concept of the Book “Small is Beautiful” by E.F. Schaumacher.
2. The Plan should enhance the fellowship and cooperation among all the Buddhists for realization of the WFB aims and objectives by refraining from involving directly or indirectly in any political issue.
3. What is your recommendation on participation in the next Meeting of the Executive Council as suggested by the 63rd Meeting of the EXCO?
Enclosed herewith please find the Second Two Year Plan of your Standing Committee for re-consideration and endorsement before being published for distribution to all the WFB Regional Centres for cooperation and implementation.
I will appreciate it very much, if you will kindly accept the plan or send the revised one to the WFB Secretariat by 15 August, B.E. 2544 for further action.
Yours in the Dhamma
Dr. Nantasarn Seesalab
Hon. Secretary-General