Buddhist-Jewish Inter-Cultural Discussion & Community Gathering on our shared culture of kindness and tolerance
13th September 2010

The Sri Lanka Mission to the United Nations in New York along with the Jewish Children’s Museum of Brooklyn organized a Buddhist-Jewish inter-cultural discussion and community gathering on our shared culture of kindness and tolerance.  The gathering was attended by members of the Sri Lankan Buddhist clergy, Jewish Rabbis and members of the two communities. 

Speakers included the Most Ven. Kurunegoda Piyatissa Maha Nayaka Thero of the New York Buddhist Vihara, Ven. Heenbunne Konndagna Thero, Chief Incumbent of the Staten Island Temple, Rabbi Simon Jacobson, Dean of the Meaningful Life Center, Rabbi Yerachmiel Benjaminson, Executive Director of the Jewish Children’s Museum, Mr. Mendel Spalter, Director/Outreach Development of the Jewish Children’s Museum, Dr. Wije Kottachchi and His Excellency Dr. Palitha Kohona, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations in New York.    Speakers touched upon the common themes of the two religions and the need for greater understanding and tolerance among all communities.  Before the beginning of the meeting all visitors were taken on a guided tour of the Museum which had been built with voluntary contributions exceeding 25 million Dollars.  All speakers agreed that this was a pioneering initiative and expressed the hope that the contacts that were established will be developed in the future. 

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Buddhist-Jewish Inter-Cultural Discussion & Community Gathering on our shared culture of kindness and tolerance
Address by Dr. Palitha T.B. Kohona, Permanent Representative of Sri Lanka to the United Nations
13th September 2010

Venerable Monks,
Distinguished Rabbis,
Ladies & Gentlemen,