Farewell Celebration of Ajahn Peerapong

At 11:30am, normally IBC members such as professors, staff and students would gather for a well-prepared lunch in the main dining hall. However today’s gathering is kind of a special event. January 29, 2016, was one of the most memorable days that we have never expected; that was the farewell of Ajahn Peerapong who is diligent, competent and admirable in his work as well as his personality.

The farewell ceremony was commenced by Ven. Zhen Ti who passionately informed us that Ajahn Peerapong is going to leave his job to seek renunciation. The news astonished every member of IBC. Then, Ven. Zhen Ti invited Prof. Kapila to have words on this historic event.

To begin with, Prof. Kapila paid respect and greeted all Saṅgha members; and he honestly mentioned that “this farewell brings us both happiness and sadness.” It is happiness because the renunciation of Ajahn Peerapong is going to bear numerous benefits for sake of many. However, it is sadness because we lose a person who is friendly, loyal, serene, tolerant and highly responsible. He, moreover, brought everyone’s attention to Ajahn Peerapong’s journey from a hard-working intelligent student to a qualified staff and lecturer. He finally wished Ajahn Peerapong happiness and success in his life.

Next, Ven. Zhen Ti requested Ajahn Peerapong to express his feeling on his final working day. He began with a word of thanks to Ven. Zhen Ti and all the IBC family members who have made this momentous occasion possible. He explicitly articulated his deep feeling on his working experiences at IBC. He said that “IBC does not only give him education, salary and job, but also provide him with a good atmosphere, friendship and inspiration to pursuit his purpose of life. He expressed his sincere thanks to the Most Ven. Wei Wu who has been very compassionate to him and always encourages him to continue working confidently for the good of the many.

The farewell ended happily with the loud clapping hands and smiling faces. We would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude to Ajahn Peerapong for his great work for the good of the many. May the Triple Gem blessings always be with him!

Reported by: Chhen Sela (MA 2 Student)