A group of Tibetan monks concluded their visit to the Islamorada’s Islander Resort with a mandala completion and destruction on Jan. 31.
“World peace is very important … religious harmony … all people have the responsibility for peace, one world,” said Knenrap Chaeden, head monk of Drepung Gomang Monastery’s Sacred Arts Tour.
After prayerful chanting with his five fellow monks, Chaeden shared the meaning of the mandala during the closing ceremony at the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center at the Islander. About 100 people witnessed the completion of the mandala, closing ceremonial chant and meditation. They also watched the monks bless and spread the sand into the ocean.
The monks gave traditional white kayaks (scarves) to recognize and thank the many local volunteers who helped make this almost week-long event possible. The monks concluded their visit in the Upper Keys with pet blessings during Winterfest at Coral Isles Church on Feb. 1 and a fire puja at Ragged Edge Resort on Feb. 2.
Photos by MELINDA VAN FLEET/Keys Weekly
