Bangkok: The Department of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Culture, organized the “Merit of Giving, Food of Faith” event at Wat Molilokyaram in Bangkok Yai District. This initiative aimed to promote the well-being of monks as part of the project focused on the power of the Buddhist dimension in the religious dimension. The event saw the participation of Phra Phromwachirodom, abbot of Wat Molilokyaram, serving as the chairman of the monks, and Mr. Chaiyaphon Sukiam, Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs, as the chairman of the laity. Executives, officials from the Department of Religious Affairs, media representatives, and honored guests also attended.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Chaiyapol Suk-iam highlighted the health challenges faced by monks, with many at risk of diseases. Data from the Sangha Hospital revealed that high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, flu, and gingivitis and periodontitis are the top illnesses affecting monks, with these conditions increasing each year. Somdej Phra Maha Thirachan, abbot of Wat Phra Chetuphon Wimonmangklararm, has been actively promoting health for monks, novices, and the public. The National Monk Health Charter was introduced to guide health promotion at all levels, positioning monks as leaders in community and social health. Collaborative efforts between the Department of Religious Affairs, Ministry of Culture, Ministry of Public Health, and the Medical Council have facilitated the involvement of volunteer doctors to enhance both physical and mental health for monks and novices. This initiative also honors Somdej Phra Sangkharat Sakol Maha Sanghaparinayok on his 80th birthday and encourages healthie
r lifestyles among monks.
The event included a lecture on healthy cooking by Chef Pong-anan Sirisangpraiwan and a cooking demonstration from the book ’96 Healthy Foods for Monks’ by the Director-General of the Department of Religious Affairs. The demonstration featured four healthy dishes, including Boiled Chicken with Young Tamarind Leaves, Larb Moo, Stir-fried Four Friends Vegetables, and Nam Phrik Ong. These dishes were offered to 500 monks and novices, emphasizing the importance of nutrition in promoting health.
The Director-General emphasized that the ‘Merit of Giving, Food of Faith’ event integrates volunteer work to foster health awareness among monks and novices. This initiative aims to encourage lifestyle changes and reduce behaviors that contribute to health risks, ultimately preventing diseases over the long term.