His Holiness Led Tibetan Prayers for Katrina Victims
Monday, 12 September 2005, 17:00
New York (Office of Tibet): His Holiness the Dalai Lama said he was “shocked and deeply saddened by the massive destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina”.
In a message to US President George Bush, His Holiness said the Tibetan people share “the immense suffering and the terrible losses that the victims of this calamity have had to endure and continue to do so”.
His Holiness also pledged a contribution of US$ 100,000 toward the US Administration’s relief efforts.
The following is the full text of His Holiness’ message:
September 6, 2005
His Excellency George W. Bush
President of the United States
The White House
Washington, DC
USA
Your Excellency,
I am shocked and deeply saddened by the massive destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina. The loss of many lives is particularly tragic. The catastrophe is almost unimaginable in its extent and destruction. On behalf of the Tibetan people, I would like to express to you our deep sense of solidarity with the many Americans who have suffered so much from this great natural calamity. We share the immense suffering and the terrible losses that the victims of this calamity have had to endure and continue to do so. As a symbolic gesture of our deep feelings we would like to contribute US$ 100,000 (one hundred thousand US dollars) to the efforts of your Administration in coordinating the massive aid to the affected people in the United States.
The transfer of above mentioned amount will be administered by The Office of
Tibet in New York to an appropriate relief agency.
As is our tradition, special prayers will be offered by large congregations of monks and nuns.
With prayers and good wishes,
Yours sincerely,
The Dalai Lama
www.tibet.net is the official website of the Central Tibetan Administration.