Bhante Joins IBAA Leaders at the White House Faith Office

On Thursday, 16 April 2026, the Most Venerable Katugastota Uparatana Nayaka Thera joined monastic and lay leaders of the International Buddhist Association of America for a meeting with representatives of the White House Faith Office in Washington, D.C.

The gathering took place at the Eisenhower Executive Office Building within the White House complex. IBAA leaders met with White House Faith Office official Jennifer Korn and Pastor Paula White-Cain, together with members of their teams.

Held during the period leading up to Vesak, the meeting provided an opportunity to strengthen understanding between Buddhist communities and public institutions and to affirm shared values of compassion, peace, religious harmony and service to society.

Bhante participated in his capacity as Chairman of the International Buddhist Association of America, continuing his longstanding work to foster friendship and cooperation among Buddhist traditions and with the wider interfaith community.

The occasion reflected the growing presence and contribution of Buddhist communities in the United States, while offering a meaningful opportunity to share the Buddha’s message of wisdom, non-violence and goodwill in a national setting.

May such dialogue continue to nurture mutual respect, understanding and peace for the benefit of all.

🙏 Sadhu! Sadhu!! Sadhu!!!