On 23 October 2016, the Royal Thai Embassy in Ottawa organized a Buddhist merit-making ceremony in dedication to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej, the beloved King of Thailand, at Ratchadhamviriyaram 1 Temple. The ceremony was presided over by Ambassador Vijavat Isarabhakdi along with Mrs. Wannipa Isarabhakdi and was participated by the Royal Thai Embassy’s officials and staff as well as the Thai community in Ottawa and neighboring areas who came together as one to pay tribute to the past Monarch. 

             On this profoundly sorrowful occasion of His Majesty’s passing, Ambassador Vijavat delivered remarks to mourn this immeasurable loss on behalf of the Thai community in Canada. As part of the ceremony, a nine-minute moment of silence was observed as well as a singing of the Thai Royal Anthem. The religious ceremonies conducted during the event included a Buddhist chant in Pali, an offering of robes and Dana meal to the Sangha, and a Dhamma talk. 

              At the ceremony, a Condolence Book was available for the Thai community and Friends of Thailand to express their deepest sympathy to the benevolent King who reigned with righteousness for seven decades. The demonstrations of love and respect from the community have continued to pour in ever since the Book was opened for signing on 14 October 2016 at the Royal Thai Embassy.