Pattaya-area leaders began 30 days of prayers for the late His Majesty the King at non-stop mourning ceremonies at two area temples.
In Pattaya, Acting Mayor Chanapong Sriviset lit candles to mark the start of the apidhamm (funeral prayer) ceremony at Chaimongkol Temple Oct. 19.
Abbot Sanjariyapiwat organized 120 monks to chant for the late monarch in a ceremony that lasted nearly two hours, and was capped by 10 minutes of silent meditation.
Before leaving, the many participants – which included politicians, business owners and residents – made merit by donating robes and daily necessities for the monks and offering flowers and candles to a portrait of HM the King.
The Chaimongkol ceremony will run continuously for 30 days, with participating monks taking turns praying and chanting on a daily basis.
In Nongprue, a similar apidhamm ceremony ran through Oct. 25 at Nongprue Temple.
Sub-district Deputy Mayor Eneak Pattana-ngam opened the proceedings Oct. 19, again with attendees dressed in black paying their last respects, praying and meditating for His Majesty.
