(KPL) In the morning of July 20, 2024, corresponding to the 15^th day of the waxing moon of the 8^th month in the Buddhist calendar of 2567 BE, Buddhists nationwide gather at temples to offer alms and donations to monks and novices in celebrating the beginning of Buddhist Lent.

Buddhist Lent is a three-month period during the rainy season when Buddhist monks are required to stay at their monasteries to study Buddhist practices, avoid traveling and making harm to crops and small creatures.  

In Vientiane, the capital city, Buddhists enthusiastically took part in alms-giving ceremonies at temples, maintaining the fine customs passed down from ancient times. The events were conducted in an orderly, peaceful, and safe manner. Before the almsgiving, there were religious ceremonies, including listening to sermons and other activities. 

Additionally, at some temples, generous laypeople set up donation booths or food offering pavilions to offer sweet drinks, water, and various types of food for the attendees.

Every year, on the 15^th day of the waxing moon of the 8^th month, the day of entering the Buddhist Lent, this fine tradition of almsgiving has been practiced by all Buddhist people in Laos. The purpose is to dedicate merit to deceased ancestors, spirits, guardians, and departed friends.

On this year's Buddhist Lent, it is encouraged that those who consume alcohol use this opportunity to quit drinking beer, liquor, or any alcoholic beverages. This is for the sake of personal health, saving personal and family budgets, especially during these economically challenging times.

KPL