On Sunday, Feb. 1, a group of venerable Buddhist monks crossed an icy threshold into Richmond, Virginia. Their welcome was anything but cold, as “hundreds, if not thousands,” of residents and nearby visitors lined the streets to hand the monks flowers and pay respects during their Walk for Peace. The next day brought hundreds more to Richmond’s city center.
What is the Walk for Peace?
If you’re not familiar, the Walk for Peace is a 2,300-mile pilgrimage undertaken by the Venerable Monks of the Dhammacetiya to promote mindfulness, unity, and compassion.
The monks are now a mere week away from concluding their journey, which first began in Texas in October. As they head into the final stretch, Richmond serves as a milestone. Why?
Thousands lined up, block after block, to see the monks walk along Broad Street.
Photo by RICtoday
Reaching Day 100
Yesterday, Feb. 2, marked the group’s 100th day of travel. To commemorate the visit, the Walk for Peace invited the public to join the monks on a walk to City Hall for a peace gathering, which drew thousands, including Governor Abigail Spanberger and Mayor Danny Avula. Watch the livestream.
Where to next?
Take a look at the official overview map to see what’s next for the Walk for Peace, which is expected to conclude in Washington DC on Tuesday, Feb. 10, and Wednesday, Feb. 11.
