Society

Panchen Lama visits NW China quake zone

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-05-14 20:31

YUSHU, Qinghai - The 11th Panchen Lama arrived in Gyegu town in the predominantly Tibetan region of Yushu, Qinghai Province, Friday to host prayer services for the victims of the 7.1-magnitude earthquake that killed at least 2,200 people on April 14.

Full Coverage: Qinghai Earthquake
Related readings: Quake clean-up carries on in Qinghai Give NGOs a chance to rebuild Qinghai The Week: To the Heroes of Qinghai Hundreds in HK say goodbye to Qinghai earthquake hero

The Panchen Lama visited the quake-damaged Gyegu Monastery and led hundreds of Tibetan monks in prayers in a tent -- the make-shift monastery hall -- to guide the souls of those who died through suffering to heaven.

He also prayed for the survivors to overcome the disaster, to rebuild their homes, and to live peaceful lives.

The Gyegu Monastery was severely damaged in the quake. Its buildings were rendered too dangerous to be habitable.

After the service in the tent, the 11th Panchen Lama walked out and chanted prayers while facing the site where the dead were cremated.

He also visited the ruins of Thrangu Monastery, which was totally destroyed, and consoled thousands of monks and believers who welcomed him there.