On Thursday, July 25th, Luang Por Pasanno awoke to many wishes of congratulations on his email. He was not quite sure what he was being congratulated for.

Luang Por quickly learned that he, along with Luang Por Sumedho, Ajahn Amaro, and Ajahn Jayasaro, were being invited by King Mahavajiralongkorn of Thailand to receive new Chao Khun titles. This is a great honor, as the titles were to be presented by the King, himself. Luang Por flew to Thailand the following morning.

On Sunday, July 28th, Luang Por Pasanno, Ajahn Amaro, and Ajahn Jayasaro (Luang Por Sumedho did not attend the ceremonies due to health reasons) all received their new Chao Khun titles from the King at Wat Phra Kaew, the Temple of the Emerald Buddha, in Bangkok.

The new titles are as follows:

Luang Por Sumedho’s new title is Tan Chao Khun Phra Thepnyanavidesa.

Luang Por Pasanno’s new title is Tan Chao Khun Phra Rajabodhividesa.

Ajahn Amaro’s new title is Tan Chao Khun Phra Rajabuddhivaraguna.

And Ajahn Jayasaro’s new title is Tan Chao Khun Phra Rajabajramanit.

Video of the Ceremony

While in Bangkok, the Ajahns also gathered at the Tawsi School for a reception and to offer Dhamma teachings.

Video of the Teachings

Additionally, the Ajahns had the opportunity to pay respects to the current Supreme Patriarch of Thailand, Somdet Phra Maha Muniwong, at Wat Ratchabopit in Bangkok.

You can see photos from all three events by clicking on the link below the photograph.

Photos of Ceremony