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The white stupa was designed by Ajahn Vipassi and Sister Jotaka. It started out as no more than a cardboard cut-out, like a stage prop, and was never intended to last much beyond the opening ceremony in 1985. However, it was gradually extended as time went on; with cake tins being used to form the layered umbrella-spire as one of the more creative additions. Over the years it has become an object of much love and devotion, to the extent that a family of Sri Lankan supporters, as an act of their faith in Amaravati, have built a replica of the stupa in Sri Lanka - right down to reproducing the cake tins!
Another devotional ritual is tree planting; most commonly in memory of a deceased friend or relative of the community. If there are cremated remains these are placed in and around the site, and all those present can place a small amount of soil to secure the tree. It is then blessed by the Sangha's chanting and the sprinkling of holy water. |
