Bhikkhu Seelananda
Bhikkhu Talgaswewe Seelananda is the Abbot Monk in Residence at the Samatha Vipassana Meditation Centre in Edmonton. He will serve as the spiritual leader.
Bhikkhu Seelananda was ordained at the age of 11 and after completing his monastic training, received higher ordination in 1984 as a Theravada monk in Sri Lanka. He has successfully completed his university undergraduate – B.A. (Major - Buddhist Philosophy) and post graduate degrees – M.A. and M.Phil., in Buddhist Studies. He has also undertaken further training in Mass Communication, Conflict Resolution, Human Development, as well as courses in Japanese Language and Bible Studies.
Bhikkhu Seelananda is fluent in English,Pali and Sanskrit, which together with his excellent monastic roots is recognized as a dedicated monk skilled in the teaching of Buddhism and meditation to a wide variety of audiences ranging from novices to experienced practitioners. He has served as a meditation teacher both in Sri Lanka as well as in N. America. A sample of his writings are posted on this website under “Readings in Buddhism.” In his glowing recommendation letter, Venerable Kurunegoda Piyatissa Nayake Maha Thero of the New York Buddhist Foundation states, “ He is talented and has the skill to make friends quickly because of his friendly attitude and loving kindness. He bears a very calm and peaceful pure character.”