The streets of LaGrange, Georgia, were alive last Saturday as hundreds gathered to meet a group of Buddhist monks embarking on a peace walk stretching from Texas to Washington, D.C. The visit marked a significant moment on their 120-day march, advocating for national healing, unity, and compassion. According to FOX 5 Atlanta, the monks were warmly welcomed by a large crowd when they paused for lunch at Western Heights Baptist Church, where they've experienced the largest turnout to date.
Their journey, which began in Fort Worth back in October, has now reached day 63. The stop in LaGrange was not just about sustenance but also connecting with the community. While there, they engaged with attendees and tied traditional good-luck strings around their wrists, as reported by FOX 5. "So today I'm just here supporting the monks and their walk for peace," D'Asha Davis told FOX 5, highlighting the inclusive appeal of the monks' message.
Hogansville was the next stop for the monks, who continue to document their progress daily on social media and provide information on their upcoming stops. CBS News Atlanta captured the sentiment of the walk, quoting Venerable Pannakara: "We are walking for peace, loving kindness, and compassion to all people." This message seems to resonate strongly as they are greeted by enthusiastic supporters throughout their pilgrimage. The monks' current schedule includes an overnight stay in Hogansville and a lunch stop at 108 Hines Road in Moreland yesterday, according to FOX 5.
While the monks' core message is one of peace and mindfulness, they have encountered a spectrum of viewpoints along their route. Some individuals have joined to express contrasting beliefs, such as Billy Ball, a former pastor, who shared with CBS News Atlanta that he believes peace comes through Christianity. Nevertheless, local law enforcement agencies have provided assistance to the group, indicating a celebration of respect and understanding within the communities they pass through. The monks are slated to reach Atlanta later in the week with a planned stop at the Georgia state capitol.
Interested parties can follow the monks' live location using their official map and obtain further details on their stops.
