Dunedin Buddhists join in worldwide peace vigil

Dunedin Buddhists joined others around the world in a vigil for peace on Saturday, praying for those who have died tragically, are oppressed or starving.

People gathered at the Dhargyey Buddhist Centre from 7am to take part in the vigil, taking time to pray, meditate and reflect on world problems.

Geshe Nyima Dorjee said through an interpreter the Tibetan prime minister-in-exile had asked Tibetans to fast for 12 hours and pray for the thousands of Chinese who died in recent earthquakes, the many Tibetans who died during riots and "for greater peace all around."

The appeal was also to pacify different trouble spots in the world and to assist the thousands starving throughout the world.

It was believed religious activity on the 30th day of the month would have a greater impact on the purpose of the prayers, he said.