Crown Prince couple visited Buddhist temple at Jessheim

Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit at Jessheim.Photo: Terje Pedersen / NTB scanpix

Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit met monks and participated in a tea ceremony with meditation when they visited a Buddhist temple at Jessheim.

 

The Crown Prince couple visited, this morning, The Vietnamese Buddhist Society and Lotus Temple in Jessheim, Romerike.

The Vietnamese Buddhist community has more than 6,000 members throughout the country. The Lotus Temple at Jessheim was established in 2009. Six monks live in the temple, according to the community’s websites. The temple has an idyllic garden with statues and a lake.

Before the visit, it was announced that everyone had to take off the shoes before entering the temple, and that message also included the Crown Prince. Crown Princess Mette-Marit walked barefoot, while Crown Prince Haakon wore his socks.

In the temple, the couple were greeted by children who handed them flowers. They were given a tour, were received a welcome tea ceremony with meditation and saw a flower sacrifice ceremony and dance. The Crown Prince couple also received a statue as a gift.

Before the temple visit, Crown Princess started the day by visiting the Orbit Arena Attendance and Work Inclusion Company, also in Jessheim. There the royals were included in the packing of fruit baskets.

 

© NTB scanpix / #Norway Today