Venerable Lunugamvehere Rewatha Thero
Venerable Lunugamwehere Rewatha Thero, affectionately known as Bhante Rewatha, was born on January 7, 1987, in the tranquil village of Lunugamvehera, nestled in Sri Lanka's Hambantota District. His journey into the monastic life began early, trading the simplicity of childhood in Weerawila's Athunadawala Primary School for the spiritual depth of Jayasumanaramaya in Ahangama, Galle. At just eight years old, on December 17, 1995, he donned the robes of a novice under the wise guidance of The Most Venerable Goda Uda Soratha Thero and Most Venerable Ahangama Rathansiri Thero.

   Bhante Rewatha’s thirst for knowledge led him through the halls of Sirisumana Pirivena in Midigama and Nalanda Dharmayathana Pirivena in Mount Lavinia. He diligently pursued his studies, culminating in his success in the GCE Ordinary Level in 2002 and the GCE Advanced Level in 2004 at Sudassi Pirivena, Matara. With a passion for Buddhist philosophy, he furthered his education at the prestigious University of Kelaniya, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts with Honors, complemented by studies in Psychology, Political Science, Social Science, and French. His academic journey didn't stop there; he went on to complete his Master's in Buddhist Studies at the Buddhist and Pali University of Sri Lanka

   On July 12, 2008, Ven. Rewatha took a significant step in his spiritual path, receiving his Higher Ordination at Sri Dharmayatanaya, Maharagama. This sacred rite was overseen by the venerable Most Ven. Rajakeeya Panditha Weligama Gnanaratana Mahanayake Thera, with Most Ven. Ahangama Rathanasiri Nayaka Thero serving as his esteemed tutor.

   In 2010, Ven. Rewatha embarked on a journey that would forever change his life and the lives of many others. He arrived at Toronto Mahavihara, where his commitment to spreading the Dhamma quickly became evident. After a brief return to Sri Lanka, his dedication did not go unnoticed. The Toronto Mahavihara Society, recognizing his profound contributions, extended an invitation for him to return as a resident monk, on a resolution it passed at its Annual General Meeting on January 24, 2016. Ven. Rewatha returned to the Toronto Mahavihara on January 21, 2017, where he has since served as a resident monk, Buddhist Chaplain, and Vice Principal of the Dhamma School.

   Beyond his monastic responsibilities, Ven. Rewatha’s compassion led him to the corridors of Warkworth Institution under Correctional Service Canada, where he worked as a site-based chaplain. Although his service there was curtailed due to academic commitments, his impact on the inmates remains indelible.

   His passion for knowledge extends beyond the Dhamma; he has edited numerous journals and magazines, always with an eye toward bridging the gap between ancient wisdom and modern thought.

   Now a permanent resident of Canada, Ven. Rewatha's thirst for knowledge is still growing. He is currently pursuing a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at Yorkville University, New Brunswick, and a Master of Education in Counseling Psychology at the University of Toronto's Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE). His role as a Teaching Assistant at New College, University of Toronto, further highlights his commitment to education.

   Ven. Rewatha’s life is a testament to the seamless integration of ancient Buddhist teachings with contemporary Western thought, particularly in the realm of mental health. His journey from the serene landscapes of Sri Lanka to the bustling streets of Toronto reflects his unwavering dedication to the Dhamma and his profound desire to heal and uplift the minds of those he encounters.