About Us

Bhante Maithree Maha Thera serves as the Chief Monk and Abbot of Virginia Bouddha Vihar. He leads Dhamma talks, life ceremonies (birthdays, weddings, and funerals), the temple’s Dhamma School, and mindfulness meditation sessions for practitioners of all levels. Drawing from the Pali Canon, he connects timeless Buddhist wisdom with modern life, with a special dedication to youth Dhamma education and pastoral counseling.

Beyond the temple, he regularly visits hospital patients and supports drug rehabilitation programs at Inova Fairfax. He previously served at temples across the United States and Canada, including the Bhavana Society in West Virginia. He holds a Doctorate in Applied Psychology and formerly served as Head of the Department of Social Sciences and Practical Buddhist Studies at both the University of Peradeniya and the Bhiksu University of Sri Lanka.

"The greatest gift is the gift of the Dhamma." – The Buddha

Bhanthe Sumanapal serves as a Resident Monk at Virginia Bouddha Vihar, supporting the spiritual life of the temple community. He assists in daily ceremonies, Dhamma teachings, and the pastoral care of temple members, embodying the compassionate service of the Sangha.