In remembrance of the many lives lost in the 2004 South Asian tsunami, the public is invited to gather at a candlelight vigil with representatives of Sri Lankan organizations on Dec. 26, 6:30 p.m. at the Santa Monica Pier. Prayers will be offered by several religious denominations (Buddhist, Hindu, Christian and Muslim), followed by a moment of silence. Participants will release flowers into the ocean as the memorial service comes to an end.

The Consulate office of Sri Lanka LA will speak about the tsunami relief efforts in its home country. Artwork from children in Sri Lanka as well as other artists who have worked toward tsunami rehabilitation, will be on display. Organized by Palaama, this event is free and donations will not be collected.

Three years ago on the day after Christmas, a major earthquake triggered a tsunami that wreaked havoc on countries surrounding the Indian Ocean. The destruction included the countries of Indonesia, Sri Lanka, India, Thailand, and reached as far as South Africa and Madagascar. The deadliest in recorded history, the tsunami claimed the lives of over 200,000 people.

Memorial Services for 3rd Anniversary of South Asian Tsunami
Tuesday December 26th, 2007
6:30 p.m. – 7:45 pm
Santa Monica Pier West End

Photo by bigeoino via Flickr.