Eminent Sangha

Somej Phra Buddhacharn (Kiaw Upaseno) was the former acting Supreme Patriarch of Thailand & former Abbot of Wat Saket Ratcha Wora Maha Wihan. He was born in Koh Samui district of Surat Thani province, received full ordination as a monk when he was 21.

Somej Phra Buddhacharn held important positions within the Thai Buddhist Order and in the global arena. He was appointed as Abbot of Wat Saket (Thailand) in 1971, Vice President of the World Buddhist Sangha Council in 1982 and acting Supreme Patriarch of Thailand in 2005.

Somej Phra Buddhacharn promoted Buddhism globally so that Thai Buddhists staying overseas could continue to practice Dhamma, and foreigners have the opportunities to study Buddhism. He supported establishment of Thai Buddhist temples in the United States and Europe. He also led delegations to Asian regions to promote closer religious ties. Those visits have forged closer ties between Theravada and Mahayana sects.

The social work he had spearheaded included raising funds for the improvement of hospitals and the construction of schools at Koh Samui; giving scholarships and supporting the establishment of University of higher education.