Brief History of Mahadhammika Temple
- The Burma Buddhist Association of Ontario (BBAO) was formed in January 1987. Official registration from the Government of Ontario was received in January 1988.
- Under the direction and leadership of Patron Venerable Badanta Pannavumsa, with seed money of $10,715.50 donated by various devotees and followers, a house on No. 435, Hopewell Avenue in Toronto, Ontario was purchased on August 14, 1989. Thus, Mahadhammika Temple was founded.
- After setting up Mahadhammika Temple, Ven. Badanta Panna Sirinanda became the first Abbot of the temple in 1989. The venerable abbot passed away on January 29, 1995 after serving as abbot for six years and contributing to the temple in monetary as well as spiritual terms.
- As the Myanmar community in Toronto was growing and the temple was located in a residential area, it became imperative to find a more suitable place to build a temple. Therefore, a plot of land measuring more than one acre, located at 12 High Meadow Place, North York, Ontario was purchased on June 18, 2000.
- Ground breaking ceremony was conducted under the auspices of Ven. Badanta Pannavumsa on July 23, 2001 and construction of Mahadhammika Temple was launched. Due to unforeseen obstacles along the way, the temple was completed in July 2002.
- On July 24, 2002 (Full Moon day of Myanmar calendar 15th Waso 1364) Buddha Statues and resident monks moved into the newly completed Mahadadhammika Temple at the present location.
- The official opening ceremony of Mahadhammika Temple was held on June 26 and 27, 2004.