Honolulu Star-Advertiser

Sunday, October 6, 2024 83° Today's Paper


Top News

Thailand’s rescued cave boys end stay at Buddhist temple

1/2
Swipe or click to see more

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Members of Wild Boars soccer team change clothes after marking the completion of their serving as novice Buddhist monks following their dramatic rescue from a cave last month in Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai province, northern Thailand. The members of the boys’ soccer team rescued from almost three weeks trapped in a cave in northern Thailand completed their time as novice Buddhist monks, undertaken to give thanks for their survival and to show their gratitude to all those who helped them.

2/2
Swipe or click to see more

ASSOCIATED PRESS

Members of Wild Boars soccer team pray during a ceremony marking the completion of serving a novice Buddhist monks following their dramatic rescue from a cave in Mae Sai district, Chiang Rai province, northern Thailand. The members of the boys’ soccer team rescued from almost three weeks trapped in a cave in northern Thailand completed their time as novice Buddhist monks, undertaken to give thanks for their survival and to show their gratitude to all those who helped them.

MAE SAI, Thailand >> The members of the boys’ soccer team rescued from a cave in northern Thailand have completed their time as novice Buddhist monks.

They ordained 10 days ago to give thanks for their three-week ordeal and show gratitude to all those who helped them.

About 300 people gathered for the ceremony on a rainy Saturday morning that saw the boys leave temple life to return to their families. Those attending gave alms — flowers, food, money — as a gesture of their religious devotion.

The ordination of 11 boys of the Wild Boars soccer team along with the 25-year-old coach was especially dedicated to a former Thai navy SEAL who died while diving during a volunteer mission to supply the cave with oxygen tanks.

By participating in online discussions you acknowledge that you have agreed to the Terms of Service. An insightful discussion of ideas and viewpoints is encouraged, but comments must be civil and in good taste, with no personal attacks. If your comments are inappropriate, you may be banned from posting. Report comments if you believe they do not follow our guidelines. Having trouble with comments? Learn more here.