April 11, 2010
Source: The Miami Herald
http://www.miamiherald.com/2010/04/09/1570400/a-blessing-for-buddhists-to-ring.html
Carved from a rare kind of dark and translucent jade, a nine-foot, 4 ½-ton Buddha statue -- revered by followers for bringing peace wherever it goes -- will begin a much-anticipated visit to South Florida on Saturday.
The Jade Buddha for Universal Peace, the largest jade Buddha in the world, is expected to attract thousands to Wat Buddharangsi temple in Redland through April 18. The visit coincides with the Thai New Year, which starts Tuesday.
``This will be very special for the Buddhist community,'' said Khanya Moolsiri, a secretary of the Thai temple who has prepared for the Buddha's visit for months.