The Development of a Prototype Area for Public Welfare Activities by the Sangha of Surin Province

Abstract

The research entitled “The Development of Model Areas for Public Welfare Work of the Sangha of Surin Province” had three objectives: (1) to study public welfare work in Buddhism, (2) to investigate the conditions of model areas for public welfare work of the Sangha in Surin Province, and (3) to propose appropriate development guidelines for model areas of public welfare work of the Sangha in Surin Province. This study employed a qualitative research methodology. Data were collected through the examination of primary documentary sources, namely the Tipitaka, and secondary sources, including relevant documents and academic literature. Data were also obtained through observation, in-depth interviews with four groups of key informants: (1) Sangha administrative monks, (2) scholars in Buddhist management, (3) community leaders, and (4) members of the general public, comprising a total of 48 participants. In addition, focus group discussions were conducted. The participants were selected through purposive sampling. The collected data were then analyzed and presented using descriptive and analytical methods.

The research findings revealed that:

1) Public welfare activities in Buddhism require the integration of modern temple management principles with Buddhist teachings, including the creation of shared values, organizational structuring, work system management, concrete activity organization, and personnel development. The principles of “cleanliness, brightness, and peacefulness” serve as a key framework for managing temple spaces to support sustainable roles as centers of learning and social assistance.

2) The five model areas of public welfare activities of the Sangha in Surin Province, namely Wat Sawang Arom, Wat Pathum Thong, Wat Thung Sai Khayung, Wat Si Khuanaram, and Wat Sutthidhammararam, each possess distinct historical backgrounds, locations, community contexts, and modes of public welfare operations. However, they share a common role as centers for providing assistance to local communities.

3) The appropriate guidelines for developing model areas of public welfare activities of the Sangha in Surin Province consist of five approaches: policy-based development, structural and administrative development, personnel development, service and activity development, and sustainability-oriented development.

The development of model areas of public welfare work of the Sangha in Surin Province should be carried out holistically across spiritual, social, economic, and health dimensions. This development should be grounded in Buddhist principles and driven by community participation as a key mechanism in order to achieve tangible outcomes and enable sustainable expansion to other areas.