But that's exactly what was asked of those who attended a guided Buddhist meditation hosted by the Griffith Sri Lankan community at Saint Alban's Cathedral on Saturday.

The Venerable Kovida, a buddhist monk from Katoomba, led a room full of Griffith locals in two hours of chanting, blessings and meditation that left everyone feeling energised and refreshed.

Bishop of the Riverina Donald Kirk and Saint Alban's Cathedral Dean Thomas Leslie opened the afternoon, welcoming ven. Kovida to the MIA.

"Welcome to Griffith, we hope to work together in the peace, happiness and wisdom of all people," Bishop Donald said.

People from across Griffith's diverse cultural and religious backgrounds attended the event, with both Dean Thomas and Bishop Donald staying to participate in the meditation.

Ven. Kovida said he felt "uplifted and excited" to be guiding the meditation in the church hall - as he has had a strong bond to Christianity since his early years as a student in India.

Ven. Kovida arrived in Australia in 1997 and has written numerous books on the philosophy and teachings of Buddhism.

He said now is a time for all human beings to come together as people, regardless of religion or race, especially after the devastation of COVID-19 throughout the world.

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"Now is a time to connect with respect, love and compassion," he said.

The people of Griffith's Sri Lankan community said it was a great honour to have the ven. Kovida in their town giving his blessings for the community.

It was also a rare opportunity for other Griffith residents to immerse themselves in the cultural practices of Buddhism and benefit from a bit of inward love and kindness.

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