On 14 January 2026, H.E. Dr. Suriya Chindawongse, Ambassador of Thailand to the U.S., co-hosted the chanting ceremony in tribute to Phra Thepmongkolvajirarangsi (Luang Ta Chi) at Wat Thai Washington, D.C. The ceremony was attended by officials and staff members of Team Thailand in Washington, D.C. as well as disciples, Thai and American Buddhists residing in Washington, D.C. and neighboring states.

Phra Thepmongkolvajirarangsi (Luang Ta Chi) rigorously upheld monastic discipline and played a pivotal role in promoting Buddhism in the United States. He garnered immense respect from the Thai community across the U.S. from his legacy of being one of the five pioneer monks who founded the Council of Thai Bhikkhus in the U.S.A. as well as from over 50 years of dedication as a Dhammaduta who greatly contributed to advancing and materializing the works of Dhammadutas and the Council of Thai Bhikkhus. Notably, he is recognized by Maha Chulalongkorn Rajavidyalaya University (MCRU) as both an Exemplary Dhammaduta and an Honorary Dhammaduta.

The passing of Phra Thepmongkolvajirarangsi (Luang Ta Chi) represents a profound loss to Wat Thai Washington, D.C., the Thai community as well as Buddhists throughout the U.S. The Royal Thai Embassy in Washington, D.C. respectfully conveys its condolences and pays tribute to the late Phra Thepmongkolvajirarangsi on this solemn occasion.