The San Antonio Buddhist Vihara, operating under Stone Oak Monastery Inc., is a Theravāda Buddhist temple and non-profit organization committed to enriching the spiritual and cultural lives of the San Antonio community. Founded in 2021 under the esteemed guidance of Most Venerable Udumulle Saranapala Thero, the Vihara serves as both a sacred space for Buddhist practice and a center for education. It provides a peaceful environment where individuals can engage in meditation, receive Dhamma teachings, and participate in cultural programs that promote mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom. By embracing the core principles of Buddhism, the Vihara aims to cultivate inner peace, spiritual growth, and a deeper understanding of the Buddhist way of life.
Our Monks
Venerable Udumulle Saranapala Thero
Most Venerable Udumulle Saranapala Thero, the Chief Priest of the San Antonio Buddhist Vihara, is a devoted spiritual leader dedicated to practicing and sharing Theravāda Buddhism. His monastic journey commenced in 1992 when he became a novice monk at Monaragala Sri Wijayawardanaramaya in Dambagalla, Sri Lanka. In 2004, he received his Upasampada (higher ordination) at the historic Malwatta Maha Vihara in Kandy, Sri Lanka. He later established and served as the Chief Priest of Samadhi Viharaya in Nawala, Colombo 5, demonstrating his leadership and commitment to the Buddhist community. 
Venerable Udumulle Saranapala Thero has dedicated his life to the study and teaching of Buddhism. His academic journey began at Vidyalankara Maha Pirivena in Peliyagoda and led him to earn numerous degrees, including a Rajakeeya Panditha Degree from the Government of Sri Lanka in 2002, a Bachelor’s Degree in Sinhala Language from the University of Kelaniya in 2004, a Master’s Degree in Buddhist Studies from the Pali and Buddhist University in Homagama, and a second Master’s Degree in Sinhala Literature from the University of Kelaniya in 2006.
From 2006 to 2013, Bhante Udumulle Saranapala Thero furthered his studies in psychology and counseling, earning a Diploma, a Postgraduate Diploma, and a Master’s Degree from the University of Kelaniya and the University of Colombo.
In 2018, he arrived at the Austin Buddhist Maha Vihara in Austin, Texas, where he began serving the local Buddhist community. In 2021, he established the San Antonio Buddhist Vihara, expanding his reach and continuing his commitment to sharing the Dhamma with the Buddhist community in Texas.