The novitiation ceremony, or “shinbyu” in Burmese, marks the first time a boy enters the monastery and becomes a novice monk. Almost every Burmese boy participates in a novitiation ceremony during his lifetime as parents consider it an important duty to encourage their sons to study the teachings of Buddha. Enjoy a rare opportunity to take part in this memorable occasion for one 12-year-old boy. By sponsoring the ceremony, you are helping a deserving local family honor an age-old tradition. The celebrations are often quite exuberant, with parades, richly decorated traditional costumes, and colorful communal meals featuring rice and curry dishes.