FGS News
Engage in the Buddha's Light International Association's Green Initiative: Planting Seeds of Love on Earth Day
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple April 25, 2024 In alignment with Earth Day, the Buddha's Light International Association Philippines – Bacolod Chapter conducted a tree-planting extravaganza, injecting new vitality into environmental conservation. Spearheaded by English Secretary Cora, the project liaised with the Bacolod City Government and Talisay Government, garnering support for tree sapling sponsorship and planting sites. On April 19th, they visited the Bacolod Department of Agriculture to receive the prepared saplings. On April 21st, led by Venerable Zhi Rong from Yuan Thong Temple, President Margarate Cordova, Supervisor Rosita Gochangco, Bacolod Youth Volunteer Amity Group, Bacolod Chapter Youth Group Rheya and Ciara, along with over twenty enthusiastic participants from the Yuan Thong Temple's SanHao Group including teachers Rutha and Virnie, journeyed to the mountainous region of Talisay, commencing this green initiative. Despite the scorching weather, participants' hearts blazed with enthusiasm as they hand in hand planted saplings on the mountainside. Walking upon the earth, surrounded by nature, they felt the beauty and sanctity of life. These saplings not only symbolize greenery but also embody a commitment to love and protect the Earth. Guided by Talisay personnel, they found the most suitable locations, gently planting each tree into the soil. The trees planted this time are hardwood, which will grow into a part of the forest, enriching the land in the future. This tree-planting event saw the planting of over a hundred trees. It was not merely an action but also an embodiment of giving back to nature and expressing love for the Earth. Special thanks to Atty. BEDRIO from the Department of Agriculture for their tremendous assistance in ensuring the smooth progress of this event. Let us join hands and work together to protect our home, filling the Earth with greenery for sustainable prosperity! Virnie mentioned it was their first time participating in tree planting, and it was very meaningful to breathe fresh air on the mountain while exercising. Rosita Gochangco expressed that despite mobility limitations, being able to participate to the best of their ability and experience various aspects of the Buddha's Light International Association and Fo Guang Shan very fulfilling.
The Teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun: His Works and Words
Marilyn Lopega March 19, 2024 A Dharma Talk given by Venerable Jue Ju, who is the superintendent of the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Founder’s Hall, was held on March 15, 2024 at Guang Ming College (GMC) in Tagaytay, Philippines. It is entitled “The Teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun: His Works and Words”. About 160 faculty, staff and scholars attended, together with Venerable Abbess Miao Jing of FGS Mabuhay Temple, Venerable Zhi Qin, the President Luisa So, Dharma Sister Belinda Tantoco and Linda Oliva of Buddha’s Light International Association Hong Kong Sub-Chapter. The President of GMC Dr. Michael Tan remarked that when Venerable Jue Ju told the stories of Venerable Master Hsing Yun our Founder, we would get to know him and found our root in Humanistic Buddhism. In the closing remarks, Venerable Miao Jing encouraged all to uphold the practice of Three Acts of Goodness through unconditional and universal giving in every daily doing. Ven Jue Ju explained that if we want to know Master Hsing Yun, we have to know his personality. What better way to know him is through his works, and his words (teachings). These are the two main human characteristics that emphasized to be developed through the acts of giving joy, hope and convenience to other people. First, we have to become uninvited friends. Venerable Master Hsing Yun means that if there is ever a need of any kind, whether material or services, we should be ready to give our services or talent or whatever we can give to fulfill the needs. There should always be a willingness to give and to serve without conditions. Just like Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the power of giving is always in his heart, always becoming an uninvited friend in every opportunity that comes his way. Second, is the spirit of being number two. This means that we put others as the number one, and we come only second to them. We put other people who help us, who nourish us, who became part of who we are as the number one. Therefore, we think of their convenience, joy, comfort ahead of ours. They are the first consideration in everything that we do, our convenience only comes second to theirs. And we should always show this with a big heart. The power of giving is always in the heart. Venerable Master Hsing Yun exemplified the two important characteristics throughout his life. This was witnessed especially when he was already old and having many health issues. Since he gave unconditionally to all without exceptions, he continued to work hard in his calligraphy even when he could no longer see and experiencing a lot of pain when writing. He did this to raise funds for the colleges and universities he promised to establish and support. Even if they took all of what he had, he never wavered in his vow to support these schools so that the scholars can continue their education. These all he accomplished, as he said, to give value to his life, be of benefit to others, and help society, and bring more compassion to the world. Now that he is a star in the sky, we will still continue to learn from him. We start with small things until given more responsibility, we can do greater things that bring joy, provide convenience and develop confidence to others. A day before the Dharma Talk, a vegetarian cooking lesson was demonstrated by Venerable Jue Ju to the students and staff of GMC. Chef Neil has appreciated her mindfulness and calmness in cooking five dishes over three stoves within a tight timeframe. Feedbacks about the Dharma Talk from: Ms. Joei Eborde, 2nd year Theatre Major, teared herself when she learnt more about Venerable Master Hsing Yun. She felt very lucky to be chosen as a scholar of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Every piece about the life of Venerable Master Hsing Yun is very precious teaching and practice to her. Mr. Joshua de Puyart, 3rd year Basketball athlete scholar, is grateful for Venerable Jue Ju’s Dharma Talk. He is able to learn about the determination, endurance and persistence in Venerable Master Hsing Yun. He is motivated and realizes how Venerable Master Hsing Yun overcome physical illness and limitation. He is looking forward to learning more about Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s sport life in the upcoming BLIA Cup in Taiwan. Student Affairs Director Prof. Maru Percela said that she is grateful to Venerable Jue Ju for coming to inspire the scholars. The stories of Venerable Master Hsing Yun helped the students to keep him alive in the hearts. She hopes that the students will pay back the Founder’s noble vision by studying eagerly and practice Three Acts of Goodness in their everyday activities.
Communis: Common ground and Coexistence in the Religious Response to the Climate Crisis
Brian V. March 28, 2024 In the wake of alarming reports and escalating environmental concerns, voices from various religious group are invited in a forum to address the pressing issue of climate change themed“Communis: Common ground and Coexistence in the Religious Response to the Climate Crisis.” Students from De La Salle High School with the strand of Humanities and social science invited Kit Valderrama and Rachelle Sy of Buddha’s Light International Association Young Adult Divisions (BLIA YAD) Manila Subdivision led by Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Mabuhay Temple Abbess Venerable Miao Jing to be one of the esteemed speakers, along with Ms. Lourdes Arsenio of Archdiocese of Manila and Ms. Ianelle Dalumbay a social science teacher and Buddhist practitioner. The Forum is centered on teachings and commitment taken to mitigate climate crisis. Over 80 students attended on March 21, 2024 in La Salle University Yunchengco Hall. Venerable Miao Jing highlighted the practices of FGS to maintain a harmonious balance among self, others and the world. Buddhists take action to mitigate climate change by taking vegetarian diet and plant trees. Programs such as Three Acts of Goodness for school children have introduced the concept of environmental and spiritual preservation to young Filipinos. Typhoon relief operations and charitable activities by BLIA and FGS shall always include the material, medical, humanitarian and spiritual aids for the holistic wellness of the victims. BLIA YAD Kit discussed Buddhist teachings such as compassion, interconnectedness, and impermanence as core principles in navigating the uncertainty and complexity of climate change. By acknowledging the impermanent nature of all phenomena, including our current ecological challenges, we can cultivate resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Through a deep understanding of interdependence, we recognize that our individual actions, no matter how seemingly insignificant, are an integral part of the larger ecological whole, and that positive change is possible through collective effort and collaboration. BLIA YAD Rachelle talked about her growing up in a Buddhist family has moulded her to live simple and preserve resources. She has learnt from Venerable Master Hsing Yun “to be the parrot which saved the forest fire” as an uninvited friend rendering services. Afterwards, Ms. Lourdes discussed the Christian perspectives on the climate crisis, she emphasizes the principles of stewardship, solidarity, justice, and love. As stewards of God's creation, Christians are called to care for the Earth and all its inhabitants, working towards a more just and sustainable world for present and future generations. Furthermore, Ms. Ianelle Dalumbay a social science teacher and practicing Buddhist, dwell on her knowledge on the concept of Four Noble Truths and Eight-fold Paths encouraging youths to voice up and engage in the combating of climate crisis. When asked “what are practical ways they can do in addressing climate change?” all speakers advise to be mindful of our actions on daily activities. For example, turning off lights when it is not needed. Ms. Candice Aguila said that, “the diverse backgrounds of forum speakers have opened my perspective on caring for our environment. I have liked Three Acts of Goodness to keep my actions and thoughts kind towards our Mother Earth.” Ms Eufia Jasmine Lo the President and Head of the Steering Committee who led the organizing team appreciated the opportunity to reinforce the youth awareness and understanding on climate change. She is pleased to know that when we protect our environment, we respect all forms of life and sustain the wellbeing in all. Indeed, by prioritizing the well-being of all beings and recognizing our shared responsibility for the welfare of the planet, we can work towards collective solutions that address both the symptoms and the systemic drivers of the climate crisis.
Childcare Center Teachers and Students Visit Yuan Tong Temple for Experiential Learning Beyond Classroom
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Tong Temple April 9, 2024 On April 4th, Barangay Zone 3 Child Development Center in Talisay City embarked on a remarkable journey, with nearly 110 teachers, students, and parents setting foot together on a trip to Fo Guang Shan Yuan Tong Temple. This visit was not just a trip, but an adventure rich in growth, learning, and emotional experiences. Led by teacher Brenda, the children stepped out of the classroom to engage in experiential learning, delving deeper into understanding how to become better individuals. Venerable Zhi Rong shared lively and interesting stories about Guan Yin Bodhisattva, guiding the children to recite the Three Acts of Goodness: Do Good Deeds, Speak Good words, and Think Good Thoughts. Throughout the process, the children also learned the hand gesture of the lotus flower, symbolizing purity of the mind. In the interactive sessions, children were encouraged to voice their thoughts and understanding about doing good deeds and speaking kind words. They shared their perspectives, demonstrating a profound understanding of kindness and friendliness, as well as exploring and affirming the beauty of human values. With the assistance of volunteer Jennifer, Venerable Zhi Rong explained to the children in Filipino, making the communication smoother and more natural. The visit allowed each child to deeply feel the power of kindness and goodness, while also reinforcing their awareness of positive behavior and warm language. Yuan Tong Temple not only holds significant educational value but also serves as an ideal place for children to visit.
Transcendence: Lotus Art Exhibition" Opens at Yuan Thong Temple, Philippines – 14 Artists Depict the Purity of the Lotus
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple April 25, 2024 Yuan Thong Temple, a branch of Fo Guang Shan in Bacolod City, Philippines, hosted the "Transcendence: Lotus Art Exhibition," which opened with great splendor on the afternoon of April 20th. This exhibition featured the works of 14 local artists, including dedicated volunteers such as Ryan and Pneuma. The opening ceremony attracted over 20 artists and more than 20 members of the Fo Guang community. Venerable Zhi Rong presided over a blessing ceremony to inaugurate the event, offering blessings to all participating artists. Host and artist Pneuma introduced each exhibiting artist and explained the background and significance of the event. As one of the initiators of the event, Pneuma expressed great satisfaction in joining such a meaningful endeavor, citing the benefits many children have derived from participating in Yuan Thong Temple's art courses. Ryan shared his motivation for joining the volunteer team, stating that the educational philosophy of Fo Guang Shan aligns with his own values of altruism and helping others. Rosita Gochangco, representing the Bacolod Chapter, extended a warm welcome on behalf of the association, expressing gratitude to the artists for their active participation. Venerable Zhi Rong elucidated the symbolic significance of the lotus flower, emphasizing its representation of the purification of the mind and the purity of practitioners. Finally, all the artists participated in a lamp-offering ceremony, symbolizing the arrival of hope and light. Venerable Zhi Rong presented tokens of appreciation to all the artists on behalf of the temple, wishing them unwavering hearts and peaceful coexistence. Among the artists, Tibo Deocades' works combined oil painting with relief sculpture. His pieces aimed to depict how carp thrive amidst mud without becoming tainted, showcasing their allure through the lotus flower. Laden with profound symbolism, his works transport viewers into realms of contemplation. After touring the exhibition, Lyra Ong was deeply moved. She remarked that many of the artworks exuded an atmosphere of harmony, compassion, and love. Particularly striking was a painting depicting a girl holding a lotus flower in the water, evoking a serene and tranquil environment that resonated with inner peace and tranquility.
FGSITC Buddhism Friendship Scholarship: Nurturing Global Youth in Dharma Propagation
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple April 1, 2024 Fo Guang Shan International Translation Center (FGSITC) and the AJ Wang Foundation have been collaborating since 2023 to offer the "Buddhism Friendship Scholarship" to outstanding bilingual students from colleges and high schools in Southern California. On March 16, 2024, marking the second year of collaboration, FGSITC hosted its first workshop of the year at the FGS Hsi Lai Temple. The workshop aimed to enhance the twenty-six participants’ understanding of the translation center and leverage their diverse expertise in propagating Dharma while emphasizing the internationalization of Buddhism. Venerable Yi Chao, the executive director of FGSITC, introduced the center and the scholarship's objectives. Founded by Venerable Master Hsing Yun in 1996 at Hsi Lai Temple in the United States, FGSITC aims to realize Venerable Master's vision of "letting the Dharma stream flow across all five continents." FGSITC, in collaboration with all of the publishing houses under the FGS system, has translated and published Buddhist classics and series in twenty-one languages. Not only have these publications received awards, but they have also been designated as textbooks by university professors. FGSITC provides free public access to its publications and has established a website that facilitates the global dissemination of Humanistic Buddhism. It serves as a platform for participants to showcase their diverse talents in the hope that they will become vital forces in the propagation of Buddhism. Venerable Yi Chao also expressed gratitude to the scholarship provider, the AJ Wang Foundation, founded by Alice and JP Wang. Shigu Amanda Ling from FGSITC and Echo Tsai, the coordinator of the Scholarship Counseling Committee, welcomed the participants. The committee members who attended were seven professionals from various fields, all expressing high enthusiasm for serving and welcoming participants. Participants from 2023 shared their reflections on the "Buddhism in Every Step” English Booklet Series authored by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. The themes covered the Four Noble Truths, Buddhist perspectives on time and space, Buddhism and psychology, etc. The evaluations conducted by Venerable Yi Chao, Venerable Miao Hsi, Venerable Miao Zhong, members of the Scholarship Counseling Committee, and the new 2024 participants were based on presentation and organization, knowledge, audience engagement, and visual aids. Awards were given to the top three presenters based on these criteria. Venerable Miao Zhong guided the participants in "Buddhist Etiquette," where, to the sound of the bell, they practiced joining palms, prostrating, and bowing while maintaining mindfulness and regulating their breathing. Teacher Jo Ho from Buddha's Light Hsi Lai School taught "Unlock Your Buddha Nature Through AI Drawing," emphasizing Venerable Master's teaching that "I am the Buddha." Participants communicated with AI to draw the image of Buddha as perceived in their minds. This session sparked discussions among participants about the impact of AI on their lives. During the ice-breaking session, participants got to know each other through mutual interviews, accompanied by laughter. Finally, participants opted to join different teams, including translation, media production, and skit creation, hoping to utilize their expertise in collective brainstorming and creation during the subsequent three workshop sessions. Coordinator Echo Tsai expressed her delight in seeing that half of the 26 participants in the 2024 program had returned from the 2023 cohort to attend once again, which she considered an excellent affirmation for the counseling committee. New participant Jia Li Wang expressed gratitude for the tailored curriculum catering to the needs of youth, stating that Humanistic Buddhism brings optimism to life and provides practical guidance. Another new participant, Guan Yi Chang, who aspires to become a psychology professor, expressed that Buddhism stabilizes the mind and is closely related to psychology; she looks forward to more profound learning during the workshop.
2024 BLIA NZ Seminar
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand March 28, 2024 On 2nd and 3rd March 2024, the Buddha Light International Association (BLIA) North Island Chapter held a two-day seminar featuring insightful lectures by FGS Abbess Manshin, Minister in Charge of FGS Auckland Venerable Rulian and Senior Advisor Lintao YU. Over 50 BLIA members attended, engaging in interactive discussions and Q&A sessions, focusing on cultivating the right mindfulness and right views. Lay Dharma Teacher Lintao YU presented the story of BLIA’s Founding by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. He highlighted the Temple’s leadership in guiding the association with the principle of promoting kindness through culture and cultivating talents through education. YU implemented several projects such as the 3G4G Festival of Cultural Sharing, 366 Days with Wisdom Book Gifting Project and the Annual Art Salon. He expressed gratitude for the Temple’s guidance and the members’ dedication to community service. The Venerable Master says Stability is crucial, Venerable Rulian encouraged the attendees to find their life’s purpose and to enrich lives through service. By taking on responsibilities, one can discover one’s potential, apply wisdom to dignify life and strengthen confidence in faith. President Evelyn KU expressed appreciation for the active participation and idea-sharing, noting the seminar’s role in strengthening the team. Abbess Manshin emphasised the importance of wisdom in daily life. Referring to the Venerable Master’s teachings, where there is Dharma, there is a way, implying that any problem can be resolved with wisdom. Venerable Master also pointed out that BLIA members should engage in myriad activities and create myriad affinities. By serving in various platforms, individuals cultivate personal positive karmic retribution, which manifests good qualities through actions, speech and thoughts. Starting from oneself to construct a harmonious society. On the second day, Abbess addressed the questions that arose among the members while serving in various departments within the Temple. Using simple language, she shared practical experiences of skilful means, clarifying the relationships between wealth and service, attire and attitude, as well as between remorse and gratitude. The Abbess blessed the participants, expressing hope that everyone can shine brightly, excel in quality and gracefully realise one potential through collective efforts, refining a splendid life within the heart of gratitude.
NSW Premier Visits Nan Tien Buddhist Temple Kogarah recognising the contributions to the community by Fo Guang Shan
Francis Wong April 2, 2024 On 22 March, The Hon. Chris Minns MP, Premier of NSW, visited the Nan Tien Buddhist Temple Kogarah. The Premier was greeted by Ven. Miao You, Director of Nan Tien Institute, Ven. You Fa, Superintendent of Nan Tien Buddhist Temple Kogarah, Daniel Wu, President of the BLIA Sydney, Francis Wong, Elder Advisor of BLIA Sydney, along with about 20 BLIA members to warmly welcome the visiting of the premier. "Welcome Home!" The Premier expressed that he is a resident near the temple and also the MP for Kogarah. Before being elected as Premier, he actively participated in temple and BLIA’s activities, including the BLIA Sport Day, Laba Porridge Charity Event, and the ANZAC Day. After being elected as premier of New South Wales in 2023, his first visit to Nan Tien Buddhist Temple Kogarah felt like "coming home," making him feel especially close and warm. Ven. Miao You introduced the courses offered by Nan Tien Institute and presented the book "366 days with Wisdom" by the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, on behalf of Nan Tien Temple. The Premier greatly appreciated the book, eagerly flipping through the wisdom teachings of March 22nd and personally reciting, "Great people fulfil themselves by helping others to accomplish. Mean people fulfil themselves by holding others back." The Premier said that after reading the articles, he deeply resonated with them. He hoped that in future speeches, he could refer to and quote Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s wisdom to enrich the content and purify society and people's hearts. He believed that the Buddhist concept of "mindfulness" is of great help in dealing with busy workloads and hoped to introduce mindfulness thinking and meditation to provide references and applications for parliamentarians to enhance everyone's work efficiency and maintain the power of focus. The Premier was also briefed on the community's achievements in propagating Buddhism over the past year, including multicultural community connections, congregational education, creative culture, and volunteer services. In particular, the premier was being thanked for remembering Venerable Master Hsing Yun's passing and personally sending condolences and flowers at the first opportunity. Jing, the leader of the southern Buddha Light Scouts, said that the number of Buddha Light Scouts has continued to increase by more than 80 people, advancing to 5th place on the New South Wales Scout rankings. Ven. Miao You invited the Premier to attend this year's Nan Tien Temple 30th anniversary celebration and the Buddha's Birthday Multicultural Festival held in Darling Harbour Sydney, to experience this year's theme of "Coexistence & Coprosperity."
Venerables Visit Just Food community Farm in the Ottawa Greenbelt
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa April 11, 2024 On March 28, a group of nine people, including Venerable Yung Ku, abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa, along with superintent Ven. Zhi Yin, other venerables and groundskeeping volunteers went to the Just Food community farm in the Ottawa Greenbelt. The group was led by Wu Chen, a student from Algonquin College’s Business Agriculture program. During the Chinese New Year, Wu Chen and her roommates, Emma and Iris, who are studying carpentry, visited the temple to participate in activities and Dharma services. They had conversations with the venerables about their respective majors and learned that Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa had established a "Happy Farm" since 2023. Upon receiving an invitation from the advising venerable, they eagerly joined the team of farm volunteers and enthusiastically contributed to planning the 2024 planting schedule. In order to assist the venerables with the understanding of agricultural cultivation, Wu Chen organized this visit. Sun Shan and Li Bo, who were her previous working partners in Beijing, led a guided tour of the farm. During the farm tour, the venerables and volunteers were presented the concepts advocated by Just Food, and that Just Food is committed to improving food production and distribution efficiency through sustainable agricultural practices, with a focus on fostering community engagement and providing training opportunities. Although they couldn't witness the early spring crop plantings and the farm's breeding and planting experiments firsthand, Sun Shan and Li Bo's introductions inspired the group with the passion and philosophy of "Just Food Urban Agriculture" towards sustainable agriculture and food safety. Coincidentally, during the visit, the group had the opportunity to meet Erin O'Manique, the executive director of the Gloucester Emergency Food Cupboard and a member of the board of directors of the Ottawa Food Bank. Sun Shan and Li Bo, who were her previous working partners in Beijing, led a guided tour of the farm. photo／The Life News Agency During this visit, everyone profoundly realized the importance of Ottawa Greenbelt. This vast green space serves as not only a vital natural resource for the city of Ottawa but also as a key factor in maintaining ecological balance and sustainable development of the entire region. The Ottawa Greenbelt is known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful natural landscapes, while also providing many important ecosystem services, such as water conservation, air purification and carbon absorption. Protecting and preserving the Ottawa Greenbelt is crucial for ensuring the health and prosperity of local communities, which also echoes the sustainable development concept advocated by Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa and the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA). This visit not only provided the venerables and volunteers with a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture but also laid a solid foundation for the "Happy Farm" to learn from the practices of "Just Food Urban Agriculture." Through collaborative efforts, the venerables and volunteers firmly believe that they can contribute even more to the sustainable development and food safety of the communities near Richmond which will further advance the progress and prosperity of the society.
Three Acts of Goodness Children Blessing Ceremony: Planting Seeds of Kindness with Music and Laughter
Christina April 2, 2024 On March 24th, the Fo Guang Shan Hsi Fang Temple held the "2024 Three Acts of Goodness (TAG) Children Blessing Ceremony," with 18 kids aged 0 to 12 participating. Nearly 60 parents, relatives, and friends attended. Through games, singing, and blessings, the children were brought closer to the teachings of Buddhism. The ceremony began in the dynamic game area, featuring with educational board games, art and physical movement. Both adults and children participated eagerly, creating a lively atmosphere filled with cheers and laughter. The English version of the song "Seek Refuge in the Triple Gem" was sung for the first time, with the original Chinese composition by Most Venerable Hsin Ting. It is adapted into a simplified English version for the benefit of English-speaking children. Sherwood, a YAD member, led the vibrant singing, eliciting laughter from attendees and volunteers alike. Despite the continuous drizzle on the day of the event, Venerable Miaozang remarked that the teachings of Buddhism were akin to the gentle rain, nurturing the hearts of people. The love and care parents show to their children resemble the compassion of Buddhas and bodhisattvas towards all beings. Hosting the Children Blessing Ceremony aims to sow seeds of kindness and beauty for the next generation. The "Do good deeds, speak good words, think good thoughts" helps children cultivate compassion and establish positive connections as they grow. Accompanied by their parents, the children received purification water from the venerable one by one. A girl named Juliet, after receiving her prayer beads, spontaneously hugged the venerable, spreading warmth to everyone. Juliet's father, Moises, mentioned that their family lived near the temple and always saw the venerables smiling during their walks. Upon knowing about the event, he immediately registered. He praised the ceremony for its warmth, particularly the catchy tune of "Seeking Refuge in the Triple Gem," which made it easy for children to remember. He hoped his daughter would grow up safely and happily and appreciated the positive impact of the temple on the community. BLIA member Dong Yang, accompanied by his wife and their 16-month-old daughter, Amy Yue Yang, attended the blessing ceremony. He emphasized that as parents, providing the best for the next generation is not just about material wealth but also passing on faith and fostering a harmonious family environment. He also expressed his hope that his daughter would grow up within the Buddhist community, cultivating compassion and accumulating blessings and wisdom.
