Reflections and Remembrance on the Anniversary of Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Passing

Written by Su Bi-shan, translated by Viva Rogers

Today, February 12, marks the Lantern Festival as well as the anniversary of Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s passing. Although it is a regular workday, more than twenty devotees gathered at the temple(I.B.P.S. Austin) to pay tribute to the Master. After the morning offering, Venerable Jue Ji, the temple supervisor, led the assembly in the recitation of the “Prayer to Venerable Master Hsing Yun” and the “Verses in Praise of the Master” to honor his memory.

Following the recitation, the monastics shared their personal connections with the Master. Venerable Yuan Fa expressed her gratitude for the Master’s compassion in establishing the Sheng Man Institute and for granting older women the opportunity to join the monastic community, which allowed her to take ordination under his guidance. Venerable Yi Song expressed appreciation for the Master’s efforts in establishing numerous temples worldwide, enabling her to use vegetarian cuisine as a way to build positive connections with others. Venerable Yong Jia praised the Complete Works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, which provides her with invaluable guidance in her path of Dharma propagation. Venerable Jue Ji shared a personal memory of dining with the Master, highlighting his meticulous care and thoughtfulness toward others.

The lay devotees also eagerly took turns sharing touching stories of the Master’s teachings, both through his words and his exemplary actions. Many expressed deep gratitude for his guidance and vowed to follow in his footsteps by practicing Humanistic Buddhism.

At lunchtime, the temple’s kitchen specially prepared “Yangzhou Glutinous Rice Balls” for everyone. It was announced that this dish would be served annually on this day in remembrance of the Master.