Xiang Yun Temple Holds House Blessing Ceremony for Fo Guang Member, Community Gathering Filled with Warmth – Wishing for Good Fortune

Reported by He, Zichu, Austin

On the evening of November 15, Venerable Jue Ji accompanied by Venerable Yong Jia, Yi Song, and Ru Yuan, visited the new home of English Chapter member Philip Johnson to conduct a blessing ceremony and household purification ritual. More than 30 people, including members of the English chapter, friends, and colleagues, attended, creating a warm and solemn atmosphere.

Philip has long been dedicated to serving the English-speaking community and is an important local volunteer at the temple. He regularly assists in the kitchen every Saturday and is also the guitarist for the “Lucky Dharma Band,” often bringing joy to others through music. As he moved into his new home, the temple visited to offer blessings and express gratitude for his years of contribution.

Venerable Jue Ji explained the significance of the purification ritual: through the cleansing of the altar, the new home is made into a space of light, stability, and harmony. The household blessing prayers wish for the compassionate protection of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas in every corner of the home. Afterwards, participants respectfully recited the name of Avalokiteshvara and the *Great Compassion Mantra*, filling the house with tranquil and blessed Buddhist chants.

At the conclusion, the venerable dedicated prayers for Philip’s family to increase in happiness and wisdom. The temple also presented a calligraphy work and prayer beads by Master Hsing Yun. The ceremony not only blessed the new home but also demonstrated the warm support and camaraderie of Xiang Yun Temple’s English-speaking community. Philip expressed gratitude for the temple’s care and hopes to give back to the temple through continued service.