Xiangyun Temple Welcomes Eight New Refuge-Takers, Including Children Entering the Buddhist Path

By BLIA Correspondent Pu Hui, Austin

On the morning of March 29, 2026, Xiangyun Temple held its first Great Compassion Repentance Service of the year, followed in the afternoon by a Three Refuges Ceremony. A total of eight devotees formally took refuge in the Triple Gem, including four children between the ages of 5 and 11, a rare and heartening sight that reflects the hope of passing on the Dharma to the next generation.

Sister Xiaonan’s three daughters—Ren Shan, Ren Lü, and Ren Hui—took refuge together with their mother. Since taking refuge earlier this year, Sister Xiaonan has been actively supporting the temple and guiding her family toward the Dharma. Her husband is able to recite the Śūraṅgama Mantra, and even five-year-old Ren Hui has already learned part of it, serving as a fine example of sincere and right-faith Buddhist practice.

Ren Xiang, who comes from a Buddhist family and has long been nurtured by Buddhist teachings, formally took refuge on this occasion. Together with her spouse, who is also a leader in the English-speaking chapter, she continues to support the temple.

Ren Chi, who already has a foundation in Buddhist studies, signed up as soon as she learned of the ceremony and brought along her five-year-old son to share in the blessings of the Dharma. Ren Yong, former president of the UT Buddhist Student Association, has participated in group practice for many years. As his faith steadily deepened, he finally resolved to take refuge. Ren Ren first encountered Buddhism in 2016 and, after years of careful reflection, made the thoughtful decision to enter the path.

After the ceremony, Venerable Jue Ji invited everyone to gather at the tearoom for fellowship and warmly welcomed them to join the Buddha’s Light International Association, so that together they may help spread the Dharma and bring light to themselves and others.