On the 21st and 22nd of May, a total of about 200 students and teachers from Te Waka Unua and Bamford School came to attend FGS NZ’s 6th annual “3G4G Festival of Cultural Sharing”. They were warmly welcomed by Venerable Abbess Manshin, Venerable Jue Xi and BLIA members. BLIA South Island NZ Vice President Chen Lih-son first taught the students how to say “Auspicious, welcome!” with a lotus hand gesture. Next, he explained the meaning of the “Three Good Deeds and Four Givings” to the students, quizzing them soon after to help them remember these basic principles so that they may apply it in their daily lives.
The “3G4G” concepts were reinforced in the students’ minds through interesting lessons, and there were also other activities like lotus origami, 3G4G tattoo sticker, film viewings, temple tours, bathing the Buddha, etc. The students were especially immersed by the vivid animations in the “The Life of the Buddha” film. While folding the origami lotus, BLIA committee member Kok Wei Low educated them on how the lotus flower blooms beautifully, unaffected by the muddy water it comes from.
Canterbury NZ Police officers Pete, Steve and Kylie were invited to interact with the students, using case studies to really illustrate how the “3G4G” concepts are applied in real life. In an interactive session, the officers invited the students to put on their police uniforms to experience their smart and heroic spirit, turning the place into a lively environment for everyone involved.
Students’ feedback showed that the “The life of the Buddha” film left the strongest impression on them. They were deeply moved by the Buddha’s compassion and equality, and learned about good and evil, cause and effect. The students also liked the lotus origami, water tattoo and Buddha bathing activities. The teachers thanked the temple for hosting such a beneficial event for the body and mind, having the students grasp the “3G4G” concept fully and organizing so many practical activities that plant the seed of goodness in the children.
At the end of the event, students from Te Waka Unua school performed a Maori haka to express their gratitude. The students promised to attend future activities and with that, the FGS South Island NZ 2019 “3G4G Festival of Cultural Sharing” concluded with a happy ending.
