On 19th January 2025, Fo Guang Shan Auckland held its annual Light Offering Completion Ceremony, bringing together over a hundred devotees for a tranquil and heartfelt gathering. Led by Abbess Manshin of FGS NZ, the ceremony featured the recitation of the Universal Gate Chapter of the Lotus Sutra, followed by a light offering to express gratitude and blessings. Additionally, the ceremony included the reading of the Light Offering Prayer written by the Founder of FGS Buddhist Order, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, dedicating the merits of the 2024 light offerings to all participants.
During the Dharma talk, Abbess Manshin shared insights on the Four Immeasurable Minds, which are fundamental virtues in Mahayana Buddhism that serve as guiding principles for cultivation. The Abbess explained that 1. Loving-Kindness is about cultivating a heart that brings joy to others and engaging in community service. 2. Compassion means helping others to alleviate suffering and eliminate distress. 3. Joy involves approaching people and responsibilities with happiness, creating a sense of warmth and reassurance. 4. Equanimity is the ability to let go of personal biases and attachments, sharing hope and positivity with the world. Abbess encouraged attendees to embody these qualities in their daily lives, likening them to a spiritual light that illuminates the heart. Individuals can become beacons of light by cultivating these virtues, supporting and inspiring one another, just like the light that shines collectively to dispel darkness.
The Abbess acknowledged the significance of the light offerings, not only as a prayer for their families but also as a means of deepening their faith and enriching their lives. The Abbess shared the blessing words of the Venerable Master, reminding the devotees to Keep Going, The Future is Bright, encouraging them to walk boldly on the path of brightness and enlightenment.