On 6th April 2025, Fo Guang Shan Auckland celebrated the second day of its Buddha’s Birthday Celebration with a joyful and vibrant atmosphere. The programme featured various uplifting activities, including the Baby and Children’s Blessing Ceremony, a classic car show, a local market and the mindfulness tea meditation. Nearly a thousand people attended to celebrate this meaningful occasion and receive blessings.
The Baby and Children’s Blessing Ceremony took place at 11am in the Main Shrine and was presided over by Abbess Manshin of FGS NZ. The ceremony included the recitation of the Heart Sutra and a reading of the Prayer for Babies & Children written by the Founder of the FGS Buddhist Order, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. More than 110 children from New Zealand and other regions received blessings to grow up healthy, wise and fulfilled.
Students from the Children’s Dharma Class brought statues of Prince Siddhartha from home to join the bathing ceremony in the Main Shrine. The Abbess shared that having the statue at home reminds children to stay respectful and sincere, and to remember their role as students of the Buddha. Student Alice expressed her gratitude for learning and growing at the Temple, while Raymond Hu thanked the Temple for its care and guidance in helping him grow stronger and more confident.
In the Cloud Corner, tea practitioners from BLIA North Island guided participants through the serene practice of tea meditation. This experience offered a moment of stillness amidst the busyness of life, encouraging inner calm and clarity. One participant described observing the clarity of the water as akin to creating space for reflection in life — a pause to regain meaning. Many expressed that the tea meditation brought deep relaxation and a renewed sense of strength and expressed their hope that the Temple would continue to host such mindful experiences.
In addition, members of the Rover Car Club, Auckland Triumph Car Club and Austin Flying ‘A’ Car Club presented a beautiful vintage car display. The market was equally lively, with local vendors offering a delightful range of vegetarian food and handmade crafts. Stallholders warmly welcomed guests, their cheerful smiles and unique products drawing praise from all who attended.
Over the two-day celebration, nearly 2,000 people visited the Temple. Upholding the Founding Master’s teaching of Giving, FGS Auckland joyfully served the public, continuing to contribute to the rich cultural harmony of the local community.