New Zealand moved to Alert Level 2 on Wednesday 13th May, after over a month of full level 4 lockdown. As the disease is under controlled and there are no more new cases for 4 days in a row, businesses and services are gradually moving into normal operation while the government closely monitors the situation. Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple NZ is concerned about the community and has donated 200 facemasks each to Baverstock Oaks School and Mission Heights Junior College to support the school reopening.
On 15th May, Minister in Charge of FGS Auckland, Venerable Rulian handed over the 200 facemasks to Associate Principal Andrew Flanagan of Baverstock Oaks School on behalf of the temple. Andrew appreciated the continuous support and concern from the temple. He also strike the peace gong wishing for a safe and smooth transition for the teachers and students returning to schools.
Mr Wilbert from Mission Heights Junior College came to FGS Auckland to collect the 200 facemasks from Venerable Miaoyu who represented the temple on 20th May. Mr Wilbert shared that he often comes to the temple and enjoys the serene atmosphere. It felt good and warm to come back to the temple after the lockdown. He was impressed with the temple’s environment as it was very tidy and appreciated the contribution and support from temple.
Venerables expressed that Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple NZ uphold the ‘Giving’ spirit of Humanistic Buddhism and will work with the community to fight against the pandemic to instil hope and strength to New Zealand by doing kind acts.