Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) South Island held its 2024 Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 10th August. The meeting was presided over by President Bernie SIEW, more than 60 members in attendance, including Deputy President ZHANG Dong, Subchapter Senior Advisors CAO Qian and Louisa KUO, FGS NZ Abbess Manshin and the Minister in charge of FGS Christchurch, Venerable Juexi.
As President Bernie completed his two-term service, he expressed heartfelt gratitude for the guidance from the Temple and the cooperation of the BLIA members. He emphasized that through organizing various activities, the joyful seed of Humanistic Buddhism have been sown across New Zealand. He also pledged to continue supporting the new board of committees, sharing his experience and working alongside as a team.
Reports were then presented by BLIA Subchapter 1 President Tiffany SU, Subchapter 2 President HE Fei, Deputy President of Subchapter 3, Kong Hooi SAW and Vice President of the Young Adult Division Elaine HUANG. They highlighting the activities organized and participated in, by their respective chapters. A recap video was played, showcasing key events over the past year, including Buddha’s Birthday Celebrations, the T-EARTH Project, the Chocolatte Food Festival ect, demonstrating the collective efforts and achievements of the past year.
Five key motions were discussed during the meeting:
- The annual Oceania Buddhist Exam will be held on 19th October.
- The Laba Congee Offering in Commemoration of Buddha’s Enlightenment is scheduled for 6th to 7 th December.
- Nominating new committee members and electing a new President and two Deputy Presidents, with their term beginning on 1st January 2025 for three years.
Additional proposals included plans for the Sangha Day and Amitabha Triple Contemplation Service at FGS Auckland on 18th August, a Dharma Talk by FGS Head Abbot Most Venerable Hsin Bau on 23rd September and the Triple Gem Refuges and Five Precepts Ceremony at FGS Auckland on 26th September.
Another important discussion was the BLIA World Headquarters’ initiative for the Veg- revival Community Run (VEGRUN), with plans to expand the activity to schools in Christchurch.
During the meeting, President Bernie announced the newly elected 13 committee members for the 14th term of BLIA South Island. The newly elected committee members then held an on-site vote to elect the new President and Vice Presidents. After an engaging voting process, James LOW was elected as the new President, with CAO Qian and ZHANG Dong elected as Deputy Presidents. The BLIA Yong Adult Division also presented a lively dance performance from the Sounds of the Human World album.
FGS NZ Abbess Manshin emphasized that the various activities that organized by the BLIA South Island create positive vibes in the community and provide opportunities for people to connect with the Temple. BLIA members shall actively participate and stay closely aligned with the Temple’s initiatives. Continuing to support the development of the Young Adult Division, nurturing the young talents who will become the future hope of Buddhism.