To commemorate the Buddha’s enlightenment, Fo Guang Shan Christchurch held a two day Laba Congee event on 5th and 6th December 2025, distributing nearly 1,500 bowls to Christchurch schools and the community. Volunteers began work at 5 a.m., with 25 BLIA members, including BLIA South Island Chapter Elder Advisor Bernie SIEW and President James LOW.
BLIA members delivered the congee to schools and local shops. Upon hearing the news, Wharenui Primary School Principal Tracey Young immediately requested 496 bowls for the entire school to let their students and staff enjoyed the delicious porridge together. Local businesses expressed gratitude, some even prepared gifts in return. Community members who collected congee from the Temple also sent messages thanking the Temple for its warmth and thoughtfulness.
FGS NZ Abbess Manshin gifted volunteers Medicine Buddha blessing bracelets, wishing everyone safety and auspiciousness. Abbess also praised the team’s effort and expressed the hope that the congee would inspire the inner light within each person.
English Division members Deirdre Johns and Ola Lyckholm returned for the second year to help cook the porridge, joyfully embracing the opportunity to serve. BLIA members Martin Haggit and Lesley Smith joined the volunteer team for the first time, expressing that being part of the group was deeply meaningful.
Subchapter Elder Advisor Supervisor Louisa KUO was delighted to see the warm response to the event. She shared that the Buddha’s teaching under the Bodhi tree that all sentient beings possess the wisdom and virtues of the Buddha, emphasizing equality among all beings. She also reflected on the Buddha’s birth, when he took seven steps on a lotus and pointed to the heavens and earth, proclaiming, In the heaven above and the earth below, I alone am the honored one. This resonates with Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s instruction during the precept ceremony for disciples to recite, I am a Buddha, highlighting the equality of all beings and the Buddha. She hope everyone to enjoy the Laba porridge and awaken the inherent light of our own true nature.
