On 1st January 2024, at 6 am, nearly 200 people gathered at the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Auckland to participate in the New Year’s Day Pilgrimage and Sutra Transcription, wishing for world peace, family happiness and joyous harmony.
Abbess Manshin of FGS NZ led the congregation in prayer and shared the Couplet blessing for the Year of the Dragon by the Founder of FGS Buddhist Order, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, May You Be Free as Cloud and Water, Auspicious and Joyful. The Abbess expanded on the Venerable Master’s teaching that nothing is more important than the heart to inspire the congregation to make vows. She encouraged everyone to cultivate a heart of wisdom and freedom like clouds and water through self-awakening and practising the right way.
The Abbess expressed our fortune in having a great Venerable Master, whose vast mind and wisdom are lessons for us across lifetimes. Abbess emphasised the importance of keeping up with Grand Master’s teachings as a means to uplift ourselves. On behalf of the Temple, Abbess presented the Couplet and New Year’s red envelopes to the participants, wishing that in the Year of the Dragon, everyone would find ease and auspiciousness at all times. Continuing the Founding Master’s compassionate care, the Temple prepared steamed buns to share with the congregation.
Following, the Minister in Charge of FGS Auckland Venerable Rulian, led the participants in sutra transcription, explaining its benefits: 1. Concentration of the mind 2. Training in patience 3. Closeness to Dharma 4. Growth in wisdom. Venerable encouraged everyone to continue their diligent service and practise Venerable Master’s spirit of Giving in the new year, developing the Bodhi mind.
Auckland City Councillor Sharon Stewart and sister-in-law visited the Temple to wish for a smooth and peaceful new year. President Evelyn Ku of BLIA North Island Chapter shared that everyone should keep up with the Venerable Master’s wisdom and compassion, to construct a fulfilled life in the new year.
