On 2nd April 2022, a Children Triple Gem Refuge Ceremony was held in Main Shrine presided by Fo Guang Shan NZ Abbess Manshin. A total of 14 children, ages 3 to 11, took part in this ceremony, whose parents witnessed it joyfully.
After the purification session, Abbess explained that the participants have now officially become students of the Buddha. She reminded the children to vow and learn from the Buddha as well as the 97-year-old Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Be a proud disciple of the Triple Gem and a useful person in order to contribute to society. The meaning of each Dharma names given for the children were also explained by Abbess, wishing all have a bright future while growing up healthily under the blessings of the Triple Gems.
The ceremony participants included children of Temple volunteers, children of BLIA North Island members and students of the Children Dharma Class. Faith has led these children to a quality life and benefit from it. The two daughters of BLIA North Island Chapter 4 member, Andy Luo, have been studying at the Fo Guang Chinese School for many years. They received the Dharma name of Dao Shan and Dao Yuan, that Abbess wish them to build good affinities and reap their good causes and good conditions in one day.
Moreover, the three sons of volunteer John Pau were given the Dharma names of Cheng Fa, Cheng Tong and Cheng She, meaning that they are living with the Dharma (wisdom) at all times and connect the Dharma to their home. The two daughters of Liqun Tian who volunteer in the Kitchen, were named Dao Ru and Dao Yi to wish them auspicious fulfillment in all circumstances.
After the ceremony, the children visited the newly decorated Prince Siddhartha Exhibition. Venerable NengChien and Teacher Thomas led an interactive session to explain the meaning of Three Goodness and Four Givings, guiding the children to practice in daily life. The children enjoyed the puzzles joyfully and brought them home as a blessing.