佛光山南華寺
Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple
August 2025
BLIA YAD South Africa Charity Trip – First Visit to Elderly and Special Needs Children's Homes
August 16, 2025
On August 14, Fo Guang youth from Taiwan and Indonesia, led by Venerable Jue Kai, made their first visit to Phumula Old Age Home and Sizanani Children’s Home in South Africa, bringing warmth through music and heartfelt interaction. At the elderly home, youth used simple instruments like rattles and buckets to lead 29 seniors in rhythmic movement, lifting spirits and encouraging light exercise. Laughter filled the room, with even quieter residents joining in by the end of the session. Later, at Sizanani—a facility for children with moderate to severe disabilities—the youth engaged with 20 children through music. Despite their conditions, the children responded with joy, moving to the rhythm and smiling brightly. The session ended with soothing singing bowl therapy, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Venerable Jue Kai reminded the youth that compassion can be expressed through simple actions like a warm touch, urging them to understand others’ needs and serve with sincerity. One youth reflected on his own family, sharing how the experience deepened his gratitude for life. Though brief, the visit left a lasting impact. The youth hope to continue serving communities and living out the Three Acts of Goodness—doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts.
2025 African Buddhist Exam – BLIA Members Demonstrate Wisdom and Conviction
August 16, 2025
On August 16, 2025, the Global Buddhist Exam in the African region brought together 383 participants from South Africa, Lesotho, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo, representing various BLIA associations and youth groups. Participants, from young children to a 93-year-old elder, joined in seven exam categories across Traditional and Simplified Chinese, English, and French. To support preparation, BLIA Africa leaders organized a five-part online lecture series, combining Buddhist teachings with exam content. These sessions deepened participants’ understanding of BLIA’s mission and inspired spiritual growth. Elders showed lifelong dedication to learning, some assisted by family members, while senior BLIA families reflected on how the exam strengthened their commitment to practice. In various regions, members gathered to study together, guided by mentors who emphasized Buddhist ethics and values. Children were taught through storytelling and hands-on guidance, planting seeds of the Three Acts of Goodness. Youth members also participated online, balancing study with daily life while gaining a deeper sense of responsibility as BLIA members. This cross-generational and multilingual exam reflected a strong commitment to Humanistic Buddhism, promoting faith, learning, and compassion throughout the African BLIA community.
BLIA YAD Enter South African Campuses – The Three Acts of Goodness Spirit Takes Root and Blossoms
August 14, 2025
Nine BLIA youths from Taiwan traveled to South Africa for a charitable exchange, led by Venerable Jue Kai of the South African BLIA Youth division. They visited Rethabiseng Kids Care Centre, Zithobeni Kids Care Centre, and Muthuhadini Primary School, engaging children through tutoring, games, crafts, and singing. Through these activities, they shared the Three Acts of Goodness—doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts—sowing seeds of kindness in young hearts. Despite language barriers, children responded warmly, showing focus, cooperation, and joy. A touching moment came when a child saved his meal for his mother, reminding the team of love, gratitude, and the importance of giving back. The youths adapted their lessons to suit local cultures and age groups, making learning more relatable. Special classes included calligraphy with blessings, a fashion design and runway show, and red envelope folding to share Chinese New Year traditions. Children also sang the Three Acts of Goodness Song, joined by Principal Mudau NN, who plans to adopt it as the school anthem. This journey brought not only learning and companionship to local children but also personal growth for the youths, who truly embodied the spirit of compassion and cultural exchange.
July 2025
BLIA Lesotho Warms Hearts with Donated Supplies
July 27, 2025
On July 26, the International Buddha’s Light Association Lesotho Chapter held its annual winter relief event in Maseru, distributing 200 packages containing essential items like flour, maize meal, oil, blankets, soap, and red beans to underprivileged families. Guided by Venerable Huiliao and supported by chapter leaders and volunteers, the event embodied the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism, promoting kindness and community support. Before the distribution, prayers and blessings were offered to wish the residents well. Local chief Ntate Taelo Matsoso attended and praised the group's charitable efforts. The event not only provided material support but also brought warmth and hope to the community.
Wheelchair Donations by BLIA Durban with Warm Blessings
July 14, 2025
To celebrate Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva’s Enlightenment Day, BLIA Durban held its 16th annual wheelchair distribution on July 12. A total of 74 wheelchairs were donated to individuals in need during a solemn and heartwarming ceremony attended by around 200 people, including recipients, their families, and honored guests. The event reflected the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism through compassionate community service. Speakers highlighted how the initiative embodies Avalokitesvara’s compassion by providing practical assistance to improve mobility and quality of life, while promoting the values of the “Three Acts of Goodness” and the “Four Givings.” Among the recipients were a woman and a young boy with a spinal condition, both expressing gratitude and renewed hope after receiving their wheelchairs. The event included wheelchair usage demonstrations, chanting of the Heart Sutra, and blessings for all attendees. Gift packs of blankets, cookies, and water were also distributed. On July 13, a children's blessing ceremony was held, with over 50 parents and children attending. Participants engaged in group chanting and received Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva statues as keepsakes, fostering a sense of spiritual connection and hope for the younger generation.
BLIA YAD SA Visit Durban to Promote Culture, Education, and Environmental Initiatives
July 11, 2025
From July 7 to 8, the South Africa BLIA Youth Division traveled over 600 kilometers to the Fo Guang Shan Durban Chan Pure Land Center for a two-day trip focused on cultural exchange and environmental action. Through folk art activities and a beach cleanup, the youth promoted the values of the “Three Acts of Goodness,” bringing energy and compassion to the local community. At the “Durban Children’s Day Camp,” the youth led games, dances, and crafts, teaching children the meaning of doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts. The next day, they joined a beach cleanup to promote environmental awareness, embodying the “Four Givings” spirit: giving hope, joy, confidence, and convenience. They also visited uShaka Marine World to learn about marine life and environmental conservation. The trip showcased the youth’s dedication to spreading Humanistic Buddhism through action, inspiring positive change in the community.
Youth and Children's Talent Camp: Cultivating Arts and Practicing the Three Acts of Goodness
July 6, 2025
From June 28 to July 5, an 8-day “Youth and Children’s Talent Camp” was held at Nan HUa Temple, attracting around 150 participants from across the country. The camp combined arts, culture, and spiritual education to promote Humanistic Buddhism's core values—the “Three Acts of Goodness” and the “Four Givings.” Divided into Youth and Children’s sessions, the camp featured folk dance, art, mindfulness, science experiments, and emotional education. Instructors from Taiwan taught traditional fan and indigenous dances, sachet making, and paper cutting, helping participants connect with cultural heritage through creativity and movement. Youth developed teamwork and self-awareness through dance, team challenges, and mindfulness sessions. They also helped lead the children’s program, showing leadership and dedication. The Children’s Camp included hands-on science, emotional learning, and baking, encouraging teamwork, creativity, and positive communication. The camp concluded with participants gaining inspiration from both cultural and life education, while actively practicing “doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts.” The event served as a meaningful bridge for spreading Humanistic Buddhism and planting seeds of hope in young hearts across Africa.
June 2025
BLIA Johannesburg Chapter Spreads Warmth in Winter – Donates Supplies to Support Disadvantaged Schoolchildren's Families
June 21, 2025
To promote social welfare through charity, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Johannesburg Chapter held a winter donation event on June 19 at Goza Primary School in Soweto. The association distributed blankets, sweaters, food items, and other essentials to 100 underprivileged families to help them through the cold season. Led by Venerable Jue Di, the event was attended by 13 BLIA members. School staff, including Principal Wendy Sunfani, Deputy Principal Matodzi, and 80 parents, also participated. Acting Principal Matodzi thanked BLIA for its ongoing support, saying the donations ease the burden on struggling families. Vice President Chen emphasized the importance of education in breaking the poverty cycle and expressed gratitude to volunteers and donors. A recipient’s mother shared that her family had gone a day without food and expressed heartfelt thanks for the much-needed supplies. For years, BLIA Johannesburg has supported the community through education and charity, embodying the spirit of “giving confidence, joy, hope, and convenience.” The association pledges to continue serving families in need.
May 2025
Africa Celebrates Buddha's Light Day – Practicing Sutra Transcription in Unison with the World
May 17, 2025
On May 16, BLIA members across Africa gathered at six temples in South Africa, Lesotho, and the Republic of the Congo to celebrate the 59th anniversary of Fo Guang Shan through the Global Sutra Transcription Practice. Nearly 300 devotees participated, writing sacred texts with mindfulness and joy. At various temples, monastics and laypeople practiced together with reverence, expressing gratitude for Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s compassionate vows and renewing their commitment to Humanistic Buddhism. Participants reflected on how the practice revealed inner distractions but also brought clarity, calm, and deeper insight. The act of transcribing the Heart Sutra helped them let go of attachments, cultivate inner peace, and develop wisdom. Young and elderly alike took part, with many sharing how each stroke became a form of blessing for themselves and others. The teachings reminded participants of the impermanent nature of life and the value of spiritual practice. From South Africa to Lesotho, BLIA members joined the world in a unified act of spiritual cultivation, walking together on the path of compassion and enlightenment.
BLIA Members Uphold Mission of Charity: Winter Aid Brings Warmth to Primary School Teachers and Students
May 14, 2025
On May 13, the BLIA Pretoria Chapter held a winter relief distribution at Vezulwazi Primary School, providing over 300 students, teachers, and parents with 250 kg of maize meal, 400 liters of cooking oil, 200 kg of sugar, 200 cans of baked beans, and 200 blankets. Led by Chapter President Kai-Ying Chan, BLIA members and NHPAG students opened the event with the cheerful Three Acts of Goodness song, encouraging kindness and positivity. The joyful singing created a warm and uplifting atmosphere, embodying the spirit of compassion. Teacher Mahlomuza expressed gratitude for the support, saying the event not only met material needs but also brought a sense of care to the school community. President Chan engaged students with stories and interactive discussions about gratitude and doing good, inspiring many to share their own acts of kindness. Fourth-grader Thabo shared, “I learned how to do good, speak kind words, and be thankful. I’m happy to receive food and a blanket—it makes winter warmer. I want to help others too.” The event was a touching blend of charity, education, and heartfelt connection.
Nan Hua Temple's Tea and Meditation Event – Sensing the Warmth and Transformation of Life
May 13, 2025
On May 11, Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple hosted “Stillness in a Cup: A Mindful Journey Through Tea & Meditation” in celebration of both Buddha’s Birthday and Mother’s Day. The event welcomed over 300 participants, including BLIA SA YAD members, retreat attendees, and local volunteers from various sectors. Together with temple monastics, they served as tea meditation facilitators, offering calming cups of tea that encouraged mindfulness and connection. Led by Abbot Venerable Hui Fang, the program included guided meditation, tea-making rituals, and Prayer for Parents. In his Dharma talk, he reflected, “Though tea is bitter, it can be transformed into sweetness; life is the same. Suffering is not the end—it is the beginning of transformation.” Participants were guided to reflect on impermanence and the beauty of the present moment through the symbolism of tea. The event left a lasting impact on many. First-time facilitator Zhao Shuhan was moved by the smiles her tea brought to others, realizing that serving others is a form of practice. Motivational speaker D. Anthony Evans shared, “I lost my mother in my second year of junior high, and Mother’s Day has always been painful. But today’s event filled my heart with love and light. I truly enjoyed the experience—it’s inspired me to learn more about Buddhism.” Johannesburg participant Jennifer reflected that a single sip of tea helped her reconnect with the present moment and herself. The day concluded with a shared tea reflection and a Buddha bathing ceremony, leaving participants with peace and insight. Nan Hua Temple hopes to bring this mindful experience to schools and communities—inviting more people to find stillness and meaning in a simple cup of tea.
BLIA Durban Chapter Hosts Mobile Buddha Bathing Ceremony and Distributes Thousands of Relief Supplies
May 12, 2025
On May 10, BLIA Durban Chapter held a Buddha Bathing Ceremony and 16th Annual Winter Relief Distribution at Phoenix Industrial School Hall. The event provided 1,000 packages of essential supplies (e.g., food, clothes, and hygiene items) to those in need. Chapter President Ji Lian emphasized promoting Humanistic Buddhism and practicing the “Three Acts of Goodness.” Vice President Wang Huimei highlighted the goal of spreading compassion and peace. The event welcomed people of diverse faiths, with local philanthropists helping explain the Buddha bathing ritual to non-Buddhists. Music and cultural performances fostered unity and joy. Youth participants shared how the event deepened their understanding of Buddhism and helped support their families, showing the impact of compassion, learning, and community service.
BLIA Africa and NHPAG jointly promote the Three Acts of Goodness Campus — the initiative receives enthusiastic response.
May 9, 2025
On May 8th, Venerable Master Hui Fang, Deputy Secretary General of the BLIA Africa, led a delegation of eight members from the Johannesburg along with 12 teachers and students from the NHPAG, to Turffontein Primary School in Johannesburg. There, they promoted the "Three Acts of Goodness" philosophy together with Principal Mrs. Pexie Jafta and 1,450 teachers and students in a warm and enthusiastic setting. Principal Mrs. Pexie Jafta expressed gratitude to BLIA and the NHPAG for promoting the "Three Acts of Goodness" philosophy at Turffontein Primary School. She highlighted how this initiative, introduced by Ms Du Man, had positively impacted students' moral development and improved the campus atmosphere. Ms Du Man encouraged students to practice kindness in their daily lives, emphasizing that it would lead to a bright future. The NHPAG engaged students with performances, teaching the "Three Acts of Goodness Song," and hosting a fun quiz. The students energetically performed songs and showcased their talents too. To promote good oral health, BLIA Johannesburg also distributed 1,400 toothbrush and toothpaste sets. The event strengthened the partnership between the school and BLIA, leaving a lasting positive impact on the students and the community.
South Africa Celebrates Intercultural Harmony: Cloud and Water Buddha Bathing Ceremony for Vesak Day
May 6, 2025
On May 4, BLIA members across South Africa held synchronized “Cloud and Water Bathing the Buddha” events to celebrate the Buddha’s birthday, drawing hundreds of participants from diverse backgrounds. Activities took place in Johannesburg, Pretoria, and Cape Town, featuring solemn bathing rituals, children’s art zones, educational exhibits, and multicultural performances. The events promoted interfaith and cross-cultural understanding, showcasing the inclusive and peaceful spirit of Buddhism. Organizers emphasized values like kindness and harmony, while participants shared how the experience brought inner peace and inspired positive actions.
April 2025
South Africa BLIA Young Adult Division Study Camp – Exploring Life's Direction
April 21, 2025
From April 18–20, the BLIA SA YAD hosted a 3-day “Youth Study Camp” at Nan Hua Temple to help 40 high school students explore their academic and career paths. Through engaging activities like Dharma talks, career sharing, university application guidance, and group meditation, students gained clarity about their futures while building focus and self-awareness. Highlights included inspiring talks by professionals such as doctors, accountants, and psychologists who shared real-world experiences. Practical sessions on university applications and course planning empowered students with tools to make informed decisions. The camp concluded with a prayer ceremony and the offering of wisdom lamps, symbolizing hope and guidance. Participants left with valuable knowledge, personal growth, and renewed confidence to pursue a bright and meaningful life.
BLIA Pretoria Chapter promotes 'Three Acts of Goodness' campus initiative by organizing a drawing competition.
April 17, 2025
On April 16, members of the BLIA Pretoria Chapter visited Vezulwazi Primary School to promote the "Three Acts of Goodness" (Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, Think Good Thoughts) and the International Children's Environmental Drawing Competition. 200 students participated in the event, which included singing the English version of the "Three Acts of Goodness Song" and learning about environmental values. 40 students also joined the drawing contest, expressing their visions of a better Earth through art. The event created an inspiring, educational atmosphere. BLIA hopes to expand the Three Acts initiative to more schools. The school’s vice principal expressed gratitude and welcomed more future collaborations to support students’ moral and academic growth.
Promoting VegRun — South African BLIA Members Enjoy a Healthy Eco-Walk
April 14, 2025
On April 13, the BLIA Pretoria Chapter held an eco-walk at the city’s botanical gardens to support the VegRun campaign promoting plant-based living and environmental awareness. Led by President Alice Chan, about 50 participants joined the event, reducing carbon emissions by 35 kg. The activity included warm-up exercises, a Dharma talk by Venerable Huixing on the importance of combining health with environmental care, and a two-hour walk through nature. Participants, including families, enjoyed the health benefits, connection with nature, and strengthened community bonds. The event highlighted BLIA's commitment to sustainability and compassion through action.
February 2025
First "Three Acts of Goodness" School Established in Africa: Promoting Moral Education and the Spirit of Goodness
February 14, 2025
The first "Three Acts of Goodness" school in Africa was launched at Naturena Primary School in Johannesburg, South Africa, on February 13th. The event, attended by BLIA representatives, school staff, and 1,300 students, promoted the principles of "Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, Think Good Thoughts." Through interactive performances, sign language lessons, and African drumming, students learned about the initiative's core values. The event also included a group sing-along and a Q&A session, leaving a lasting impression on the students. The BLIA aims to expand this program across Africa, fostering moral education and positive values for a better society.
"You Are the One" Philanthropic Journey: Experiencing Festive Traditions in Another Country
February 4, 2025
The BLIA Chunghwa YAD members from Taiwan participated in the annual Spring Festival celebrations at Nan Hua Temple in South Africa, engaging in cultural performances and volunteer work. They experienced the unique Chinese New Year traditions of South Africa, performed dances at the Reunion Dinner, and assisted at the carnival's cultural booths. The youth reflected on the importance of sincerity and cultural exchange, embodying the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism and the vision of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. This journey not only expanded their global outlook but also highlighted the compassion and vitality of the BLIA YAD community.
2025 Nan Hua Temple Spring Festival Carnival: Embracing a Bright Future
February 3, 2025
The 2025 Spring Festival Carnival at Nan Hua Temple in South Africa celebrated the Lunar New Year with a vibrant blend of traditional and modern cultural elements. Over 25,000 attendees enjoyed activities such as lion dances, drum performances, tea ceremonies, and multicultural shows. The event highlighted themes of hope, transformation, and unity, while promoting Humanistic Buddhism and community engagement. Visitors have expressed their appreciation for the inclusive and festive atmosphere, making the carnival a cherished annual tradition.
January 2025
"You Are the One: South Africa Philanthropic Journey" – BLIA Chunghwa Youth Combines Education with Games
January 31, 2025
The BLIA Chunghwa YAD members conducted educational and interactive activities at local Kids Care Centres and a primary school. Through creative lesson plans, songs, and games, they taught children the Three Acts of Goodness and good hygiene habits while fostering teamwork and focus. Over 1,600 children benefited from the program. The youth also engaged in reflective discussions to improve their teaching methods, showcasing their adaptability and commitment. Participants shared heartfelt experiences of connecting with the children, proving that education and kindness can transcend language and cultural barriers.
BLIA Youth Philanthropic Journey: South Africa Campus VEGRUN
January 28, 2025
On January 27, 2025, a "VEGRUN Campus Charity Run" at Dikgabje Primary School in South Africa, as part of the philanthropic journey of the BLIA Chunghwa YAD. Over 700 students participated, led by youth dressed in vegetable and fruit costumes. The event promoted plant-based eating and environmental awareness while spreading love and kindness. School principal Mr. Thipane expressed deep gratitude for the initiative, and students shared their excitement and appreciation. The event left a lasting impact, inspiring both the children and the community, and highlighted the BLIA community's commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
2025 "You Are the One: South Africa Philanthropic Journey"
January 23, 2025
The 2025 "You Are the One: South Africa Philanthropic Journey" brought 10 BLIA Chunghwa YAD Youth members to Nan Hua Temple in South Africa, led by Venerable You Du. The journey, organized by Venerable Jue Kai, included cultural and natural explorations, such as riding the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway and visiting the Lesedi Cultural Village, where participants experienced South Africa's diverse heritage. The trip also featured a Spring Festival Carnival, offering a unique New Year experience. Participants expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to connect with South Africa's culture and nature, reflecting on the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun and the importance of respect and unity among all people.
Celebrating Buddha's Enlightenment Day: BLIA Johannesburg Members Spread Warmth and Care
January 12, 2025
On January 11th, members of BLIA Johannesburg Chapter celebrated Buddha's Enlightenment Day by preparing and distributing 2,100 bowls of Laba Congee to the local Chinese community and elderly residents at a nursing home. The event involved 30 BLIA members and 18 youth volunteers, who worked together under the guidance of Venerable Hui Xing。 The Laba Congee, symbolizing gratitude and fulfillment, was delivered to locations such as the African Trade Center, China Trade Center, and Chinatown, spreading warmth and the spirit of Buddhist compassion. Volunteers also visited the Kangning Nursing Home, where elderly residents expressed deep appreciation for the care and kindness shown. The event not only celebrated Buddha's enlightenment but also reinforced the values of compassion and community, leaving a lasting impact on both participants and recipients.
Buddhist Wedding: Couple Ties the Knot in Front of the Buddha
January 6, 2025
On January 5th, a heartfelt Buddhist wedding was held at Nan Hua Temple, where the groom and bride exchanged vows under the guidance of the Buddha, wishing them eternal protection under the Buddha's light and a lifetime of happiness together. Presided over by Venerable Hui Fang, the ceremony was filled with warmth, joy, and symbolic rituals, including the presentation of prayer beads, which symbolized unity and harmony. The bride's parents, active members of the BLIA (Buddha's Light International Association), expressed their hope that the couple would share a common faith and belief, using the Dharma as their guiding light to support and uplift each other throughout their lives. The groom shared his deep appreciation for the meaningful ceremony, which emphasized the values of compassion, wisdom, and gratitude. The event concluded with a beautiful choir performance and a vegetarian banquet, leaving guests inspired and filled with blessings for the couple's future. The wedding not only celebrated the union of two individuals but also highlighted the profound teachings of Buddhism, creating a memorable and spiritually enriching experience for all in attendance.
BLIA SA Young Adult Division Welcome the New Year, Showcasing Dedication and Vitality for 2025
January 4, 2025
From December 30, 2024, to January 2, 2025, Nan Hua Temple hosted a series of New Year events that brought together 50 BLIA SA YAD members from across the country. The youth actively participated in and supported the temple’s activities, demonstrating their dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to Buddhist values. Among the key events was the traditional Pilgrimage Ceremony, where participants knelt and bowed every three steps from the Guanyin Hall to the Main Shrine, promoting inner peace and reflection. On December 31, the temple hosted an Offering to the Buddhas and Devas Ceremony, with youth members making offerings and serving as attendants. The evening concluded with a spectacular iron-flower performance and a midnight sparkler event, creating a joyful and hopeful atmosphere. On January 1, 2025, the youth assisted with the temple’s first-ever Pet Blessing Ceremony and prepared nearly a thousand lunch boxes for devotees and visitors, highlighting their compassion and community spirit. Later, the youth gathered for a year-end celebration featuring team games, a vegetarian barbecue, and karaoke, which fostered stronger friendships and marked the start of the New Year in a harmonious setting. A youth member reflected on the experience, noting that the events provided an opportunity to practice the principles of the "Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings," fostering personal growth and spreading positivity. The New Year activities not only deepened the youth's connection to Buddhism but also showcased their ability to serve the community and inspire others. In summary, the BLIA SA youth embraced 2025 with dedication, compassion, and unity, embodying Buddhist values and creating a meaningful start to the year. Their efforts left a lasting impact, demonstrating the power of collective action and the spirit of service.
Buddha's Light Illuminates All Living Beings: Nanhua Temple Holds Its First Pet Blessing Ceremony
January 3, 2025
On January 1st, Nan Hua Temple held its first Pet Blessing Ceremony, a heartwarming event attended by nearly 100 pet owners and their beloved animals, including cats, dogs, turtles, and hedgehogs. The ceremony, led by Venerable Hui Xing, featured sutra chanting and blessings, creating a joyful and peaceful atmosphere. Pet owners prayed for the health and happiness of their animals, deeply moved by the connection between all living beings. The event embodied Fo Guang Shan Founding Master - Venerable Master Hsing Yun's philosophy of "protecting life," promoting respect and harmony between humans and animals. It also encouraged vegetarianism, adoption, and reducing harm to animals, inspiring participants to practice compassion in daily life. Attendees expressed gratitude for the unique opportunity to share the Dharma's warmth with their pets, calling it a memorable and transformative experience.
Three Refuges and Five Precepts: Embracing the Precepts as a Teacher to Begin a New Chapter in Life
January 2, 2025
On January 1st 2025, Nan Hua Temple held its biennial Three Refuges and Five Precepts Ceremony, attended by 58 devotees. Twenty-two participants arrived a day early to learn about monastic robes, etiquette, and the significance of the precepts from Venerable Hui Fang, the abbot. He emphasized that the precepts are not restrictions but guidance, serving as the foundation for spiritual growth. The formal ceremony took place in the Pu Hsien Shrine, marked by the resonant sounds of bells and drums. Venerable Hui Fang led the devotees in reflecting on the essence of taking refuge and repenting past misdeeds. The new precept holders made solemn vows to uphold the precepts, creating a deeply moving and sacred atmosphere. After the ceremony, one participant shared how taking refuge in 2023 transformed her life, bringing peace and composure. Another attendee, an online Buddhist studies student, expressed how Buddhism provided a spiritual space free from rigid rules, with monastics always ready to answer his questions. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the devotees' spiritual journeys, guiding them toward a life of fulfillment, purity, and wisdom through upholding the precepts and practicing the Dharma.
Nan Hua Temple's New Year's Eve iron flower show wows global audience
January 2, 2025
The iron flower performance at Fo Guang Shan - Nan Hua Temple on New Year's Eve 2024 captivated nearly 1,500 attendees, marking the first overseas showcase of this ancient Chinese folk art. The event highlighted the craft's unique charm and cultural significance, offering an unforgettable experience for international audiences. Despite its beauty, the art faces preservation challenges due to a dwindling number of skilled artisans. The performance began with a dramatic "fire pot" act, followed by the mesmerizing iron flower display, where molten iron was flung into the sky, creating a dazzling shower of sparks. The climax coincided with the New Year countdown, symbolizing blessings for peace and prosperity in 2025. Nan Hua Temple aims to promote and preserve this cultural treasure, ensuring its legacy for future generations.