人間通訊社

November 7th, lunar calendar September 19th, was Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Renunciation Memorial Day. Fo Guang Shan hosted a Pilgrimage ceremony for the special day. Before dawn, over 1,200 devotees have gathered to pay respect to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva’s great compassion and deliverance spirit.

Executive Deputy Abbot Venerable Hui Chuan gave the Dharma talk before the pilgrimage. He said Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva has a special bond with everyone and there would be a renunciation ceremony on the same day. The disciples that were about to be ordained will have limitless compassion vows, the same as the Bodhisatta’s, after they have renounced the worldly greed and obtained the right path. For all to be present on this special date, it is with great merits. Venerable Hui Chuan also encouraged the elder devotees to volunteer at FGS and bring the three acts of goodness home to promote societal harmony and family happiness.

Deputy Abbot Venerable Hui Chao led all to recite the prayer to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva at the Great Compassion Hall. He also presented gifts to thank the devotees’ support and participation. Venerable Hui Zhao said Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Renunciation Memorial Day is a special and delightful day. He wished for all to learn the compassion and wisdom of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva because compassion has no enemy and wisdom will rid distress. The combination will lead to enlightment.

Zhan Jin-Ying, BLIA President of Madou Chapter, came with fellow devotees. She said the route was different this time. Even though it was rougher than before, she was able to complete the pilgrimage with more determination and sincerity.

In this new route, Xu Ying-lan, Chief Advisor of Chishan, Mazhu, and Dashu districts was holding the incense burner at the front of the pilgrimage. On the steep uphill, she wished for herself to connect with the compassion of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. With the chanting of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva single mindedly, she completed the pilgrimage.

Lin Ying, Chief Advisor of 2nd advisory district at Huizhong Si in Taichung, with 20 years of Buddhism learning under his belt said, this pilgrimage at FGS felt quite different with a great many more participants. He wished all to be free of suffering and full of joy.
(Translator by Karen Sun)