FGS NZ Representatives Attended Civic Service of Thanksgiving for the Coronation of King Charles III
The globally anticipated The Coronation of King Charles III took place on May 6th in a grand ceremony held at Westminster Abbey in London, United Kingdom. Heads of state from around the world gathered to witness this historic moment and congratulate the new monarch of the United Kingdom. King Charles III is also the new monarch of New Zealand, and on 7th May, major cities across the country held the Civic Service of Thanksgiving for the Coronation of King Charles III. Christchurch and Auckland simultaneously hosted the event, inviting representatives from Fo Guang Shan Christchurch and Auckland in both regions. In Christchurch, the event took place at the Christchurch Transitional Cathedral, with approximately 300 attendees including Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger, religious and community representatives. Venerable Neng Chien, Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) South Island President Bernie Siew, Committee directors and seven BLIA Young Adult division (YAD) members from New Zealand were present.
Rt Rev'd Richard Wallace, the Maori Bishop of the South Island of New Zealand, opened the ceremony with a Maori blessing. Very Reverend Lawrence Kimberley, the Anglican Archbishop of Christchurch, and Mayor Phil Mauger delivered welcoming speeches. The ceremony was presided over by Very Reverend Lawrence Kimberley, and The Rt Rev'd Dr Peter Carrell, the Bishop of Christchurch, offered a prayer for King Charles. Christine Hainstock, Chair of the Royal Commonwealth Society Canterbury Region, and student representatives also offered blessings to the King during the ceremony. Very Reverend Lawrence Kimberley expressed joy at the presence of FGS and BLIA representatives and extended greetings to Venerable Abbess Manshin. FGS NZ representatives conveyed Abbess's congratulations and interacted with The Rev'd Bosco Peters, the Acting Bishop, Mayor Phil Mauger, and the Anglican community of Christchurch, introducing FGS Christchurch and the community activities conducted there. The Acting Bishop and the Mayor expressed admiration and gratitude for the presence of FGS NZ representatives at the event.
King Charles III has a deep connection with New Zealand, having visited the country nine times in the past. Previously, New Zealand celebrated Queen's Birthday on the first Monday of June, but starting this year, it will celebrate King's Birthday, which is on 5th June. The entire nation of New Zealand is excited to welcome the new monarch and hopes to move towards a more prosperous and flourishing future under the leadership of the King.