Light Offering Completion Dharma Function held at Fo Guang Shan – Good Names Heard Far and Wide and Increase in Both Fortune and Merit

The Light Offering Completion Dharma Function was held on 15th January at the temple. The ceremony was presided over by Venerable Abbess Manshin and attended by over 150 devotees. The proceedings included recitation of “Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Universal Gate Chapter Sutra” and “Prayers and Wishes for Light Offering” by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. All merits and virtue from lights offered were transferred toward successful endeavours and peaceful lives.

Afterwards the Abbess explained the important symbolism of light, as light can illuminate darkness, express energy, warm the earth, rejuvenate life, remove fear, nurture all things and enable the fruition of causes and conditions. Hence she encouraged everyone to practice with diligence so they can all improve. Then everyone can become people with passion, warm and caring, and rich in inner cultivation. She also reminded everyone that practicing Buddhism is to always remember the Buddha in your heart, so your eyes, ears, nose tongue, body and mind all dwells in the Buddha’s world. At the same time we must also think about others, and then we can be courageous, full of vitality and are able to take responsibilities. Therefore our own light will become warmer and brighter. Lastly she shared Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s New Year’s Couplet Slogan of “Rising Dawn of Success” with everyone, wishing them all to have a peaceful, auspicious and renowned New Year.