Farewell to Monkey, Welcomed Gold Rooster

On 27th January, Fo Guang Shan (FGS) South Island New Zealand welcomed the arrival the year of Rooster in Chinese New Year at 10pm in Chinese New Year Eve Dharma function. Minister in Charge, Venerable Jue Xi led more than 60 Buddhist Light Association (BLIA) members and Devotees chanting and reading Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s ‘Chinese New Year Eve Prayer’. In the same time, make New Year greeting to founder of FGS Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Abbot of FGS Most Venerable Hsing Bao and FGS New Zealand Venerable Abbess Manshin.

Venerable Jue xi pointed out that Rooster has diligent, wise and brave characters. Therefore, if the public could learn of these good characters, they could have good havarst in this golden rooster year. Venerable was humorous told the public that Bodhisattvas are also born with Chinese zodiac rooster, because the Bodhisattvas have a character of ‘busybody’. When the public feeling doubt and pray for the Bodhisattvas blessing, they always willing to listen and assist. Venerable encouraged the public learns to take responsibility and have character of Bodhisattvas, to serve the public so that the life lives at ease and to the fullest of joyous. Venerable wished everyone happy Chinese New Year.

After the dharma function, hundreds of Devotees came forward to offer incenses, light the blessing lanterns, consult Venerable Master’s dharma words, and walked towards the cultural stalls to purchase Venerable Master’s literature, Buddhist artifacts and healthy vegetarian foods. The scene was lively and full of joy. This is the first Chinese New Year Eve for FGS South Island New Zealand after 4 years of restoration. The public congratulated and feels happy to be back to temple.