Fo Guang Shan (North Island) NZ -Thousands Joined in the Celebration at the Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner

The Fo Guang Shan (North Island) held its’ Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner on 29th Jan, 2011. As the population of the Chinese in Auckland increases, this joyous occasion was an important end of year celebration for them. Locals who enjoy the Chinese culture also joined in the function. Almost a thousand people arrived at the Temple at 6pm, including former Minister of Ethnic Affairs Hon Pansy Wong, Jamie-Lee Matenga Ross and his wife, and local artist Yingling Tang. Most of the visitors joined the praying ceremony in the Main Shrine where Venerable Abbess Manshin led the chanting of the “Heart Sutra” and a reading of Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s “Prayer for the New Year”. Venerable Abbess Manshin welcomed everyone to the Temple to celebrate the Lunar New Year. “Skillful Wisdom and Enlightened Mind” is the New Year’s Dharma words written by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Venerable Abbess Manshin explained the meaning of these words by reminding us to use wisdom in our life and to practise the three good deeds and four conveniences.

After the ceremony,Venerable Manshin and the invited guests proceeded to dinner and the performances for the evening commenced. The first performance for the evening was the Japanese drums, followed by the Jade River Tai Chi Club, which consists of a group of 65-93 year olds, attracting everyone’s attention with their smart uniforms and smooth actions. Other programs included singing and singing with hand gestures. The invited guests gave their speeches in between the performances. Firstly, advisor to BLIA (North Island) Mr. Peter Young thanked all volunteers and commended Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Humanistic Buddhism in enhancing an individual’s character and virtue. He also appreciated Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s focus on educating and training more youths. Simultaneously, Peter encouraged everyone to promote the “Environmental and Spiritual Preservation” theme by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. He hoped everyone sets his own goals clearly, and uses skillful wisdom and an enlightened mind in the year of the Rabbit. Secondly, former Minister of Ethnic Affairs, Hon Pansy Wong wished everyone the best, and introduced 25 year old Jamie-Lee Matenga Ross who is National Party's candidate in the coming Botany by-election to be held on March 5, stating that joining the Reunion dinner was the best start to Jamie’s new career. Led by Venerable Abbess Manshin, Fo Guang Shan (North Island) became an important hub for Buddhism, culture and community. Also on behalf of our Prime Minister, John Key, he wished everyone a Happy New Year.

Thereafter, Venerable Abbess Manshin presented awards for outstanding performances to the president of each Sub-Chapter; East One Sub-Chapter Ronald Lee, East Two Sub-Chapter Lily Bernardo, Center Sub-Chapter Sukuan Gong, and English Sub-Chapter Lesley Ruki-Willison. She thanked them for their efforts over the past year, displaying dedication and contributing from their hearts. At the end of the evening, Venerable Abbess Manshin and all of the volunteers sang the “Song of Fo Guang Shan”.