2011 North and South Island BLIA Members Get-Together
The Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) North and South Island NZ members held a two day “BLIA New Zealand Fellowship” get-together on 5 & 6 June at The Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Temple in Auckland. Abbess Manshin, Venerables, BLIA North Island President Dolly Tsai and approximately 55 BLIA members attended the meeting. Six members were from BLIA South Island NZ . They were accompanied by Venerables Juexi and Miaoyu.
On 5 June, the meeting commenced with BLIA North Island President Dolly Tsai welcoming all South Island members to the temple and explained to every participant the objective and agenda for these two days. The group was then divided into two for a tour of the new pagoda whereby both group leaders emphasised on the architecture and design of the building. Then Abbess Manshin conducted a simple quiz with both groups on the understanding of the pagoda and everyone was tested. It brought a lively atmosphere and a better comprehension of the tour.
In the evening, with the cold weather outside, a sumptuous steamboat dinner was served. It was a time of sharing the dharma joy and getting to know one another better and brought everyone closer together . After dinner, all members participated in the “Endless Night 2011”. It showcased the multiple talents of all members with performances of dance, songs and hand gestures. The integration and creativity of the members truly portrayed the hope and joy of giving and reaching out to everyone. This is indeed the great spirit of Humanistic Buddhism.
The next morning, Abbess Manshin had a Question and Answer session with the BLIA members. The questions included: 1. How to live in the midst of society with an untroubled body and mind. 2. What are the details to pay attention to before a Dharma function and how to maintain the Main Shrine in a dignified manner. 3. How to live harmoniously in an inter-religious family. 4. How do Humanistic Buddhists view Feng Shui. In the session, Abbess included a story of Chinese Zen Masters, “The Price of Enlightenment “ about the Second Patriarch, Huike, who was so determined to learn from Bodhidharma that he amputated an arm to show his sincerity. The story taught that before one finds peace of body and mind, one must discover one’s own heart. With right mindfulness, peace would be attained. Besides that, Abbess also expressed that it is utmost important in inter-religious marriages to respect and to embrace each other. She further explained that Buddhism does not promote “Feng Shui”, and told the story of how 50 years ago , Venerable Master Hsing Yun turned a piece of unwanted land into a home for all Buddhists and this is where Fo Guang Shan Headquarters stands majestically today. This shows that where there is a will, there is a way. Hard work is the decisive factor coupled with cause and effect. These simple explanations from Abbess brought answers to everyone and led to a better understanding of Humanistic Buddhism.
Later at 1 pm, the “BLIA New Zealand Fellowship” continued with a meeting chaired by BLIA North Island President Dolly Tsai, with Venerable Abbess Manshin, FGS North Island Temple Supervisor Venerable Manwang , FGS South Island Temple Supervisor Venerable Juexi and members in attendance. Matters discussed at the meeting were: (1). Encouraging more members to attend the December 2011 BLIA World Headquarters General Conference and the Opening of the Buddha Memorial Center. (2). The 14 August Ullambana Festival to be organised jointly by North and South Island organising committee. (3). Preparation for the Buddhism Knowledge Exam and Dharma Talks. (4). To confirm the dates for Buddha’s Birthday Celebration in 2012. (5). Participating in the July 2011 annual International Buddhist Youth Conference in Nan Tien Temple, Sydney.
At the close of the two day get-together, Venerable Abbess Manshin expressed that the passion and enthusiasm shown by all should continue and wished everyone would endeavour to lead a fulfilling and positive way of life. Also, we should strive to promote and propagate Buddhism by engaging in more activities and leading by example.