YAD performs “Harmonize” at the Interfaith Vigil

On 16th July young people from faith communities throughout New Zealand gathered to stand in solidarity with the people of Christchurch. The service in Christchurch was held at St Michael’s and All Angels Church, the only central city church to survive the earthquake of 22 February. The purpose of the vigils is to raise the morale of Christchurch people by letting them know that the nation is still with us. Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) South Island Secretary, James Low, members, See-Shen Lee, Benny Wong and Ding Lihson together with BLIA Young Adult Division (YAD) President, Hao-Tin Lin, members, Vanessa Wong, Jordan Wong and others that sum up to 12 members altogether attended the vigil. The event started with Christchurch Vigil Coordinator Isaac Freeman welcoming everyone from different faiths to personally reflect and meditate on what has happened in Christchurch. The evening also gave the chance for all attendees to light candles blessings of Christchurch and the people. Also attending the Vigil were, MP for Christchurch Central, Brandon Burns, List National MP Resident in Christchurch, Nicky Wagner and more than 30 other young people from various faiths and religions such as the Maoris, Hindus, Christians has join in the singing and chanting and small talks that evening. The BLIA YAD members had a performance of hand gesture alongside the song “Harmonize”. Attendees were then having a good time talking to each other and the BLIA YAD members have had a great chance in meeting new members and friends from youths of other Interfaith. At the end of the vigil, everyone had a chance to toll the church bell and had a group picture together.