Acknowledging those Assisted in Earthquake Recovery
Sergeant Rakesh Naidoo from the New Zealand Police, National Strategic Advisor invited Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Venerable Abbess Manshin, Venerable Miaoyu with Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) South Island upcoming President See-Shen Lee and Secretary James Low to attend an appreciation dinner to acknowledge communities that assisted during the Christchurch earthquake. It took place on November 5 at 6.30pm in Richmond Christchurch’s Rehua Maori. This event is organized by the New Zealand Federation of Multicultural Councils, Christchurch’s City Council, New Zealand Police and Christchurch’s Maori elders. VIPs including Inspector Doug Parker, District Intelligence Manager, Christchurch City Councillor Jimmy Chen and many others attended.
The host gratefully thanked all faiths, races and communities that assisted greatly during and after the February 22 earthquake. The event was attended by around 100 members from various faiths and communities. The event began with a Maori ceremony and everyone was invited into the Rehua Maori by its Secretary, Terry Ryan with prayers and blessings.
Dr Surinder Tandon, the President of the Multicultural Council then thanked everyone and be proud of the assistance given to Christchurch. He then presented the Certificate of Appreciation to various religious leaders, ethnic groups, communities and outstanding volunteers. Venerable Abbess Manshin and See-Shen represented FGS and BLIA in receiving the certificate. When Venerable Abbess Manshin was invited to give some words and experience during the earthquake, she expressed that FGS founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun donated NZ$ 100 thousand to help. Meanwhile, FGS South Island offered free hot food, simple medical aid, water, a place of tranquil, a place of comfort for the family of those affected and also a place of assistance for the police officers. After that, Venerable Abbess Manshin thanked the host in presenting the certificate to the collective effort of BLIA members. Applause is given to the hosts giving mutual encouragement to each other, power of cooperation and public spirit to all that attended.