Attending Emperor Liang Repentance Dharma Service

Emperor Liang Repentance Dharma service held on the first of May at the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) south island New Zealand. The service was conducted by FGS New Zealand Venerable Abbess Manshin alongside many other venerables. After the opening cleansing on the first day, the first and second chapter’s Repentance Dharma sutra were carried out straight after. The service participants confessed, prayed and chanted Buddha’s name in the pure and dignified sound of Dharma service chants, feeling the outstanding power of Dharma. Participants included Buddha Light International Association (BLIA) president of North Island Dolly Tsai, BLIA South Island Advisor Mr. John Lai, BLIA south Island president See Shen Lee and deputy presidents Gina Chen, Louisa Kou and 60 other BLIA members.

Abbess Manshin gave explanation on the different themes and contents in each chapter of sutra scriptures. The first and second chapter each gave emphasis on paying tribute to the triple gem, and secondly the demolition of doubts, thirdly confession and repentance, fourthly to deliver Bodhi, fifthly to vow for greater doings, and lastly to transfer blessing to all beings. Especially in the first Chapter which mentioned repentance on stopping someone to become monastic, cultivating precepts, devotion or carry tolerance. Abbess Manshin also explained the underlying meaning for offering flowers and incense, which is to let people understand the relationship between cause and condition.

The first service ran smoothly, and four more days would follow afterwards. The full Sutra scripture volume containing a total of ten chapters was completed on the 5th May. There were two sessions held each day during the service week, in order to let people who could not attend due to day-time job. Also to allow the participants to choose their best time at their own will.