Baby Blessing and Taking Refuge under the Triple Gem Ceremonies

FGS holds Baby Blessing and Taking Refuge under the Triple Gem Ceremonies during the Buddha’s Birthday Celebration

The “2012 Buddha’s Birthday Multi-cultural Festival” was held at Fo Guang Shan on 15th April. Every corner of the temple was packed with devotees and visitors, it’s estimated that approximately 10000 visitors participated in the event.

The Baby Blessing Ceremonies commenced at 1:30pm inside the Main Shrine. 130 little darlings, their guardians and relatives, totaling up to 400 people participated in the ceremony. The Main Shrine was filled with the sound of Joy and hope. Venerable Abbess Manshin led everyone through the reciting of Buddhist sutras and blessed the babies with sprinkling of Holy Water. “Water Drop Avalokitesvara bodhisattva” necklaces were gifted to the little ones, wishing the compassion of Avalokitesvara bodhisattva would protect and guide them throughout their life. It’s also hoped that they will discover direction and aspirations for life through the wise teachings of the Buddha.

The Triple Gem Refuge Taking Ceremonies quickly proceeded after the Baby Blessing at 2:30pm. 40 multi-ethic Refuge receptors aspired to become a true Buddhist during this momentous occasion of celebrating the Buddha’s birthday. The Venerable Abbess Manshin led the devotees through the Refuge Taking Ceremony on behalf of Grand Master Hsing Yun. She also expounded the meaning of “Taking Refuge under the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha”. After the prepared Prayer Bracelets were secured onto the wrists of every new Refuge taker, they all realized that Buddhism shall become their strength of faith life after life.

Throughout this Festival, the power of faith have settled people’s mind, and people of different ages have planted the wholesome seed of the Dharma within their heart. Through the journey of their lives, they will have the protection of the Buddha, so they can face all challenges without fear.