NZ Fo Guang Shan New Year’s Day Pilgrimage

On the 1st of January 2013 at 6:30am, Fo Guang Shan North Island looked especially solemn under the world’s first ray of light. Under the guidance of Venerable Juehao, Venerable Jueguang, and Venerable Rulian, 200 devotees lined up in front of the main gate in orderly fashion to begin the day’s pilgrimage. While sincerely chanting “Namo Original Teacher Sakyamuni Buddha”, everyone slowly journeyed forward while performing 3 steps and 1 prostration, thus purifying body and mind, initiating right thoughts, making blessings for the New Year, and obtaining more compassion and wisdom from the Dharma. After arriving at the Main Shrine, Venerable Abbess Manshin lead everyone to recite “Prayers for Pilgrimage Day” and transferring merits. Thus the hour long pilgrimage was completed under a peaceful, reverent, and wondrous atmosphere.

The Abbess spoke to everyone about the significance of pilgrimage and respectfully prostrating to the Buddha. She also talked about learning to experience the Dharma, to be positively emotionally touched, dealing with others, and being grateful, thus purifying our mind. While we all prostrate forward through twists and turns, the pulse of ourselves and our family will be joined with that of the Buddha, and we will certainly attain fortune and wisdom.