Fo Guang Shan Sunday Dharma Function – Buddhism’s Crisis and Rescue

2013’s first Dharma Function was on the morning of 6th January. Venerable Abbess Manshin led a reverent congregation of 80 devotees to recite the Amitabha Sutra and “Prayers for Amitabha Buddha” by Venerable Master Hsing Yun.

Afterwards the Abbess gave a talk regarding Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s exhortations on Buddhism’s crisis. Reasons for Buddhism’s waning will be caused by:

1. Lack of a Patriarch/religious leader
2. Lack of teaching
3. Lack of a Sangha
4. Lack of organisation
5. Lack of changing for the better/with the times
6. Lack of unity

Later North Island BLIA board member Hua Mei Gao, Central sub-chapter chairperson Peggy Hsan, and East one sub-chapter chairperson Jennifer Lian read out “Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s 2013 Letter to Dharma Protectors and Friends”. Within, the Venerable Master included all of Fo Guang Shan’s 2012 accomplishments in the field of culture, education and media. It also included the achievements of the Master’s many disciples while propagating Buddhism around the world. Thus encouraging everyone to strive forward.

The Abbess urged everyone to use Buddhism as their compass, thus letting our mind and body becoming content.