Amitabha Dharma Function Final Transfer of Merit Ceremony

The final Transfer of Merit Ceremony for the Amitabha Dharma function commenced on the morning of 24th November. Venerable Abbess Manshin led the congregation to recite “Amitabha Sutra”, chanting Amitabha Buddha’s name with reverence and finally reading Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s “Prayer and Wishes to Amitabha Buddha”. Wishing deliverance with guidance from the buddhas and bodhisattvas, receiving the blessings of their pure Dharma water, which leads to the growth of wholesome Bodhi roots and power of vows. 120 devotees attended this gathering.

Afterwards Fo Guang Shan Benefactors Committee Chairperson Venerable Manyi gave everyone a talk regarding the subject of “Happiness starts from the mind”. The Venerable shared with everyone the experience of being a close attendant to Venerable Master Hsing Yun, which led to many life’s anecdotes from various small events. This encouraged everyone that happiness comes from changing one’s views and all wholesome causes and conditions all starts from the mind. Venerable Manyi expressed that Venerable Master Hsing Yun possess an unshakable faith for the sake of Buddhism and the masses. For he maintains an attitude of “never handing in the return ticket” when dealing with issues, making him a great role model for everyone. The Venerable Master once said: “Hardship and challenges from others are tests to our thoughts of cultivation and will power. In comparison to the extreme trials and tribulations experienced by the Buddha while he was cultivating on Casual Ground; our challenges are nothing but minor setbacks, which aren’t worth mentioning.” Happiness comes from contentment, simplicity, the ability to see through events and moving on from events. Then we can live with harmony and carefreeness.

Finally the Venerable shared the song “What is Happiness” with everyone.