A warmth Welcome for Dr. Ananda W.P. Guruge

In their tour of New Zealand, Dr Ananda W.P. Guruge (former Senior Professor and Registrar of Fo Guang Shan (FGS) University of Hsi Lai, United State) and his entourage consisting of his family and relatives, made a visit to FGS South Island on 15th November after visiting FGS North Island, Auckland earlier. The visiting entourage was warmly welcomed by FGS New Zealand Abbess Manshin, Venerable Jue Xi, Inspector Rakesh Naidoo of NZ Police, New Zealand Buddha’s Light International Association South Island President See Shen, Lee, Vice President Louisa Kuo, director Mei-Hwa, Chen and 30 other BLIA South Island members.

In his brief talk, Dr Guruge recalled how he came to be acquainted with Venerable Venerable Master Hsing Yun at the end of 1980s and was with Ven. Venerable Master Hsing Yun ever since. It was during this period that he was introduced to “Humanistic Buddhism” propagated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Dr Guruge expressed his deepest respect for Venerable Master Hsing Yun and was pleased that the members of NZ BLIA were able to learn and benefit from Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s teachings.

Dr Guruge also took the opportunity to give a brief introduction of University of Hsi Lai, United State, to the BLIA South Island members. At the same time Dr Guruge expressed his wish to see the setting up FGS University in New Zealand.

Abbess Manshin gave a review of the design of NZ FGS South Island Temple, and a brief report on the damages to the building caused by the earlier earthquake, and the repair works required to be carried out. Dr Guruge gave his prayer and blessing for the early reinstatement of the Temple to its former grandeur as he believed that no matter wherever one is, one would be blessed and protected by the dharma; and regardless of one’s race and language, we all share the common love for Buddha and His teachings.