Fo Guang Shan Venerables Attends Local Youth’s Funeral Service

On 17th April, Venerable Rulian, Venerable Zhiming and BLIA President (North Island) Dolly Tsai were invited to attend the funeral service of Brody Sutherland, who is the nephew of English sub-chapter Member Deborah. The service was attended by over 150 relatives and friends.

The service commenced at Manukau Funeral Memorial Hall, where the casket was carried to site by a motorcycle. The mourners then proceeded on stage to reminisce great times spent with the deceased as well as offering farewell blessings. Then the Venerables were invited to offer incense for the deceased as well as chant Master Hsing Yun’s “Prayers and Wishes for the Deceased”. Everyone in attendance was touched by Buddhism’s simple yet profoundly meaningful rituals for this occasion, which brought peace to people’s mind.

As a young motorcycle enthusiast, the 17 year old Brody was unfortunately struck by a truck on the evening of 11th April. From the recommendation of Aunty Deborah, Fo Guang Shan Venerables were invited to the service to perform rituals in order to settle everyone’s grieving hearts. All the relatives were grateful toward the Temple’s attendance, which allowed them to develop strength to face the sadness brought on by the passing of this young life.