05/19/2024

Xiangyun Temple Celebrated Buddha's Birthday

- translated by Viva Rogers

5/19 Xiangyun Temple held a celebration of Buddha's Christmas, which was hosted by the English branch of the Austin Buddha Light Society. It attracted more than 300 people to celebrate together. Wonderful activities include Buddha's bathing offerings, program performances, and international food tastings. Simone Talma Flowers, executive director of the Multi-Religious Organization in Central Texas (iACT), and Alison Alter, a city councilor and acting mayor of Austin, were also invited to participate in the event.

The dedication team, represented by various countries and ethnic groups, dressed in grand costumes, devoutly offered incense, tea, lamps, treasures and four offerings, praying for light and compassion to shine on the world. After the Dharma meeting, the lion dance team led the guests to enter and revealed the happy atmosphere. The Chinese folk dances of Buddha youth, as well as the brilliant dances of dance troupes in Vietnam, India, Hawaii and Ukraine, make people feel the charm of different cultures. The flute player, Zhang Yuqi's flute performance, is fascinating.

Accompanied by the beautiful music of the Golden Bull, the public went to the stalls in Malaysia, China, Taiwan, Japan, India, and the United States decorated with various customs to enjoy different flavors of food. The guests were amazed that in addition to bathing in the Buddha today, they also experienced international culture, art and food.