03/01/2025

Xiangyun Temple's New Year Pǔchá: Appreciating Volunteers and Sharing Dharma Joy

Reported by Renjian News Agency Journalist Zhou Li in Austin

On March 1st, Xiangyun Temple hosted a New Year Pǔchá (a Buddhist tea gathering) to express gratitude to the Fo Guang members and volunteers who dedicated their time and efforts to the temple during the New Year celebrations. The event provided an opportunity for attendees to reflect on the past activities, share their insights, and enjoy delicious tea and refreshments. Over 50 participants, including both Chinese and American attendees, joined the gathering.

Resident monk Venerable Jueji expressed appreciation for the volunteers’ selfless contributions, emphasizing that giving without expectation is a form of spiritual cultivation. He encouraged everyone to continue their diligent practice. Venerable Yongjia led the attendees in chanting Buddhist verses, filling the space with sacred sounds and creating a warm and harmonious atmosphere.

During the volunteer sharing session, Wu Xiaoyi spoke about explaining Buddhist teachings to visitors and how it brought them hope. Daniel reflected on the smooth coordination of traffic management, attributing its success to teamwork. Jace shared a heartwarming experience of distributing 1,500 cups of bubble tea. Meanwhile, Tam, the soon-to-relocate president of the English-speaking division, expressed delight at Xiangyun Temple’s progress in localizing its presence and the steady growth of Fo Guang members. The attendees also extended their gratitude and best wishes to Tam and his spouse, Summer.

Venerable Jueji led the recitation of an English prayer and presented each participant with a book as a token of connection, hoping that volunteers would incorporate compassion and wisdom into their daily lives for the benefit of all beings.