Xiangyun Temple Hangs Lanterns High — Cultivating Blessings Through Action, Cultivating Wisdom Through Harmony

Humanistic Buddhism News Correspondent Huang Sijin, Austin Report

As the Lunar New Year approaches, the Buddha's light shines everywhere. On the morning of January 31, Fo Guang Shan Xiangyun Temple in Austin held its annual New Year "Purifying the Grounds" activity. With lanterns hung high, about 70 volunteers enthusiastically participated. Ranging in age from 6 to 82, they embodied the spirit of generational continuity and harmonious collective practice within the Fo Guang family.

At 9:00 a.m., the monastics led everyone in reciting the Heart Sutra in the main hall, praying for the smooth completion of the activity. Afterwards, the volunteers were divided into 10 groups and, under the coordination of Jace, President of the English Chapter of the International Buddha's Light Association Austin, worked together to clean and organize the temple grounds.

Venerable Jueji, the temple supervisor, encouraged the participants with the theme "Harmonious Coexistence, Success with Vigor," emphasizing that learning Buddhism cultivates wisdom, while serving others cultivates blessings. Only through the dual cultivation of blessings and wisdom can life be truly complete. He reminded everyone that while cleaning the environment, they should also purify their own hearts and minds.

After the morning meal, Venerable Ruyuan prepared Laba congee to share with everyone, warming both body and spirit. Many volunteers shared their reflections, expressing that through service they experienced joy, peace, and the power of spiritual transmission, and that such participation is the best form of guidance by example for the next generation.

Through joyful labor and mutual support, Xiangyun Temple was renewed and refreshed. With concrete actions, everyone cultivated both blessings and wisdom, together welcoming a New Year filled with hope and blessings.

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