DDM’s Abbot President Venerable Guo Dong attended the ceremony to offer his blessings and encouragement. He said that the recent catastrophe in Japan has taught us an important lesson of the impermanence of life. One therefore needs to realize the significance of cause-and-effect and the purification of the mind in order to lessen vexations. Finally, he encouraged everyone to practice with an altruistic attitude to develop merit and compassion in order to create a more peaceful society.

In addition to the Refuge-Taking Ceremony and the Abbot President’s inspirational remarks, Nung Chan Monastery had set up various stalls outside for newcomers to easily get to know DDM and its founder, the late Venerable Master Sheng Yen.

(translated by Jin Yang/edited by DDM Australia Editing Team)