Lunar New-Year Praying for Peace Ceremony

On Feb. 15th, 2020 (Jan. 15th, LC), devout Buddhists came to Hoang Phap Pagoda to pray for a peace ceremony in the New Year. Because the Covid-19 epidemic is still present, the ceremony was held briefly and ensured conditions for disease prevention and control.

On the important moments of the first days of the new year, we often go to the pagoda to attend the rite praying for good things for ourselves, whole family to have peace, good health, and enjoy blessings.

At 9 am, a solemn rite to welcome respected monks and nuns was taken. Before the official rite happened, Most Ven Thich Chan Tinh, the Abbot, had some dharma words to all participants.

The Covid-19 pandemic in 2021 has caused many deaths and pains; the fact that all of us still exist here is considered a great blessing. From here we clearly see the fragility of human destiny and how difficult it is to have a human body again. Therefore, while still breathing and still living in the world, we should try to practice purity of body, speech, and mind, to keep our mind clean, and to do many beneficial things for ourselves, our families, and society.

From the folk beliefs of badness relieving-star worshiping and the Wealth God day, Master clearly explained these issues. We should rethink about praying for peace, which is praying for peace to the family; but if wishing peace, we need to know how to sow goodness, and avoid evils, cultivate virtues, keep five precepts, and deeply believe in cause and effect. From those good causes, happiness and peace will come to those who do good, not begging from any god.

After the talk, the official ceremony took place. The mass respectfully recites sutra, prays for a happy new year, and hopes all people will return to rely on the Three Jewels, practice the Buddha's teachings. Finally, praying for peace for the nation and the happiness of people in the new year.

Some photos recorded: