On the evening of Jan. 9th, 2022 (Dec. 07th, LC), Hoang Phap Pagoda had a rite to bow to the names of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara to commemorate his merit.

 

Prostrating the name Bodhisattva  Avalokitesvara carries a special meaning about his spirit of learning, his vows to save suffering for sentient beings in this world. Therefore, pagodas, monasteries often organize annual courses on the bowing Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara on his birth days, such as Feb. 19th, June 19th or Sep. 19th of the lunar calendar.

After reciting the Buddha's names, bright candles were lit. Next, Junior Thich Tam Trinh showed his gratitude to all Buddhists. The monk told about his desire to leave home, bring Buddhism to everyone as well as predestined conditions of the rite of kowtow Avalokitesvara names.

The ceremony was conducted according to traditional ways. Junior Thich Tam Trinh chanted the name Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara.  After each of his titles, the mass repeated: "Namo Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva". The energy emanating from the sincerity and devotion of the mass is to pray for peace in the world, sentient beings to be delighted, all homes to be warm and happy, the epidemic to pass quickly.

Then, Most Thich Chan Tinh, the abbot of Hoang Phap Pagoda gave a few words of Dharma to the participants. Going to the pagoda to pay homage to the Buddha at the end of the year is the moment we think back on the past year of  cultivation. The practice is based on three aspects of body, speech, and mind so that we can know if we are moving forward or backward, doing good or bad things. We must observe ourselves with our ideas, words, and actions to cultivate to be better every day and avoid creating sinful and evil things.

At the end of the ceremony, Most AbbotThich Chan Tinh personally gave dharma books to the Buddhists who attended the rite. The gift includes books: Unique features of Buddhism, A private corner of sky, A handbook to practice.

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