Wednesday Afternoon - Summer Retreat "Life's Slope" 2026.

Participants took part in a doctrinal competition about the life of Buddha Shakyamuni before the public speaking competition on the theme “Life's Slope.” This meaningful competition helped the youth review the sacred events that occurred during His life.

At 3 p.m., the “Life's Slope” public speaking competition began. Under the rules, each group discussed how modern youth navigate various "slopes" of life—namely dreams, perseverance, obstacles, challenges, breakthroughs, and maturity—which represent the bumpy Slope they must face on their journey to adulthood. Demonstrating their knowledge, abilities, and keen observation of contemporary issues, the participants skillfully quoted Buddha's teachings in their group's arguments. Therefore, each group left a deep impression on the venerable Monks of the judging panel and fellow participants, achieving well-deserved results in this summer retreat.

 

Next, Junior Thich Tam Duoc of Hoang Phap Pagoda gave a lecture titled "Eight Benefits of Observing the Three Refuges and Five Precepts" to prepare the audience for tomorrow's Refuge Ceremony. Thanks to this, young listeners will understand the meanings of taking refuge in the Three Jewels, the Five Precepts, or repentance; the concepts of “Original master" and "Dependent master," the meaning of Dharma names, and what defines a male or female lay follower.

 

For over an hour, the venerable Monk taught about the eight benefits of complying with the Three Refuges and Five Precepts, reiterating the truths that the Buddha Shakyamuni taught over 25 centuries ago to the young attendees. Through this, young attendees can develop pure faith in the Three Jewels, live with right views, and strive towards a noble life in their youth.

_____________

Hoang Phap Pagoda

Address: 96 Hamlet 8, Hoc Mon Commune, Ho Chi Minh City

Temple Office: 0283713 0002

Email: chuhoangphapvietnam@gmail.com

Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/ Vietnamchuahoangphap

Website: https://chuahoangphap.com.vn/

Photos recorded: