“Returning Home” Event at Dharma Drum Vancouver Center

On January 24, 2015, an event was held at Dharma Drum Mountain Vancouver Center on the theme of “Returning Home”.

The audience filled the Chan Hall to capacity. The afternoon began with a video review of the past year in Dharma Drum Mountain Vancouver Center. Venerable Chang Wu reviewed some of the turbulent world events of the last year and made a prayer for peace and tranquillity in 2015. Through the magic of video, Venerable Guo Dong, Abbot President of Dharma Drum Mountain, also gave his new year’s blessings. He encouraged all to use wisdom and compassion to benefit all beings. The Venerable Chang Shen then led the group in the chanting of sutras, and we watched a recording of a Dharma talk by the Venerable Master Sheng Yen. As the conclusion of this part of the event, three members of the association – Julianne, Lidia, and Mr. Lin -- spoke about the influence of Buddhism on their lives. It was inspiring to hear how three people from different backgrounds have benefitted from the Dharma teachings.

The next portion of the event began with songs by the choir. At the end, four adorable kids came into the hall, singing the beautiful Buddhist hymn “Dian Deng De Hai Zi” (“The Children Who Light the Candles”). They led us into the dining hall, where the senior choir got everybody moving with some rousing songs. This culminated with a conga line around the room, after which everybody was laughing. Then, after a raffle, it was time to eat! Members had brought in a range of tempting treats, and the kitchen staff had outdone themselves, as usual. What a delicious end to a fun afternoon!

This event was both entertaining and inspiring. I want to give a hand to all of the volunteers who worked hard to make it successful. Their boundless dedication, enthusiasm and generosity is an example to us all.

(Shared by Paul Hancock, Dharma Drum Vancouver Center)