On evening of August 9th, 2014, Lingyin Temple hosted festivities for Ullambana as well as propagating Buddhist and Chinese traditions of filial piety in which parents of the venerable masters of the Temple were the honored guests. Abbot Guangquan addressed the crowd of almost five hundred guests.
In a detailed conversation with reporters, Abbot Guangquan took the time to elaborate on the annual event, discussing Buddhism's tradition of honoring parents--even for the left-home masters, one must fulfill the duty of filial piety. In addition, the Abbot hopes that the event is also an opportunity for the family of master to have a better understanding of this environment, of Buddhism. Equally important is to tend to parents at home when possible, to understand their actually needs, their environment; one must reciprocate to the causal givers of this life and tender of this life. Through generating filial affection as an element of society, we can have a more compassionate one, and more harmonious.
The event also featured tea ceremony and emotional conversations with some parents of Lingyin Temple's masters who shared their heartfelt stories as well. The audience of mostly family members grew more emotional with each account of a family's experience for a Lingyin master to devote himself to Buddhism. After the final interview, still tears and smiles in audience, this year's Ullambana festivities concluded to the grandeur of Triple Gem Song by venerable masters..
For Ullambana event, Lingyin Temple dedicated evening to filial piety
Chan tea offering to the Buddha
Lingyin master with family member discussed cultivation in relation to filial respect
Tea ceremony
Abbot Guangquan also captivated by Interviews with families
Guests of the evening with the faithful in prayer looked on
The Triple Gem Song of praise concluded this year's Ullambana event
