FO Guang Shan Temple in Maylands will be spreading good luck and prosperity to the community during its annual Chinese New Year festivities this week.
The temple and the Buddha’s Light International Association of WA (BLIAWA) have organised events featuring lion dances, entertainment, blessings, prayer offering services and vegetarian meals from Chinese New Year’s Eve on February 15 through to February 18.
BLIAWA member Grace Collins said traditionally, the New Year was celebrated over 14 days and the temple expected about 1000 visitors within this period.
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READ NOW“During this time, the temple building is decorated with festive red lanterns, spring flowers and goodwill messages to give a sense of happiness and joy to all,” she said.
“Chinese New Year is very much a time to honour and pay respects to our ancestors and elders, and to follow our spiritual beliefs.”
Ms Collins said families and friends would visit homes with oranges (‘kum’, which rhymes with gold in Chinese) and children and seniors received red packets (‘hongbao’) with money inside.
“This will be the Year of the Dog, an auspicious animal in the Chinese zodiac that signifies loyalty and honesty,” she said.
Fo Guang Shan Temple’s events
New Year’s Eve WHEN: February 15, from 9pm WHAT: A hearty meal, short service in the temple’s main shrine, Chinese lion dance and prayer at 11pm
First day of Chinese New Year WHEN: February 16, from 10.30am WHAT: Thousand Buddhas Dharma Service and vegetarian lunch
Second day of Chinese New Year WHEN: February 17 WHAT: Visitors can enjoy a healthy vegetarian lunch of curry rice, fried noodles, spring rolls and dumplings
Third day of Chinese New Year WHEN: February 18, 9.30am WHAT: Devotees will fill the main shrine for the Great Compassion Repentance Service479350p: Fo Guang Shan Temple’s Venerable Miao Xi and Venerable Ru Ting with temple members
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