Interfaith Celebration at ODU (4 April 2012)
Dong Hung temple was invited for the second time to ODUs Interfaith Celebration (4 April 2012). Last year we recieved a warm welcome from the students and faculty and many questions about Buddhism.
Even though Buddhism has had a presence in the United States since the 1950s, many people still have not been exposed to it and or have no idea what Buddhisms core values are. The response was similar this year. Many people came up to our table to ask questions about Buddhism. Almost everyone was surprised to find that there are Buddhists monks and a temple in the area.
This year we were given the opportunity to share some of our chanting, explain a little about meditation and sharing merit. We started with breath meditation and then the Venerable monks sang the Praise for Purified Water chant. This chant is about Avalokitesvara's meritorious purification water, which can cleanse any defiled mind with only one drop! Next we introduced the history of Vietnamese chanting. Then the Venerable monks sang the Taking Refuges chant, that which reminds all Buddhist followers to return and rely on the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha for protection and insight. Afterwards we encouraged everyone to join us in sharing our merit. Overall, it was a wonderful opportunity for spreading happiness, peace, and the Dharma.
Letter from the ODU correspondent
Dear friends,
Please accept our warmest thanks and gratitude for your wonderful performance at the Interfaith Celebration and representation during the Interfaith Fair. Without you, it would have been impossible for us to organize such a diverse and encompassing event. Please extend our thanks to the rest of your group.
Thank you so much!
Source: buddhistedu.org