Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation

On May 14th, Tzu Chi held a Buddha Bathing Ceremony at the Dao Lu Square of the Hualien Jing Si Hall to welcome the celebrations of Buddha Day, Mother's Day, and Tzu Chi Day in 2023. The founder of Tzu Chi, Master Cheng Yen, opened the event in person. Attending the event were Tzu Chi monastics, Tzu Chi volunteers and staff, teachers and students of Tzu Chi schools, Tzu Chi members, and members of the public. All gathered to pray sincerely for the harmony of the world.

At the same hour, volunteers in many regions connected online to participate in the ceremony simultaneously. In 2023, Tzu Chi volunteers in 46 countries around the world were expected to hold Bathing Buddha ceremonies, including at the Maya Devi Temple in Lumbini, Nepal, the birthplace of Buddha; in the Lumbini Garden, overseas Tzu Chi volunteers venerated Buddha's footsteps and held a Buddha Bathing Ceremony with local volunteers.

Master Cheng Yen encourages everyone to be grateful for the blessings of the Buddha, parents, and all sentient beings, as well as the blessings of the refreshing weather, timely rainfall, and nourishment for all living things. They allow the earth to flourish and humanity to live in harmony. By maintaining a heart of gratitude every day, and striving to benefit others, we can cultivate a spirit of harmony and love, work together to create a better world, and enjoy peace and prosperity with favorable weather. Let us pray for peace and harmony in the world and in our hearts.

So let us harbor a heart full of gratitude and a heart that benefits all beings every day. And we will make every day a Buddha Day.

Article by Yi-Qian Chen, Photo by Guan-Lin Chen, Yi-Qian Chen