Candle Lighting Ceremony at the 2016 Summer Retreat – Ung Linh Thanh Ban Pagoda, Xuan Hoa Commune, Vu Thu District

03/05/2016

In this world of suffering, the Buddha appeared, bringing the light of wisdom, dispelling the dark veil of ignorance, igniting rays of hope, and alleviating the pain of life. He is like a kind father, bringing strength and righteousness to sentient beings, and like a compassionate mother, providing them with the soothing waters of loving-kindness.

How fortunate we are to still have the blessing of being near the Three Jewels. Tonight, on May 1, 2016, during our journey to rediscover ourselves and to "Live True," our Dharma circle organizes a special event at Ung Linh Pagoda, Xuan Hoa Commune, Vu Thu District, Thai Binh Province. With deep reverence, we light candles in gratitude and offer them to the Buddhas in all directions, praying for peace and prosperity for the nation, for the safety and health of our parents, and also praying for all of us — the Dharma practitioners, volunteers, and all participants of the 2016 Summer Retreat — wishing for peace, harmony, and auspicious success in all things.