Ung Linh Pagoda (Thai Binh): Opening of the 2016 Summer Retreat with the theme 'True Living'

01/05/2016

In order to meet the needs of learning and recreation in the spirit of compassion, wisdom, and deep devotion for the young Buddhist students in and outside of Xuan Hoa commune, and to commemorate the 41st anniversary of the liberation of the South and the 126th birthday of our beloved President Ho Chi Minh, we are honored to receive the attention of all levels of the Buddhist community, respected monks and nuns in various pagodas and monasteries, as well as support from local government agencies. Additionally, the eager spirit of learning, the desire for knowledge, and the direction toward virtuous acts of the youth in the region have been evident.

Today, on May 1st, 2016, corresponding to the 25th day of the 3rd month in the Year of the Monkey, a special occasion has come together at Ung Linh Pagoda, Thanh Ban, Xuan Hoa Commune, Vu Thu District, Thai Binh Province, for the grand opening of the 2016 Summer Retreat for young people, under the theme: “True Living”. The retreat lasts for 3 days, from April 30 to May 2, 2016. The event aims to create a fresh, peaceful space for activities, study, and recreation, helping young participants reconnect with their roots, the world of spirituality, and learn the precious teachings of Buddhism.

At the retreat, young participants will have the opportunity to directly engage with experienced Dharma teachers who are well-versed in the thousands of years of Buddhist culture and history. They will also learn psychological methods to cope with adversity and suffering brought about by the pressures of daily life. In addition, participants will experience the ascetic lifestyle, living in mindfulness and tranquility, as those who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of liberation.

The retreat program will continue to accompany the participants through various activities in the coming days, including Dharma talks, the candlelight ceremony of gratitude, cultural exchanges, spontaneous Dharma discussions, the bell-ringing competition, and traditional games.

With its unique approach, the retreat aims to provide a healthy, beneficial environment for young people. The 2016 Summer Retreat at Ung Linh Pagoda hopes to equip the participants with a broad understanding of both Dharma and societal issues. The spiritual practices will gradually help them transform and improve both body and mind, ultimately finding their true goals and life purpose.

Contributing Writer: Thuy Thao

Below are some images from the opening ceremony of the 2016 Summer Retreat at Ung Linh Pagoda – Thanh Ban – Xuan Hoa – Vu Thu – Thai Binh: