To express gratitude for the volunteers' selfless dedication throughout the year, Miami Fo Guang Shan held a year-end reunion on January 18, with 70 volunteers returning to the temple for the celebration. Abbot Ru Yuan led a blessing ceremony for the volunteers in the Main Shrine and recited a prayer by the founding master, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, dedicated to them.
In his speech, Venerable Ru Yuan sincerely thanked the volunteers for their contributions over the past year. He acknowledged their efforts in promoting Humanistic Buddhism and praised their unwavering dedication, emphasizing that it was their support that allowed the temple to take root in the local community and establish meaningful connections. He also reminded everyone that spreading the Dharma is a long journey and that maintaining good health is essential to continue serving Buddhism.
A special highlight of the event was a 2024 retrospective video showcasing the year’s Dharma activities. The video took everyone on a nostalgic journey through the various events they had participated in. Scenes of their hard work and devotion, as well as their smiles of joy and fulfillment, deeply moved every volunteer.
In an atmosphere of warmth and harmony, the monastics personally presented the volunteers with thoughtfully prepared New Year gifts as tokens of appreciation and blessings. The gathering then moved to the Five Contemplations Hall, where everyone enjoyed a delicious vegetarian hot pot meal prepared by the temple. As steam rose from the simmering pots, volunteers chatted, shared stories from the past year, and strengthened their bonds.
Yeh Jingmei from the Dharma Instrument Team expressed gratitude to the temple for organizing such a heartwarming event, allowing everyone to relax, converse, and unite in spirit. The gathering brought renewed strength and a sense of unity among the volunteers, filling them with confidence and anticipation for the year ahead.
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