Albert Lin, The Merit Times staff writer
June 12, 2023

Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple(I.B.P.S.) held the "2023 Five Precepts and Triple Gem Refuge Ceremony" on May 27th. A total of 142 preceptees took refuge in the Triple Gem and vowed to observe the precepts. Among them, 23 individuals were of American nationality, and the oldest preceptee was 82 years old.

Venerable Hui Dong, the abbot of Hsi Lai Temple, lectured that taking refuge is like seeing the light in the darkness, while taking the precepts is like wearing armor to protect the body and mind. 

Venerable Hui Dong encouraged the preceptees, emphasizing that taking refuge and receiving the precepts should not be done solely for seeking blessings or personal liberation. 

Furthermore, Venerable Hui Dong urged preceptees to cease any wrongdoing in the future and engage in repentance, making a solemn commitment to practice Humanistic Buddhism and benefit all sentient beings.

Preceptee Gloria Velasquez expressed that taking refuge and taking the precepts have brought her infinite joy and strength, "Today, I feel reborn."

Preceptee Gloria Velasquez(left) expressed that taking refuge and taking the precepts have brought her infinite joy and strength.photo／The Life News Agency

Hsi Lai Temple presented each preceptee with Venerable Master Hsing Yun's book "Life is down" in the hopes that Venerable Master Hsing Yun's dharma words would assist them in gaining strength on their Buddhist path and maintaining their commitment to the precepts.

Hsi Lai Temple presented each preceptee with Venerable Master Hsing Yun's book. photo／The Life News Agency