English
Due to the pandemic, the Buddha's Light Centre Waterloo (BLC Waterloo) has been closed for the past two years. After more than a month of preparation, it was specially opened for the public to offer New Year incense from the first to the fifth day of the Chinese New Year (February 1st to 5th).
Venerable Ru Xing, the advising Venerable of BLC Waterloo, and Grace Wang, president of BLIA Waterloo subchapter, led BLIA members to shovel snow and hang outdoor lights under the frigid weather of minus 20 Celsius, as well as, cleaned and arranged indoor decorations for many consecutive days. They also made special New Year paper cutting of the word "spring" and hung them on the lanterns and trees to decorate the outdoor. The meaning of the decoration is new year wishes for prosperity when spring comes, and it is very well-liked by everyone.
Despite the strong winds and snow, on the second day of the Chinese New Year, the abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, Venerable Chueh Fan and Venerable Ru Xing went to BLC Waterloo to welcome BLIA members and devotees. In addition to celebrating the Chinese New Year with Venerables, members and devotees cherished the opportunity to express their gratitude. Some members shared with Venerables their current situation, and some asked for the 2022 event information. Although the New Year may face many challenges, with the support and guidance of Venerables, all of them expressed their faith and courage to continue to help and serve the community and BLIA members.
By Ami Tran
