The world of Tzu Chi June 2020 (Vol.123)

TZU CHI 123 41 Reported by Tzu Chi Documenting Team Translated by Translating Team Photograph provided by Tzu Chi Taiwan Headquarters I n keeping with the new normal of social distancing and avoiding mass gatherings, Buddhists worldwide commemorated Vesak Day this year through online fellowship events and ceremonies. On May 7, 2020, Tzu Chi collaborated with the Buddhist Association of the United States (BAUS) in organizing an online Buddhist and interfaith dialogue, themed “The Buddhist Response to Covid-19: In Observance of Vesak Day 2020”. The session garnered 434 viewers from various countries, including the USA, France, Germany, Taiwan, India, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand. Representatives from various Buddhist organizations and monasteries, as well as spiritual leaders of other faiths such as Christianity, Catholicism, Islam and Judaism, participated in the live telecast session, offering insights on ways to cope with the pandemic and highlighting the Covid-19 response efforts undertaken by the Buddhist community. The session also featured appearances by several representatives from the United Nations (UN), who elaborated on UN’s endeavours in fostering compassion and global peace, both of which are values that align with Buddhist principles. During the session, one of the Dharma masters recited opening prayers in Sanskrit and the classical Tibetan language with the hope of conferring blessings on all beings. Master De Yuan from the Jing Si Abode in Hualien, Taiwan conveyed Master Cheng Yen’s reminder to all to be vigilant of our conduct and our thoughts, besides harbouring compassion and gratitude in facing adversity. Master Cheng Yen also appealed to the masses to adopt a vegetarian diet as a step towards alleviating the environmental crisis the world is presently facing. Miguel Moratinos, the High Representative of the UN Alliance of Civilizations, delivered a message on behalf of the UN, stressing the significance of Vesak Day as an opportunity to reflect on the timeless wisdom of the Buddha and honour the Buddha’s teachings of compassion, humility and wisdom. He also expressed hope for an equal, inclusive world, regardless of status or circumstances. Taiwan 2020.05.07 Honouring the Spirit of the Buddha in the Time of Covid-19 lobal News