On June 13, 2026, in response to the collective call of the True Buddha Foundation (TBF), Yan Ming Temple auspiciously held the "Amitayus Buddha Mega Feast Offering (Tsog Pujas) for the Longevity of Living Buddha Lian-sheng." It was a day where heaven and earth converged, leaving an indelible mark of divine grace on every heart present. Driven by Faith, Bound by Love The day began under heavy, overcast skies. After days of tireless preparation by our reverend Lian Jie, dharma assistant, board members, and volunteers, we collectively prayed for clear weather. Yet, the cosmos had its own plan. As 4:00 PM approached, the skies opened up, unleashing a torrential downpour that veiled the temple steps in a dense mist. What followed, however, was a magnificent testament to unwavering faith. Undeterred by the storm, devotees arrived one after another. Drenched but beaming with smiles, they shielded their sacred offerings and warm, home-cooked dishes from the rain. As steam from the food mingled with the cool downpour, one elderly devotee remarked with a radiant smile: "This rain is a divine blessing—nectar purifying the earth. It is the most auspicious sign." In that very moment, the physical storm ceased to matter. The rain washed over their faces, but the joy radiating from within was unshakeable. The storm did not hinder us; it proved the purity of our devotion. A Mandala of Pure Devotion Stepping into the main hall, attendees were struck with absolute awe. Under the meticulous guidance of Reverend Shi Lian Jie, …
On June 13, 2026, in response to the collective call of the True Buddha Foundation (TBF), Yan Ming Temple auspiciously held the “Amitayus Buddha Mega Feast Offering (Tsog Pujas) for the Longevity of Living Buddha Lian-sheng.” It was a day where heaven and earth converged, leaving an indelible mark of divine grace on every heart present.
Driven by Faith, Bound by Love
The day began under heavy, overcast skies. After days of tireless preparation by our reverend Lian Jie, dharma assistant, board members, and volunteers, we collectively prayed for clear weather. Yet, the cosmos had its own plan. As 4:00 PM approached, the skies opened up, unleashing a torrential downpour that veiled the temple steps in a dense mist.
What followed, however, was a magnificent testament to unwavering faith.
Undeterred by the storm, devotees arrived one after another. Drenched but beaming with smiles, they shielded their sacred offerings and warm, home-cooked dishes from the rain. As steam from the food mingled with the cool downpour, one elderly devotee remarked with a radiant smile: “This rain is a divine blessing—nectar purifying the earth. It is the most auspicious sign.” In that very moment, the physical storm ceased to matter. The rain washed over their faces, but the joy radiating from within was unshakeable. The storm did not hinder us; it proved the purity of our devotion.
A Mandala of Pure Devotion
Stepping into the main hall, attendees were struck with absolute awe. Under the meticulous guidance of Reverend Shi Lian Jie, volunteers had worked tirelessly through consecutive days and nights to create a breathtakingly sublime Mandala (altar setup).
- The Longevity Peach: At the heart of the altar stood a vibrant longevity peach, intricately crafted from lush, green evergreen leaves.
- The Crimson “Shou” (Longevity): Atop the greenery, a sea of red roses formed the Chinese character for longevity (Shou). Bold yet elegant, it beat like a living heart amidst the emerald background.
- The Gift of Sweetness: Crowning the display was an exquisite, two-layer birthday cake, lovingly crafted and offered by a mother-daughter volunteer duo.
Surrounding this centrepiece was a lavish, multi-tiered tapestry of offerings: seasonal fruits, fine wines, perfumes, sacred water, grains, and beautifully crafted lotuses. Rows of candle flames, lit by generous sponsors, danced gently in the breeze like whispering hearts. The entire hall breathed with a sacred aroma, plunging everyone into an overwhelming state of Dharma Joy (Fa-Xi). It was an indescribable feeling—a profound sense of homecoming.
The Flow of Divine Blessings
As the ceremony commenced, Reverend Lian Jie ascended the Dharma throne. The powerful, resonant chanting of the leading Master echoed through the video broadcast, vibrating through every soul in the hall. Hundreds of voices joined as one, creating a mighty yet gentle torrent of prayers, wishing our beloved Root Guru robust health and eternal presence in the world.
During the chanting, a wave of formless energy—like a cool spring yet warm current—entered from above, enveloping the congregation in immense compassion and peace. Tears of profound gratitude flowed silently down many faces. One devotee shared that she felt the gentle touch of the Buddhas, instantly dissolving her worldly exhaustion and confusion. Another described a sensation of supreme clarity, as if bathing in pure moonlight on a sacred mountain peak. This was the undeniable, invisible lineage empowerment (Blessing Flow) of the Guru and Buddhas.
Sacred Fellowship and Selfless Giving
As night fell, the rain subsided into a crisp, refreshing breeze. The temple transformed into a warm family gathering as volunteers quickly set up tables to share the blessed food.
The undisputed centrepiece of the feast was a magnificent Nasi Tumpeng—a traditional Indonesian celebratory dish crafted by a dedicated Indonesian dharma sister. Styled like a mythical treasure trove overflowing with vibrant colours and rich flavours, it symbolised blessings rising from the depths of the heart. Surrounded by an array of savoury delicacies, the food was no longer just sustenance, but a sacred gift blessed by the Buddhas.
True to the spirit of the True Buddha School, the aftermath was just as beautiful. Without a single word of command, volunteers moved in perfect harmony, resetting the hall, sweeping the floors, and organising the offerings with efficiency and grace.
A Light That Keeps Burning
Long after the ceremony concluded, the temple remained bathed in a warm, golden glow. Devotees lingered, reluctant to leave the sanctuary of peace and joy. Hands remained folded in prayer; whispers of spiritual fellowship filled the air.
Though the temple doors eventually closed for the night, the light lit within each heart continues to burn bright.
In a beautiful extension of the Buddha’s compassion, Melbourne Lotus Light Charity Society will donate the vast majority of the feast offerings to Foodbank Victoria. These fine foods, fresh produce, and staple grains will carry the blessings of the Buddhas directly to vulnerable communities in need. This is the ultimate fulfilment of the Tsog Puja: offering to the heavens above, and giving charitably to the world below.
A Note of Deep Gratitude
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all meritorious sponsors, our tireless Reverend, board members, volunteers, and every devotee who braved the storm. Your collective vows and dedication manifested this spiritual triumph.
The rain of that night, the light of the hall, the tears of gratitude, and the enduring warmth in our hearts will be remembered forever.
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