One Day Retreat for Student

Over 2100 students from Colleges and Universities in Ho Chi Minh City came to Hoang Phap Pagoda to attend One-Day Retreat for Students on Jan. 01st, 2023 (Dec. 10th, LC).

In the morning, monks instructed students by the meditation session "Welcome to the sunrise" in the cool, clear weather while sitting quietly, paying attention, counting their breaths in and out....

After the time of chanting sutra and sitting quietly, all students listened to a sharing session named Buddhism for youth from Senior Thich Nhat Tu, Vice Director of VietNam Buddhist University, Deputy of Central International Buddhist Department of Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, Abbot of Giac Ngo pagoda.

Buddhism has been spreaded and influenced by different cultures over the centuries. There have been areas, regions with false perceptions, many people mistakenly believe that Buddhism is only for the old and elderly women. From that point of view, young people have lost opportunities to learn and practice the Buddha's teachings to transform suffering, pain to lead a peaceful and happy life. In fact, Buddhism is always for all audiences, regardless of age and class, especially young people.

During the lecture, the Senior raised the contribution as well as the role of Buddhism in the development of mankind: forming progressive thought, building a just and equal society; Breaking down prejudices against class, gender, superstition; establishing a peaceful world in the spirit of harmony, contributing to solving troubles, bringing benefits to the majority. Young people need to see that benefit, actively participate in community activities and become Buddhists, and encourage their relatives to know the dharma. Meanwhile, they need to actively engage in service to contribute to a growing society towards a good and happy life.

After a cultural exchange with singers, and musician Sy Luan in the afternoon, students listened to a Dharma talk in the topic: "Strangers passing" from Bhikkhu  Giac Minh Luat who is currently studying in San Diego, California, USA; PhD student at Mahachulalongkornrajavidyalaya University, Thailand and The West University, USA

Love is probably a motivating part of life in every person, especially young people. Everyone wants to be happy with their ideal partner. However, do not because of temporary loneliness that one rush to grab a hand without careful selection, which leads to painful and negative consequences in life.

The monk gave very useful advice on how to behave in a civilized and skillful manner, and clearly saw its own worth, deeply believed in cause and effect, and became more positive in life. Since then, young people have found the true friend who is sincere, cares and cherishes each other, bringing true happiness and peace.

When leaving, each student will receive a pocket of lucky money.

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