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*Master was invited to speak about the Quan
Yin Method and its development in Southeast Asia at a seminar entitled,
"Religions and the Chinese People Worldwide" held at the Academia Sinica,
the most prestigious academic research institute in the Republic of
China. Aside from its historical significance, the lively dialogue is
very interesting. The transcript is printed in the special column, "Spiritual
and Intellectual Interchange." If you want to listen to some splendid
extracts in Chinese, go to the following web sites; "Looking at the Past... Stepping into a Bright Future" is a set of two videotapes depicting Master's historic footprints as She leads humankind into a new era. It shows how the last few turbulent decades of the 20th century were blessed by the love of a Master and transformed into the beginning of a brilliant new century. To view excerpts from this inspiring video, visit the following web sites: In English, with various language *Master's Oceania and Asia Lecture Tour caused sensations at all the stops on the way and brought tremendous purifying power to these places. Selected parts of the lectures are included as interludes in the "Special Reports" section. Readers can get a quick overview of the essence of all the lectures in these reports. *"Celestial Clothes Fashion Album" is a newly published book! Footnotes in both English and Chinese give a better appreciation of Master's ethereal creative ideas and the art of stylish dressing. Please enjoy "Supreme Art" in this issue. *Master's new book, "The Key of Immediate
Enlightenment: Questions & Answers 2," is available in a new and
innovative format, called an "ebook," and is now available for free
download. |
Hot News The Supreme Master Ching Hai News Will Change its Publication FormatIn order to provide Master's teachings and related news to the public in a timely manner, The Supreme Master Ching Hai News magazine will now be released more frequently in versions to be transmitted via the Internet. And, beginning from Issue no.113, the magazine will cease to be published in paper versions. If you do not have a computer or Internet connection, please contact the responsible persons at your local Center and have them print out the News for you. Should any Center or individual feel that this procedure is inconvenient, or if you wish to make suggestions, please let us know immediately. The following are the available versions that readers may use to access the News online, or that may be printed out to share with other people: Versions Available: Internet Version: In html format, at the Quan Yin web site with color pictures that may be read online. Printable Version: In pdf format with color pictures that may be printed in either in grayscale or color using your local printer. High quality paper is required when printing in color. E-mail Version: Will be sent to the reader's email account. To subscribe, please sign up at one of the following sites: http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/ch/service/service.htm (Chinese) http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/service/service.htm (English) http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org/au/service/service.htm (Aulacese) http://www.godsdirectcontact.us/com/english/service.htm (English) http://www.godsdirectcontact.us/com/spanish/service.htm (Spanish) http://www.godsdirectcontact.us/com/chinese/fan/service.htm (Chinese, traditional) http://www.godsdirectcontact.us/com/chinese/jian/service.htm (Chinese, Simplified) If you wish to download the above first two versions, please go to the following web sites: Chinese: http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/ch/index.htm (Formosa) http://www.godsdirectcontact.us/com/eNews/chinese/112/ (U.S.A.) English: http://www.godsdirectcontact.us/com/eNews/english/112 (U.S.A.) http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org/eng/news/112/ (U.S.A.) http://godsimmedatecontact.net/news/news112/ (U.S.A.) http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/index.htm (Formosa) Aulacese: http://godsimmediatecontact.net/aulac/n112/ (VNI font) http://www.godsdirectcontact.org/auvnu/news/112/ (VNU font) http://www.godsdirectcontact.org/auviscii/news/112/ (VISCII font) http://www.godsdirectcontact.org/auvni/news/112/ (VNI font) http://www.godsdirectcontact.org/auvps/news/112/ (VPS font) Spanish: http://www.godsdirectcontact.us/com/eNews/spanish/111/ (U.S.A.) |
Panorama of Events
Report from MauritiusSharing the Dharma in Mauritius Mauritius, a small island located to the east of Africa, is commonly known as the Singapore of the Indian Ocean. It is a very spiritual place, with a population consisting mainly of Hindus, Buddhists, Christians and Muslims. The country is a great example of religious and spiritual tolerance, with all races, religions, creeds and sexes living together in peace and harmony. With this background, it was easy for the Mauritius Center to hold a seminar at the University of Mauritius. The President of the Students' Union, as well as its members and friends welcomed the idea with enthusiasm, in order to help elevate humanity. The public seized this opportunity to learn about the teachings of a true living Master, namely, The Supreme Master Ching Hai. The staff assisted us in every respect, booking the lecture hall, printing our posters and even helping us with the advertisements. People from all walks of life attended the seminar, and showed an unabated eagerness to know the Truth. After the seminar, the Quan Yin messenger in attendance asked the audience members whether they were interested in being taught the Convenient Method, and virtually all of them stayed. Many had great inner experiences, with one lady saying she had seen an intensely bright inner ray of light coming down like a dove to bless her. She was filled with such bliss and joy that she looked like a child. Now, she and many others are eagerly awaiting initiation. Everything concerning the lecture was perfectly arranged by God. Even the interviews conducted by the local television station and newspaper were carried out smoothly. May we thank You, dear Master, for giving us the chance to help ourselves spiritually by helping others. Caption: Seminar at the University of Mauritius to share Master's teachings. |
The Jewels of West Africa Shine Brilliantly Recently, in Ghana and the Ivory Coast, the "Jewels of West Africa," video seminars were presented to share Masters teachings. <Accra, Ghana> A fascinating feature of Ghana's people is their habit of giving wonderful, positive names to shops, such as "Love Photocopying," "Hand of God Hairdressing," etc., which remind one of the names Master uses to emphasize beauty and the positive aspects of life in Her talks. All the local would-be initiates (who wish to start a spiritual village in their town), assisted in preparing the seminar at the famous Teachers' Hall in Accra. We produced radio and newspaper ads and distributed brochures to an eager public, and everything went smoothly, thanks to Master's arrangements. The owner of a vegetarian restaurant even wanted to provide food for the spiritual seekers attending the seminar. He and a photographer later became part of the Quan Yin Family. Many people attended the seminar, eager to hear the Truth. Ghana, like many other African countries, does not have access to a vast amount of the world's spiritual literature, so when the real Dharma is brought to the people's doorsteps, it is snapped up with joy and gratitude. Caption: Fellow practitioners in Ghana The video seminar held in Ghana <Abidjan, Ivory Coast> In the Ivory Coast ('Cote d'Ivoire' in French), French is spoken by most people and the culture is definitely Afro-Parisienne. Upon arriving in the country, we encountered some obstacles due to the political climate, but when we showed Master's sample booklets and explained our mission, a miraculous change occurred in the people. One brother exclaimed, "Wow, these booklets are better than our passports". In the Ivory Coast, the disciples from nearby Togo helped share the teachings. Here, the same format was used for the seminar as for the one in Ghana, except by Master's arrangement, we were able to use St Paul's Church, in the heart of the City of Abidjan, for our venue. We faced many tests, but passed all with flying colors due to Master's love and blessings, which could be felt at every stage of the project. Whenever we encountered a difficulty, only a simple prayer was required to overcome it. The video seminars went smoothly in both countries, so now we have some more aspiring practitioners bringing light into West Africa. As the number of practitioners in Africa multiplies, we are sure that this region will eventually become a paradise. |
Exhibition at the Festival of Holistic Living <London> At a booth set up in the Holistic Living Exhibition, held from April 20 - 24, brothers and sisters from the London Center were given the wonderful opportunity to share Master's teachings with sincere Truth seekers. Over the course of this five-day event, many people showed a genuine interest in Master's teachings. Fellow initiates were able to share their experiences about the ways that practicing the Quan Yin Method of meditation had brought unparalleled benefits and positive changes into their lives. Many visitors expressed their happiness to have found a place that offers meditation instruction free of charge. Some were fortunate enough to have attended Master's London lecture in June 1999, and were obviously pleased to make contact with Her teachings again. One person from India who practices light and sound meditation with a different master had also attended the London lecture, and remarked that Supreme Master Ching Hai is genuinely one of the very few fully enlightened Masters on Earth. Visiting the booth on numerous occasions, he spoke extensively to fellow practitioners and watched Master's video lecture being shown there. Another visitor recounted an experience she had had during Master's lecture in London. Master had asked everyone to close their eyes to see if they could see God. Upon opening her eyes, this woman recalled seeing Master's face change to the face of a holy man with a long beard! (Her expected form of God!) A couple who had read the sample booklet and were vegetarians showed a keen interest in learning about meditation, happily tasting some vegetarian peppered steak offered by a fellow brother. Another person who bought one of Master's Buddhist chanting tapes the previous day came back to tell us that she found it very helpful in her own meditation practice. Many young children were also attracted to the booth, where they enjoyed looking at the different pictures of Supreme Master Ching Hai on display. It was most interesting to notice that different people were attracted to different aspects of Master's teachings. Some were drawn to learning about meditation, while others were excited about obtaining vegetarian information, and still others gravitated to Master's beautiful artistic creations, jewelry and music. This demonstrates the many ways in which Master reminds people of their God Nature and helps guide them back to their true Home. We all felt truly blessed to have had this opportunity to assist Master in sharing the Truth with others. Caption: Many aspects of Master's teachings were presented at the Festival of Holistic Living. |
Painting Exhibition in Baganuur, Ulan Bator [Ulan Bator] From April 7- 9, local initiates held a three-day exhibition of Supreme Master Ching Hai's paintings in Baganuur, Ulan Bator, Mongolia. The driving distance from Ulan Bator to Baganuur is about three hours. The city in April was chilly and windy; its sky was clear, and its air clean and refreshing. The exhibition was held in a school where a fellow initiate was employed. His family members, who were all initiates, helped us and worked with enthusiasm in promoting the exhibition. We put up posters in major areas in and around the city where people could easily see them, and for three days the painting exhibition was announced on local radio stations. Caption: Supreme Master Ching Hai's painting "Love Source" A painter who visited the exhibition came back the next day to learn the Convenient Method of meditation, and later told us one of her experiences. One of Master's paintings, "Love Source" contained an unforgettable scene, which the new practitioner said she could recognize from her childhood. Actually, she had seen this same scene twice before. Once, when she was a child, her family went on a moving trip, and she sat in an ox cart with her grandmother. During this trip, she saw a scene that impressed her deeply. Later, when she was an adult, she joined a group taking a trip to Mongolia by foot. Remarkably, she saw this same touching scene during the trip. What surprised her was that Supreme Master Ching Hai had painted this identical scene in "Love Source." Even though Master had added two extra cottages to the painting, which were not in the original landscape, she could still recognize the landscape. "Strange!" she repeated, "How strange it is!" In the visitors' book, people wrote, "I admire You. You have broadened my horizons and brought happiness to me through Your paintings." "I love Your paintings. I also like to paint, therefore I enjoy your works." "I felt satisfied seeing your paintings. Your works are unique. I love art. Your paintings are wonderful. Wishing that You create more works of such beauty." "Your paintings enlightened me. How fortunate I am to have listened to the introduction about You and to have the information about spiritual practice." Children have pure hearts and can easily feel Master's Love. They enjoyed the exhibition very much and did not want to leave. Some gazed at Master's book of paintings over and over again, others read Master's teachings with concentration, while others loved Master's photos so much that they could not bear to part with them. One girl wrote in the visitors' book that she was very happy to attend the exhibition. She felt that our practitioners were the best people in the world. "Supreme Master Ching Hai is not only compassionate, with great love for others," the girl continued, "but She can also sing and paint. She is wonderful." This little girl also felt that Master's love and care were always being extended towards her people, and wished that Master would come personally to Mongolia and Baganuur. In the visitors' book, she drew a lovely girl wearing a crown, on which she wrote "Ching Hai," and also drew many heart shapes to express her longing to see Master. Another child drew two swallows, meaning that Master would come when spring comes. An artist did a landscape painting and self-portrait in the visitors' book. He then insisted on having a poster with Master's picture on it and asked us to sign it. When we gave him a poster with the name "Supreme Master Ching Hai" printed on it, he was very happy and left with satisfaction. When the exhibition was over and we were about to leave, many children helped us to load up and then took a picture with us, asking when we would come again. Caption: The exhibition of Supreme Master Ching Hai's painting brings happiness and warmth to the people of Baganuur, Ulan Bator, Mongolia. Children happily taking a picture with us. The self-portrait and painting that an artist
drew for Master in the visitors' book |
Heartfelt Feelings of a Young Initiate By sister initiate Myagmarkhuu (10 years of age), Mongolia (Originally in Mongolian) I am a fourth grade student at the Baganuur Elementary School in Ulan Bator, Mongolia. Master Ching Hai's art exhibition was held at my school. People were amazed that my Master could sing, dance, play the piano, compose songs, and design clothes. I am so happy to be Her disciple and to follow Her in spiritual practice. Master Ching Hai is the Buddha (fully Enlightened Being) in my heart. I will keep the Five Precepts and meditate earnestly to make Her happy. I will follow Her and practice well all my life. I long to see Her. That would be the best present in the world for me. Now my whole family is initiated, and we meditate and contemplate on the sound every day. Master, You are the only living Enlightened Master in the world; I want to devote my whole life to serving You. Note: This young initiate is a little paragon
in the Quan Yin family of Mongolia. Despite her young age, she is clever,
smart, and filial to her parents. At home, she cooks vegetarian meals
for her family, and she is well-behaved. Sometimes when the Mongolian
Center holds one-day retreats, she helps to prepare meals for the fellow
initiates when the adults are meditating. She meditates earnestly every
day and helps to proofread the Mongolian editions of Master's publications
when she has time. She excels in her studies in school. During Master's
art exhibition, she worked alongside fellow initiates to prepare and
decorate the venue. She even acted on her own initiative to introduce
Master and Her teachings to the visitors, adults and children alike
that attended the exhibition. The mature behavior and abilities of this
young girl left a deep impression on everyone. |
Report from the Dominican Republic True Baptism [Santo Domingo] For many people in the Dominican Republic, the recent conference held on May 10 featuring Master's videos was the first time that they had heard of Supreme Master Ching Hai, the Quan Yin Method and immediate enlightenment. When a Quan Yin messenger arrived to work on preparations for the conference, it was at a difficult time because the local people were dealing with an election to choose a president, and the entire country was in chaos and full of activity. Thus, local practitioners told the messenger that it would be impossible to do anything then, but he just said, "Don't worry. You'll see that everything will be fine", and that's how it happened. We decided on a day for the conference, and began to promote it. We had only one week to prepare, because the election was coming, people would soon be going back to their home regions to vote, and the city would remain empty at that time. Despite the situation, the messenger encouraged us to continue. Before the conference, he was interviewed on TV, and when the videotape entitled "Walk the Way of Love" was shown on one of the local stations, we were making great progress, since in this way, many people could learn more about Master and the Method. Finally, the day of the conference arrived. We placed some candles outside the venue in order to guide people to it, and the scene was very touching. In a short time the place was filled to capacity, but people continued to arrive. It was really incredible how Master worked, guiding people in the middle of the election season in our small country. During the conference, people were very quiet and focused, and at the end there were many questions for the messenger. Most of them seemed very difficult, but the messenger answered them one by one. Finally, almost one third of the people present registered to learn the Convenient Method. At the end of the Convenient Method training and meditation, the messenger asked them how they felt. Some of them commented that they had seen Master during the meditation, and that it was something really amazing for them, since it was the first time they had meditated, and they were already having inner experiences. Now there is a group of Convenient Method practitioners waiting for initiation in our country. One of them said, "I pray with all my heart for that day to come when I can have the chance to go back to my Origin. I hope Master will grant us that grace, and we patiently anticipate the great day of our true baptism." |
Report from Trinidad and Tobago God Embodied on the Earth [Port from Spain] Trinidad and Tobago are two small islands in the southern region of the Caribbean, where recently the light of Supreme Master Ching Hai's teachings began to shine and be known to the public. In April, when a Quan Yin messenger visited Trinidad, there were only a handful of initiates and Convenient Method practitioners on the island. But soon, many people began to arrive, attracted by the great light of Master's teachings, and our group grew dramatically. We could feel during that time the great and immense love of the GREAT SUPREME MASTER. During the messenger's stay, several initiations were held, during which the local brothers and sisters had great experiences that they had never had previously. We remember especially that people could see the transformation body and light of Master blessing the meditation group and giving us advice about our lives. We were incredibly surprised at how She knew more than we did about ourselves. We had never had such experiences, especially when Master took us to know the universe during meditation, which was really beyond description. We can only practice diligently to become
living examples of love and compassion, and positively influence other
people through the Great Light that fills our lives with happiness day
by day. We had never before experienced so much happiness coming from
MASTER, and though we still lack understanding of the complete nature
of the Supreme Master, we know that She is God embodied on the Earth.
|
May All Celestial Kingdoms Chant Your Glory Eternally [San Juan] During the recent stay of a Quan Yin messenger on the island of Puerto Rico, we conducted several events in order to share the holy teachings of our Great Master, beginning with a video seminar. Everything seemed to go very slowly in the beginning, but later, the messenger was invited to give interviews for the radio and some newspapers, and also made a brief appearance on TV. On the day of the seminar, the local fellow initiates and the messenger arrived very early to arrange the auditorium. In the beginning, the messenger and another initiate had some problems trying to set up the video and audio equipment. They called the agency where the equipment had been rented, but no one answered. As soon as we all prayed to Master for Her infinite grace in solving the problem, suddenly the messenger gave it one more try and the equipment began to project the video clearly. Although this example of Master's love and compassion left us speechless and with tears in our eyes, it was not the only incident or the only time that the grace of Master manifested during this event. At the end of the seminar, most of the audience filled out forms in order to learn the Convenient Method, or to receive initiation in the near future. At this time, people commented that just reading the sample booklet had caused them to stop eating meat immediately. Being filled with experiences and good memories, all of the Puerto Rican fellow practitioners hope that through such loving activities, the dream of Master for a better world will come true in the near future. And we realize that no matter how busy or tired we are, it is our responsibility to fulfill this dream. Thank You, Master, for being on this Earth
and showing us the true way to salvation. And may all the celestial
kingdoms chant Your glory forever. Amen. |
Greeting the Spring! <Mexico> This year, thousands of people throughout Mexico attended celebrations of the spring equinox, observed at sunrise on March 21. The festivities took place in many Mexican cities, such as Teotihuacan in the state of Mexico, Chichen Itza in Yucatan, and Cuicuilco (a famous archeological site in Mexico City), Palenque in Chiapas, Tulum in Quintana Roo, Tula in Hidalgo, and Tajin in Veracruz. Mexican fellow initiates met for this event in Teotihuacan, located approximately 50 kilometers from Mexico City. Teotihuacan means "God's City" or "Place where a person becomes God." It is the most important archaeological area in the Mexican plateau, containing the Pyramid of the Sun and the Pyramid of the Moon. The spring equinox celebration goes far back in Mexican history and was originally performed by pre-Hispanic people, who climbed up to the Pyramid of the Sun and the Moon. There, they would conduct two ceremonies or rituals: one for the moon and one for the sun. The sun ceremony was considered more important and was called "Greeting the Sun." According to the customs of our ancestors, this ceremony, which takes place at the exact moment of sunrise, allows the body to be filled with divine energy, like a new birth. As part of this year's equinox celebration, the Mexico Center prepared a stand containing vegetarian food, along with a book and magazine exhibit featuring the teachings of Supreme Master Ching Hai. Practitioners gave away thousands of flyers, as people stopped by the stand on their way to the pyramids. Many visitors were surprised and pleased to find that we could provide such high quality vegetarian food. More importantly, they were able to discover teachings about the Quan Yin Method. Thousands of the visitors who came to our stand learned about Master for the first time, and were astonished by Her youth, beauty and wisdom. Many said that they would come to visit our Meditation Center, and some requested information about the Quan Yin Method. By the end of the event, all the disciples who participated were exhausted, but at the same time very happy and satisfied to have shared the teachings of salvation from a true living Master. Caption: Main entrance to the Pyramids of the Sun and Moon Thousands of people ascend to the pyramid to receive the solar energy of the spring equinox. Practitioners share Master's teachings with thousands of visitors. |
A Small, Beautiful, and Dynamic Country From April 21 to 23, during what is known as "Saint's Week," celebrated in commemoration of Jesus Christ, the Costa Rica Center held a three-day retreat. Since it was a national holiday, fellow initiates planned the retreat to pray for a better spiritual life and national peace. We thank Master for Her love to Costa Rica. God has heard the prayers of the people of Costa Rica for the peace of the country, as the longstanding conflicts between citizens and the government recently came to an end. By the third day of the retreat, the initiates felt extremely blissful and filled with love and peace. We had a barbecue on that day and invited our family members, friends and other quests. We were graced with fine weather; the sky was clear and a soothing breeze blew. The vast green meadow where the barbecue was held provided a sharp contrast to the deep blue sky dotted by colorful balloons, creating a picture of harmony and vitality. Many guests, fellow practitioners, and their family members participated in the event. The children played happily in the large outdoor area, while the adults watched Master's videotapes. Some people exchanged spiritual insights, while others learned the Convenient Method, and some even expressed a wish to receive initiation into the Quan Yin Method. As a result, several initiation sessions were conducted over the following few weeks. Video Seminars A series of Truth-sharing video seminars -- one in Cartago and two in Heredia -- were held from April 29 to May 20. The first, held on April 29, took place at the La Casa de la Ciudad, an activity center in Cartago. Near the entrance on the first floor, a television set displayed one of Master's videos, and sample booklets and News magazines were freely taken by interested people, as fellow initiates provided help. On the second floor, guests were first greeted by an exhibition of Master's artistic creations and publications before entering the seminar venue. As crowds continued to gather, the venue we had thought might be too large turned out to be just large enough. Inside the hall, as soon as Master's videotapes began playing, the audience's attention was immediately captured. After the video was shown, the guests asked many questions, which were answered in detail by a Quan Yin messenger. Nearly all of the guests asked to learn the Convenient Method that day. Though many of them lived very far away, they nonetheless expressed their earnest desire to attend group meditation at the Center. The second video seminar was held at Heredia University on May 6. To show their sincere interest in this event, the University authorities had the lecture hall specially painted before the seminar to give it a new look. The posters on display showed Master in meditation. People attending the seminar seemed to quickly accept Master's teachings, and were also highly impressed by Master's talent for artistic design. Many people asked to learn the Convenient Method. Afterwards, delicious vegetarian food was served in the atmosphere of warmth and excitement that pervaded the venue. On May 20, the third video seminar was held at the Heredia Library. A torrential downpour that day failed to deter many sincere Truth-aspirants from attending. In fact, the seminar attracted far more people than we had expected. In this positive atmosphere, people asked sincere and relevant questions, and almost everyone who attended the video seminar learned the Convenient Method. Although the three seminars were held in two cities not far from each other, questions asked by the audience members differed greatly. Since Cartago is the Catholic center of Costa Rica, most participants there were Catholics, and their questions were related to the Bible. By contrast, in Heredia, most participants asked about the meaning of enlightenment and meditation. One participant who learned the Convenient Method shared with us this story. He had recently received a phone call from a friend whom he seldom saw. The friend told him that, beginning from the day when five stars would fall into a straight line (May 5) until the end of the month, he would have a chance to learn a method that develops power through use of the hands. If he succeeded in learning this method, he would be able to use his inner abilities to help many people. But if he failed, he would have to wait two thousand years for another chance. Therefore, he had made inquiries everywhere, especially with groups related to Oriental religions. Now he maintains a very positive attitude toward the Quan Yin Method, he said, because he had a wonderful experience when learning the Convenient Method. |
Material and Spiritual Food Giving <Vancouver> After visiting downtown Vancouver, one sister felt very sad about all the poor people she saw there. When the Vancouver Center initiates heard her story, we decided to help by starting a monthly food distribution program. We went to an area of town where many poor people congregate, and set up a food and drink stand. So many people were attracted to our stand that we had to learn to be well organized, forming lines to give away sandwiches, soft drinks, and fruit. We also gave each person a flyer about Master and the Quan Yin Method, with a phone number that they could call for more information. The people we served were for the most part very appreciative, and one man even asked if he could have the picture of Master that we had in our car. Our only regret was that we had only brought 100 sandwiches, which went very quickly. We felt sorry about turning people away once all the food was gone, so for the next distribution we plan to make 200. We also will bring more soft drinks, as they were real treats for the people. Afterwards, we felt very good, as though our beings had expanded. Later, during the weekend following the Korean retreat, returning Vancouver initiates had the wonderful opportunity to share Master's love by participating in the Vancouver "CityFest" on May 20th and 21st. This is a community event where different cultural groups perform songs and dances, and other people sell or distribute their products. Many people stopped by our table to enjoy presentations of Master's video, to pick up flyers, sample booklets, or magazines, or to peruse the books, pictures, and video tapes on display. After watching Master's video for about twenty
minutes, one woman commented, "She is a goddess. She's radiating love.
She talks right to my heart." An African man became very excited when
he saw the picture of Master on display, and said to his wife, "Remember
Her?" He went on to say that Master is well known in Africa as a very
good person, and that he had read the sample booklet and knew a lot
about Her from Africa. Another man stopped by our booth, and later came
back with a friend. He had picked up a sample booklet two months earlier,
and had immediately stopped eating meat after reading it. He was very
curious to find out more about Master, and picked up some copies of
the News magazine. We ourselves learned a great deal from this event. For example, we found that interest in spirituality is not confined to spiritual fairs and expositions. Alhough we participated in a spiritual expo a few months ago, and will continue to do so, in fact we found that people's response to Master's teachings was even better at this community event. From now on, we will look for any community or cultural event that we can take part in. We also found that it is helpful to keep going back to the same event year after year to renew our contacts. For example, the woman at the CityFest's coffee kiosk remembered us from last year, so we were able to chat with her and give her a sample booklet. Furthermore, in a multi-ethnic city like Vancouver, it is good to have sample booklets in as many languages as possible. Several people who came by our table had already read the sample booklet. We hope that every person in Vancouver and the surrounding area will be able to see Master's picture, read the sample booklet if they choose, and have the chance to learn the Convenient Method or receive the blessing of initiation. We thank Master for this wonderful opportunity to share our love and God's blessings with our brothers and sisters in Vancouver, and hope to have more such opportunities in the future. We are especially looking forward to the summer, when we plan to participate in the many cultural events that will take place here. Caption: Inspired by love, the Vancouver (Canada) Center conducts its monthly food-distribution activity. A great opportunity for members of the community to learn about Master. Members of our group were delighted to share their blessings with the people of Vancouver. |
Ocean of Love Streams into Clearwater <Clearwater> On April 16, 2000, a video seminar was held in Clearwater, Florida with the topic "How To Obtain a Happy Life through Meditation and Enlightenment." A local initiate volunteered to host the seminar at the clubhouse in her condominium complex. Before the seminar, local fellow practitioners came together to disseminate the news of the seminar through newspapers and flyers and even by personally inviting others. Fellow disciples from all parts of Florida came to volunteer their services on a beautiful weekend. Considering that it was the first such seminar in Clearwater, Florida, it was more than a success. After the seminar, most of the guests decided to learn the Convenient Method. An announcement about the seminar is posted on our web page at http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org/eng/events/seminar/clearwater/ Anyone who would like to obtain samples of the poster and flyer for the seminar may visit this URL. Caption: A lively crowd attends the area's first video seminar featuring Master's teachings. |
[Kinmen] Kinmen is an offshore island of Formosa. Answering their intense longing to hold group meditations on the island, God arranged for the local initiates to have their own meditation Center this year. The Kinmen Center is situated at the foot of Five Tiger Hill in Kinmen National Park; local people call the place "West Hill Village". The Center is constructed of metal sheets, and the surrounding environment is quite spacious and tranquil. Caption: Fellow practitioners on Kinmen, a small island off the coast of Formosa, rejoice at having a place for group meditation. [Changhua] The Changhua Center contributed a complete set of Master's publications, including poetry and story books, magazines, and sample booklets, to the renowned Hsiu Chuan Memorial Hospital in Changhua. [Chiayi] On April 9, Formosa's Buddhist Faa Shing Bao Lin Society held a charity fair to raise funds for social services provided by the Family Helpers of Luku rural township. There were more than a hundred booths at the fair, one of which was sponsored by The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association. At the booth, fellow practitioners sold vegetarian food, the proceeds of which were contributed to the charity fund. [Tainan] In March of this year, the Tainan Center conducted two spiritual seminars at the Tainan Prison and the Tainan Detention Center. More than a hundred drug-rehabilitated inmates attended the seminar at the Prison, and more than 300 residents attended the one at the Center. All of the participants learned the Convenient Method of meditation. Caption: Spiritual seminar held at the Tainan
Detention Center
[Pingtung] On April 8 and 9, the Pingtung Center, taking advantage of the huge crowds at the city's weekend flower market, held a spiritual video seminar and an exhibition of Master's artistic creations at the Pingtung County Cultural Center. The response was great, with nearly 2,500 people attending and nearly 1,000 sample booklets being distributed. The video seminar held at the Lecture Hall of the Cultural Center on April 8 attracted a full house. Many guests learned the Convenient Method, while others requested initiation into the Quan Yin Method. Caption: The exhibition of Master's artistic creations in Pingtung attracted more than 2,000 visitors. Video lecture seminar held during the art exhibition in Pingtung. |
Clean Up Australia Day <Sydney> Despite a cloudy, gloomy sky in Sydney that threatened to produce many downpours in the area, hundreds of fellow initiates enthusiastically participated in the "Clean Up Australia Day", which set an attendance record over previous years. In this year's "Clean Up Australia day," the Sydney Center of The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association was assigned to take care of the Western area of Abramatta city, where a predominantly Asian population, largely Aulacese, resides. Dressed in uniforms consisting of golden vests edged in green, our group of hundreds of young and old practitioners stood out in a crowd of volunteers wearing other colorful outfits, catching the astonished eyes of local people. Over the years, The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association in Australia has been a pioneer among ethnic community groups that participate in this yearly general clean up event, thanks to Master's good teachings, which emphasize that we should contribute our labor to express our gratitude to our country and its people. Dragon Lunar New Year 2000 Fair As in previous years, a Tet (New Year's) Fair was held this year at Sydney's Warrick Farm racetrack. Nearly a hundred booths were set up, both for entertainment and for the exhibition of art and literary works created by Aulacese artists. There were also religious booths, including that of The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, which attracted numerous visitors. Many of our Aulacese compatriots visited our food booth to enjoy its tasty and nutritious vegetarian delicacies. Many others also came to review books and magazines and to openly praise Master's artwork. We played Master's videos on three consecutive days, and after the Fair ended, a number of visitors to our booth called or visited the Sydney Center personally to learn more about the Quan Yin Method and the activities of our Association, thus preparing themselves mentally for initiation day. Caption: Guests and fellow initiates come to review books and magazines displayed by The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association at the Dragon Lunar New Year 2000 Fair. |
Report from California, U.S.A. Divine Love Continues to Ripple through California Long After the One World Concert Nearly a year and a half after the spectacular benefit concert "One World... of peace through music", its influence continues to be felt in the hearts of many. The purpose of the concert was to assist children stricken with cancer and other life-threatening childhood diseases in America and throughout the world. Oscar and Emmy-winning composers, world-renowned musicians, and a 65-piece orchestra of Hollywood's finest instrumentalists performed the world premiere of Supreme Master Ching Hai's beautiful music, as well as Her poetry set to music by composers Bill Conti, Fred Karlin, Maria Newman and Peter Boyer. That same evening, Master Ching Hai presented two very generous gifts: one to the Starlight Foundation and one to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Earlier this year, three other events revealed some of the ways in which adults and children alike are touched by the love and compassion of Supreme Master Ching Hai. Night of 100 Stars Oscar Gala <Beverly Hills> On Sunday, March 26, Hollywood's most celebrated annual event, the Academy Awards, returned to the same grand venue as the 1998 One World concert, the Shrine Auditorium, to award Oscars to the best in the film industry. During the Oscar presentations, the "Night of 100 Stars" Oscar gala was also being held at the exclusive Beverly Hills Hotel. This gala honors past and present Oscar winners and supports The Film Foundation, whose goal is to help preserve precious classic movies. Last year Supreme Master Ching Hai was invited to attend the gala by the President of 21st Century Entertainment and Vice-President of Glendale Studios Edvard Akopyan, who attended "One World... of peace through music" and was impressed by the beautiful compositions inspired by Master Ching Hai's poetry, and the silent work She has done for humankind throughout the years. This year, Peter Nygard, internationally renowned fashion designer, president of Nygard International and a sponsor of the Night of 100 Stars, along with Hollywood film producer Norby Walters, extended a special invitation to Supreme Master Ching Hai to attend this grand event, where the many stars whose hearts She had touched last year hoped to see Her again. Although Supreme Master Ching Hai was unable to attend due to a busy lecture tour schedule, Her care was conveyed through several representatives at the event. Many of the superstars at the Night of 100 Stars remembered Supreme Master Ching Hai from the previous year. Edvard Akopyan, President of 21st Century Entertainment, said, "We understand that You're busy and cannot join us this evening. We always wish You health and happiness and that You continue to help people like You do. I wish You luck on Your lecture tour. I hope people understand Your message, which is very important to everyone. Thank You so much, Supreme Master, for Your assistance to Armenia, which was very helpful to the Armenian people. I hope to see You soon." Norby Walters, Hollywood producer and Dinner Chairman for the Night of 100 Stars also offered a greeting and best wishes: "Hello to Supreme Master. We hope that You are well and that You'll live to a 1000 years sharing Your good words. Hopefully You'll be with us next year. We look forward to seeing You." And Actress Stella Stevens, star of such movies as "The Poseidon Adventure" and "Girls! Girls! Girls!", also extended a heartfelt message to Master: "Hello, Supreme Master Ching Hai. It is so lovely to think of You, and I wish that You were here. I enjoyed meeting You so much last year, and I know that Your joy and beauty and the wonder that You spread to everyone does the world so much good. God bless You always. I love You." Many others expressed how they missed Master Ching Hai's elegant demeanor and compassionate heart and also extended their best wishes to Her, including Peter Nygard, model and actress Anna Nicole Smith, and actors David Carradine, Kevin McCarthy, Henry Silva and Vincent Schiavelli. Other well-wishers included Buzz Aldrin, first astronaut on the moon, and his wife Lois, and Ken Huthmaker of Entertainment Sports Today. Many of these superstars admire and hope to once again meet with Supreme Master Ching Hai. Caption: Mr. Peter Nygard (left), president of Nygard International and sponsor of the Night of 100 Stars, along with Hollywood film producer Mr. Norby Walters (right), Dinner Chairman, who both extended a special invitation to Supreme Master Ching Hai to attend this grand event Henry Silva, renowned actor (Dick Tracy, Above the Law), expresses his warm regards to Master: "Wherever you are, I want You to have the best of everything!" Kevin McCarthy, legendary actor (Death of a Salesman, Innerspace). and many other superstars send their best wishes to Master. St. Jude Children's Research Hospital 20th Hollywood Gala < Hollywood> On March 2, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital hosted its 20th annual Hollywood Gala at the exclusive Beverly Hilton Hotel. Many celebrities came together at this time in support of St. Jude's, one of the world's finest research and treatment centers for pediatric cancer and other catastrophic childhood diseases. This year, co-chairs Marlo Thomas, Terre Thomas, and Tony Thomas, children of the Hospital's founder, renowned actor Danny Thomas, wrote a letter of invitation to Supreme Master Ching Hai to attend the 20th annual gala. Although Master was touched by their sincere thoughtfulness, She could not attend this year due to a busy lecture tour schedule. However, Master sent Her love by way of several Association members. Despite Her absence, the celebrities and VIPs who met Master at the gala last year were so touched by Her great love and compassion that they wanted to remember Her in their hearts this year. Those who extended their thoughts and feelings to Her included Richard Shadyac, National Executive Director of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital; Phil Donahue, former talk show host and husband of Marlo Thomas; Tom Shadyac, Hollywood director of such films as Patch Adams, The Nutty Professor and Liar, Liar; Maxine Moshay, Executive Director of the Amie Karen Cancer Fund for Children and her husband Ray; Mike Driebe, President of the LeRoy Haynes Center for abused children; Tom Schleuning of Shady Acres Entertainment, and Shoshanna Grammer, Regional Director of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Below are some of the heartfelt greetings and glowing tributes expressed by these celebrities. Richard Shadyac: "Supreme Master, I missed You this year. We had a wonderful time last year, and I loved Your album. I hope You got my note, because I found the album inspirational not only for the music but for the message it conveyed to the soul. I pray next year You'll be with us. Thank You. God bless You." Mr. Shadyac then commented, "She is so filled with love and all of you, you do such a beautiful job; God bless you. We do the same thing as the Supreme Master. We bring peace and joy to children of the world." Tom Shadyac: "Supreme Master, how are You? I've learned to meditate. I haven't learned to do it for very long yet, but I'm working on it. I miss You, I wish You were here and God bless." Maxine Moshay: "Hello to the Supreme Master. We really missed You this year and hope You'll join us next year. I hope Your tour is going really well, I wish all good things for You, and thank You so much for thinking about me and sending me Your card last year. I look forward to seeing You again soon." Mike Driebe (recalling his meeting with Master): "My best to Supreme Master. Tell Her I think of Her very fondly and remember Her with a lot of joy, especially my experience on stage with Her that night accepting the check for the children of St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. It was a wonderful experience, and I certainly hope I will have an opportunity to meet with Her again soon... Please let Her know She's in our thoughts and prayers." Shoshanna Grammer: "Greetings to You, Supreme Master, from Shoshanna Grammer of the regional office of ALSAC/St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. We met a year ago last December when You were so generous about giving your support to the hospital. We missed You this year. We were looking forward to seeing You here at the Hollywood Gala. I know that You have other pressing business and couldn't be here, but we want You to know that You're in our thoughts and prayers, and we appreciate all You do so very, very much. "We think that from Your heart you've given so much to the children, and You've created a lot of miracles for them with Your generosity and with Your good thoughts and prayers going their way. We are very, very appreciative of what You've done for us in the past, and we look forward to You having a long life and sharing Your long life with the children of St. Jude to give them a long life as well. We wish You all the best, and look forward to seeing You next year. "We watch the TV show [Master's TV show broadcast in the Los Angeles/Orange County area]. The essence of the Supreme Master is really pure. Her heart comes out in an international language, and we get good feelings of calmness and love from Her inspiration to us. Somehow She's got a universal language, so we love it. Even my seven and three-year-old love watching it [the TV show] with us, so we are bringing them up with listening to the Supreme Master. They'll even click around instead of watching their cartoons and say, 'The Supreme Master!' and then we all watch it. So She's really come into our lives and hearts, and we are better people because of that." Caption: Mr. Phil Donahue, famous talk show host, signs the enlarged photograph of Master and himself, taken at last year's gala: "To the Supreme Master, Phil Donahue." Mr. Tom Shadyac, Hollywood director, had a very impressive talk with Master last year and expresses his best regards to Her. |
Starlight Children's Foundation Honors Supreme Master Ching Hai <Los Angeles> Starlight Children's Foundation is a noble organization committed to brightening the lives of seriously ill children and their families through wish granting and hospital entertainment programs. This organization was one of the recipients of Supreme Master Ching Hai's generous contributions at the benefit concert, "One World... of peace through music" in December 1998. Always grateful for Supreme Master Ching Hai's boundless love, this year the Starlight Children's Foundation dedicated one of its Fun Centers to Supreme Master Ching Hai. These activity centers help provide entertainment and enjoyment for seriously ill children during their stays in the hospital. Mr. John Moschitta, Executive Vice President of the Starlight Children's Foundation and one of its celebrity board members, dedicated a Fun Center bearing an engraving of Supreme Master Ching Hai's name at the renowned Children's Hospital of Los Angeles. His dedication speech included the following remarks: "I would, on behalf of the Starlight Children's Foundation and Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, like to thank Supreme Master Ching Hai for contributing, among other things, this Fun Center. Also, through the help of the Supreme Master, we've granted a lot of wishes, done children's activity network events, and granted hospital wishes. We've done a lot with the generosity of the Supreme Master. We appreciate that, and look forward to Her continued support so that we can put in more of these units, grant more wishes and help put smiles on the faces of children who are not feeling that great." Diane, one of the nurses at Children's Hospital, had these kind comments about Master's contribution: "It's really nice to receive these [Fun Centers] and as You know, we have many kids that are here. So it's always great to have something as wonderful as these activity centers because many times the kids are not allowed to leave their floor or their room, and it gives them something to do while they're getting their therapies. So we want to thank You so much, because it really is appreciated by all of our families, our children, and the nurses." Nurse Mary, also from Children's Hospital, added: "My name is Mary Aruin, and I'm a child life specialist here in the oncology/hematology unit. We are very excited about having the Fun Center. It helps a lot of the children who are not able to come to the playroom due to isolation. Having the Fun Center gives them an opportunity to do some play at their bedsides." Terathan, a patient at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, also expressed appreciation: "I got admitted today for chemo [therapy]...cancer in my blood...leukemia. Hi Supreme Master. Thank You, Supreme Master, for the Fun Center." Caption: In gratitude for Master's generous contribution at the benefit concert "One World...of peace through music," the Starlight Children's Foundation engraved this message on one of its Fun Centers: "With much love and God's blessings, Supreme Master Ching Hai." Happily enjoying God's gifts to them, the children at the Children's Hospital of Los Angeles are the recipients of a new Fun Center, engraved with Supreme Master Ching Hai's name. |
"Happy Birthday," Master <Surabaya> May 12, 2000 will always bring beautiful and meaningful memories to the Quan Yin family in Surabaya, Indonesia. For on that date, we celebrated Master's Birthday at the Center, which was also its opening day. Master's birthday is special for us as a reminder of why we are here in this world. The opening of our new Center is also special for us because now we are able to have a place through our own efforts. This doubly special meaning makes us rejoice even more for having such a compassionate, living, Real Friend while we exist in this spiritually desolate country. Together we sang "Happy birthday, Master, Happy birthday to You", and saw ever-glowing, happy faces on our Quan Yin family members. All of us felt a very beautiful and lovely atmosphere emanating from the Center, so beautiful! Master, it was Your birthday, yet You gave the best gift to us. We only gave You our happiness. Happy birthday, Master. We love You! |
<Tokyo> On May 14th at the Tokyo Center, a party was held to celebrate Master's birthday after group meditation. Following Master's lecture in Japan on May 7th, many new initiates have joined the Quan Yin family in Tokyo, and like older initiates, they brought their family members, including children, to the party. Some came from faraway places such as Yiwate and Yamagata Provinces, which are 700 kilometers from Tokyo. At the party, new initiates showed their appreciation toward the precious initiation, and the love of the Quan Yin family. Everyone sang "Happy birthday to You" to Master, as initiates and their family members were moved to tears because of Master's saintly love. Report from Nepal Media Reports The People's Review, published in Kathmandu. Thursday, May 25 - May 31, 2000 (Originally in English) Master Ching Hai's Birthday Celebrated By our reporter Pokhara - The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, Pokhara, Center celebrated the 50th birthday of The Supreme Master Ching Hai in Pokhara. Som Prasad Pathak, a senior member of the Association, inaugurated the program at the Prithivi Chowk Meditation Center. A group meditation session was organized in which a large number of old and new members of the Association took part. The program lasted for three hours, and after the meditation session, an audio and video program was presented, highlighting the life and works of Supreme Master Ching Hai. At the end of the program, members of the Association wished a long life and good health to Master Ching Hai. |
Spiritual and Intellectual Interchange The Supreme Master Ching Hai, the Quan Yin Method, and the Chinese in Southeast Asia (Originally in Chinese) Caption: Master (middle) attends a seminar at the Academia Sinica, Taipei. (Left) Mr. Chu Hong-yuan from the Department of Modern History, the Academia Sinica (Right) Professor Ruaan Jy-sheng of
the National Taiwan University
On May 6, 2000 at the fourth seminar in a series of eight panel discussions, "Religions and the Chinese People Worldwide," Supreme Master Ching Hai was invited to speak about the Quan Yin Method and its development in Southeast Asia. The seminar was held at the Academia Sinica, a prestigious national academic research institute in Formosa. The conveners of the seminar were the Southeast Asia Research Project from the Academia Sinica, the Taiwan Religious Institute, the Central Broadcasting Corporation, the Overseas Chinese Research Group of the Contemporary History Research Faculty from the Academia Sinica, and the Chinese Interdisciplinary Association. Numerous professors, research fellows, media professionals, and elite personnel from many fields participated in the discussion. This seminar on the Quan Yin Method (presented below) was also broadcast locally to the public on May 20 by the Central Broadcasting Corporation. In addition, the discussion was available worldwide simultaneously on the Central Broadcasting Corporation's web site at www.cbs.org.tw. Chairman (Mr. Chu Hong-yuan from the Department of Modern History, the Academia Sinica): Good day to you, Supreme Master Ching Hai, Professor Ruaan Jy-sheng of National Taiwan University, and friends from the academic and public sectors. It is not often that the Academia Sinica has an opportunity, as it does today, to comprehensively explore a topic from both the religious and academic perspectives. I am the convener of the Overseas Chinese Research Group of the Institute of Modern History of the Academia Sinica. Our group has been sponsoring a series of lectures over the past few years. Beginning this year, we have, at the recommendation and with the support of Director Lin Mei-rong of the Taiwan Religious Institute, incorporated religious perspectives into our research on the Chinese in Southeast Asia. Thus, we have invited an important religious leader to this seminar at the Academia Sinica today. This is the fourth in a series of eight lectures. The first three lectures were on Islam, Christianity, and I-kuan Tao. The topic today is a very special one, namely, the Quan Yin Method, a new path led and taught by Supreme Master Ching Hai. Let us learn more about this new spiritual dimension and its tremendous impact on Chinese people around the world. We are coordinating the Chinese project with the Southeast Asian research project, also conducted by the Academia Sinica. This combined effort is proceeding under the guidance of Professor Hsiao Hsing-huang. Professor Hsiao has demonstrated his support for this activity by contributing an honorarium for each lecture. It is not much; nonetheless, it indicates his moral support for this academic study. We will be presenting this honorarium to Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her lecture. (Note: Master immediately contributed the honorarium back to the convener.) In addition, our overseas Chinese research group, which is now conducting studies on the Chinese in Southeast Asia, has prepared a token fee for Professor Ruaan, who will be serving as commentator today. But this is not important. More important is the cooperation evidenced in this event between the different institutes of the Academia Sinica working together on comprehensive research topics. We are especially delighted to have representatives from two organizations with us today. We have the Central Broadcasting Corporation, represented by Mr. Wen. Mr. Wen is the producer of the radio program "The Overseas Chinese Community on the Air," which is broadcast to listeners worldwide. Today's lecture will be simulcast on his program to overseas audiences, and so he will record the entire lecture today. We would also like to thank the Chinese Interdisciplinary Association for being with us today. Since its establishment 19 years ago, the association has launched a series of interdisciplinary activities with the support of university professors around Formosa. Nearly two hundred individuals with doctoral degrees are currently working with the Association to promote various interdisciplinary events. Research on religions, as well as Southeast Asian Chinese activities, is a highly interdisciplinary subject. Thus, we are delighted that the Chinese Interdisciplinary Association is participating in this seminar. We also have several other important leaders in our audience today. Of course, our greatest appreciation goes to the Academia Sinica for its attention to the lecture series, especially this fourth seminar featuring Supreme Master Ching Hai. Certain newspaper reports have raised concerns, and perhaps some tiny misunderstandings. Professor Yang Kuo-shu, Vice President of the Academia Sinica, as well as several other important administrative officials of the Sinica, have called me several times to discuss this matter. I would like to express my immense gratitude to them for surmounting all obstacles and accepting an activity of this nature. Since this is basically an academic activity, we must first request that we remain in academic discourse. Supreme Master Ching Hai has traveled to many places, and I have asked that She begin Her lecture by discussing the Chinese communities in Southeast Asia. Then, She can elaborate on the development of Her organization, as well as related developments of both past and present. Of course, it is inevitable that Her spiritual teachings will be mentioned, but we hope that the Master will focus Her talk on the Chinese in Southeast Asia. In other words, we hope that She will refrain from discussing any doctrines or activities involved in sharing the Truth, related difficulties, and future prospects in regions outside Southeast Asia, and save these topics for a future time. Today's seminar will be conducted in two sessions, each lasting approximately one hour. I think that this is a precious opportunity, one that none of you has ever had anywhere in the world, even at the Taoyuan County Stadium (Master's lecture venue the previous day). So, please try to be concise and keep your discussion within the scope of Southeast Asian Chinese academic research. We hope to gather relevant information on this topic with you serving as our witnesses. Time is precious. Now that I have completed my basic introduction, let us respectfully invite Supreme Master Ching Hai (referred to hereafter as SMCH ) to speak on the Quan Yin Method and the Chinese people in Southeast Asia. SMCH: Thank you! Thank you very much! Since I am here at your invitation, let me proceed immediately without being too courteous, so we won't waste any time. Thank you for your trust and for giving me this honor. I have always felt that Formosa is my home, so my return this time does not seem like anything special. I haven't visited Formosa for a long time because I've been very busy abroad. I delivered a lecture yesterday and you probably were there, and so have some reference. However, since I have promised to deliver this special talk today, I will abide by the guidelines set by our chairman and confine my talk to today's topic. Should I make a slip, please help me make amends. Perhaps most of you are aware of our presence here, because we have created quite a sensation in Formosa. I mean that the government and the media have helped us become very famous. [Laughter] Although there are misunderstandings, these are nonetheless part of God's arrangement. Hes does things in Hiers own way. Sometimes, Hes lets people praise you a lot to make you famous; at other times, Hes lets people misunderstand you, and that too makes you famous. The second way is not so enjoyable and we don't like it that much. However, Jesus Christ, for example, was misunderstood by many people and subjected to immense suffering, yet He is worshipped throughout the world today. Shakyamuni Buddha was framed and misunderstood by many people during His lifetime; however, the whole world worships Him today. If these two great Masters had to endure suffering and wrongful accusations, this little bit of suffering should not matter to ordinary people like us. It cleanses our karma. In our group, we are grateful to those who insult or rebuke us, because they cleanse our karma for us. It is inevitable that we will, at some time in our lives, do something that does not appeal to everyone, and that causes misunderstanding among people. When people speak ill of us, it means that our karma is cleansed; we become more prosperous, and will be rewarded after our death. The Beginning Now I will talk about our development activities. Although we have contact Centers in many countries and places, we have more brothers and sisters in Southeast Asia than anywhere else in the world. By "brothers and sisters," I am referring to our fellow practitioners. That's what we call each other because we practice a common Method. Initially, I didn't know anyone in Formosa, but now everyone treats me like a Formosan. I am really honored. Yesterday, I felt as if I had come home. When I'm overseas, people introduce me as someone from Formosa. When we render relief aid to other places, they refer to us as a Formosan group. Therefore, I am just going to stay on here as a Formosan. Even when I am not here physically, my heart and soul will be here. This is something that we cannot change; perhaps I was born here in a previous life. Some people have, during meditation, seen me eating sweet potato leaves in Formosa in a previous life. We share a deep affinity with each other. Although I didn't know a single soul when I first arrived here many years ago, I was greatly impressed by the warm hospitality that the Formosan people immediately extended toward me. I was ordained here, so I followed the traditional customs. I abided by the rules and disciplined myself. It was just like taking driving lessons and following the words of the instructor. There is a supervisor by our side while we drive strictly and very rigidly according to his instructions. Once we know how to drive, we don't need an instructor anymore; we have become so familiar with the rules that we can drive smoothly and naturally. The people here took very good care of me when I first came. The temples welcomed me and treated me well. They gave me money when I was in need. I was penniless at the time, but now I am earning some money. Once, I was on a retreat in a temple when, at midnight, about a dozen people came knocking at my door. I was bewildered to see them at that hour. They came in and revealed that the Quan Yin Bodhisattva had asked them to seek me out and learn something from me. I knew few people then, and was on a retreat. I was surprised that those people knew about me, but they said it was the Quan Yin Bodhisattva who had tipped them off. I wasn't ready to teach people, but started to do so because of their intense sincerity. I am not a Formosan citizen, so I then went to the United States, where I stayed for more than a year. There again, people came to me, claiming that God had told them to come to me at a particular temple. As a result, I established bonds of affinity with the Americans as well. Initially, I shared ties of affinity with the Chinese only, but had to leave Formosa when my visa expired, whereupon I went to the United States. I couldn't, and still can't, stay permanently in Formosa. After I had developed bonds of affinity with the Americans, the Formosan people asked me to return because they really loved me. I agreed and stayed here for quite some time, which was why our group was able to grow and expand in Formosa. This is a natural affinity. I began to shuttle between Formosa and the United States, and also traveled to other countries later. I have affinity with the Chinese people. In Southeast Asia, where there are Chinese populations, the news spread by word of mouth. We had not issued any printed or audiovisual publications back then. I was invited to Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, etc. Before we extended our reach overseas to America, our group was concentrated mainly in Southeast Asia, especially in areas sharing relations with Formosa and the Chinese people. In Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, which we have just mentioned, our group members were mainly confined to the Chinese people living there. The people there are mostly of Chinese descent and can speak Mandarin or Chinese dialects like Fukienese or Hakka. Also, one dialect in Thailand is identical to a Chinese dialect. People have discovered that the northern Thai language is exactly the same as a dialect spoken in one area in China's Yunan Province. These two peoples can communicate with each other. This proves that we Chinese once lived in Thailand. Singaporeans also speak Chinese. When I first came to Formosa, the only Chinese words I could speak were "Is your mother well?" [This is a mistake that foreigners often make when they say the Chinese characters for "How are you?" in an incorrect sequence.] [Laughter] I didn't really understand the language. When senior practitioners in temples chanted the name "Amitabha," it sounded like "Ami-tofu" to me. I was astounded to hear them repeat the word "tofu" all day long. However, I quickly mastered the language because I like the Chinese people very much. They treated me very well, just like a sister. Perhaps it was due to affinities made in previous lives. We could communicate perfectly despite the language barrier. But I was forced to learn some Chinese as I stayed on in Formosa, and I still remember some of it. I haven't forgotten it completely during my stay overseas. However, sometimes my tongue is tied because I have not spoken Chinese for a long time. I am most fluent in English; I even have difficulty speaking my own mother tongue, the Aulacese language. It's been so long since I last spoke in Aulacese that I have almost forgotten it. Development in Southeast Asia As our group continued to grow, later on Centers were established throughout Formosa, and people volunteered to be contact persons. In this way, we set up many bases, and expanded to other countries, especially in Southeast Asia. Since the chairman has asked me to talk only about Southeast Asia, I will do just that and ignore the other areas. We have numerous liaison points in Southeast Asian and other Asian countries. As more and more people learned about us, and as our contact Centers grew in number, an increasingly large number of people asked to see me in person. Since I could not be physically present everywhere, we began to produce video and audio tapes so we could reach more people. Then, we printed sample booklets for people who could not come to us. Later, we also issued News magazines. That was how our group developed in a natural way. Caption: Master used to live in a tent.
Our contact Centers are not fancy or grand by any means. They are mostly located in ordinary buildings; some are makeshift structures built with thin metal sheets. They do not look in the least bit majestic. We haven't built, and give little thought to building big, grand temples. However, when our fellow practitioners find the contact Centers too shabby, they try to do what they can to make them look better. We used to live in tents; I still have a tent up on Mount Yangming. When I am back in Formosa and if I can afford the time, I go and stay there for a while. We have no plans to build anything for ourselves. Sometimes, however, it is set up naturally. Chairman: Supreme Master, let me ask You a question. All of us have a complete set of information prepared by The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association. As we listen to Master, let us turn to page 20 on "Activities in Malaysia". Please tell us something about Malaysia, where most of the people are Islamic. How did You succeed in promoting Your activities, in sharing Your Method there, when so many other people couldn't? Can You please elaborate on that? Caption: Lecture in Malaysia, 1993.
SMCH: Most of the Chinese are rather traditional by nature. The Quan Yin Method makes no distinction between religions, nor does it mandate that people should remove their veils or worship at temples. We have already explained that the Quan Yin Method is a path that will lead us to our God Nature and heavenly Kingdom within. It does not matter what religion you follow. Our fellow practitioners from different religions meditate together while dressed in different attire. The Muslims wear their Islamic clothes; the Buddhist monks sometimes wear their monastic robes. Even monks from different countries are dressed differently. Some of them are from the Hinayana school, while some are from the Mahayana school; some are from China and some are from Korea. They dress differently and are accustomed to a wide variety of fashions. They gather together and meditate without discussing any religious issues. When they attain self-realization, they become better Muslims, Buddhists, or Christians. They are so full of love and joy that their traditional appearance does not affect us. Of course, as the chairman knows, Malaysia and certain other Muslim countries, being stricter than Formosa, impose some restrictions on the people, but their governments do not interfere with us. They are quite liberal. It is all right if the Muslims join us on their own initiative. We have never gone knocking on their doors or taken other actions. They come by themselves. At that time, we had a note on our lecture flyers, "Muslims are not encouraged to come." [Laughter] Chairman: We all know that there were anti-Chinese sentiments in Indonesia. SMCH: That was in the past. Chairman: Right! Yet You were allowed to deliver a lecture there in 1992. This is on page 21 of the information sheets provided by the SMCH International Association. In March 1992, the Indonesian government permitted Supreme Master Ching Hai to give a lecture, conducted in a question and answer format, in its country. Can You tell us about it? In 1992, since anti-Chinese sentiments were running high, Chinese literature was not allowed. Caption: In 1993, Master delivers a lecture in Indonesia. The local media report prominently on Master. SMCH: That is true. Chairman: I visited Indonesia around that time, too, but Chinese books were banned then. How did You manage to deliver a discourse there? SMCH: I spoke in English. However, thank you for reminding me. I had completely forgotten about the things that you just mentioned. It seems like a remote story to me. [Master laughs] Chairman: Right! But we research associates of the Institute of Modern History love to listen to stories. Could You please elaborate for us? SMCH: All right, but it was too long ago. When I finish a lecture, I forget about it. Ask me what I talked about yesterday, and I can't remember a thing. Let me take a look. Maybe it will bring back some memories. Chairman: Let us listen to Supreme Master. SMCH: The Chinese expatriates in Indonesia were miserable at the time. I cried when I heard their tragic stories. However, good will be rewarded with good. As time goes by, the arrangements will be revealed. You can see that the Chinese people there are much better off today. God has Hiers arrangements. When people misunderstand or abuse us, we should learn from the example of endurance and toleration of humiliation set by the Chinese, and we will realize that God does take good care of us. Sooner or later, Hes will fix it for us. Back then, the Chinese people could not study Chinese. They could not even speak their own mother tongue in public; they had to speak in English or Indonesian. However, they could speak Chinese at home. When one of our well-to-do fellow practitioners invited me to his home, all of us just squeezed into his house. It was huge and had many rooms; we were in a room that was as big as this one. There, we could speak in Chinese. I gave my public lectures in English, though. I could not violate the law. Since I was allowed into Indonesia, I had to cooperate, and everything proceeded smoothly. Chairman: Let me ask You about Your trip to Thailand. Please refer to page 21 again. In 1994, You met Princess Sirindhorn at the Thai Imperial Palace. Can You tell us about that? SMCH: That was after our lecture. The royal family knew and apparently had approached our fellow practitioners about it. I don't know too much about the background story. I was there on their invitation. In most cases, our fellow practitioners make the arrangements for me. When they inform me about the invitations they have received on my behalf, I accept them when time permits. It seemed that Thailand had just suffered some kind of disaster at the time, and we had contributed some relief aid and provisions. Caption: Lecture in Thailand, 1993. Chairman: Quilts and woolen coats. SMCH: That is right. We did that on a number of occasions, not only that one time. Perhaps the royal family had learned about our contributions and wanted to meet us. It was quite an honor. We presented some gifts to the Princess. But when they arranged for a second visit, I said "Sorry" to them because I did not have time. I was busy with other matters. Members of the Thai royal family are very humble and cordial. The Princess is very pure; you will surely like her when you see her. She does not act pretentiously. She does whatever has to be done, and wears no makeup. The people love her dearly, and so do I. But I didn't have time later. Caption: In 1996, upon learning that the cold
in northern Thailand freezes some people to death each year, Master personally
leads volunteers in distributing daily necessities to the needy in the
area.
Chairman: Please turn to page 22, about the activities in Thailand in 1999. SMCH: That was in Thailand. We have many activities there. Chairman: You have many activities in Thailand. The information here covers a World Vegetarian Congress held in Chiang Mai. Can You tell us about Your Centers in Thailand? SMCH: Well, we have many. Chairman: Do You have Centers in Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, Bangkok, and other places? SMCH: Yes, we have Centers in Hatyai, Khon Kaen, and Bangkok, but I can't remember the names very well. Our fellow practitioners know better than I do. I only travel around; I don't remember much. Sometimes I work so fast that I forget the time. I have to call my fellow practitioners to ask them the date, what time to do what, and if we are leaving for Japan or staying in Formosa today. Sometimes, I am very busy, having to pack my own luggage. It can be exhausting traveling alone, but I would draw too much attention if I were to travel with a crowd. I prefer to travel silently, but I have so many matters to attend to, that I sometimes become forgetful. However, I know that we have Centers in Khon Kaen, Hatyai, Chiang Mai and Bangkok; I don't remember the others. We have a large number of fellow practitioners in Thailand. Some of them speak Thai and some speak Chinese. Their translation is not bad. When I first went to Thailand, some of the Chinese people could not speak their own language, but they soon learned after listening to my audio tapes. I joked about charging them a tuition fee! The people there are very nice and benevolent; they have great respect for spiritual practitioners. Once they notice that you are a spiritual practitioner, they kneel before you and offer you flowers. They are a very humble people. Caption: Singapore lecture, 1993.
Chairman: Now, let us go on to Singapore. You were there as early as 1991. It seems that there were some Aulacese refugees in Singapore at the time. SMCH: Several hundred of them. Chairman: What was the situation back in April 1991? SMCH: I visited the refugees and bought something for them while I was there, but the main purpose of my visit was to deliver a lecture. There were lots of people and the lecture venue was packed until there was no space to walk. Many people sat in the passageways or on the staircase. It was the same yesterday. We had even more people and it was really crowded. (Master is referring here to Her lecture at Formosa's Taoyuan County Stadium on May 5.) Things in Singapore went pretty smoothly. The Singaporean government is very open-minded and the local people, being spiritually advanced, accepted us immediately. Their country is very clean and the people are law-abiding. If you spit chewing gum on the street, you will be fined US$500. The people are able to maintain a steady spiritual practice; once they start, they continue. You just tell them and they understand immediately. The people of Singapore develop their wisdom really well. And I am very delighted about that! Chairman: What is the most important method that they understand? What is the vital point? SMCH: I just talk to them casually. [Laughter] Chairman: But it doesn't work when I talk casually! SMCH: They are rather intelligent! [Laughter] Chairman: All right, let us talk about the Philippines. In April 1991, You were in the Philippines to help the Aulacese asylum-seekers. Why do You use the word "Au Lac" instead of "Vietnam"? This is the first question. The second question is, why did Manila present You with the City Key and confer upon You honorary citizenship? Caption: Master being interviewed by various
members of the media in the Philippines, 1994
SMCH: I have no idea. They did it as soon as I arrived because someone had told them who I was and why I was there. The mayor of Manila invited us and gave us the key. I thought that the key was beautiful, so I kept it as a souvenir, but it cannot open any doors. [Laughter] I felt great receiving a key for the first time in my life. I didn't have a home then; I was living in a tent, yet I had a key. I wrapped it nicely in a pouch. Later, I lost the thrill as I received many more keys. I put them side-by-side, just for looks. I received several keys in the United States. I can give you one if you want. [Laugher] Chairman: It is only good if the local government gives it to me. From You, maybe it's also okay! SMCH: We can share it. Chairman: Now, let's go on to that part about the Aulacese refugees. Please talk more about it, since You are from Au Lac. We will discuss Au Lac in greater detail later. SMCH: At that time, I was negotiating for the Aulacese refugees with the Philippine government to help and offer asylum to them. The country eventually offered asylum to the 5,000 refugees who were still in the Philippines. The local people are very kindhearted and generous, even though their country is poor. Therefore, I paid them a visit a couple of days ago to express our gratitude. Caption: In 1992, Master meets with Mrs. Corazon Aquino, President of the Philippines, to discuss the Aulacese refugees' stay. In 1992, Master meets with Ms. Imelda
Marcos of the Philippines.
"Au Lac" is the ancient name of Vietnam. It means "happiness." I use this name because I feel that it brings good luck to the people. I love names that sound good. Being a designer, I love beautiful things, including beautiful names. That is why I prefer to use the name "Formosa" instead of "Taiwan". You can see that we have used this name in the information sheets in your hands. We call this island Formosa, not Taiwan, though we sometimes forget. Chairman: Au Lac was hit by floods, and two million people were affected. How much did You contribute to their aid? Where did this money come from? This issue of basic necessities is very important, so I have to be blunt. SMCH: I don't quite remember because it was so long ago. It isn't that I don't want to talk about it, but I have lost count of how many countries we have provided aid to, and the amount of relief provisions we have given. Does anyone remember the amount? I don't. Chairman: What I mean is, did You raise funds for the contribution? SMCH: You are asking where the money came from? Chairman: Exactly! SMCH: Well, we got it from the bank. [Laughter] We had to; it would be very dangerous to keep such a large sum of money at home. [Laughter] We work to earn most of our money. I design clothes and other things. I designed a variety of clothes then. Now I design more expensive clothes. I also designed some minor things at that time, or we wove hats and other things for sale. Being spiritual practitioners, we ate only one or two vegetarian meals a day. Life was simple. We lived in tents and didn't have many clothes, just two or three sets. Therefore, we saved most of the money we earned and then used it to help the refugees. We also had fellow practitioners who volunteered to deliver the funds. We do not directly accept contributions from fellow practitioners. If they want to contribute, they send it directly to the affected countries. Our Formosan fellow practitioners have provided financial contributions to the Philippines, and many other countries and places. And Formosa is now well-known for its disaster relief. We are regarded as a Formosan group worldwide. Chairman: Perhaps the SMCH International Association can tell us more about how the funds were raised and how they were used. This is a very important question. However, we can raise this matter when we open the floor to discussion, since some important leaders of the Association might be present. Let us continue, as time is precious. We still have Cambodia to cover. Can You tell us about Cambodia? Caption: In 1996, Master meets with H.M. King
Sihanouk of Cambodia.
SMCH: The whole country knows about it. Contributions came from the whole country, not just our group. Everyone contributed a little, and we sent whatever we collected to Cambodia. How much we sent, I have forgotten. Really, I forget very quickly; however, I think it was a lot, about 6,000 tons of rice. You can find that information in the newspapers. We sent the relief provisions to Cambodia because it had been in bad shape for a long time. People were starving, and crops were not growing. Now they have no problem. They saved some of the rice that we contributed to plant. Later, their Prime Minister reported to me: "Master, we planted many rice paddies from the rice that You contributed, and the yield is increasing all the time." The assistance we provided serves not only at that moment, but future generations as well. The children and the elderly are now sufficiently clothed and fed. They are very grateful to the Formosans-- fellow practitioners and otherwise, for their aid. Chairman: The last two questions are about Cambodia. Under item six is the 1996 retreat. Could You please explain this retreat and give us a brief introduction? SMCH: Each year, we reserve some time to sit down quietly to introspect on ourselves, since God dwells within us, and to strengthen our inner realization. This is the purpose of a retreat. We put down everything for a few days -- three, five, or seven days, depending on the situation. During that time, we concentrate entirely on our God Nature, or the God within us. This is called a retreat. We have retreats every year in different countries. The last one was in Thailand; next week, we will have another one in Korea. We do this for ourselves and for world peace. When we get together, the power is stronger and it is more convenient to pray. This is what a retreat is for. Chairman: I think approximately thirty-five minutes have passed. In this first session, I asked Supreme Master Ching Hai some simple questions regarding the activities of the Chinese people in Southeast Asia. Professor Ruaan Jy-sheng of National Taiwan University will now give us his comments. [Applause] Comments from a Scholar Professor Ruaan: I am as excited as every one of you to have Supreme Master Ching Hai with us. I don't think many people, including the conveners, expected Supreme Master Ching Hai to grace us with Her presence today. I, myself, feel especially honored. The comments that I am about to make will be directly related to the theme of our seminar -- The Supreme Master Ching Hai, the Quan Yin Method, and the Chinese in Southeast Asia. The theme has two parts, one being about Southeast Asia. We have a number of experts and scholars sitting among us. Our chairman, Professor Chu, is an expert in the study of the overseas Chinese, especially the Chinese communities and religions in Indonesia. He has published several articles in this area. We also have with us scholars from the Taiwan Religion Institute and the Southeast Asia Research Project, who are more competent speakers than I am on the subject of the Chinese in Southeast Asia. Therefore, I will comment mainly on Supreme Master Ching Hai and the Quan Yin Method. I read the material provided by the SMCH International Association before the seminar and have just listened to a speech by Supreme Master. I get the impression that the Quan Yin Method and its leader are very special; maybe we could say that they are of a "different variety". They are really unique. My general observations tell me that the actions and speech of this leader often shatter boundaries and rules, as they do not conform to the social codes we are familiar with. She is very uncommon and above normal etiquette. For this reason, it is very difficult for people to understand and categorize Her according to existing concepts and habitual rules. In the eyes of worldly people, Supreme Master Ching Hai is very different than other religious leaders. The Supreme Master Ching Hai is an Asian lady of Aulacese origin. She has given lectures in Chinese, English, Aulacese, and even German and French on the Earth's five continents. She is well-versed in all the major religious scriptures and can easily expound profound doctrines in simple words of common usage. The Supreme Master gives initiation to Truth-aspirants of any ethnic group or religious background, without demanding that they give up their original faith. She imparts a supra-worldly method of liberation, but is also very concerned about worldly suffering, conducting disaster relief and charitable activities when the need arises. She teaches the Quan Yin Method, a simple and appare |