Congregants pool contributions to share merit with neighbors in need
Jirisan Daehwaeomsa Temple, the head temple of the 19th district of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, donated 200 bags of white rice — totaling 2,000 kilograms — to Gurye-gun on the occasion of Baekjung, the Buddhist observance also known as Uranbunjol.
According to the temple, the rice was gathered through small contributions from congregants who came together to honor the grace of their ancestors and parents and to share that merit with disadvantaged neighbors in the community.
The donation carries added significance as another act of compassionate giving, following a series of community outreach efforts the temple undertook through cultural events earlier this summer.
At the sixth Jirisan Daehwaeomsa Mosquito-Net Film and Music Concert, held Aug. 8, participants voluntarily contributed to a "happiness sharing fund," raising 5 million won ($3,610) that was passed on to the local community.
Baekjung is one of the five major Buddhist holidays and is observed as a day to honor deceased parents and ancestors, practice filial piety toward living parents, and dedicate the merit of spiritual practice and generosity to all neighbors.
Gurye-gun Deputy County Chief O Su-mi pledged that the donated rice, representing the warm sincerity of each individual congregant, would be distributed to low-income households and social welfare facilities.
Hwaeomsa Head Monk Useok said the temple would continue to share in the joys and hardships of county residents and look after children, youth, the elderly, people with disabilities and those falling through the cracks of the welfare system.
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