International Reports

• U.S.A. -

Report From New York

The Angels Have Come To Earth - New York Was Stunned By Their Beauty And The Charm Lingers On Indefinitely

Due to the repeated requests of the public, Master Ching Hai, the embodiment of Truth, virtue and beauty, presented the first show of the worldwide S.M. Celestial Clothes Fashion Show at Lincoln Center in New York. Her designs belonging only to heaven are rarely seen in this world. The unique and colorful fashions had an unprecedented impact on the cultural elite of New York City.

When the news of the worldwide S.M. Celestial Clothes Fashion Show was announced, fellow practitioners from the New York meditation Center were both surprised and delighted to know that the first show would be held in New York City. Master was arriving very soon, so the preparation work had to be rushed. Fellow practitioners from the neighboring states and from all over the world came to join the work team. Arriving as scores of fellow practitioners, were exquisitely printed posters and leaflets for this special event.

Soon the news about Master's Celestial Clothes Fashion Show could be found at some of New York's best known landmarks, including Fifth Avenue, Broadway and the Soho district, which is renowned for its artistic atmosphere. Posters were also placed at the major fashion design colleges. Coincidentally, the grand biannual fashion show was being held at Bryan Park in New York. Thus, many of the world's fashion industry elite were in New York, including world-class designers, buyers, and senior editorial staff from many leading fashion magazines.

New York is an impersonal city. Most New Yorkers would ignore someone handing out advertising leaflets or would throw them away without even taking a glance. However, thanks to Master's power, the leaflet distribution in the park achieved a much better than expected result. Some New Yorkers were obviously attracted by the colorful leaflets because some passersby even stopped and asked for one.

Within days, everything was ready. On the night of the fashion show Avery Fisher Hall at Lincoln Center was packed with people who jostled to appreciate the various exquisite artworks designed by Master.

The S.M. Celestial Clothes were unveiled when the angelic models appeared on stage accompanied by a fantastic orchestration of changing lights and music. Master's superbly designed costumes displayed an ingenuity that surely was the work from Heaven. These exceptionally styled Celestial Clothes were amply complemented by the elegant and graceful movements of the models. This absolutely dazzling show was definitely superior to any ordinary commercial fashion show.

At the conclusion of the show, amid applause and cheering, all the models, who were dressed in resplendent evening gowns, lined up and walked with Master to the center of the stage. Master, as the designer, briefly greeted the audience before the first S.M. Celestial Clothes Fashion Show ended with thunderous applause.

Apart from marvelling at the garments, the guests also sensed very deeply Master's strong blessing power. When Master appeared during the curtain call, some fellow practitioners saw an immeasurable radiance on the stage that almost blinded them. A fashion designer at the scene remarked that he had seen innumerable fashion shows, and he rated Master's show as exceptional. Apart from being inspired by Master's elegant and beautifully designed clothes, this gentleman was also deeply impressed by Master's concluding speech. According to him, fashion designers usually have their speeches well prepared, and always say the same things. However, this gentleman felt that Master spoke entirely from Her heart, and he was deeply touched by Her words.

In attendance was an American expert who had done research on ancient theories like Yin and Yang, the Five Elements, and traditional Chinese Medicine. He believed that Master was definitely a fully enlightened being. He also said that the energy field in the venue was so good that he was reluctant to leave. Master's extraordinary energy force was also detected by an astrologer. At the venue, many interested people asked for Master's books, and expressed their desire to begin a vegetarian diet.

There was a tea party after the show for the many VIP guests. The guest list included: the German Consul General to New York, Mr. and Mrs. Holtermann; the Swiss Consul in New York, Mr. Andre R. Jaccard; a representative from the New York State Government, Ms. Yvette Taylor; and many celebrities from the fashion and photographic industries.

During Master's stay in New York, She was interviewed by many news media representatives, including: Ms. Belinda Hsu, the Sales Manager and Producer of the Chinese American Voice, Inc.; the Branch Director of the Chinese Radio Network in New York, Mr. Kane Ho; the President of the New York Sino Radio Broadcasts Corporation, Mr. Hsin-Yuan Cheng; the Interdimensional TV Show Channel 16; China Times Business Weekly; Chinatimes News Weekly; World Journal; Asia American Times; Chinese Communication Channel; Augusta Focus of Georgia; Overseas TV Network; Chung Wah Commercial Broadcasting Co.; Spanish Radio; Time Warner Cable; and many others. Thanks to the news media, Master's S.M. Celestial Clothes Fashion Show attracted wide attention in New York.

Report From Texas

Three-Day Retreat After Easter

Over the Easter weekend, a three-day retreat was held at the Austin Ashram. The retreat occurred at a wild and beautiful site in the hill country of San Marcos, Texas. The magnificent, rugged landscape was a perfect complement to the serene spiritual atmosphere at the Ashram. Colorful flowers were in full bloom and the trees were overflowing with new leaves. The spring grass, bathed in dew, grew fresh and strong.

The Austin Ashram has been improved significantly since the last retreat, during the New Year's holiday. Fellow initiates throughout Texas did a fine job in constructing the kitchen, bathroom and shower facilities. The parking lot and roads were well paved with gravel. The camping grounds were cleared of stones and cacti. Electrical poles and new light fixtures were installed. Adequate supplies of water are now available for drinking and bathing.

Ever since Master personally developed the Ashram and set a perfect example for all fellow practitioners, those in Texas cherish the Ashram even more. They all worked earnestly to turn it into a paradise. Now, the Austin Ashram has become a most ideal place for holding meditation activities.

As we enjoyed the tranquil and beautiful atmosphere here, all the fellow practitioners were very grateful to Master, and missed Her affectionately.

Master's Love Embraces The Oklahoma Bombing Tragedy

On the morning of April 19, 1995, a terrorist bomb detonated at the federal building in Oklahoma City, killing many innocent people. This bombing is the largest terrorist attack ever in U.S. history. At that time, Master was busy preparing for the S.M. Celestial Clothes Fashion Show in London, England. Upon receiving the bad news, She immediately instructed fellow practitioners in the nearby states to pray for those who were killed, and to help those who had survived. Master also requested that all the fellow initiates around the world pray for the victims of this calamity.

Disciples from various cities in Texas and Oklahoma gathered in Oklahoma City to try to help the victims. Many disciples from Houston, Austin, Dallas, and Tulsa drove for long hours to Oklahoma City and were immediately ready to help the victims in any way. After disciples from the various places met at the meditation center in Oklahoma City to discuss the strategy of the relief work, they quickly went into action. Some disciples were sent out as scouts to assess the situation, to see what needed to be done and to learn how they could best help, while others meditated and prayed to Master to help the innocent victims.

The site of the tragedy was under heavy security as police and FBI personnel surrounded the devastated building. Due to heavy rain and a police blockade, many people were unable to go into the site to offer help. Even the media encouraged people not to go near the bombed building. Due to Master's blessings, we were able to go into the area and deliver our supplies and volunteer our help. Our scouts quickly delivered a truckload of medical supplies and fresh fruit that was in great demand. Red Cross personnel told us that they needed as many volunteers as we could offer and the only qualification for volunteers was the quality of compassion.

On the way back, the scouts checked the local hospitals to see how many victims were in each hospital and to request to take gifts to the injured victims. Due to the advanced medical technology in the U.S.A., most of the patients were quickly treated and released on the same day. Those who remained in the hospitals were usually the critically injured who required prolonged medical attention.

We found that in the children's hospital many of the children had died the night before. Even though we were not allowed to visit these patients, the hospital staff welcomed us to leave our gifts for them, knowing that if they woke up, they would be happy to see that some people cared about them.

The scouts returned and work teams were quickly formed. One small team was in charge of taking the volunteers to the Red Cross. Another team went out to buy fruit, toys and candies for the victims. Another team collected donations to be given to the Red Cross. More than four thousand dollars cash was donated by the disciples.

In a short time, fresh fruit, toys, and candies were brought in and put into beautifully decorated baskets. Master's sample booklets were then carefully put into each gift basket so that those victims could receive additional blessings from Her. Many disciples' eyes were filled with tears knowing that Master's love was in each gift basket which would be put into the rooms of those critically injured victims.

The gift baskets were quickly delivered to the injured victims in hospitals around the city. Some hospital personnel even asked about Master, accepted the sample booklets, and their pictures to be taken with the disciples.

In the meantime, the disciples who volunteered to assist the Red Cross worked feverishly unloading trucks filled with urgently needed supplies. They had to sort all the items and then reload the trucks. After many hours of hard work, many solid-looking American men were amazed at how even the smallest disciples were capable of working so hard and were all the while filled with so much love. The disciples were content in the knowledge that everything was the result of the work of our inner Master, and hoped that their American friends would come to realize this as well.

As the days' work came to an end, personnel at the Red Cross along with other volunteers came and shook our hands and offered "high fives." At that instant, there were no racial barriers, hatred, or mistrust - there was love and only love. Perhaps the only good thing that came out of this tragic incident is a lesson for all humans about how to love one another.

When all was done, disciples said their good-byes at the Red Cross and began their long journey home. It was indeed a precious experience for everyone to combine love with action, by sharing Master's love with the victims and relief personnel.

Report From Los Angeles

I Have Come To Take You Home

A fellow initiate at the Los Angeles Center had done a little favor for one of his American friends that turned out to have a significant impact on both the friend and his family. It all started out with the initiate's goodwill gesture of donating a copy of Master's new book, "I Have Come To Take You Home," to his friend.

One night, after reading this book, his friend went to sleep and in his dreams, he saw Master come to him, gently pat him on the shoulder, and say in a gentle voice, "Follow me and I will save you!" The following day, he immediately contacted the fellow initiate to get directions to the Los Angeles Center. As it was already the weekend, he did not waste a single minute, but hurriedly took his whole family in the early morning to the Center as directed. After driving on the freeway for a while, he realized that he must have left the piece of paper with the directions at home. It was then a little too late for a return trip because he did not want to miss the appointment with his initiated friend at the Center. He decided to keep driving while contemplating what Master had said to him that night.

While driving, he started looking around in hopes that he could find an initiate driving nearby; he then saw a little car behind him with a shiny object hanging from the rear view mirror, swinging back and forth, reflecting the glittering sunlight. A closer look assured him that the object was, indeed, a picture of Master, which he had been intentionally looking for. Content at what seemed to be a mere coincidence at first, he kept driving while remaining a comfortable distance from the car behind, without removing his eyes from Master's picture.

When the car behind left the freeway, he still kept a distance from it without having the slightest idea of where he was going. As the car started to slow down and veer to the left with a turn signal, he had no choice but to do likewise and eventually found himself parking next to that car in the Center's parking lot. When he told this story to the fellow initiate from the car behind him, she just shook her head in disbelief and said, "How could you follow me when I was behind you?" It was then that he quickly realized that he had followed Master to the Los Angeles Center. That lucky fellow American finally found the answer to his dream and immediately applied to practice the Convenient Method of meditation along with his family members before joining our big Quan Yin family.

• U.K. -

Report From London

Baptism Of Truth, Virtue And Beauty

Shortly before Master arrived in London the usually overcast sky became fine and clear. As the morning sun rose slowly on the horizon, Great Britain welcomed Master Ching Hai, who had been away for many years.

At Heathrow Airport, dozens of lucky British fellow initiates, would-be initiates and their respective relatives, experienced a most moving moment. Many local fellow practitioners saw Master in person for the first time, and could not help crying.

Disregarding the exhaustion of the trip, Master distributed blessed food to everyone, and made a brief speech. Upon seeing Master, all the tiredness experienced by the fellow practitioners who had helped prepare the forthcoming S.M. Celestial Clothes Fashion Show vanished instantly with the dark clouds as the sun shone brilliantly.

After a short rest, Master met the local press in the afternoon. She briefly introduced some of the Celestial Clothes collection and then answered their questions. Representatives from about ten newspapers attended the press conference, including The Independent, U.K., Sing Tao Daily News, Chinese News Entertainment Ltd., Siyu Chinese Times Supplement, the Hong Kong Express News and others.

On the evening of April 22nd, the second show of Master Ching Hai's World-wide Celestial Fashion Show was staged at the Wembley Conference Center in London. Master sat with the audience this time, to enjoy the performance. The models appeared under the spotlights one by one, displaying over one hundred exquisite masterpieces designed by Master. The collection included graceful evening gowns, charming Arabian costumes, carefree casual wear, romantic silky dresses and the noble lotus dress, which made the audience gasp in appreciation. There was frequent cheering and warm applause from the entire audience. Everyone seemed to be in heaven, fervently savoring this baptism of Truth, virtue and beauty.

Concluding the show, all the models appeared on stage again and invited Master, with warm applause, to join them. Master expressed Her gratitude to all the models, cosmeticians, hair stylists and the supporting staff backstage. Master said that the models had become more beautiful since joining the S.M. Celestial Clothes Fashion Shows because their inner noble qualities had been elevated. She also emphasized that spiritual practice develops our inner almighty power, which can achieve what was thought to be impossible before. The quest for beauty, Master said, is not contradictory to spiritual practice because God is embodied in Truth, virtue and beauty.

Amid thundering applause and the lingering gaze of the audience, Master went backstage where She shook hands with each of the working staff and once again expressed Her thanks. Later, at the Fashion Show tea party, Master had a delightful meeting with many VIPs from a variety of professions. She also answered questions from the media. Meanwhile, the crowd lingered in the exhibition hall appreciating Master's paintings, longevity lamps and Celestial Jewelry Collection. The crowd was intoxicated by the glorious and blissful atmosphere of heaven, and was reluctant to leave.

After the tea party, Master personally initiated some Truth aspirants, and delivered a concise yet very brilliant discourse. She then walked around the hall blessing the fellow initiates who were meditating. Having been immersed in Master's infinite love, the fellow practitioners received the greatest comfort for their souls.

On the next afternoon, in spite of Her exhaustion, Master went to the Imperial Polytechnic Institute to join the fellow practitioners for group meditation. Cherry trees were in full bloom outside the venue, as if welcoming Master, who was beautifully dressed in a yellow Indian like costume. Master took the time to answer all the questions asked by the new initiates, and then meditated with everyone.

After Master's short and busy stay in England, She quickly left for Paris leaving the British initiates with an unforgettable memory and feeling of thankfulness.

• France -

Report From Paris

The Beautiful S.M. Celestial Clothes Stun Paris

In April, the weather in Paris is quite comfortable, with occasional drizzle enhancing the city's romantic atmosphere. Like a warm spring breeze, the S.M. Celestial Clothes Fashion Show swept into Paris, where many of the world's most famous fashion designers have their headquarters. The S.M. Collection contains a unique array of clothes created by Master Ching Hai, and displays the glorious and elegant colors of spring - quite in contrast to the dark theme of the Paris winter collection. Having heard about the two sensational Shows held earlier in New York and London, members of the Parisian fashion circle eagerly awaited the exhibition of Master's S.M. Celestial Clothes in their city, hoping to witness the splendor of Her designs.

At the Palais Des Congres de Paris, the Show was professionally orchestrated, using the latest lighting and audio equipment. When the beautiful Paris models danced onto the stage wearing the colorful and graceful S.M. Celestial Clothes, they appeared like Goddesses descending from heaven. Because it was their third show, their nimble steps and proud smiles showed their awareness of the greatness of the Celestial Clothes designed by Master Ching Hai. Indeed, this precisely reflected Master 's motto when She designed the Clothes - 'Beautiful Within and Without.' An audience of about two thousand people filled the venue, continuously applauding, whistling, cheering, and clapping in rhythm to the music, another of Master Ching Hai's creations, which accompanied the models on stage. Blessed by Master's tremendous energy of love, the audience was deeply moved. Even men were seen secretly wiping away their tears. This enlightened us to the fact that lecturing is not the only way in which Master teaches. In fact, all of Her activities teach and benefit sentient beings by spreading Her immense storehouse of love.

The climax of the evening occurred when Master appeared in an elegant, dark blue traditional Au Lac styled evening gown decorated with glittering Celestial Jewelry. The entire audience stood up and cheered, voicing their approval of the performance. The applause and cheering persisted while Master introduced and thanked all the people who had worked diligently to make the evening an unqualified success; but She humbly refused to take any credit.

Immediately after the S.M. Celestial Clothes Fashion Show was over, Master attended a tea party with VIPs, press and other media reporters. Later that evening She had dinner with Her models. They were treated to an exquisite vegetarian feast, served with non-alcoholic champagne, prepared by fellow practitioners from Paris. At the same time, a counter was set up in the main hall to handle initiation procedures. Also exhibited were paintings, Celestial Jewelry, and lamps created by Master. Many guests were intensely fascinated by the elaborate jewelry, whose exceptional designs embody the noble ideals of Truth, virtue and beauty, and bring a subtle touch of elegance to their owners. Many VIPs were delighted because in addition to the Fashion Show, they also experienced a wonderful array of art created by Master Ching Hai. Thus, in keeping with Master's words, they savored both inner and outer beauty at the Show.

The VIP guests present included: Mr. & Ms. Chong Jung Yun and Mr. Rong-Nan Qui, the official Formosan Representatives in France; Mr. Hsiao, the Visa Superintendent for the Formosan Representative in France; Mr. Lam, London Director General of Global Group Bank in France; Mr. Chan-De Wu, from the Chinese Embassy in France; Mr. & Ms. Wang Chun, owners of CITS; and Mr. Chan-June Wang, the representative of China Airlines in France. During Her stay in Paris, Master Ching Hai was also interviewed by various media organizations, including the Europe Daily News, the Paris Dragon News, TIN TUC News, Silk Road News, Figaro News, Sing Tao Daily News, RFI Radio, Canal Plus News, the French News Agency, Radio Here & Now, and the Chinese Division of RFI Radio, to mention only a few.

After the Fashion Show, the Paris meditation Center was reinforced by a group of new members because of an initiation granted by Master, who even went to the initiation venue to bless the new initiates in person. Besides these new initiates, some fellow practitioners who were initiated in Paris but had never seen Master before, also had their prayers answered by being able to spend time with Master. They all claimed to be extremely blissful when seeing Her, and were touched by Her immaculate care and concern. Observing the contentment and bliss beaming from their faces, it was clear that Master's love not only permeated the souls of these people, but also imbued the whole European Continent with God's wellspring of love. From Paris, the S.M. Celestial Clothes Fashion Show next descends on Milan, Italy, where no doubt Master Ching Hai's enchanting, ethereal creations will continue to excite the world.

• Italy -

Report From Milian

The Poetic S.M. Celestial Fashion Show Like Flowing Water And Floating Cloud

The additional show in Milan was arranged in a very short time. Most members of the work team could not participate because they did not have enough time to get visas. Also, there were no branch centers or fellow practitioners there. The scene was hectic and everyone had to work quickly, yet the show created a great stir and the results were perfectly sensational, all thank to Master's blessings!

Through God's fantastic arrangement, the advance coordinating work was carried out smoothly. With the help of a female Italian reporter (now a would-be initiate practicing the Convenient Method), the news was quickly spread to the local fashion elite and media. That day happened to be a holiday, but the place was packed with reporters who kept coming like an endless stream. More reporters were present than even at the previous shows. All the major fashion magazines and newspapers also sent their representatives to get the news.

The reporters were very conscientious, jotting down Master's answers. They also raised questions about spiritual practice. The most senior writer in Milan, a ninety-eight year old reporter, Professor Ardito Desio, was also attracted by Master and attended the press conference. Being a key press person in Milan, Professor Desio had met many political leaders from different countries. He had also explored the Himalayas many times. He and Master had a delightful conversation during this gathering.

Most fashion shows are held on a much smaller scale. It was most exceptional to have large audiences of thousands of people like those at the super shows in New York, London and Paris! This time in Milan, the show was held in the usual style of an ordinary fashion show. People invited were the local celebrities, reporters, famous fashion designers and personages from well-known fashion establishments. In Master's opinion, this show was the best and the most outstanding one performed by the models. Their happiness, which was generated from within, accounted for their nimble and fluent performances on stage. The audience were true professionals, and the atmosphere was harmonious.

At the conclusion of the show, Master invited all the working staff onto the stage to answer the curtain call. Returning backstage, Master cordially chatted with all the workers, and gave each one a red envelope, symbolizing auspiciousness. They were just like a close family. Later, Master attended a tea party, and many celebrities, reporters and designers joined the joyful occasion. A would-be designer admired Master very much, and said, "I have seen all the famous fashion designers' shows, but have never observed any designer who could create poetry with a fashion show!" The other guests present also sincerely appreciated Master's designing and artistic talents.

A Muslim lady, after seeing Master's Arabian designs, was deeply moved. She told Master, in front of her child, that she felt that Master was very close to them. When Master answered "I am also a Muslim!," she was touched even more. Before the initiation in Milan, the scene of the reunion of Master and disciples was most heartwarming and exciting. A fellow sister came all the way from Poland in spite of her financial situation. She prayed sincerely and persistently, and managed to reach the venue in time just by getting free rides all the way. Upon seeing Master, she could not help crying in ecstasy, and Master gave her the fan She was using.

At the tea party, there was a staff member from the Miss Italy Pageant who praised Master's fashion show, and also regarded Master very highly. He invited Master to be the VIP of the Pageant qualifying contest. Master generously consented to his sincere invitation. On the day of the Miss Italy Pageant, fellow practitioners attended in their finest attire. At the venue, there was an impressive gathering of celebrities and elegant personages. The judges were publishers of famous fashion magazines. Following the social greetings, many people enquired further about Master and our practicing group. Therefore, the fellow practitioners naturally spread Master's love and teachings, and accomplished a Truthspreading activity after the fashion show.

God's arrangement was truly too fantastic to be described, or to be predicted! The following remark appeared in a fashion magazine: "The world's fashion trend, that has been going astray for the last thirty years, has returned to the normal sense only recently...." Master's Celestial Clothes happened to be introduced to the world at this very moment, and became the focus of the fashion elite in the U.S., Europe and the world, as the top paradigm leading the trend in a positive direction.

• New Zealand -

Good Response To The Healthy Life Exhibition

With Master's blessing, fellow practitioners from New Zealand participated in the Healthy Life Exhibition, the most significant event in that country. Master's photos, paintings, books, and video tapes were exhibited. Sample booklets and News magazines were also distributed. There was a tremendous response. Many spectators left their names and addresses, wishing to receive the News magazine regularly. After the event, many of them attended a seminar on the Quan Yin Method, and watched Master's lecture videos. After the seminar, many people immediately enrolled to practice the Convenient Method, preparing to receive initiation.

This was the first time the fellow practitioners in New Zealand had taken part in an exhibition. Although there were not many initiates, everyone worked well together. Therefore, the exhibition was very successful. Some fellow practitioners from faraway Tauranga even drove for hours to the exhibition venue in Auckland. The Sydney meditation Center in Australia also helped with the exhibition by sending a fellow initiate who brought along sample booklets on the plane. What was even more of a coincidence was that there were some fellow practitioners from Switzerland and the U.S.A. touring New Zealand who also gave much assistance. They seemed to have been sent particularly by Master to help.

Many spiritual groups took part in this exhibition, and many spectators were spiritual practitioners. Facing Master's photograph, they could sense the tremendous blessing power and indicated that it was incredible. A New Zealand meditation teacher also expressed that a gigantic energy field could be felt in front of the booth set up by the fellow initiates. He asked the fellow initiates at the venue about this, and they explained that it was Master's blessing power. The teacher then understood.

One week after the exhibition, the New Zealand fellow initiates held a seminar on the Quan Yin Method at the Pembridge Conference Hall - an old historic building facing Auckland University. Master's lecture videos were shown, and then the contact person of the Auckland meditation Center conducted a discussion to answer questions asked by the guests. With Master's blessing, the atmosphere in the venue was very positive. A spiritual practitioner revealed that she could feel Master's magnetic field upon entering the hall, and heard Master telling her, "Welcome home!" She has already decided to receive initiation.

Apart from the scheduled weekly group meditation, the New Zealand fellow practitioners had especially held group meditation sessions the day before and every day during the exhibition, praying for Master's blessing. They also prayed earnestly for Master to come and lecture in New Zealand. Many guests who made an affinity with Master at the exhibition or seminar also longed to see Her.

• Malaysia -

Report From Penang

The Cheshire Home's Joyous Party

Fellow initiates in Penang, Malaysia, together with their friends and relatives, went to the Cheshire Home (for the handicapped) to hold a party for its unfortunate residents. They also invited friends from the two United Union Centers. One center is a workshop for the handicapped and the other is a home for young abused children.

The party began in the early evening with a Chinese and Indian vegetarian meal. The feast included cakes, fruit, frozen deserts and other delicious food. The dinner was accompanied by Master's soothing songs. Many people were surprised that vegetarian food could be so delicious.

Fellow initiates then set up a karaoke machine to let the young handicapped children express their feelings through song. For the children it was a very unforgettable experience.

The next event allowed residents of the Cheshire Home to vote for their most well-liked person, so as to encourage them to love, care, and help each other.

One of the games played during the party was wheel-chair baccarat. Fellow initiates joined in and truly displayed their love. The game was played with fellow brothers and sisters pushing the residents around in their wheel-chairs and competing. It received a warm response from the participants, bringing joy and much laughter into everyone's heart. The winners all received prizes.

The climax of the evening was the lucky draw. One of the most beautiful prizes was a pendant with Master's photo. The fortunate winner was a lovely girl who was sadly polio-stricken. When she received the pendant she broke into a magnificent smile, and immediately wore the pendant with pride.

The first special prize was a Walkman. One fellow brother overheard that a certain little polio-stricken girl was very keen on getting this prize, but unfortunately she did not win it. This fellow brother bought a Walkman for the little girl the next day. This thoughtful expression of love deeply moved the girl and her mother.

The evening's events closed with everyone singing 'Auld Lang Syne.' Fellow initiates and friends went around shaking hands with all of the Cheshire Home's residents. A warm gathering thus came to a conclusion. All of our souls were enriched because of the love that had been exchanged. Someone even requested that we hold another gathering like this one in the future.

It was raining slightly, but intermittently, throughout the evening. Consequently, the truck driver originally had been worried that the karaoke equipment would be rained on when transported back. Strangely, when the party was over, the rain also stopped. And when the last piece of audio equipment was safely moved from the truck into the house, it started to rain hard. This was definitely Master reminding us not to forget the Supreme Power that is always working in the background, just as She reminds us in Her song, 'Remember Me When The Rain Falls.'

• The Philippines -

Spreading Master's Teachings Outside Palawan Camp

In order to let more people have the opportunity to know about the 'Quan Yin Method' and receive its benefits, fellow practitioners from Palawan went especially to the area outside of the refugee camp, Puerto Princesa City, to play Master's video tapes for the enjoyment of the Philippine nationals. The local residents were very supportive and helpful. They helped fellow practitioners beautifully decorate the venue. You could see Master's books and pictures being arranged in a pleasant and orderly fashion. Master's posters were hung at elevated spots so that everyone could see them easily. Then groups and groups of people came one after another. Everyone was in high spirits at being able to participate in this grand event. When Master's tape on daily life was being played, following Her footsteps as She spread the Truth all over the world, everyone was deeply moved by Master's noble, chivalrous deeds and boundless love for the world. Countless pairs of yearning, innocent eyes stared unceasingly at Master's image on the screen. Although the playing time was only a few short hours, it had already caused the Philippine compatriots to feel a great deal, realizing that Master, with Her loving heart, had used a variety of methods to help the people of the world to walk the path of liberation.

Sharing God's Love

Brother Jun De Jesus, a minister of the United Church, has set up 'The Organization of God's Love for International Children' in Manila, the Philippines, especially for taking care of lost and orphaned children. It also has a church in which believers can pray and gather on weekends. Jun De Jesus wrote to Master and received Her care and help; thus he invited the local Quan Yin messenger to his church so that he and the church members could have a chance to discuss Master's teachings.

During the discussion, many questions about the Quan Yin Method were raised that helped people to understand Master's teachings and the true facts about life, death, and reincarnation. The Quan Yin messenger also presented them with Master's books and magazines for future reference. Someone then brought up questions on the benefits of eating vegetarian food and on how to gain enlightenment. After a period of discussion and exchange of opinions, all the participants came to understand more about Master's subtle teachings.

The day after the meeting, Jun De Jesus visited the Center in order to better understand the Quan Yin Method. After having further discussions with the Quan Yin messenger about his doubts regarding life, death, and reincarnation, he not only became instantly enlightened and felt very satisfied, but was also more convinced about Master's teachings. This sincere, open-minded person easily accepted Master's message. Now he is practicing the Convenient Method of meditation and is also spreading Master's teachings to the Philippine people nearby.

On the third day, the Quan Yin messenger and fellow practitioners from the camp made a large batch of cookies imprinted with the message, 'Master is Love,' and presented them to Jun De Jesus to distribute to the local children, so that everyone would be able to share God's love. The children happily enjoyed the cookies and also sang anthems of love along with the fellow practitioners who had visited them. They all became immersed in a moment of boundless warmth and love.

• Hong Kong -

Multifarious Activities And A Multi-Styled Life

Master has instructed fellow practitioners to learn more English so that people of different nationalities can communicate more easily. The Mongkok Book Circulation Center also recently set up an English class. Fellow practitioners enthusiastically participated, hoping that after improving their English, they can better understand Master's English lectures. Besides learning some basic English conversation in class, they also invited Master to be the teacher - everyone learned English by listening to Master's lectures and songs. Everyone sang and danced while learning English, feeling a great deal of joy and enthusiasm.

Considering that computer usage is becoming more and more common in today's society, whether on the job or in helping with the work of the Center, the computer has gradually become indispensable. Therefore, besides the English class, a 'Basic Computer Usage' class was also arranged to accommodate those fellow practitioners who need to become more computer literate. Also, for the sake of fellow practitioners' children, a school-work counseling class was formed with the higher grade children teaching the lower grade children. They hoped that they could help one another and transform the spirit of cooperation into a form of consolidated power, so that under the protection of the huge Quan Yin family they could together face the possible pressures met in schools, and learn to break through the thorny undergrowth on the road of spiritual practice.

Many people are off work on Saturday afternoons, and the Book Circulation Center becomes full of people watching Master's tapes, reading Her books, and enjoying Her works of art. The school-work counseling, computer and English classes set up by fellow practitioners are held at the same time; the atmosphere has been cordial and harmonious. Even some non-initiates are silently joining in, learning on the side!

Moving Toward The New Vegetarian Age!

Since March, on Saturday afternoons, the Vegetarian House, opposite the Mongkok Book Circulation Center, has set up a free vegetarian cooking class that attracts more and more city folks interested in vegetarian food to take part. Fellow practitioners, feeling that this is an opportunity to share with the public their own vegetarian experiences and a hard-to-get opportunity for self-learning, happily participate by taking turns in teaching their own special dishes. In the vegetarian classes, not only are cooking demonstrations and food tasting conducted, but also free copies of recipes are distributed.

Once, a demonstrating fellow practitioner indicated to the audience that after going home, besides cooking more vegetarian dishes to change the eating and drinking habits of their family members, it would be good if they could also try their best to promote and teach others how to cook vegetarian food. In doing this, it was hoped that as a result of more and more people in Hong Kong becoming vegetarian, the atmosphere here would become more harmonious. The talk was immediately responded to with thunderous and approving applause from the whole audience, indicating that many people in Hong Kong have accepted the new vegetarian eating concept. In the future, this will certainly be the leading trend in improving Hong Kong's quality of health and life.

On April 1st, All Fools' Day, fellow practitioners 'entertained' others and themselves by holding a promotional vegetarian buffet feast. Video tapes introducing the benefits of vegetarian food and Master's songs were played at the venue. Fellow practitioners also had each of the dishes named with beautiful-sounding names. That night was truly filled with a complete spectrum of sounds, colors, fragrances and tastes. Some of the participants were very surprised that vegetarian dishes could also be so diverse and delicious.

Planting Trees To Green The Mountains And Woods At The Ching Ming Festival

On the day of the Ching Ming Festival, fellow practitioners brought their families and friends to take part in a very meaningful tree-planting activity. On the way to a park in the suburbs, everyone sang together on the bus. One Indian fellow sister even sang a song in Hindi yearning for Master. Her voice was full of devotion and longing.

Arriving at a mountain destroyed by fire, the sponsoring unit allocated an area of land for tree planting and taught everyone how to plant seedlings. Fellow practitioners and their families enthusiastically began to work. The people practicing the Quan Yin Method did things extremely quickly and well. Originally, the sponsoring unit's target for each person was to plant just a few trees. But the number of trees planted by everyone was far beyond expectations! Even the young fellow practitioners and the small children of some friends and relatives would not let others take the credit alone. Digging holes and moving the soil away, they were not left behind at all. They planted the seedlings on the slope with much loving care. The staff responsible for sponsoring this activity was very surprised with the fellow practitioners' efficiency and quality of work. As a result, they were very much interested in our organization and made repeated inquiries.

After planting the trees, it was still early; so everyone meditated in the wilderness, enjoyed the scenery, or made jokes. Some even started to sing or dance spontaneously, and some exercised or practiced Tai Chi Chuen. All of the participants happily and harmoniously enjoyed a fresh and carefree morning.

• Formosa -

Report From Taipei

A Picnic In A Forest Park Enhances Family Love

In order for the friends and families of fellow initiates to mix with the big family of Quan Yin practitioners and for them to share in God's love, the Taipei Branch Center organized a special weekend picnic. The picnic combined recreation with spiritual practice to allow fellow initiates and their guests to enjoy a carefree, happy, colorful and a blessed "spiritually balanced" holiday.

In the early morning, fellow initiates and their families arrived at the Fu Te Forest Recreation Park in Linko. They brought with them simple eating utensils, vegetables, fruit, hammocks, and other items, and started the barbecue. In the relaxed atmosphere, they enjoyed talking with one another, barbecuing, eating, playing games, lying in the hammocks, and meditating. The mood was warm, cordial and full of family love.

After lunch each of the various groups from Taipei Center performed a program to entertain the initiates and guests. The heavy-set brothers who usually do guard duty performed the "Fan Dance" with the grace and gentleness of Goddesses. The audience all had a good laugh. The service group led the audience in action songs. Other programs included traditional dancing, a magic show by a guest, singing, and playing musical instruments.

Some competitions and prize drawings followed. Everyone, young and old, initiates and non-initiates, fervently participated in the activities. The atmosphere was extremely lively. The fast pace and continuously changing activities kept everyone on their toes, while they thoroughly enjoyed each others' company to their hearts' content.

Seeing families relaxed and happy, talking about vegetarian cooking and Master's teaching, fellow initiates all felt the blessing of Master's infinite love. Everyone really enjoyed coming together to share a rich and delicious as well as spiritual meal. Everyone eagerly anticipates the next gathering!

Report From Taoyuan

A Children's Exposition

In early April, the Taoyuan meditation Center participated in a Children's Exposition held at Judan. The main themes of the event were "spirituality, health and environmental protection." The local initiates displayed information about Master's teachings, and the promotion of vegetarian food, as well as material provided by the Environmental Protection Department, which covered all three themes of the exhibition.

The exhibition booths for Master's books and artistic creations and the Vegetarian House were located in the center of the venue. A wall-sized screen was set up displaying Master's videotapes, including film collections and lectures. There was a continuous stream of spectators in the venue, and many people took the initiative to obtain sample booklets and News magazines.

A lady told one fellow practitioner that she was inspired to go out that day, and felt that something special would happen. Consequently, she came to the venue and felt very happy when she saw Master's sample booklets. She got a copy and went straight home feeling that her wish had been fulfilled.

The products from the Vegetarian House were also warmly received. "Let our hearts be filled with love. The animals will be our best friends." This is not only a slogan but also a fact. After tasting a vegetarian hamburger, a bakery owner liked the flavor of the vegetarian patty very much. He even felt that it was too troublesome to make meat patties, and planned to order the vegetarian patties from the Vegetarian House in the future.

Another guest saw Master's poster with the title: "The Great Master from the Himalayas," and then looked at the Vegetarian House information. He pointed at the poster of Master, asking lovingly, "Is this the great chef who comes from the Himalayas?"

Amid the activity, fellow practitioners working at the venue felt tremendous blessings from Master. They did not feel exhausted even in an environment where the crowd reached almost ten thousand. Childhood is the foundation of the whole of life's structure. It is hoped that the spiritual seeds sown now will blossom into beautiful flowers in later life. Fellow practitioners hope that through this exposition, a concept will be established in the minds of the public to beautify the earth, and to care for themselves and the next generation.

Mountain Cleaning Operation At The Jiao Ban Mountain Park

Fellow practitioners from Taoyuan once again went to the Jiao Ban Mountain Park to clean up the area. The greenish hills, the blue water and the narrow, long, hanging bridge, orchestrated a beautiful and serene scene.

Last year, when they went there for the first time, many ravines and slopes were littered and piled with old cans. The quantity of garbage collected in that operation filled several trucks and was most shocking. Visiting the mountain this time, the condition had apparently improved.

It was learned that the last mountain clean-up operation received quite a positive response. Many community groups followed our lead and listed the location as an important spot on the mountain cleaning scheme. However, 'What you throw away, I pick up' is merely a temporary solution. A permanent solution requires that the tourists stop littering.

Close to the ferry pier, there were many cans tightly half-buried in the earth. With great patience, a young would-be initiate gradually excavated the earth with some big tongs, trying to dig up the cans. Observing this small child working with such concentration and persistence, the older fellow practitioners asked her whether she was fond of treasure hunting games. The child's answer surprised everyone: "No! Master said that we should accomplish one job before starting to do another." Her words evoked deep feelings in the hearts of the adult practitioners, who were both touched and delighted. They never dared to scoff again at the Buddha nature of children.

After clearing the garbage, everyone gathered beneath the trees for a vegetarian barbecue. Even the non-initiated guests savored the delicious meal. The atmosphere was most harmonious. After the feast and having accomplished the chief objective of cleaning the mountain, fellow practitioners, adults and children alike, took the opportunity to relax their bodies and minds with some entertainment. They enjoyed group games together. Their laughter echoed through the mountain forest, which was filled with the perfume of spring.

Report From Changhua

Planting, Greening, And Environmental Protection

The "Family Planting and Ten Thousand People Mass Walking For Health Activity" was launched at Ba Gua Mountain in Changhua. The event was sponsored by the Agricultural and Forestry Department of the provincial government and undertaken by the Changhua Women's International Chamber of Commerce. Many other organizations were invited to support this activity. The Changhua meditation Center also joined in the event. After many overcast and rainy days, the rains stopped temporarily on the day of the activity. Thus, whole series of projects, including family tree planting, and propaganda for greening and environmental protection, could be carried out smoothly.

That day, fellow practitioners helped with the registering of the crowd. They experienced the compassionate teaching in Master's aphorism, "The more we work, the more we will be enlightened." They also found themselves to be the instruments of Master's love, conveying a good atmosphere of spiritual practice to the people. Even when thousands flooded in in a short period of time, their work still went on efficiently. Most of the people came with their families, young and old. When they saw the children enthusiastically planting saplings in the wet soil, they felt the deep meaning of the Chinese aphorism, "Trees planted by the ancestors provide shade for their descendants."

At the end of the activity, when the crowd gradually dispersed, fellow practitioners stayed behind to replant the saplings that were not planted well. This surprised the work crew at the site very much, and they greatly admired Master for being so good in Her teaching and guidance.

Through this kind of social service, people are reminded once again of the importance of greening and environmental protection. The world will become a better place as long as everyone shows a bit more concern for it.

Report From Nantou

Enjoying A Leisurely Day In This Busy Life

To make use of a recent Sunday, Nantou meditation Center initiates organized a group meditation in their area. It was drizzling as the day began. However, when everyone came out from the bliss of meditation, the weather was fine and breezy. Therefore the local initiates got the idea to decorate the garden and enjoy a delicious lunch in the open.

The meal started with the 'Joyful Rice Rolls' - the preparation method that was imparted by Master. The atmosphere was harmonious; everyone was chatting delightfully as if the 'Joyful Rice Rolls' had brought them joy and blessings of love.

Later, some fellow sisters, who excelled in cooking, displayed their skills and taught everyone how to cook delicious vegetarian dishes. Initiates continuously exchanged ideas and watched attentively so that they could later show off their skills at home!

Amid the attractive aromas that were wafting around, the dishes were served. They were placed on light purple table napkins, decorated by several fresh and pretty flowers. Everyone's mouth was watering as appetites heightened. Savoring the food blessed by Master, the hungry Arhats seemed to transform into happy Maitreya Buddhas, laughing cheerfully.

At present, the group meditation venue is a kindergarten provided by a fellow sister. As the number of fellow practitioners keeps on increasing, the venue is becoming too small for us to use. A fellow practitioner has offered to rent us a piece of land on a mountain slope to use as our meditation center. Therefore, after the group meditation and meal, the fellow initiates took the opportunity to investigate this possibility.

The land in question is high in the suburbs of Nantou. The quiet path on the way up there is bordered by bamboo trees. However, when half way up the mountain, the view suddenly broadened, as if the initiates had arrived at a cool and refreshing haven far from the tumultuous world.

They enjoyed cool tea, and rambled leisurely in the arms of mother nature. Chatting and joking, the team of fellow practitioners looked very happy, which aroused the curiosity of the owner of the orchard next door. Upon learning that the team was assessing the site for its potential as a meditation center, the neighbor remarked excitedly: "After your center is set up, I will also join your spiritual practice."

It was nice to have enjoyed a day of leisure after a week of busy work! Having a good Master to guide us on the spiritual path, and also the company of so many people with the same ideals, we are indeed a most blessed group!