Prince Charles Visits Phuoc Hue Temple
Reference: Phước Huệ Công Đức Tòng Lâm - 1994 – PL 2538
Buddhism through the ages has always possessed an excellent code of morals suitable for both “advanced” and “unadvanced” individuals. Because of its compatibility it allocates the “middle path” for everyone. This middle path being the path that is neither right nor wrong and is the path to nibbana. Wherever Buddhism goes, it’s philosophy of loving kindness – “Metta”, generosity and good will is given to all. Buddhism has always been a neutral “religion”. That’s one of the reason Prince Charles and many other religious beliefs had gathered at the Vietnamese Buddhist Temple – Phuoc Hue to discuss on various matters; multiculturalism and religious difficulties.
The visit by Prince Charles on Australia day is an honor to the Vietnamese community and the Vietnamese temple. The journey in itself has much meaning. Its effect on Australia and the temple is great. The temple was notified a month in advanced by the Royal Commission that the Prince of Wales has chosen to visit the temple. Due to visit the temple as well was twenty highly recommended members of other religious groups. On discussion at the temple were six topics as well as a chance for the Prince to follow some “Oriental” customs on Buddhism. Also the Prince will see a special ceremonial proceeding of good will, peace and luck.
On the morning of Australia day, 26/01/94 at 10.40am, over 2000 spectators and Buddhists supporters crowded around the temple, looking for prime positions to catch a glimpse and welcome Prince Charles to the temple.
It was a beautiful day for the Prince’s arrival. The sun was out, not a sight of any clouds in the sky. Everything was just perfect. All that was missing was the Prince.
On his arrival, the normal proceeding of shaking hands with all the spectators and then the welcoming committee was carried out. Then the Prince met the Most Venerable Thich Phuoc Hue, Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan and Venerable Thich Phuoc An in front of the Main Hall. Good wills and laughter are exchanged, accompanied by the spectator applause. Prince Charles was then lead towards the Main Hall for the chanting procedure.
The chance of goodwill and peace especially for the Prince and the world were performed by twenty Sanghas and the Most Venerable Thich Phuoc Hue. After the ceremony has finished, the Most Venerable presents two small tokens of goodwill to the Prince. One is a portrait of the Most Venerable with the Queen taken in 1992, and the other a portrait Maitreya. – Happy Buddha.
The next of visit was the rear Hall where the Patriarchs are worshipped. The Prince was intrigued by the wooden fish instrument. When asked, Venerable Thich Phuoc Tan explained the fish instrument signifies awareness. This is important in Buddhism, as a person without awareness will not have great success on his journey to purification. Without awareness a Buddhist is said to be blind.
The journey around the temple brought forth the next highlight of the excursion. This was the Prince chance to ring the big bell three times. This symbolizes the awakening for everyone and hopes the world peace and prosperity.
Before entering the conference room, Prince Charles again took the opportunity to call out to the world for peace. On entering the conference room Prince Charles was greeted by twenty highly represented leaders of different religions. Then the discussion begins.
Because there wasn’t enough time, the six topics on discussion were discussed in a superficial manner. The main topic on discussion was:
- Australia is a country where religious beliefs can be expressed freely.
- the difficulties:
- Expenditures are way too much.
- Has met many opposing views and thus very little support from the community.
On the way back, Prince Charles has taken the opportunity to take some pictures with all the religious leaders.
Overall the Prince’s visit was a great success and it was a pleasure for the Vietnamese Buddhist temple to have him here.