The Buddhist Association of China marked its 50th founding anniversary at the Lingguang Temple in Beijing on the morning of September 22. The temple is one of China's major Buddhist centers, where the sacred tooth of the founder of Buddhism, Sakyamuni is enshrined.

They come from various temples across the country, and belong to different schools of Buddhism in China. They are the VIPs of the Chinese Buddhist community, and have gathered to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Buddhist Association of China.

Master Yi Cheng, President of the Association, along with other Buddhist leaders headed the ceremony. He prayed for peace and prosperity throughout the Chinese nation.

Established in 1953, four years after New China was founded, the Buddhist Association of China has been responsible for organizing the faith's formal religious activities and training. Today, it has grown into an important religious group, with millions of worshipers.

The vice president of the association, Master Mingsheng read from Buddhist inscriptions, and gave a blessing for the organization to prosper in the future. Many believe the association is experiencing a golden period in its 50-year development.

Sheng Hui, vice president of Buddhist Association of China, said: “One of the major characteristics of Buddhism in China in recent years, is its increasing number of followers. Those who practice Buddhism, from monks to lay followers, are better educated than before."

Shenghui's ideas are shared by many Buddhist leaders. Abbot Palden Dhonyu, who comes from Tibet for the ceremony, said that religious freedom in his remote hometown is guaranteed.

Sakya Palden Dhonyu, an abbot of Sakya Monastery, Tibet, said:" The government's policy on religious freedom is good, and I'm satisfied with it."

The abbot said the government has allocated some 80 million Yuan to renovate his Kakya Monastery, and worshipers in Tibet are grateful.

The celebration held on September 22 also attracted a large number of lay worshippers. They went to witness the grand event, hoping it would bring them good luck.

(CCTV.com September 24, 2003)