First Ever Youths Refuge-Taking Ceremony

As we celebrated the Hindu Festival of Lights on Deepavali, 50 youths and young adults also found their eternal guiding light in the Triple Gems after partaking in BW Monastery’s refuge-taking ceremony held solely for youths. Conducted for the first time ever for youths only and entirely in English to cater to the majority being English-speaking, the ceremony began on a lighter note with youth leaders of the Monastery’s various youth groups sharing their personal experiences in learning Buddhism and their take on how Buddhism continued to be relevant for modern life today. All shared that they had benefitted in some way or another after embarking on this journey or simply just became happier persons, and that was why the Ceremony’s theme of refuge-taking was important, for it was the very first step in learning Buddhism.

Next, Venerable Bensi, the refuge Master officiating the Ceremony gave a short discourse on what was refuge-taking, it’s purpose and what it entailed. He also shared his own story of how he saw his parents’ prayers being answered in life, whenever they supplicated sincerely and faithfully to Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, despite them not learning the Dharma and were only devout Buddhists who went to temples regularly. Their strong faith and belief was equivalent to refuge-taking because simply put, taking refuge will mean to ask for protection and guidance from the Triple Gems in whatever one does. It also means to not forsake the Triple Gems in jest or in danger and to always recall the kindness of the Triple Gems, to be reminded to turn to the Triple Gems when in need for answers, and “answers” will be bestowed.

A simple ritual proceeded thereafter, and the youths were presented with their refuge-taking certificates and chains of mala beads, as they now finally proclaim themselves to be true children of the Buddha.

One of the youth, Wong Xin Hui, 13, who participated in the refuge-taking, shared her thoughts after the ceremony.

"By participating in this refuge taking, it is a good reminder for me to keep my faith in Buddha at all times. Before, I was skeptical that I could receive help from the higher powers. However, after hearing Venerable Bensi's story about how a trapped man escaped from a tiger by taking refuge in the triple gems, I developed a stronger belief in Buddha and the triple gems."

Rejoice to these youths, and may more take the first steps in refuge-taking in many more ceremonies to come!