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On
September 21 at 1:47 AM a violent earthquake measuring 7.3 on the Richter
Scale shook the island of Taiwan. Latest reports from Taiwan
have confirmed over 2165
fatalities and countless casualties. The
death toll is expected to rise as rescue workers frantically digging
through the rubble looking for survivors.
In the wake of the deadliest earthquake in Taiwan since 1935, which more
than 3,000 people lost their lives, Buddha's Light International
Association (BLIA) World Headquarters has called on its members worldwide
to either initiate overseas relief efforts or to participate in local
rescue works.
Responding to the plead of BLIA World Headquarters and abiding by the
compassionate teaching of the Buddha, Hsi Lai Temple in Los Angeles,
California will pray for the victims of the earthquake in its annual
Medicine Buddha Dharma Service (Sept. 19 ~ Sept. 25).
Lay followers will join the monastics in the chanting the Buddha's name
for the sake of those who have lost their lives and those who are still
buried under the rubble.
Merit acquired from the service will be transferred to the people of
Taiwan.
The earthquake has devastated both the cities and rural areas of Taiwan.
It has collapsed buildings and destroyed the seemingly indestructible
concrete structures; many are left homeless.
The rebuilding process for those who have lost their properties and their
love ones will be long and difficult.
Buddha's Light International Association sincerely asks for the public's
help and compassion in leading a helping hand to those who have already
suffered so much.
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