According to Buddhist scriptures, Prince Siddhartha, who later renounced the world and became Namo Sakyamuni Buddha, was born from the right side of his mother, Queen Maya. At the moment of His birth, lotus flowers sprang up from the earth to support his feet. He took seven steps on his own, looked in all directions, pointed one hand to the sky and the other to the earth, and declared, “From the heavens above and the earth below, I alone am the world-honored one.”
Right after that, nine dragons in the sky spewed fragrant water down to bathe the Buddha prince. Because of these auspicious signs, Buddhists later began the tradition of celebrating the Buddha’s birthday (the 8th day of the 4th lunar month) with the Bathing the Buddha ceremony, to honor His birth, enlightenment, and the compassion of His teachings.
“Now, with a pure heart, I bathe the Buddha’s body. May the Buddha bless me with growing fortune and wisdom. May all beings and I be free from obstacles, And together realize accomplishment and gain rebirth in the Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss.”
《浴佛讚》
「我今淨心浴佛身，祈佛賜我福慧增，我與眾生離障礙，同證成就極樂國」
In 2026, the 8th day of the 4th lunar month falls on May 24. Hua Zang Si will hold the Bathing the Buddha Dharma Assembly on Sunday, May 24th at 9:30 am. Come join the sangha and chant The Verse of Praise for Bathing the Buddha. It is also a wonderful hands-on family event, especially for children, to come forward to the lotus tub to bathe the Buddha prince at the Dharma assembly. It will be a fun and meaningful tradition for all.
Do you know that each year, there is a moment set aside to honor quiet kindness?
National Volunteer Week in 2026 falls on April 19–25.
A small offering of time… A simple act of care… Like a drop in still water, it ripples farther than we can see.
H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III teaches that compassion is not only something we contemplate. It is something we live. In fact our practice continues in our actions, in how we show up for others.
When we extend a hand, offer our time or talents, or simply listen, we bring the teachings into the world.
There is even a flower that reflects this spirit—Clematis ‘Samaritan Jo’, named for those who help others in times of distress. It’s easy to grow, and with a little care and good deadheading, it can bloom for up to six months—a gentle reminder that compassion, too, can be continuous.
Your time. Your presence. Your kindness.
These are seeds.
When planted, they not only bring joy to others, they quietly deepen your own sense of purpose in life.
Hua Zang Si has always upheld and propagated the authentic teachings of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III and Namo Sakyamuni Buddha. With the great compassionate Bodhicitta, the temple brings loving-kindness into practice, extending it to every sentient being in this world.
Since launching the “Love without Limits ” donation drive during its 20th anniversary in 2024, the monastics and volunteers have personally visited communities, carefully assessed needs, and thoughtfully selected three organizations to support:
San Francisco-Marin Food Bank
Muttville Senior Dog Rescue
HPP (Homeless Prenatal Program)
On December 19, 2024, Hua Zang Si delivered its first round of donated supplies. This year, that compassion continues without interruption.
On March 13 & 17, 2026, the group set out once again.
First Stop: San Francisco-Marin Food Bank
With inflation and rising living costs, many families are struggling to meet basic needs. This time, Hua Zang Si donated approximately 3.200 pounds of essential supplies, including rice, black beans, peanut butter, and various canned fruits and vegetables. May each item provide a bit more support and strength for families facing hardship.
Second Stop: Muttville Senior Dog Rescue
Here live elderly dogs who, despite their age, still long to be loved. Hua Zang Si donated 187 items, including collars, leashes, harnesses, pet beds, fleece blankets, dog poop bags, and cleaning supplies. These seemingly ordinary items bring real comfort and dignity to these senior dogs. With the devoted care of staff and volunteers, they are no longer alone. The principle of “equality of all beings” is truly embodied through these everyday acts of compassion.
Third Stop: HPP (Homeless Prenatal Program)
HPP has long supported underserved families and homeless pregnant women by providing essential supplies, housing assistance, education, and employment resources. This time, Hua Zang Si donated 100 items, including baby bottle gift sets, portable booster seats, strollers, infant carriers, baby portable bouncers, collapsible wagon carts , dehumidifiers, and baby bath gift sets. They help expectant mothers feel supported and hopeful during difficult times.
Through these actions, Hua Zang Si puts the Buddha’s teachings into practice—loving and benefiting all beings. Every act of giving is a reminder of one’s own cultivation. True practice lies not only in inner awareness, but in bringing compassion into everyday life. May this boundless love flow like water, nourishing more lives and making the world warmer through kindness and love.
