On 27 July 2025, the Than Hsiang Lay Sangha members held a gathering at Sungai Petani Than Hsiang Jing Yuan. The event took place from 9:30 AM to 1 PM, attended by 35 members.

The gathering officially began at 9:30 AM with an opening speech by emcee Bro Leon Tong, who shared that this was a special occasion—it marked the first time the gathering was held in Sungai Petani. He then introduced the agenda, highlighting a celebratory cake-cutting and group photo session for the 16th anniversary of Sungai Petani Than Hsiang Jing Yuan.

After emcee Bro Leon Tong had finished his opening speech, the gathering session began with the Lamp lighting ceremony led by the Sangha members. Sis Siew Kee then guided everyone in chanting the Ten Wholesome Dharma & Aspiration.

The next session focused on interaction between Lay Sangha & Committee members. Emcee Bro Leon Tong introduced lay sangha members from SP side, who also gave their self-introductions. Afterwards, the Penang members introduced themselves as well. Overall, this session went well, and everyone was genuinely happy.

The following session was a Dharma talk by the new abbot, Venerable Zhen Sheng. In this dharma talk, Venerable used the topic of “The sunset is infinitely beautiful; however, it nears dusk.” Through this topic, Venerable mentioned that although sunsets were beautiful, very soon darkness will come.

Venerable shared that while sunsets are beautiful, they are fleeting—symbolizing the impermanent nature of all things. Venerable used the sunset as an example to urge everyone to begin their spiritual practice early and treasure the present moment. Furthermore, Venerable mentioned that aging and illness as natural parts of life, encouraging everyone to face them with calmness and without fear. As life nears its end, one should release worldly attachments and embrace impermanence. Lastly, Venerable encouraged everyone to engage in doing good deeds during their lifetime, to help others and accumulate good merits.

After the talk, the cake – cutting and group photo session took place. Followed by lunch and free interaction among the attendees.

Thus, the Lay Sangha Gathering concluded successfully.

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More photos: https://thanhsiang.org/CH/node/6620
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