If you are contemplating ordination, head to Jongno, Seoul, on May 17.
The Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism's General Affairs Department announced that it will operate an "Ordination Counseling Booth" at the Traditional Culture Fair on Ujeongguk-ro in Jongno from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on May 17.
This booth is open to anyone curious about the life of a practitioner and Buddhist culture. The department plans to engage the public through interactive programs, including on-site counseling, distribution of ordination materials, screening of videos related to ordination, experiencing Buddhist sentiment stickers, stone meditation, and photo zones, to make the meaning of ordination and the life of the monastic community more approachable.
During the event, Monk Hyewon will provide counseling on the ordination process and monastic life, helping participants better understand ordination and the life of practitioners through informational materials and video presentations.
In anticipation of Buddha's Birthday on May 24, the Jogye Order is hosting various events. A lantern parade will kick off at 7 p.m. on May 16 in front of Heunginjimun, where 50,000 participants will march through the streets of Jongno carrying 100,000 colorful lanterns they made themselves. The procession will continue from Heunginjimun to Jongno and Jogyesa Temple.
The Traditional Culture Fair is a street festival where attendees can enjoy traditional Korean and Buddhist cultural experiences and performances, featuring 129 booths and performances from 19 different groups.
A representative from the Jogye Order's General Affairs Department stated, "We will continue to operate ordination counseling and cultural experience programs at various events, including the Yeondeunghoe and Buddhist Exposition, to reduce the psychological distance regarding ordination and enhance understanding of the monastic community."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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