On 5 Feb, the founder of the Fo Guang Shan Order, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, passed away at the age of 97.
Following his death, the organisation’s Singapore branch invited members of the public to offer their condolences at the shrine from 7 to 13 Feb 2023.
Source: 8world News on Facebook
As thousands of believers turned up, the organisers extended the shrine’s opening hours for visitors to pay their last respects.
According to 8world News, Fo Guang Shan Singapore initially planned to open the shrine on Monday (6 Feb) for the public to offer their condolences.
As Chinese New Year had just ended, they needed to take down the decorations before setting up the shrine.
Speaking to 8world News, Venerable Master Miao Mu said that the shrine opens at 9am.
Source: 8world News on Facebook
However, there were already many people queuing outside at 8am, an hour before the scheduled opening time.
Thus, they allowed the visitors to enter the shrine early, he added.
Besides that, Venerable Master Miao Mu said that thousands of people turned up to offer their condolences.
Initially, the Fo Guang Shan’s opening hours were from 9am to 5pm.
In light of the overwhelming support, the shrine will be extending their opening hours to 8pm instead.
Source: 8world News on Facebook
Another reason for the extension was because some office workers may be unable to visit before 5pm, said Venerable Master Miao Mu.
They also wanted to avoid crowds on weekends, as visitors who are unable to make it may choose to come on the weekends instead.
Those who are keen on visiting the shrine should take note of the following details:
Fo Guang Shan (Singapore)
Address: 1 Punggol Pl, Level 3, Singapore 828844
Dates: 7-13 Feb
Opening hours: 9am-8pm
Nearest MRT: Punggol Station
Meanwhile, Fo Guang Shan Singapore will be broadcasting the memorial service next Monday (13 Feb).
The memorial service is held in Taiwan, and will start at 9am. As the Singapore branch is connected to the broadcast, believers who are unable to return to Taiwan can watch the ceremony here.
If you’re planning to visit the shrine, do take note of the extended hours and the memorial broadcast timing.
MS News extends our deepest condolences to Buddhist community. May the late Venerable Master Hsing Yun rest in peace.
Have news you must share? Get in touch with us via email at news@mustsharenews.com.
Featured image adapted from 8world News on Facebook.
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