Bao Yuan Temple's Lord Chi Birthday Celebration and Blessing Ceremony Attended by Civil Affairs Bureau

The Bao Yuan Temple in Xinzhuang, a significant religious center in the region, recently held a grand ceremony to celebrate the 250th anniversary of its founding and the birthday of its principal deity, Lord Chi.

Lin Yao-chang, Director of the Department of Civil Affairs for New Taipei City, represented Mayor Hou Yu-ih at the event. He offered blessings and pre-birthday wishes to Lord Chi, praying for peace and favorable weather for the community. Lin also extended good wishes for the temple's upcoming consecration ceremony and related activities.

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The Bao Yuan Temple has been deeply rooted in the local area for many years, serving as an important center of faith in the Xinzhuang area. It also upholds the spirit of giving back to society and continues to invest in public welfare and charitable work.

Lin highlighted the Bao Yuan Temple's long-standing commitment to the local community. He noted its role not only as a spiritual hub but also for its dedication to charitable work. The temple consistently donates supplies to welfare organizations and disadvantaged families. Furthermore, it collaborates with local businesses and groups to provide essential equipment, such as motorcycles and safety gear, to the Xinzhuang district's sanitation team, valued at over one million New Taiwan dollars, enhancing the safety and efficiency of frontline workers.

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The Bao Yuan Temple was founded in 1776, with Lord Chi as the main deity. To celebrate Lord Chi's birthday in advance, and coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the temple's founding, a ceremony was specially held.

Xu Sheng-nan, chairman of the Bao Yuan Temple, detailed the temple's history, noting its establishment in 1776. He explained that the special ceremony, featuring traditional rituals like the initial, secondary, and final offerings, was conducted with the assistance of officiants from the Taipei Confucius Temple and Chen Dehsing Hall. These rites, involving music, etiquette, food, and silk offerings, were performed to express gratitude for divine grace and to pray for peace and prosperity, symbolizing the temple's role in passing down cultural heritage.

The temple's efforts in preserving local history and promoting culture were also emphasized, showcasing the positive impact religious organizations can have on society through community engagement and cultural transmission.

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Expressing gratitude for divine grace and praying for peace and prosperity for the land, demonstrating the temple's role in passing down cultural heritage and building upon the past.