On Oct. 5 many dignitaries will gather to celebrate the Buddhist Association of Canada's Cham Shan Temple, near Bethany, with the consecration ceremony for the main Buddha Hall.

About 1,350 acres of largely rural land was purchased in City of Kawartha Lakes and Peterborough County for the construction of four massive Buddhist gardens. Wutai Shan is the first to be developed of the four planned gardens.

According to information supplied by the temple, the project will be a major showcase in the history of Buddhism in  North America.

"In promoting wisdom and compassion of Buddhism, as well as Chinese culture and Tang-style architecture, it also plays an important role in promoting local tourism and multiculturalism in Canada," according to a travel guide.

On Oct. 5 the following timelines are observed. At 10 am, there is a welcome reception. At 10:40 am guests arrive. The celebration ceremony is at 11 am, with the ribbon cutting at Noon. Lunch is at 12:30 pm, with a procession to the main Buddha Hall at 1 pm. The consecration ceremony itself is at 1:30 pm.   

The Buddhist Association of Canada will hold the consecration ceremony "to celebrate the auspicious occasion of the completion of the Main Buddha Hall, constructed in the Tang Dynasty architectural style, at the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden in Canada."

Three grand elder masters and 100 venerable masters from both Canada and China will host the ceremony.

"This occasion offers attendees an opportunity to receive blessings from Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, to remove afflictions, to purify the mind, and to awaken intrinsic wisdom," according to a press release.

All are welcome. Registration is required. Sign up early for this opportunity. Bus services will be provided by the Cham Shan Temple.

For further information please contact Alain Guo: 647-617-5108 or at media@chamshantemple.org.