To commemorate the Holy Birthday of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, the H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum in Covina, Los Angeles, has launched a series of celebratory programs. Beginning June 28, the museum hosted four Dharma listening sessions on “Prajna and Emptiness,” with preliminary English translations available to help attendees from diverse communities understand the teaching. As part of the observance, the museum also organized a large-scale life release event in Marina del Rey, drawing nearly a thousand participants. The resonant chanting underscored a powerful commitment to compassion and the protection of life, establishing the celebration as one of Southern California’s significant religious and cultural events.
During the Dharma listening sessions, attendees described the experience as deeply inspiring. Southern California resident Tiffany Tan expressed gratitude and hoped the authentic Buddha-Dharma could reach people worldwide. New Jersey attendee Todd A. Moil noted that the English translations provided by the museum helped him understand the teachings, adding that the Dharma conveys the Buddha’s profound wisdom that offers benefit to all.
The museum also highlighted its permanent collection of original artworks by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, including the 99-inch Yun Sculpture A Pillar Holding Up Heaven. Yun Sculpture is a unique medium that transcends the pinnacle of artistic excellence. The vivid colors and intricate carving of Yun sculptures create a multi-dimensional visual effect and an immense sense of space and depth.
On June 29, nearly 800 representatives from Buddhist organizations worldwide gathered in Marina del Rey for a large-scale life-release event, dedicating the merit to world peace and the cessation of calamities. Participants from Malaysia and Singapore reflected on the Buddha’s teachings, which emphasize that all sentient beings are equal and that every life should be cherished. They also expressed hope that more people will encounter the true Dharma, gain wisdom, and be liberated from suffering.
The H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III Cultural and Art Museum marked its 12th anniversary this year. Established as a U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofit, the museum honors H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, recipient of the 2010 World Peace Prize Top-Honor Prize, for His selfless contributions to art, culture, and humanitarian services. The museum states that H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III held no ownership or managerial role in the institution. Over the years, the museum has advanced its mission through art exhibitions and charitable initiatives, including donations of protective supplies to the City of Covina and local police and fire departments during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as ongoing support to those in need. The museum continues to support community festivals and cultural programs that foster civic engagement and connection.
