Food For The Buddha

Food often plays a vital role in many religious traditions. From communion to kreplach, worshippers have gathered around food for millennia to practice their faith. At the Miao Fa Temple in Portland, Oregon, Buddhist volunteers prepare a feast every week to honor Buddha, their deceased loved ones, and their belief that good will and sharing is one of the highest virtues. After presenting the food to their statues of Buddha, chanting, and praying over the dishes, the volunteers serve the vegetarian meal to the temple's parishioners. On November 12th, 2016, Miao Fa temple's abbot XinTian Shi paid Portland a surprise visit and took part in the temple's service and sacred meal. (Director, Editor, Graphics, Sound Design)