We spent a beautiful day at Nan Hua Temple’s annual Ceremony of Light and Peace today. This magnificent buddhist temple and village is about 100 km from Johannesburg in Bronkhorstspruit.

The rich colours and architecture of the buildings, the calming peacefulness and smell of incense were a welcome change for our city-dulled senses.

The ceremony began with beautiful chanting and music which was incredibly moving. We each were given a lit candle as a light offering to place at the main shrine.

We were then soothed into a relaxing meditation. This year, a tea ceremony was included in the programme where Tea Practitioners demonstrated the practice of Ch’an (Zen) through preparing tea. Drinking tea can be a meditative experience and watching the tea ceremony performed so gracefully gave me an even greater appreciation of this ancient drink. They served a green tea that tasted light, sweet and earthy.

After some more meditation, the ceremony ended off with a powerful prayer for world peace.

A delicious – purely vegetarian lunch- was then served, as we listened to amazing drumming, dancing and singing.

After the festivities ended, we took a walk through the small museum that they have on site, filled with historical items, arts and stories.

I left feeling tranquil and uplifted – what a great way to spend a Sunday!