RBGE welcomed Buddhist Master Hai Tao and his entourage on a warm, drizzly day in Edinburgh last week. His visit was primarily to see and officially bless the new sculptures recently completed at the Chinese Hillside in the Edinburgh Garden. The Life Culture Foundation of which Master Tao is the president, fosters and supports activities of compassion around the world, and was a major sponsor of the gifts.

The blessing was a traditional Buddhist service led by Master Tao, and involved his pupils and members of the local community. It included the placing of fresh flowers and offerings on the monuments, and prayers and blessings for those present. There was also a procession around the Stupa which is believed to bring luck and happiness to those involved. It was certainly a very happy occasion for all despite the inclement weather. After the ceremony was completed Master Tao was taken on a tour of the garden and glasshouses which he found most absorbing and interesting, he especially enjoyed the opportunity to feed the koi carp in the ponds.