From Ksitigarbha Hall to the Lotus Pagoda: 

Bringing Our Shared Aspiration to Fruition, Step by Step

 

An Update on Phase II of the Ksitigarbha Hall Project at Mituo Village North America

This year, through the collective efforts and generous support of our Dharma brothers and sisters, Phase I of the Ksitigarbha Hall project at Mituo Village North America has been completed. The environment and facilities for the temporary enshrinement of cremated remains have now been greatly improved.

These improvements have been made possible by everyone's repeated visits to the mountain, the many stages of construction, and the quiet, dedicated efforts of fellow practitioners. We are deeply grateful to every Dharma brother and sister who has contributed to this project, which holds special significance for so many families. Together, we have turned this important undertaking into reality, one step at a time.

Building on the completion of Phase I, the overall design for Phase II of Ksitigarbha Hall has been largely finalized, with completion planned for early 2027. We would like to take this opportunity to share the upcoming construction plans with everyone.

Advancing in Phases, Building the Lotus Pagoda Together

Phases I and II of Ksitigarbha Hall are both integral parts of the overall Lotus Pagoda project. From improving temporary enshrinement facilities to creating more complete spaces for veneration and remembrance, we will continue moving forward steadily with everyone's support, striving to provide thoughtful and appropriate care for families in need.

Phase II of Ksitigarbha Hall

Phase II will focus on completing three key components.

1. Enshrining a Sacred Statue of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva

A beautifully painted statue of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva will be enshrined in the hall. The statue, including its lotus pedestal, will stand approximately 2.8 meters (9.2 feet) tall, with the khakkhara staff reaching a total height of approximately 3.2 meters (10.5 feet).

The statue's design has undergone several rounds of careful refinement, with the aim of conveying the Bodhisattva's compassion and serenity while maintaining a dignified yet approachable presence.

May all who pay their respects before the statue be inspired by the Bodhisattva's filial devotion and great vows, and put compassion into practice in their daily lives.

2. Establishing Beautiful and Dignified Permanent Memorial Plaques

The hall will feature a set of permanent memorial plaque cabinets with a unified design. Gold-toned plaque holders, soft lighting, and lotus motifs will create a warm and dignified space for veneration and remembrance.

Each memorial plaque carries the love and remembrance of an entire family. May everyone who visits honor the kindness of loved ones who have passed away, cherish the family members who are still with us, and continue the spirit of filial devotion through Buddha recitation, virtuous deeds, and the dedication of merit.

3. Improving the Enshrinement Cabinets for Cremated Remains

Building on Phase I, Phase II will add enshrinement cabinets for cremated remains decorated with lotus motifs. Designed to harmonize with the hall's overall appearance, these cabinets will accommodate both day-to-day management and the needs of families who come to pay their respects, creating a cleaner, more dignified environment.

Supporting the Creation of the Sacred Statue and Cultivating Wholesome Affinities

We sincerely invite devotees and supporters from all directions to contribute according to their means and to help support Phase II of Ksitigarbha Hall. Everyone is also welcome to participate in the respectful creation and enshrinement of the sacred statue of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva.

From the completion of Phase I to preparations for Phase II and, eventually, the Lotus Pagoda, we recognize that every step depends on the trust and support of the community. We will continue sharing construction updates so that all fellow practitioners can witness this shared aspiration gradually becoming reality.

Those interested in making a voluntary offering toward the statue, supporting the construction, or learning more about permanent memorial plaques and arrangements for the enshrinement of cremated remains are warmly invited to contact Mituo Village North America.

Phone: 267-455-4698

We are deeply grateful to every Dharma brother and sister who has accompanied us on this journey.

May we dedicate the merit of our shared aspiration to the growth of blessings and wisdom for our parents and family members in this life, and may our ancestors and all beings with karmic affinities be freed from suffering, attain happiness, and share in the benefits of the Dharma.

Namo Great Vow Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva!

Namo Amitabha Buddha!