Seong Dojong Appointed as Won-Buddhism Jongbeopsa: "One Heart, a World of Grace"

Inauguration of the 16th Wangsan Seongdojong (成道鍾) Jongbeopsa
President Yoon's Congratulatory Speech: "Aligned with Government Policy Goals"

Won Buddhism announced on the 4th that it held a grand ceremony at the Yeongbojeon Square of the Won Buddhism Central Headquarters in Iksan, Jeonbuk, three days ago to commemorate the inauguration of the 16th Jongbeopsa, Wangsan Seong Dojong (成道鍾, 74), and the retirement of the 15th Jeonsan Kim Juwon Jongbeopsa.

Three days ago, at the Yeongmojeon Square of the Won-Buddhism Central Headquarters in Iksan-si, Jeonbuk, the inauguration ceremony of the 16th Seongdojong Jongbeopsa and the retirement ceremony (Daesashik) commemorating the retirement of the 15th Jeonsan Kim Juwon Jongbeopsa were held. The newly appointed Seongdojong (left) Jongbeopsa and the outgoing Kim Juwon Jongbeopsa stand side by side.
[Photo by Won-Buddhism]

The Jongbeopsa grand ceremony, held for the first time in six years, is a nationwide event celebrating the inauguration and retirement of the highest leader of Won Buddhism, the Jongbeopsa.

The Won Buddhism Gyujeongwon explained, "The core of the grand ceremony is the transfer of three symbolic items (the Jongbeopsa Staff, the Complete Works of Won Buddhism, and the Dharma Seal) from the outgoing Jongbeopsa to the successor, symbolizing legitimacy."

The event was attended by about 15,000 people, including religious leaders from home and abroad, government and political figures, local government officials, and both lay and ordained Won Buddhist followers, along with a congratulatory speech from President Yoon Seok-yeol (read by Minister Yoo In-chon of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism).

In the congratulatory speech read by Minister Yoo In-chon, President Yoon said, "Jongbeopsa Wangsan delivered an inaugural sermon titled 'One Heart, Gracious World,' emphasizing the need for a warm heart to view the world," adding, "This aligns with the government's national policy goals."

He also stated, "I hope that Won Buddhism, which has spread warmth throughout every corner of our society, will contribute under the guidance of the new Jongbeopsa to creating a better world."

In his inaugural address, Jongbeopsa Wangsan emphasized, "We must break down the boundaries between individuals and groups, share each other's pain, and overcome it together," stressing, "A gracious world cannot be achieved without our sacrifice, dedication, and the cooperation of all people."

He continued, "Small acts of kindness, love and sharing, empathy and consideration practiced in each person's position can change the world," and added, "Won Buddhism will take the lead in this endeavor."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.