Gurye Hwaeomsa Holds Blood Donation Event in Response to COVID-19

Donation Ceremony of 5 Million Won for Neighbors in Need Also Held

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Yuk Mi-seok] Hwaeomsa Temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism (Head Monk Deokmun) announced on the 10th that it held a 'Compassionate Blood Donation' event to alleviate the blood supply shortage caused by COVID-19.

About 50 people participated in the blood donation, including Head Monk Deokmun of Hwaeomsa, monks, devotees, and related public officials.

Head Monk Deokmun explained the purpose of the event, saying, "I heard through the media that blood donations have decreased due to the spread of COVID-19 and that there is a great need for blood, so I organized this compassionate blood donation event to help even a little."

He added, "Since these are difficult and challenging times, it is necessary to unite our hearts together," and "I will pray to Buddha, hoping that COVID-19 will disappear as soon as possible."

On the same day, a donation ceremony for 5 million won to help neighbors in need was held at Gakhwangjeon Hall of Hwaeomsa. The ceremony was attended by Kim Soon-ho, the governor of Gurye County, and officials from the Jeonnam Community Chest of Korea.

The designated donation fund will support five households prioritized as welfare blind spots who are practically struggling in daily life but cannot receive legal support, providing 1 million won to each household.

Hwaeomsa is actively participating in preventing the spread of COVID-19 by fully suspending regular Buddhist services held monthly as well as gatherings and events attended by the public.