An Giang (VNA) – The Hoa Hao Buddhism convened its sixth national congress for the 2024-2029 tenure on December 18-19 at An Hoa Pagoda, Phu Tan district, the Mekong Delta province of An Giang.
The event brought together 879 delegates representing over 1.5 million Hoa Hao Buddhist followers from across the nation. It also appointed 25 members to the Central Executive Board of the Hoa Hao Buddhist Sangha for the new term, with Nguyen Tan Dat continuing to be chosen as its head.
Speaking at the congress, Chairman of the Government Committee for Religious Affairs Vu Hoai Bac affirmed that the Hoa Hao Buddhism, operating under the motto of “For the Dharma, for the Nation”, has promoted sound ethical values and made positive contributions to the society since it received the State’s recognition 25 years ago.
He asked the executive board to pay due attention to guiding followers on the missions outlined in the resolution adopted at the congress while encouraging them to comply with legal regulations in their religious practices and adhere to the teachings and rules of the sect.
The board should settle challenges in a timely manner and promote its role as a bridge between the Party and State and followers, the official said.
During its 2019-2024 term, the board carried out various charity activities worth nearly 2.5 trillion VND (98 million USD), including constructing and repairing houses for disadvantaged families, building rural bridges, and presenting gifts to impoverished people.
Looking ahead, the board will focus on religious education, expand its charity programmes, and join hands with other religions and people in national development./.
