1. Background and Purpose
In reliance on our spiritual teacher’s insight into the great circumstances of this era.
In accordance with the prophecy to safeguard the monastic Dharma of Shakyamuni Buddha.
To dedicate this opportunity to those with karmic affinity to experience the monastic life and promote Buddhism.
The resident Sangha of Amitabha Monastery in Fiji has, for over a decade, participated in organizing short-term ordination programs in Chinese and Theravāda regions. Now in collaboration with “Light of Life Fiji,” we are launching the Second International Chinese Monastic Short-Term Ordination Program for Men in 2025 at Amitabha Monastery, praying for world peace and the flourishing of the Dharma.
In the South Pacific island nation of Fiji, the monastics of Amitabha Monastery welcome all who aspire to experience the life of renunciation. This program offers participants a direct encounter with monastic life, cultivating the ability to apply the Dharma in daily life, attain inner liberation, awaken inherent wisdom, develop right views of life’s essence, and grow a sense of reverence for the monastic path and joy in the Dharma.
2. Program Format
Participants report to Amitabha Monastery, Fiji (early arrivals may join the Ullambana Ceremony as laypersons). After refining their motivation, they will undergo head-shaving, receive precepts following preparatory teachings, take the Ten Novice Precepts, and receive instruction in monastic discipline and Pure Land teachings grounded in the fruit of awakening as the cause. They will learn chanting, monastic etiquette, and engage in communal labor, cultivating a sense of community. The program lasts one month. All electronic devices (phones, cameras, laptops) and cash will be collected during the program. Those wishing to pursue full ordination may remain for further training (pre-arranged monastic robes required); others will disrobe and return to lay life.
3. Program Dates and Schedule
September 9, 2025 (Lunar 7/18): Arrival, check-in, accommodation, orientation (early arrivals may join Ullambana Ceremony).
September 10, 2025 (Lunar 7/19): Program begins.
5 days of basic learning, obstacle screening, and head-shaving preparation.
September 15, 2025 (Lunar 7/24 – Nāgārjuna’s Birthday): Head-shaving ceremony.
5 days of precept instruction and community training.
September 21, 2025 (Lunar 7/30 – Kṣitigarbha Bodhisattva’s Birthday): Novice Ordination.
14 days of precept study and Pure Land teachings.
October 7, 2025 (Lunar 8/16): Disrobe or continue training for bhikṣu precepts.
4. Program Fees
Amitabha Monastery will not charge for accommodation or food. Participants must cover their own travel costs, ordination requisites (robes and alms bowl must be sourced from China), and other basic personal expenses. Airfare should be arranged in advance.
5. Basic Requirements
Participants must be:
- Physically and mentally healthy, with proper facial features.
- Free from addictions (smoking, alcohol, drugs), contagious diseases, and conditions unsuitable for communal living (e.g., body odor).
- Respectful of the Dharma and the Buddhist tradition, willing to follow instructions, and have a clear motivation for short-term ordination.
6. Enrollment Limit
Male applicants only; limited to 50 participants, aged 18–60.
7. Application Deadline
September 1, 2025
8. Application Procedure
1. Download and Study Program Documents:
- This Notice
- Self-assessment for Obstacles & Important Notes
- Application Form for 2025 Short-Term Ordination Program
2. Clarify Your Intention:
- Understand that this may be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Reflect clearly on why you wish to ordain.
3. Self-Assessment:
a) Obstacle Screening: Based on the Buddha’s guidelines. Some conditions prohibit ordination; some may require confession. Final eligibility will be assessed upon arrival by the Sangha. Please review the attached guide or consult via contact methods.
b) Mental Readiness: Reflect on your attitude toward Buddhism, your understanding of the program, your openness to challenges, discipline, team spirit, and willingness to apply the Dharma.
4. Submit the Application Form and Passport:
- Accurately complete the form and submit it with a recent photo via WeChat to the designated contact.
- Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel period. Apply/renew as needed.
5. Preliminary Screening:
- Within one week of receiving your form, the team will contact you for an interview via Zoom. Once accepted, you may join the preparatory group chat and begin arrangements (medical checkup, tickets, robe purchase, etc.).
6. Medical Checkup:
- Required tests include: General medical checkup (county-level hospital or above) + Hepatitis B test (two pairs and one). Submit scanned reports to the WeChat contact and bring originals upon arrival. Failing to meet health criteria will disqualify applicants.
7. Flight Booking:
- Fiji allows visa-free arrival with proof of roundtrip flight for up to 4 months. If unsure, you may consult the group’s travel assistant. Submit your electronic ticket copy to finalize registration. Prepare a travel itinerary for border inspection.
8. Online Study:
- From August 1, 2025, preparatory lessons will be conducted via group chat to help participants familiarize themselves with the schedule and logistics.
9. Contact Information
Male Participant Contact (WeChat):
- Mainland China: Layperson Yuansi (WeChat/Phone: 13011528097)
- Venerable Mingwei (WeChat: 557497)
- International Phone: +679 7128992 (Viber, WhatsApp, Messenger)
Website: https://amitabha-fiji.org
Amitabha Monastery Short-Term Ordination Program Committee
