This was our fifth Sangha visit to prisons in Washington and Oregon. Yesterday, we visited the Buddhist Sangha at Two Rivers Correctional Institution in Oregon. It was more than a four-hour drive from where we stayed. Even though it was a long journey to this “Iron Temple,” the brothers were filled with joy and excitement. We had a wonderful three-hour service together, discussing various Dharma topics and taking time to sit in meditation as a Sangha.
Prisons can become like retreat centers when inmates have access to the Dharma and receive proper guidance. Outside, we go to the temple to learn and practice; for those inside, the temple must go to them — to help and guide them on the path of enlightenment.
I feel very proud of Joe, our local volunteer, who has been visiting this prison every week for the past 19 years. He is now in his seventies, yet continues his service with great dedication and compassion. Deep gratitude to Joe for his unwavering support and guidance to this Sangha.
Since most prisons are located in remote areas, it can be quite challenging to travel such long distances. Yet, our compassion and the wish to spread the Dharma to those in need give us strength to continue this work. There are also many kind supporters working quietly behind the scenes — I deeply appreciate your kindness and compassion.
Special thanks to the Seattle devotees for donating Dharma books. Yesterday, we offered two boxes of Dharma books to the TRCI Sangha. For many brothers inside, these books are their only teachers to continue their practice. Your generosity and support for this prison program are truly appreciated.
With the help and support of so many, we have now visited five different Sanghas. They have kindly requested us to visit regularly, and we will do our best to return at least twice a year.
May all the brothers and sisters who are practicing behind bars have the strength and blessings to continue their cultivation.
Namo Buddhaya 🙏
Oct 15, 2025
監獄弘揚佛法，不僅能改變人生觀，亦有助於營造和諧環境。
有一天，一名異教徒領袖來教室，目的不是聽課，是為挑戰顯中法師，問道：「佛教沒有一個造物主——上帝，請問人類怎樣來？怎樣去？死後去哪裏？」
顯中法師回答：「你的問題很好，但不是三言兩語，可以理解明白，我希望你在這半年期間，當我每一個月來的時候，每一次都來上課，我適當時候回答你的問題。」
他是尋找人生真理，每次他都有來上課，半年之後問他上次的問題，現在還有問題嗎？他說不單止回答了從前所問所想，而且藉着聽聞佛法，亦解答很多以前的內心疑惑，和人生問題，並感恩這生能結佛緣，讓他下半生可以繼續學習和修持佛法。
由於他是領袖，他也帶來追隨他的學弟形成了一個強大僧團，成為三皈五戒佛弟子。
很多受刑人常因過往行為背負沉重罪惡感，常常愧疚自責，佛法強調因果輪迴，要理解行為的後果業報，顯中法師引導他們面對過錯，懺悔改過，重新開始，進而改變。透過看佛教書典，讀誦佛經、禪修等修行，他們能穩定情緒、減少暴力。此外，佛法也帶來希望。許多受刑人在學佛後，重新找到人生方向，出獄後願意繼續修學佛法。
