People go to pagoda on the full moon of the 7th lunar month 2022. (photo: VOV)

After 2 years affected by the COVID-19 epidemic, this year pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City have organized a number of activities for Buddhist followers to practice, offer incense, and pay tribute to their deceased parents and those who died during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thousands of people gathered at Hoang Phap pagoda in Hoc Mon district to attend a mass to chant Vu Lan sutras and listen to monks preaching about the filial piety and parents’ merits. Many people could not hold their tears in remembrance of their parents.

Nguyen Thi Binh, a resident of Go Vap district, said: “On Vu Lan Day, I often go to pagoda to attend ceremonies in remembrance of my parents’ merits. I miss my deceased parents.   I wish I have good health so I don’t have to depend on my children and relatives.”

Pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City are open to welcome Buddhist followers on Vu Lan Day. Nguyen Van Hao and his children, who live in District 3, visit to Pháp Hoa pagoda: “Parents passing away is a huge loss. My parents passed away decades ago and my wife just died. I wish we could see them again.”

During the Vu Lan festival this year, many pagodas held requiem for COVID-19 victims.