On 25 and 28 August 2026, Venerable Thich Tam Minh and Buddhist volunteers from Hoang Phap Temple visited Mekong Keilor East and Cairnlea to celebrate Vu Lan with our residents.
Despite the cool winter weather outside, the atmosphere inside was warm and peaceful. Residents gathered around a beautifully prepared Buddhist altar to chant the Ullambana Sutra (Kinh Vu Lan Báo Hiếu) and listen to Venerable Thich Tam Minh share the meaning of this special occasion.
Vu Lan, also known as the Ullambana Festival, is an important Buddhist observance and a cherished Vietnamese tradition. It is a time to honour our parents and ancestors, express gratitude to those who are still with us, and lovingly remember those who have passed away.
One of the most touching Vu Lan traditions is Bông Hồng Cài Áo – the Rose-Pinning Ceremony. A red rose represents having both parents still with us, a pink rose represents having one parent still living, while a white rose is worn in remembrance of parents who have passed away.
As the familiar melody of Bông Hồng Cài Áo filled the room, Buddhist volunteers, staff and representatives of Mekong Management gently pinned white roses onto our residents’ clothing. It was a quiet and moving moment of remembrance, bringing back memories of parents, family and home.
At Mekong, celebrations such as Vu Lan are more than special events. They help our residents stay connected with the Vietnamese cultural and spiritual traditions that have been part of their lives for generations.