Brian Jeffrey
Vinh Pagoda, located in Lien Tan village, Thuong Loc commune, in HaT inh province, has a rich history. Devastated by war, the pagoda remained only with its foundation, but the local community later erected a temporary altar for worship.
In 2018, Venerable Thich Dong Phap took charge of Vinh Pagoda, making it a place for spiritual and cultural endeavors and a nurturing home for needy children.
Initially without a proper living space, Monk Phap constructed a makeshift thatched-roof shelter, aiming to restore and care for Vinh Pagoda. To his surprise, children were left by their parents at the pagoda’s doorstep with hopes that he would care for them.
The first child arrived in late 2019, a newborn left in the main hall, leading the monk to start adopting and raising abandoned children despite meager facilities.
Currently, the pagoda is home to eight abandoned children, aged three months to five years, including five disabled children in challenging circumstances.
Children were left at the pagoda premises, some at midnight or early morning, with one found in front of the pagoda and another inside the main hall. The monk’s previous experience in caring for orphans equipped him to provide the essential care these children needed.
Supported by donations from generous individuals, the monk procured supplies, prepared milk, changed diapers, and ensured medical attention for the children when required.
Working in collaboration with local authorities and various agencies, the monk facilitated the children’s official registration by obtaining birth certificates, essential for their future.
Benefactors and Buddhist followers have significantly contributed to improving the children’s living conditions, providing essential items for their well-being and establishing a dedicated shelter with financial support.
Venerable Thich Dong Phap reflects on the fortune of being present to assist those in need, recounting touching incidents like a newborn left in a basket with a note from the mother seeking help due to her inability to care for the child.
One such mother later visited the pagoda expressing her longing for the child but unable to raise it due to her studies. She promised to return one day to reclaim her baby.
