Buddhist monks P.E.I. open house proving too popular

The monks at the Great Enlightenment Buddhist Institute said so many Islanders registered for the two day open house at their facility in Little Sands, P.E.I. this weekend, that they can't accept any more.

More than 3,300 people have registered and GeoffreyYang, the executive secretary of the institute, said while they are grateful so many people want to visit, it's important that it not be too crowded.

"Each day we have over 1,500 people at least," said Yang. "Each hour we are expecting more than 200 people at any time. The parking area within the premises is limited and also the prayer hall itself is at capacity."

"We want to ensure the quality of the visits so that you won't be jam packed. Otherwise we really do not like to turn people away." 

Yang noted they hate to disappoint anyone, so they are developing plans to allow smaller groups to book private tours once a month, in an effort to meet the demand.

At the institute Thursday, monks were busy preparing for the open house, making posters and decorating for Mother's Day.

"They are showing personal stories of how monks remember the kindness from their mothers and how we celebrate Mother's Day," said Venerable Dan. "That's one of the very first classes that we have to study when we enter the monastery is to remember our mother's kindness."

Venerable Dan said he didn't expect the open house to generate so much interest.

"We thought this is a nice opportunity for us to open up and make personal connections with Islanders and we are overwhelmed by the request," he said.

For those registered, the open house takes place on May 7 and 8 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. The monks have asked that visitors dress modestly.

RCMP will be helping with traffic control in the area to make sure the road is not blocked.

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