Shaolin Temple, the Buddhist shrine known for its martial monks, has donated 100,000 yuan (US$12,000) to the local government to combat SARS.
Master Shi Yongxin, abbot of the temple, handed over the money to the government of Dengfeng city, Henan Province, central China, on Wednesday.
The abbot urged the whole Buddhist community to contribute to the battle against the epidemic. "Buddhists should do their part to beat SARS," said the abbot.
The temple was disinfecting the area to prevent the spread of the virus among the many Buddhist pilgrims and tourists who visit everyday.
(Xinhua News Agency May 2, 2003)
|