Deities and Faith
Does Sheng Zhen Men stop religious services during New Year or the seventh lunar month?
English translation draft · Based on the Chinese article. This is not a word-for-word translation approved by Master Shengyuan.
Sheng Zhen Men has no blanket taboo stopping services during New Year or the seventh lunar month. Some places pause in the seventh month, while we still assist those needing help. The same intention applies at New Year. The month alone cannot prohibit purification or religious service.
Previously we held several ceremonies up to the day before Lunar New Year’s Eve, and someone sought help on the third New Year day. I also invited festive visits and worship. These described past arrangements and willingness to respond to suffering, not guaranteed daily round-the-clock capacity for every problem now.
Discussing the seventh month, I asked who would assist universal offerings if every deity rested. It resembles students having summer holidays while many adults still work, or office workers resting on weekends while restaurants become busier. Places have different arrangements, and one method cannot stand for all. Explaining our continued services also includes respect for other temples’ choices.
Contact and book first to understand assistance. The matter, schedule and staffing all count. “No monthly taboo” expresses willingness, not a guarantee every midnight call can be handled immediately.