Large Buddha Statue Will Help "Cement the Faith in North America," Developer Says

August 10, 2004

Source: Taipei Times

Wire Service: AFP

http://www.taipeitimes.com/News/taiwan/archives/2004/08/10/2003198164

On August 10, 2004 Agence France-Presse reported, "Bigger is better, according to a Taiwan-based religious sect planning a 10-story Buddha at a temple in a nondescript Vancouver suburb. 'The size of the Buddha and the building reflect his importance. You're supposed to be awestruck when you look at the Buddha. Hence, the substantial size,' said project developer Kabel Atwall. The large statue is part of a seven-year project to build a US$35 million worship and education center, expanding an existing Lingyen Mountain Buddhist temple fourfold. Included will be a scripture hall and library, conference rooms and dormitories for visiting monks and other faithful. Outside, an apple and pear orchard and a vegetable garden will spread across most of the property. The shiny gold-leaf Buddha sitting on a lotus leaf will be shorter than the tallest Leshan Buddha in the world in China which stands at 67 meters, but will be the greatest tribute to the eastern deity in North America. 'Spiritually, it will expose more people to the teachings of Buddhism and help cement the faith in North America. Of course, there will be economic and tourism benefits for the city too,' Atwall said. Reaction has been mostly positive so far even though the building will dwarf surrounding housing and a dozen churches in the Vancouver suburb of Richmond."