At 10:30 a.m. Saturday, members of the temple will recite sutras and chant the name Amitabha Buddha. Sutras are thought to be the words of the Buddha Sakyamuni, the historical Buddha who was born about 500 years before Christ.

Amitabha Buddha, sometimes known as The Buddha of Long Life, is said to dwell in a Pure Land or paradise.

On Sunday, practitioners will meet at the temple at 8:30 a.m. to ?settle? the statue, which overlooks FM 646. The dedication ceremony will be at 10:30 a.m.

All who wish to participate walk around the new statue while practicing the discipline of bowing after every three steps.

The abbot, Khikku Thich Tri Toai, said: ?In countless number of worlds, there is none which is more peaceful, elegant, and pure than the Amitabha Buddha?s world. Therefore, human beings in this world turn to him for spiritual guidance.?

The abbot invited people of all faiths to ?set aside your precious time to attend and participate in the ceremony with the reverends, monks and nuns. We will all pray together for a peaceful world where people live in compassion and harmony.?

After the morning services, everyone is invited to stay for lunch.

Linh Son Temple has its annual New Year?s Eve ceremony Jan. 28 to welcome in the Year of the Dog.

The public is welcome to participate in these services, which start about 10 p.m., followed by soup and dessert, the first meal of the Asian New Year.

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WHAT: Dedication of new statue.
WHEN: 10:30 a.m. Sunday.
WHERE: Linh Son Temple, 1334 FM 646, Dickinson.