Bowing out at Little Buddha camp

Young Buddhist novices in Seoul, South Korea, took a break from their normal routine yesterday and played a game of soccer as part of celebrations of the birth of Buddha.

The 37 novices from all over the country gathered at South Korea's biggest Buddhist order Jogye in Seoul for the soccer event.

Jijang, a 7-year-old, spoke for most of the novices when he said the game of soccer was a welcome change. "I've been bowing at the temple, so it feels good to play soccer," he told NDT Television.

The soccer game began after a prayer session.

Myunggeun, also 7, said: "I prayed to Buddha, hoping to play soccer well. And I am happy to score a goal."

Monk Seongjin said a game of soccer was the best way to celebrate and capture the true meaning of Buddha's birthday.

"As we watch novice monks play innocently, we can feel their innocence and happiness as if we feel the heart of Buddha. Also, our novices can have fun and their happiness can bring happiness and peace to the world.

"This is an event where we can share the true meaning of Buddha's birthday."

Buddha's birthday is celebrated on May 28. Agencies