Study Bagua Zhang at Wudang

The ceremony was held in the newly renovated 4th floor hall of Master Yuan's academy. Though a big space, by 9 AM the hall had filled with those come to watch the ceremony, and with those who would make their oaths and assume discipleship.

After opening words from Master Yuan and a formal review of the significance of the disciples' duties, the disciples-to-be approached the shrine to Zhang San Feng in small groups. After making ceremonial obeisance to Zhang San Feng and Master Yuan, each swore to persevere in physical training, to work toward greater understanding of Daoist teachings, to diligently seek to internalize the essence of Daoism, to follow the rules of the sect, and to dedicate themselves to helping Daoist culture develop and grow. Master Yuan then offered words of inspiration and encouragement, and presented each disciple with a Daoist name and credentials as a holder of the lineage of the sect.

The morning was well over when the last student had assumed the honors and responsibilities of discipleship. Several honored guests spoke to the newly inducted disciples, including Grandmaster Zhong. Master Yuan gave a short speech. He traced Wudang Wushu's path through the past 30 years, from desiccation and obscurity to the renewal of cultural traditions, and the growing demand for the teachings of Daoism in today's international world. Without health and character, even the great successes of modern man are diminished. He stated his hope that his new disciples should, in the coming years, develop their health and character and lead others to do the same.

The ceremony over, a huge feast was laid out in the kungfu academy. There was so much good food that leftovers appeared at mealtimes for days afterward, despite the numerous guests. And as the disciple ceremony celebrations began to die down, the preparations for the other important event of the day, Master Yuan's birthday, were already underway.

In the evening, the Wudang Daoist Traditional Kungfu Academy filled with festivity once again. There were fireworks, karaoke, and a variety show featuring the students of the academy presenting a program of dance, skits, puppetry, and live music.

Though disciplined training would resume the next day, Friday the 9th of March was a festival day; a day in which the Wudang San Feng Pai paused to appreciate and celebrate the growth of living traditions, the joy of enriched lives , and the great moment of handing an ancient heritage to a new generation of guardians.