村廟活動與鄉土教育之探究：以布袋太聖宮魍港媽的「海上會香」宗活動為例

Religious Events and Native Education: A Case Study of“Incense Meeting at the Sea”of Wankan Goddness (Matsu), Tai-Shengt Temple in Budai

The purpose of this study was to investigate the correlation between religious events and Native education. The case study was“Incense meeting at the sea”of Wankan Goddness (Matsu), Tai-Shengt Temple in Budai. This study adopted in-depth interview to consult seven elderly residents, including people who worked at the temple, and the participants of“Incense meeting at the sea.”The research method was to analyze both interviews and references.
After an overall analysis, three conclusions were found. Firstly, to completely understand the origins, procedures and the collaborative memories of all participants from“Incense meeting at the sea”was to provide meanings to the event and enhance identity to this local event. Secondly, the participants from this event claimed that they witnessed the miracle of Wankan Goddness (Matsu). This strengthened their religious belief and got a sense of satisfaction and consolation; hence, this kind of religious event showed that it did have an obvious effect in comforting people’s feeling and heart.
Finally, Wankan Goddness (Matsu), Tai-Shengt Temple as a religious center in the area held“Incense meeting at the sea”did display one of the best practical Native education activities. Although this religious event was no longer in practice, it was still a good model for Native education because of its one of a kind religious background and cultural value.