China’s Buddhist association approves revocation of Shaolin Temple abbot Shi Yongxin’s ordination certificate

The Buddhist Association of China said on Monday that it firmly supported and endorsed the decision to handle Shi Yongxin, the abbot of the Shaolin Temple and approved the revocation of Shi's ordination certificate. 

On Sunday, the Shaolin Temple released an official statement, saying that Shi, the abbot of Shaolin Temple, is suspected of criminal offenses, including embezzlement and misappropriation of project funds and temple assets. He has also maintained improper relationships with multiple women over a long period and fathered illegitimate children, seriously violating Buddhist precepts. He is currently under joint investigation by multiple authorities.  

The Buddhist Association of China said in the statement that Shi's actions are egregious in nature, severely tarnishing the reputation of the Buddhist community and damaging the image of monastic practitioners. The Buddhist Association of China firmly supports and endorses the decision to handle Shi in accordance with the law.  

The association also noted that it recently had received a report from the Henan Buddhist Association on the revocation of Shi's ordination certificate.

In accordance with relevant regulations, the association has approved the revocation of Shi (secular name: Liu Yingcheng) ordination certificate, said the statement.