Greek Shaolin Cultural Organization
少林希腊文化組织

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One of the greatest desires of all the members of the Greek Mission on this trip, was to become acquainted with the Venerable Shi Yong Po [chin.: shìyǒngpō 释 永 坡 | 1926 -], one of the masters of Shi Yan Zhuo and to submit their respect. The Greek master who wanted to satisfy this desire and simultaneously give the opportunity to a new generation of masters to experience the glorious past of Shaolin, led the team and headed for the Chan Hall, in front of which are the dormitories of the monks. He entered first in the small courtyard, headed for a wooden door which hit chanting, Sifu! The mat at the door shook and came out the master with this beautiful smile, characteristic of monks. The Wise elder 89 years old now, which bears the title «the Great of the Staff» [chin.: gùndàshī 棍大师], was standing in front of EPOS Greek students who knelt on the ground, paying respect to the Grand Master.

The excitement was pervasive and joy tears flowed in everyone's eyes. Master Yong Po, for which only stories were heard by most people of the mission, is one of the most eminent masters of recent times, one of the few remaining old-school Shaolin and heir of «Martial Arts of the Traditional Orthodox School of Shaolin» [chin.: Shàolín chuántǒng zhèngzōng wǔgōng 少林传统正宗武功]. Despite his advanced age, he stood proudly in the heat.

«In 1993, I presented my first student, Master Shi Yan Kong» said Master Shi Yan Zhuo to Master and continued. «Today, 22 years later, I introduce to you a whole new generation of Masters. I think I'll bring my students till you become 120 years old.» «For so much I do not promise ... But 100, something I can do,» replied the Master laughing with his heart. Master Shi Yan Zhuo, introduced one by one, all members of the mission that had not meet him and the elder welcomed them heartily by offering tea. Then recounted stories from Shaolin past, focusing on the life and work of Patriarch of Shaolin, Shi Xing Zheng [chin.: shìxíngzhèng dàshī 释行正大师 / 1914 - 1987] and the course of the monastery the last 60 years, as is currently the oldest in the temple. He said he makes only a little workout every day, early in the morning and never separated his staff. Because of his advanced age, no longer makes service in the halls of the temple, although as he says, can still jump the stairs two at a time.

Just before the departure of the group, Elder Master said to everyone: The New Generation looks promising, I hope to continue the spread and development of Shaolin Culture in Greece. Shi Yan Zhuo is an excellent master and for this reason I chose him as my successor and heir. He is Faithful to my Teaching and the Teaching of my Masters and that honors them and me. I wish to see all of you again very soon. I would find myself beneath this roof and wait for you.

Master Shi Yong Po, is a living jewel of culture and history of Shaolin. He is the last who knows completely, some of the 72 arts of Shaolin, three of which has bequeathed to Master Shi Yan Zhuo, who has been formally appointed in writing as his successor and continuer at Shaolin.