You can use these sentences with Buddhism and Monks. Please understand that all sentences are only meant to help. I do not want anyone to get upset. If I make a mistake or write something that is not appropriate, that is not my intention. I want to keep the English easy and religion is a difficult topic. I respect Buddhism more than any other religion and only want to make it easier for parents to use English when talking about Buddhism with their children.
- The monk is coming. Please stand here and wait for the monk to pass. Let him go first.
- When the monk passes by, please stop and wai him.
- The monk is a holy man. You must show him respect.
- It is important to offer food to the monk. It is a nice thing to do. When you do something nice then you create good energy (karma).
- We are going to the temple to make merit. This is an important thing to do.
- We are at the temple. This is a serious place. This is not play time. If you quiet down I will play with you when we get home.
- Please put this in the monk's bowl and bow your head. The monk will want to bless you.
- After the monk's blessing, please wai the monk. You must show the monk respect.
- Keep your head low please.
- On Saturday we are going to the temple to make merit. Please think about what food you would like to take to the monks.
- Put the money into this bowl. Then close your eyes and ask for a good blessing.
- Shhh. The monk is talking. You must be quiet and listen.
- This is a time to sit quietly and listen. You can play when you get home.
- Do you want to make an offering at the temple?
- I am proud of you. You were quiet and respectful around the monks. Good job.
Make an offering = make merit
You can use either expression.
"Make an offering" is what western people will understand. They will not understand "make merit". "Make merit" are the correct English words, but they are only used in Buddhism. Most western people are not Buddhist so they do not know what that means.
It is best if you use both expressions. Sometimes use 'make an offering". Other times use "make merit". Your children should understand both and that they mean the same thing.