FGS News
FGS Auckland Expressed Gratitude to the Founding Master
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand March 11, 2024 On 24th February 2024, coinciding with the 15th day of the first lunar month, Fo Guang Shan Auckland commemorated the First Anniversary of Fo Guang Shan Founding Master—Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Passing Away. At 3pm NZ time, Abbess Manshin of Fo Guang Shan NZ led the monastic and BLIA members in joining a global live stream to pay tribute to the Venerable Master in a memorial service. The attendees included President Evelyn KU of BLIA North Island Chapter NZ, Deputy President Larry YANG, Nick YOONG and over fifty BLIA members. Head Abbot of FGS, the Most Venerable Hsin Bau expressed gratitude to the global Buddhist community for their unwavering commitment to protecting and promoting the faith. Abbot Hsin Bau explained that wisdom is the light of salvation for the world. The Founding Master hoped that everyone could find peace and happiness through faith. Abbot Hsin Bau blessed everyone to continue progressing and serving the community, drawing inspiration from the Founding Master’s spirit. Keeping Up is crucial, said Abbess Manshin, quoting the Founding Master to inspire the attendees. The opportunity to connect with the Founding Master is precious. By undertaking, enduring, striving and accomplishing in the service of the community, we enrich our lives with joy and value. President Evelyn expressed gratitude for the guidance of the Founding Master in understanding and strengthening faith, establishing correct views and beliefs. The Founding Master left countless writings to unlock our potential and gain wisdom. She encouraged the members to seize the moment and closely follow the Buddha’s teachings to enrich their lives. Advisor Lintao commented, that BLIA members are honored to uphold the Founding Master’s faith and legacy, which enhance our quality of life. Deputy President Larry reminisced emotionally about his time with the Venerable Master, During my volunteering at the headquarters, I had the precious opportunity to meet with the Venerable Master and was touched by his compassionate heart. I vow to cultivate the strength to bear responsibility, devote myself to the teachings and bring value to the community.
Communis: Common ground and Coexistence in the Religious Response to the Climate Crisis
Brian V. March 28, 2024 In the wake of alarming reports and escalating environmental concerns, voices from various religious group are invited in a forum to address the pressing issue of climate change themed“Communis: Common ground and Coexistence in the Religious Response to the Climate Crisis.” Students from De La Salle High School with the strand of Humanities and social science invited Kit Valderrama and Rachelle Sy of Buddha’s Light International Association Young Adult Divisions (BLIA YAD) Manila Subdivision led by Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Mabuhay Temple Abbess Venerable Miao Jing to be one of the esteemed speakers, along with Ms. Lourdes Arsenio of Archdiocese of Manila and Ms. Ianelle Dalumbay a social science teacher and Buddhist practitioner. The Forum is centered on teachings and commitment taken to mitigate climate crisis. Over 80 students attended on March 21, 2024 in La Salle University Yunchengco Hall. Venerable Miao Jing highlighted the practices of FGS to maintain a harmonious balance among self, others and the world. Buddhists take action to mitigate climate change by taking vegetarian diet and plant trees. Programs such as Three Acts of Goodness for school children have introduced the concept of environmental and spiritual preservation to young Filipinos. Typhoon relief operations and charitable activities by BLIA and FGS shall always include the material, medical, humanitarian and spiritual aids for the holistic wellness of the victims. BLIA YAD Kit discussed Buddhist teachings such as compassion, interconnectedness, and impermanence as core principles in navigating the uncertainty and complexity of climate change. By acknowledging the impermanent nature of all phenomena, including our current ecological challenges, we can cultivate resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. Through a deep understanding of interdependence, we recognize that our individual actions, no matter how seemingly insignificant, are an integral part of the larger ecological whole, and that positive change is possible through collective effort and collaboration. BLIA YAD Rachelle talked about her growing up in a Buddhist family has moulded her to live simple and preserve resources. She has learnt from Venerable Master Hsing Yun “to be the parrot which saved the forest fire” as an uninvited friend rendering services. Afterwards, Ms. Lourdes discussed the Christian perspectives on the climate crisis, she emphasizes the principles of stewardship, solidarity, justice, and love. As stewards of God's creation, Christians are called to care for the Earth and all its inhabitants, working towards a more just and sustainable world for present and future generations. Furthermore, Ms. Ianelle Dalumbay a social science teacher and practicing Buddhist, dwell on her knowledge on the concept of Four Noble Truths and Eight-fold Paths encouraging youths to voice up and engage in the combating of climate crisis. When asked “what are practical ways they can do in addressing climate change?” all speakers advise to be mindful of our actions on daily activities. For example, turning off lights when it is not needed. Ms. Candice Aguila said that, “the diverse backgrounds of forum speakers have opened my perspective on caring for our environment. I have liked Three Acts of Goodness to keep my actions and thoughts kind towards our Mother Earth.” Ms Eufia Jasmine Lo the President and Head of the Steering Committee who led the organizing team appreciated the opportunity to reinforce the youth awareness and understanding on climate change. She is pleased to know that when we protect our environment, we respect all forms of life and sustain the wellbeing in all. Indeed, by prioritizing the well-being of all beings and recognizing our shared responsibility for the welfare of the planet, we can work towards collective solutions that address both the symptoms and the systemic drivers of the climate crisis.
FGS NZ Celebrates the Year of the Dragon with Prime Minister Christopher Luxon Extending New Year Greetings
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand February 16, 2024 On 9th February 2024, the eve of the Chinese Lunar New Year, Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Auckland hosted a celebration to welcome the Year of the Dragon. The event saw a turnout of over 8,000 attendees joining in the festivities to mark the beginning of a new year. The celebration was graced by the presence of New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. The Prime Minister paid homage to the Founding Master of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, by offering flowers in appreciation of the Venerable Master establishing the Temple in New Zealand and the significant contributions to the wellbeing of the local community through various educational, artistic and cultural services. Distinguished guests including National Party MP Nancy LU, Chairman of the Howick Local Board, Damian Light, New Zealand Police Senior Sergeant Anson LIN and artist Richard Monk, also graced the event, extending their New Year wishes to the Chinese community in New Zealand. Venerable Abbess Manshin presented Spring Festival couplets to Prime Minister Luxon, May you be Free as Cloud and Water, Auspicious and Joyful, imparting wishes for peace and joy amidst his responsibilities. Prime Minister Luxon expressed his gratitude to Fo Guang Shan New Zealand for consistently organising the vibrant Lunar New Year event, marking his third year of participation. He committed to leading New Zealand towards a prosperous future with new strategies under his government. The event also featured heartfelt New Year greetings from MP Nancy LU and Chairperson Light. They expressed their joy in participating and wished the public family harmony and success in the Year of the Dragon. The New Zealand Police provide security services to ensure the smooth and safe progression of the festivities. The police officers also participate in the Fo Guang Lion Dance Performance, adding a unique flair to the celebrations and showcasing the cooperation between the police and the community. Senior Sergeant Anson LIN thanked the public for their support and stressed the importance of cooperation in ensuring community safety. The Fo Guang Shan Auckland meticulously prepared over ten thousand auspicious New Year red packets. These were distributed by Abbess Manshin, Prime Minister Luxon and Chairman Light, conveying the best wishes to the public. The enthusiastic participation of the public in the countdown and the New Year performances underscored the warmth and blessings extended by Fo Guang Shan Temple to the people of New Zealand. Prime Minister Luxon’s attendance highlighted the government’s support for the Chinese community and the broader message of New Zealand’s commitment to multiculturalism and inclusivity.
Toronto Educational Talk on Psychological Counseling: Nurturing Children with Love and Hope
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto April 10, 2024 On March 23rd, the Social Education Department of FGS Toronto and BLIA Da Tzu Subchapter organized an educational talk titled "Giving Children Love and Hope" at FGS Temple of Toronto. The talk was conducted by a registered social worker and psychological counsellor Ms. Zhihong Chen, and attracted 80 Fo Guang members, both in-person and online. Ven. Zhi Guan, the Superintendent of FGS Toronto, delivered a welcoming speech, sharing the educational philosophy of the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Emphasizing education based on compassion and tailored to individual needs, she highlighted Ms. Zhihong Chen's academic and clinical achievements, recognizing her contributions to the community. Ms. Zhihong Chen began by discussing the importance of self-education and social education among the four types of education. She addressed common concerns about procrastination and screen time, emphasizing its role as a coping strategy for stress. Elaborating on psychologist Erickson's "eight stages of life" growth theory, Ms. Zhihong Chen illustrated the developmental characteristics of each stage of life, along with potential challenges, using lively examples. Drawing from her own childhood experiences, she emphasized the profound impact of language on a child's growth, encouraging parents to "think good thoughts and say good words" and to pay attention to the importance of body language in communication. Addressing the question of "how to resolve conflicts between children and parents," Ms. Zhihong Chen guided parents to meet their children's emotional needs by providing companionship, love, play, praise, recognition, and apologies. She introduced the "TK model" to meet emotional needs and the "five-step communication support method" for effective communication. Attendees actively engaged in practicing these methods. She then demonstrated scenarios to help parents apply her designed "five-step communication support method" and emphasized the importance of rational analysis combined with emotional support when practicing the method. The attending parents actively participated in practicing the five-step support method. In conclusion, Ms. Chen pointed out that when we have faith, we are in the "self-actualization needs" level, and "Humanistic Buddhism" is in touch with people. Ms. Aiqing Liu, president of the Da Tzu 1 Sub-chapter thanked Ms. Zhihong Chen for her informative lecture. She encouraged attendees to apply the knowledge, nurture their families with love and joy, and grow with their children.
Venerables Visit Just Food community Farm in the Ottawa Greenbelt
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa April 11, 2024 On March 28, a group of nine people, including Venerable Yung Ku, abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa, along with superintent Ven. Zhi Yin, other venerables and groundskeeping volunteers went to the Just Food community farm in the Ottawa Greenbelt. The group was led by Wu Chen, a student from Algonquin College’s Business Agriculture program. During the Chinese New Year, Wu Chen and her roommates, Emma and Iris, who are studying carpentry, visited the temple to participate in activities and Dharma services. They had conversations with the venerables about their respective majors and learned that Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa had established a "Happy Farm" since 2023. Upon receiving an invitation from the advising venerable, they eagerly joined the team of farm volunteers and enthusiastically contributed to planning the 2024 planting schedule. In order to assist the venerables with the understanding of agricultural cultivation, Wu Chen organized this visit. Sun Shan and Li Bo, who were her previous working partners in Beijing, led a guided tour of the farm. During the farm tour, the venerables and volunteers were presented the concepts advocated by Just Food, and that Just Food is committed to improving food production and distribution efficiency through sustainable agricultural practices, with a focus on fostering community engagement and providing training opportunities. Although they couldn't witness the early spring crop plantings and the farm's breeding and planting experiments firsthand, Sun Shan and Li Bo's introductions inspired the group with the passion and philosophy of "Just Food Urban Agriculture" towards sustainable agriculture and food safety. Coincidentally, during the visit, the group had the opportunity to meet Erin O'Manique, the executive director of the Gloucester Emergency Food Cupboard and a member of the board of directors of the Ottawa Food Bank. Sun Shan and Li Bo, who were her previous working partners in Beijing, led a guided tour of the farm. photo／The Life News Agency During this visit, everyone profoundly realized the importance of Ottawa Greenbelt. This vast green space serves as not only a vital natural resource for the city of Ottawa but also as a key factor in maintaining ecological balance and sustainable development of the entire region. The Ottawa Greenbelt is known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful natural landscapes, while also providing many important ecosystem services, such as water conservation, air purification and carbon absorption. Protecting and preserving the Ottawa Greenbelt is crucial for ensuring the health and prosperity of local communities, which also echoes the sustainable development concept advocated by Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa and the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA). This visit not only provided the venerables and volunteers with a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture but also laid a solid foundation for the "Happy Farm" to learn from the practices of "Just Food Urban Agriculture." Through collaborative efforts, the venerables and volunteers firmly believe that they can contribute even more to the sustainable development and food safety of the communities near Richmond which will further advance the progress and prosperity of the society.
Catholic Focolare Visits Mabuhay Temple for Interreligious Exchange
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple April 18, 2024 An interfaith spiritual exchange took place on April 14th at the Mabuhay Temple in Manila, Philippines, hosted by Fo Guang Shan, a Buddhist monastery. A delegation of around 50 representatives from the Catholic Focolare group in the Philippines, led by Asela, embarked on a journey of spiritual exploration alongside monks and believers from Fo Guang Shan. Members of the delegation from Italy, South Korea, mainland China, and the Philippines entered this tranquil sanctuary with their respective faiths and spiritual quests. Venerable Miao Jing, the abbess of the Mabuhay Temple, warmly welcomed their Catholic friends, expressing that Fo Guang Shan upholds the educational ideals of its founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and is dedicated to establishing the University of Enlightenment in Tagathay, aspiring to open the gates of wisdom for more kindred spirits. Venerable Miao Jing mentioned that the Buddha's teachings originate from humanity, and the existence of Buddhism is for the happiness of humanity. Venerable Master Hsing Yun advocates the Four Givings, hoping that this warmth can spread and bring more goodness to the world. Priest Severo remarked that every person at Fo Guang Shan exudes a passionate smile, like a warm breeze soothing the anxieties in their hearts. Francis, a theology student from Guangzhou, shared his profound experience of visiting the Mabhay Temple during his study trip to the Philippines, deeply feeling the significance of Venerable Master Hsing Yun's advocacy of the Three Act of Goodness. He was also surprised to discover the striking similarities between Buddhist teachings and Catholic principles. Students present at the event eagerly posed insightful questions, inquiring about topics such as freeing oneself from desire and practicing the Noble Eightfold Path. BLIA members, Belinda and Venerable Zhi Rong, patiently addressed each query. Venerable Zhi Qin showcased the essence of Humanistic Buddhism through videos and elucidated Venerable Master Hsing Yun's unique perspective on Humanistic Buddhism. This interreligious dialogue not only purified the participants' souls but also fostered mutual understanding and respect among different faiths. To deepen the visitors' experience, Venerable Chueh Chi specially prepared a unique ritual. LED candles were provided for the members to light, symbolizing the illumination of hope. After lighting the candles, the members meditated in silence, then drew Dharma lots, hoping to find answers to life's questions in this serene place. The youth group, led by Beibei Tsai and former leader Wanji Gong, served as hosts and guides for this visit. The group also visited Grand Master Hsing Yun Art Gallery where they experienced the writing of the sutra, Grand Master calligraphy and his volume of 395 books. To end their visit, the group had their afternoon snack at Mabuhay teahouse where they got to experience Buddhist vegetarian food.
Nurturing Families - TAG School Opening Ceremony
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple March 25, 2024 Three Acts of Goodness (TAG) School of Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple welcomed the spring semester with an opening ceremony on March 3, 2024. More than 200 teachers, students, and parents gathered in the Auditorium for the celebration which featured highlights from previous semesters, a Fo Guang Shan knowledge quiz, the presentation of Appointment Letters to volunteer teachers, and an introduction to the upcoming semester's curriculum. Following the ceremony, students and parents engaged in fun-filled, interactive activities and shared the anticipated excitement for the new semester. Ven. Hui Cheng, the Guiding Venerable for TAG School, extended a warm welcome to students upon their return and urged them to carry forward the Three Acts of Goodness—performing good deeds, speaking kind words, and cultivating positive thoughts—in their daily lives. Additionally, classes for Preschool, Kids, Junior, Youth, and Parents were also announced. And, everyone was invited to attend the collective spring outing on April 7th, with special surprise guests. Ven. Hui Cheng urged parents to actively join the parent classes, emphasizing parents are the ‘true teachers’ of their children. Thus, they should not only teach their children the Three Acts of Goodness but also become examples themselves, so the whole family can practice together. New parent Austin Minnich was grateful for the opportunity his family had together as they visited Buddhist temples in Korea and created unforgettable memories. Upon returning to Los Angeles, he vowed to take his daughters, Ava and Amelia, to a temple to learn Buddhism. Through research online, he discovered that Hsi Lai Temple is the largest Buddhist temple in the United States with excellent children's classes, and he was delighted to enroll his daughters. He hoped, by practicing TAG teachings, they would be nurtured with kindness and compassion, and grow into outstanding, wise young women. Kennedy Hart, a 16-year-old, who was a student in the youth class four years ago, has now stepped into the role of assistant teacher. She believes that TAG thinking and actions have become an integral part of her life. Through two years of volunteering, she has grown significantly, particularly in the ways of learning how to take on more responsibility. Graciela, a new kids’ class assistant teacher, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn about Buddhism through a Chan meditation experience during camp at Hsi Lai Temple last June. Not only does she volunteer herself, but she also influenced her nephew to enroll in TAG School. She shared her belief that TAG philosophy transcends religion and ethnicity and is something everyone needs. Buddhism can benefit every child in school and at home, and she encourages everyone to learn Buddhism. Ten-year-old Steven Zhao, a kids’ class student for the third semester, has already witnessed significant changes since joining TAG School. His mother, Celine Huang, is delighted to see improvements in their parent-child relationship, as well as Steven's newfound sense of dedication and respect. After he completed one semester, he began to volunteer in the Main Shrine every week, where he welcomes visitors in both Chinese and English and provides answers to questions regarding Buddhism. Guests at the ceremony included Alex Wu, President of BLIA Los Angeles Chapter, and president of BLIA Los Angeles Chapter Elder Advisor Committee, Zhao Linfeng, who presented Appointment Letters to volunteer teachers. The opening celebratory ceremony infused hearts with vitality and joyful anticipation of another growth-filled semester about to unfold. Parents looked forward to their children continuing to learn and to grow taller and wiser during springtime, as the seeds of Buddhism are nurtured within and shared with families, friends and spread throughout the world.
Distinguished members of society visited Guang Ming University, expressing their full commitment to supporting the educational endeavors
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple April 16, 2024 Architect Gilbert Yu and his wife Agustina Yu deeply admire Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founding patriarch of Fo Guang Shan. Earlier, they had exchanged ideas on temple architecture design with the Philippines' head Abbess, Venerable Yong Guang. On April 5th, they invited 11 distinguished individuals from society to visit Guang Ming University. Accompanied by Ven. Miao Jing the abbess of the Mabuhay Temple in the Philippines, and Ven. Zhi Qin, Maru Percela, the Director of Student Affairs, and Professor Katte Sabate warmly welcomed and introduced them. Architect Gilbert Yu praised the world-class facilities of the sports hall and the vibrant spatial planning of the buildings. The 91-year-old Mrs Evelyn Ang was deeply moved while listening to students singing "Buddhism Depends on Me." The couple from the automotive industry, Mr and Mrs Joaquin and Lucy Sy, were amazed by the students' adherence to vegetarianism and language taboos, deeply impressed by the implementation of life education. Moved by the experience, Gilbert Yu pledged full support for the Venerable Master's benevolent education project and the mission of Fo Guang Shan education. Grateful for the transformation of lives through education by the Venerable Master and Fo Guang Shan, they aim to create a positive learning environment that instills gratitude and moral integrity in Filipino youth, molding them into future successful individuals. Gilbert Yu, former president of the Filipino-Chinese Stage Arts Association, playwright, and director, wrote and staged plays depicting the struggles of Chinese immigrants in the Philippines to support newcomers. Among them was the meaningful production "Blessings of Many Children." The accompanying VIPs were mostly renowned figures in the entertainment industry, praising Venerable Master Hsing Yun's efforts in nurturing young artists. Joshua de Puyart, captain of the third-grade basketball team, expressed gratitude for the scholarships provided by the Venerable Master and the support of the guests and BLIA members. He said, "During the pandemic when I graduated from high school, my family couldn't afford to send me to college. My brother took me as an apprentice, earning only 200 pesos a day." When he felt lost, Guang Ming College gave him a future. He learns every day with gratitude and treats others with kindness. "Buddha bless! Last year, I represented the school and went to Taiwan and Japan, connecting with the world. The Venerable Master told us to be rooted in the Philippines but also to look to the world." Accompanying the visit were Kathy Uy, the president of the Buddha’s Light International Association of Philippines, and Zheng Lishuang, the choir leader of Mabuhay Temple.
Five Girl Scouts Receive Prestigious President’s Volunteer Service Award
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple March 11, 2024 The esteemed President’s Volunteer Service Award is a national honor offered to those who have demonstrated a commitment to volunteer service for 12 months. Five members—Vienna Koo Wang, Yuhan Wu, Evelyn Tse, Molly Huang and Allison Chieh—of the Buddha's Light Hsi Lai Girl Scout Troop 18894 accumulated a total of 889 volunteer hours in 2023, and were honored and awarded medals, certificates, and presidential congratulatory letters on January 28 by Hsi Lai Girl Scouts Guiding Venerable, Ven. Zhi San, at Hsi Lai Temple. Nearly 30 parents and Girl Scouts joyfully celebrated the awardees. The recipients of the Youth Group Gold Award—Vienna Koo Wang, Yuhan Wu, and Evelyn Tse—each achieved over 100 hours of volunteer service, and the recipients of the Young Adult Group Gold Award—Molly Huang and Allison Chieh—each surpassed 250 hours of volunteer service. Ven. Zhi San congratulated the girls and encouraged them to continue their commitment to deeply touching others’ lives in compassionate and significant ways. The President’s Volunteer Service Award is a recognition created by the U.S. government to encourage citizens or permanent residents to volunteer. Established in 2003 by the President’s Council on Service and Civic Participation and overseen by the federal agency AmeriCorps, it allows certifying organizations to recognize outstanding volunteers contributing to their communities. Eligible participants range from 5 to 25 years old and can receive Gold, Silver, or Bronze Awards based on their volunteer service hours. The Hsi Lai Girl Scouts’ commitment to serving others compassionately included volunteering at Hsi Lai Temple for various events, kitchen duties, planning summer camps for children, helping out at Hsi Lai Summer School, tutoring elementary school students after school, and participating in animal shelters, county libraries, and senior centers within the community. Allison Chieh, a Gold Award recipient in the Young Adult Group, completed 313 hours of service and expressed that the volunteer process was very meaningful. Not only did it allow her to help the community, but it also provided her with opportunities to make new friends and acquire new skills. This award was her second time receiving the award, and she looks forward to earning it again next year.
Cardinal Mario Gretch visiting FGS Mabuhay Temple
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple January 31, 2024 On January 28, 2024, His Eminence, Cardinal Mario Gretch, visited the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Mabuhay Temple in Manila, Philippines. This concludes his visit to the different churches as part of his trip to see the bishops, officials and lay people of the Catholic faith and in celebrating the Philippine Conference on New Evangelization. He was invited by Venerable Miao Jing when they met at a gathering in the Pope Pious XII Catholic Center, Manila. The Cardinal obliged a visit to the temple and said that his visit to the temple is a meaningful conclusion of his trip to the Philippines. The Cardinal obliged a visit to the temple and said that his visit to the temple is a meaningful conclusion of his trip to the Philippines. photo／FGS Mabuhay Temple Head Abbess of FGS Mabuhay Temple said that FGS mission directed by Venerable Master Hsing Yun (VMHY) focus on educational and cultural developments; which organized children camp, musical theater, language classes. VMHY’s one stroke calligraphy has raised fund for Good Seeds Scholarship in Guang Ming College (GMC) which has offered 10 years of free education in the Philippines. VMHY promoted respect and coexistence in interfaith relations, and many Buddhists are major in Catholicism and minor in Philippines. FGS advocating Three Acts of Goodness (TAG) and Four Givings as daily practices amid of universal value for betterment of humankind. Head Abbess introduced Venerable Master Hsing Yun who understood the importance of equality and entrusted female disciples to serve abroad. Head Abbess said she was grateful for the presence of his eminence as Vatican has also received FGS Head Abbott and Humanistic Buddhism delegation last year.
