FGS News
Spreading the Dharma: The Second Basic Buddhist Interpretation Workshop
Amy Jiang, Fo Guang University June 6, 2024 To train Buddhist interpreters and promote international Dharma propagation, the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, Department of Buddhist Studies at Fo Guang University, and the Fo Guang University Center for Buddhist Studies jointly organized the “2024 Second Basic Buddhist Interpretation Workshop” from May 17 to 19 at the Yun Shui Building, Fo Guang University. 32 participants from the United States, Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Netherlands, Argentina, Hong Kong, and Taiwan participated in the workshop to enhance their skills in Buddhist interpretation, and vow to share the compassion and wisdom of Buddhism. Building on the introductory course from the first workshop, this workshop focused on advanced interpreting techniques, strategies, and practical exercises for participants who have prior experiences in Buddhist interpretation. Esteemed instructors included Four instructors were invited to: Grace Huang, Chinese-English conference interpretation and bilingual hosting professional; Dr. Yinyin Wu, Assistant Professor of the Graduate Program in Translation and Interpretation at National Taiwan University; Venerable Miao Guang, Deputy Chancellor of the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism and personal interpreter for Venerable Master Hsing Yun; and Professor Cheng Wei-Yi, Director of the Department of Buddhist Studies at Fo Guang University. These experts shared their rich experiences and engaged with students through practical exercises and feedback sessions. Grace Huang and Venerable Miao Guang jointly taught paraphrasing as an interpretation strategy. Grace recommended categorizing and describing information on the spot, making technical terms and poetry more understandable and thus allow for effective communication. From a Buddhist interpretation perspective, Venerable Miao Guang outlined six strategies for handling Buddhist terminology: literal translation, description and explanation, instant request for confirmation, use of general terms, advance preparation, and flexible adaption. She also suggested using reference tools like The Glossary of Humanistic Buddhism and 365 Days for Travelers for preparation. Further sessions by Grace covered “sight translation,” “shadowing and multi-tasking,” and interpretation exercises, where participants learned techniques such as chunking, parts of speech conversion, adding or omitting information, and effort model. She introduced professional interpretation equipment including “translation booth” and booth etiquette, and arranged for participants to practice simultaneous Buddhist interpretation in an immersive setting. Dr. Yinyin Wu, an expert of Buddhist interpretation and translation, lectured on “Into-B Interpreting Strategies” and “B Language Enhancement.” She shared four key strategies for English translation: be flexible, one chunk at a time, be clear, and be concise, as she guided students through practical exercises to refine their interpretative tasks. Venerable Miao Guang discussed “Buddhist Translation Tools,” focusing on the accurate interpretation of Buddhist terminology using paraphrasing skills, sharing experiences, and providing resources and methods to build confidence through self-training. During the general discussion session, participants from various professions, including interpreters, emcees, military personnel, and students from the Graduate Institute of Translation and Interpretation at National Taiwan Normal University, Fo Guang Shan Tsung Lin University, and Fo Guang University, seized the opportunity to seek advice from the instructors. They have greatly benefited from the workshop’s intensive and rich curriculum, comparable to that of a translation graduate program, and valued the systematic learning opportunity it provided. The workshop also rekindled the passion and direction for interpreters already engaged in Dharma propagation, motivating them to enhance their skills. Instead of pursuing perfection, Venerable Miao Guang advised that Buddhist interpretation is about attaining completeness. Furthermore, she inspired participants to purify people’s minds through their interpretation and thus contributing to world peace. At the closing ceremony, the instructors presented the “Certificate for Completion of the 2nd Basic Buddhist Interpretation Workshop” to the 31 participants who have completed the 15-hour course. Plans are underway to prepare for the third workshop, which will introduce intermediate-level courses, as well as the establishment of the Buddhist Translation and Interpretation Association in the near future.
Hsi Fang Temple Fur Baby Walking and Blessing Ceremony: Connecting the Community of University Heights
Hsi Fang Temple June 6, 2024 Hsi Fang Temple and BLIA San Diego Chapter co-hosted the "Fur Baby Walking and Blessing Ceremony" on June 1st. Nearly a hundred people and 35 pets, including one tortoise, walked a total of 50 miles in the University Heights (UH) community. Eleven passersby saw the event and immediately signed up to participate. Before and after the event, Megan and Victoria led stretching exercises to warmed up before the walk and had some grounding moments after the walk. The walking route passed through several rest stations set up by collaborating local businesses to provide water and snacks for the fur babies, ensuring they maintained their energy throughout the process. Ven. Miao Zang read the prayers for the well-being and peace of mind of everyone, including the fur babies. Afterwards, the parents accompanied their pets to the front to receive blessings. The event was hosted by Roxanne Govari, owner of UH neighborhood business Pemberley Realty. Apple, a neighbor, said, though not a pet owner, expressed great joy in seeing so many adorable fur babies and feeling thankful for the event that led her to come to the temple. Valerie expressed gratitude to Hsi Fang Temple for blessing her fur baby, noting that participating in the event not only allowed them to enjoy exercise and the beauty of nature but also helped her fur baby, Pup, to make many new friends while recovering from his surgery.
First Buddha Bathing Song Pop Dance Competition Successfully Held, Talisay Team Takes the Crown
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple June 6, 2024 On the afternoon of May 26, the Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple in Bacolod and the International Buddha’s Light Association Bacolod Subchapter jointly hosted the first "Buddha Bathing Song Pop Dance Competition." The event aimed to enhance interpersonal connections, promote fellowship, and encourage learning through dance competition. The participating teams came from various cities in the Western Visayas region, including San Carlos, Kabankalan, Talisay, and Bacolod. Each team consisted of 12-15 members, with nearly 200 participants in total. Many friends and family members also gathered at Yuan Thong Temple to cheer for the contestants. The competition featured an English Buddha Bathing Song composed by Fo Guang Shan Philippines, expressing respect for the Buddha. In Buddhism, dance has always held significant meaning, serving as a means for spreading the Dharma, offering sincere tribute to the Triple Gem, expressing encouragement, and conveying the joy of hearing the Dharma. It is also considered a form of spiritual practice. Before the competition began, all participants performed a Buddha bathing ceremony in the main hall and drew Guan Yin Dharma words, praying for victory. Venerable Zhi Rong led a blessing ceremony, followed by a performance of the Malaysian version of the Buddha Bathing Song by the students of the Yuan Thong Temple San Hao Dance Class. Each participating team made a lively entrance with a dance performance, creating a vibrant atmosphere. During the scoring break, emcee Ken engaged the audience with a trivia game, asking questions about the Three Acts of Goodness and the Chinese name of Yuan Thong Temple. This not only deepened the participants' understanding of the Three Acts of Goodness but also left a lasting impression of Yuan Thong Temple’s name. Judges Champ Tipon, Ismael C. Magbanua, and Kryz Ezra Victoriano, all active in major dance competitions, were impressed by the teams' ability to deliver high-quality performances without resorting to dangerous moves. This showcased the participants' talent and dedication. Supervisor Rosita Gochangco and others recognized the benefits of this event, which promoted artistic exchange through dance. Buddhism, with its inclusive and peaceful nature, has always blended with local customs wherever it spreads, creating unique cultural expressions. In today's world of sound and color, Buddhist dance conveys spiritual messages through elegant gestures, varied hand movements, and melodious tunes, achieving an educational and entertaining effect. Despite the common belief that the first performance is often scored the harshest, today's first performer, Baile Dance Group, won the championship. The Kabankalan team, supported by the local Department of Education and led by teacher Jewelyn Q. Cadigal, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to participate and gain experience. Participants ranged from 11 to 33 years old, showcasing youthful energy and graceful, powerful performances, regardless of age or gender. The award winners are as follows: Champion: Baile Dance Group (from Talisay City) 1st Runner-Up: Obsequious Negros 2nd Runner-Up: Monggolock Special Awards: Best in Choreography: Baile Dance Group Best in Costume: Tabugon Performing Group Best in Cheer: Monggolock Best in 3 Acts of Goodness Application: Baile Dance Group
MITRA Project at UC Berkeley and FGS Institute of Humanistic Buddhism Sign Official Agreement to Collaborate on Developing AI Tools for Buddhist Text Translation
Institute of Humanistic Buddhism June 6, 2024 On June 4, 2024, Venerable Miao Guang, Deputy Chancellor of the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, and Professor Kurt Keutzer, head of the Berkeley Artificial Intelligence Research (BAIR) laboratory and the MITRA project at the University of California, Berkeley, signed a cooperation agreement to develop artificial intelligence tools for translating Buddhist texts. The agreement aims to improve the efficiency and quality of English translations of Buddhist texts, such as the Buddhist Canon and the Complete Works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. The signing ceremony was attended by ten participants, including Venerable Ru Yang, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan North California Region; Dr. Robert Sharf, Chair of the Berkeley Center for Buddhist Studies; Sebastian Nierdich, Technical Director of the MITRA Project at UC Berkeley; Howie X. Lan, Programmer and Web Developer, UC Berkeley Vice Chancellor for Research Office; and Venerable Zhi Yue, Editor of the Fo Guang Dictionary English Translation Project. The AI model, developed by combining MITRA's technology and its corpus of over 3 million parallel texts in Sanskrit, Pali, Tibetan, and Chinese Buddhist scriptures with Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism's 230,000 entries of bilingual Chinese-English corpora, is already capable of translating Buddhist texts in multiple languages, including Chinese, English, Japanese, Sanskrit, Pali, and Tibetan. The module has achieved excellent scores on AI evaluation platforms such as BLEU and chrF++. Dr. Kurt Keutzer expressed his honor in collaborating with Fo Guang Shan on this project, which will allow the Dharma to spread more widely throughout the world. He noted that modern technology and AI can significantly improve translation efficiency and accuracy, and by utilizing high-quality data resources, better results can be achieved compared to traditional translation processes. Additionally, it can expand the scope of knowledge and thought dissemination, enabling wider access to important Buddhist resources. Prior to the signing, Dr. Sebastian Nehrdich explained the evaluation criteria for MITRA's translation accuracy, introduced the team and data analysis, and outlined the specific scope and outcomes of the collaboration. Venerable Miao Guang introduced Fo Guang Shan's translation team and the current translation content of the Fo Guang Dictionary of Buddhism and the Complete Works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, expressing hope that AI tools can be used to accelerate multi-language Dharma propagation in the future. The officially signed cooperation agreement aims to harness the potential of AI to bring Buddhist scriptures and the Complete Works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun to a wider modern readership. The close collaboration between the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism and the UC Berkeley MITRA project seeks to integrate Buddhist wisdom with modern technological innovation, jointly promoting the development of Buddhist literature translation. The official name and user interface of this multi-language Buddhist translation tool are expected to be announced by the end of 2024 and will be provided to Buddhist translators for testing and use. For related information, please visit the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism's website on Buddhist text translation and AI application: https://fgs-translation.org.
2024 Fo Guang Shan America Benefactor’s Meeting Vows to Uphold Humanistic Buddhism
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple June 5, 2024 The 2024 Fo Guang Shan (FGS) America Benefactors Convention was held on April 28 at The Westin Anaheim Resort in Southern California. Nearly 400 benefactors, venerables, and Fo Guang members from Asia, North America, and South America reunited after a 7-year hiatus. The benefactors, referred to as the "stakeholders" of Fo Guang Shan by founding master Venerable Master Hsing Yun, received recognition, exchanged insights, and vowed to continue upholding Humanistic Buddhism. The meeting commenced with a Dharma talk video by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, compassionately stating that Fo Guang Shan belongs to the Four Assemblies. Its establishment relied on the benefactors' vows of support. He enumerated the benefactors' contributions to various Dharma propagation efforts, wishing all to uphold: "Glory Goes to the Buddha, Success Goes to the Community, Benefit Goes to the Monastery, Merit Goes to the Devotees," to purify society and promote cross-strait exchanges. The Fo Guang Shan Monastery Head Abbot Most Venerable Hsin Bau, expounded that in the Venerable Master Hsing Yun's anthology, he particularly mentioned the benefactors' accomplishments among the ten conditions for Fo Guang Shan's establishment, showing his high regard for them. He thanked the benefactors for upholding the Dharma wholeheartedly, referencing the Buddha's guidance to King Prasenajit to dedicate merits towards spiritual cultivation, ensuring blessings continually. Venerable Hui Chuan, Deputy Abbot of Fo Guang Shan, delivered a Dharma propagation report. He mentioned that in the future, on four auspicious dates–the Venerable Master Hsing Yun's Memorial Day (the 15th day of the 1st lunar month), Renunciation Anniversary (the 1st day of the 2nd lunar month), Fo Guang Shan Opening Memorial (May 16th), and Birthday (the 22nd day of the 7th lunar month)-respective branch monasteries will hold commemoration ceremonies. As instructed, after the completion of Fo Guang Shan's ancestral Dajue Monastery in Yixing, a Water and Land Dharma Service will be conducted, including a Yoga Flaming Mouth Offering requiring 108 monastics which was realized in 2023, with preparations for a Triple Platform Full Ordination Ceremony in coming years. The inauguration ceremonies of Fo Guang Shan Tai Hua Temple and Berlin branch temple and construction plans for other Buddhist establishments require the benefactors' continued support. Venerable Hui Dong, Abbot of Hsi Lai Temple, reported on Dharma propagation across North America. Despite the pandemic, branch monasteries and Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) chapters closely cooperated like two wings of a bird, upholding Fo Guang Shan's four principal objectives. Besides promoting the online Fo Guang Shan North America Humanistic Buddhism Courses, many Fo Guang Shan branch temples actively engaged local communities by participating in national parades, and United Nations conferences and mobilizing disaster relief efforts, harmonizing theory and practice. Dr. Minh-Hoa Ta, President of the University of the West (UWest), represented the university, expressing gratitude to Venerable Master Hsing Yun's emphasis on education. Embodying Venerable Master Hsing Yun's educational philosophy of integrating theory and practice, UWest is committed to cultivating students' character and nurturing outstanding global citizens. It proactively plans and promotes various curricula, lectures, and activities, fostering exchange with universities worldwide, and presenting UWest with infinite possibilities and hope. Most Venerable Hsin Ting, Abbot of Fo Guang Shan Taihua Temple, expounded that amidst today's turbulent times, Fo Guang Shan's America branch temples serve as spiritual fortresses for devotees. In upholding the monasteries and The Triple Gem, the benefactors "perpetuate virtues across the generations, ensuring that merits accrue to their forebears and offspring”. Elder Venerable Tzu Jung, President of the Fo Guang Shan Light Transmission Council, stated that the benefactors' tireless efforts in supporting monasteries bring joy, serving as volunteers like the Thousand-Armed, Thousand-Eyed Bodhisattva. She thanked them for walking the Bodhisattva path and promoting Humanistic Buddhism. Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Venerable Tzu Jung, Most Venerable Hsin Ting, Former Abbot Most Venerable Hsin Pei, Deputy Abbot Venerable Hui Chuan, Deputy Abbot Venerable Hui Zhao, Chairperson of the Benefactors' Society Venerable Yung Ping and Venerable Man Yi successively conferred certifications on benefactors of various levels. A video of Venerable Master Hsing Yun reciting “A Prayer for Lay Devotees” was played to bestow blessings. The performances were spectacular. 15-year-old Samantha Kao from Buddha’s Light Hsi Lai School (BLHLS) served as a junior host, introducing campus life. BLHLS student Seleste Tapia performed on the Khim (a stringed musical instrument of Thailand). Ms Lucy Xie, the instructor of Hsi Lai Temple’s Dunhuang Dance Troupe, performed "Nirvana and Celestial Beings." BLIA LA Chapter Young Adult Division (YAD) 2 sang "Sounds of The Human World" songs. The monastics gave a rousing chorus finale of "Song of Venerable Master Hsing Yun," "We are FGS People," and "My Hometown is at Fo Guang Shan," as benefactors waved their phones, applauding continuously. Finally, Elder Venerable Tzu Chuang was invited to offer encouragement. Recounting her journey, she expressed fortune in being assigned by Venerable Master Hsing Yun to establish a monastery in the US, made possible by the benefactors' support. After 10 arduous years, Hsi Lai Temple, lauded as the "Forbidden City of America," was completed as Venerable Master's first international propagation center. Elder Venerable Tzu Chuang repeatedly thanked all benefactors, praying everyone would actualize Venerable Master's vow: "May the Buddha's light shine universally on the three thousand realms; Let the Dharma stream flow across all five continents." After the successful convention, benefactors praised the warm, solemn proceedings and exquisite vegetarian cuisine. The presence of many elder venerables was deeply moving, and the performances conveyed a heartwarming yet lively atmosphere.
Community Engages in Heartwarming Buddha Bathing Tour to Fulfill Devotees' Wishes
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple June 5, 2024 On May 23. Abbess Venerable Miao Jing of Mabuhay Temple, along with Ven. Ru Liang, Ven. Zhi Min, and around 15 members of the BLIA, conducted a Buddha Bathing tour in Greenhills and Valenzuela. Due to the significant attention drawn by the previous Buddha Bathing Ceremony in the community, Head Abbess Fo Guang Shan Philippines Venerable Yung Guang instructed to fulfill the wishes of devotees with limited mobility. As a result, a special home visit Buddha Bathing event was arranged today. This initiative ensures that the elderly have the opportunity to participate in the Buddha Bathing ritual, striving to fulfill their wishes as much as possible. Today they visited Brigido Ong as Fo Guang Shan Educator Benefactor and Emilia Tan with a total of around 100 people joining the event. The Buddha Bath cart is newly designed to stand alone by BLIA Philippines advisor Erwin Choa. He used a pull-out handle to hold the lotus poster, LED candles and green lawn to make the peaceful vibe of Lumbini garden where the Buddha was born. Ven. Zhi Min highlighted that when the baby Buddha was born, auspicious signs appeared as nine dragons poured water over his body. This act of bathing the Buddha commemorates his birth and signifies that his compassion, like Dharma water, cleanses both our inner defilements and the dirt of this human world. She introduced the practice of making three vows: to do good deeds, say good words, and think good thoughts while bathing the Buddha with both hands. Ven. Miao Jing delivered a Dharma message, noting that baby Buddha and baby Jesus Santa Niño meet twice every year: once during the "When Buddha Meets Gods" event on December 25, and again at the Sinulog Grand Parade in January. She emphasized that seeing each other with our eyes, hearing each other with our ears, and being kind to each other in our thoughts brings happiness and peace through mutual respect. Wang Lirong, Vice President of the Pasig Chapter, has participated in five ceremonies this year. She recalled Venerable Master's teaching to "reach out" and bring joy to people. Witnessing the sincere prayers of those who bathed the baby Buddha filled her heart with the purity of Buddha's blessings. Christy Chen expressed her happiness in welcoming the baby Buddha to her family factory in Valenzuela. She noted that the long-serving workers took this opportunity to share Buddhist culture. Additionally, having the monastics offer prayers for safety and good health on Buddha's Birthday under the tree was a significant blessing.
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Venerable Hui Hao's Inspirational Speech at Guang Ming College Encourages Students to Surpass Themselves
Ji Chen June 4, 2024 On May 21st, Venerable Hui Hao, the abbot of Fo Guang Shan Seoul, accompanied by Venerable Miao Jing, the abbess of FGS Mabuhay Temple, Venerable Zhi Qin, the secretary-general of the Buddha's Light International Association Philippines Chapter, Marlene Lao, and Korean entrepreneur Mr. Kim Ku-Young, visited Guang Ming College in Tagaytay, Philippines. Venerable Hui Hao delivered an inspirational speech titled "Venerable Master Hsing Yun's Teachings by Example and Word" to an audience of more than a hundred students. The college community warmly welcomed the delegation with a lively performance of the "Four Givings" song and a tour of the campus. Venerable Hui Hao shared his lifelong aspiration to become a monk, recounting how he joined the novice Buddhist school at Taiwan's Fo Guang Shan Monastery at the age of 14. After completing his military service in Korea, he returned to the monastery, serving as a translator for Venerable Master Hsing Yun and assisting in various Chinese-Korean exchanges. Venerable Master Hsing Yun profoundly influenced him with the words: "Hui Hao, surpass me; do not follow the old path. Meditation is rest, activity is practice, and practice is about cultivating the mind." This steadfast belief inspired the students to strive for self-improvement. Korean entrepreneur Mr. Kim Ku-Young expressed deep admiration for Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vision in founding Guang Ming College. Paulline Angeles, a first-year student in the Dance and Arts Department, expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to study at Guang Ming College and was deeply moved by Venerable Hui Hao's speech. She felt enlightened and inspired to study diligently, break through her limitations, surpass her past self, and create a better future. Victor Akinyede, a second-year student and member of the basketball team from the Sports Science Department, found great encouragement in Venerable Hui Hao's teachings on life's path and direction. Originally from Nigeria, Victor discovered a sense of belonging at Guang Ming College. He appreciates the beautifully constructed sports facilities and the international platform provided by the "BLIACUP University Basketball Tournament." Venerable Hui Hao's words filled him with hope and confidence, motivating him to excel in basketball to give back to Fo Guang Shan. Marry Joy, a first-year student in the Buddhist Studies Department, learned from Venerable Hui Hao's speech the importance of making correct choices and persevering. Despite life's uncertainties, she believes that with the right path, unwavering willpower, and confidence, success is inevitable. Rey-Mark Garcia felt that Venerable Hui Hao's greatest message was the need for dedication to overcome challenges and achieve one's aspirations. Mr. Kim Ku-Young invited Venerable Hui Hao and his delegation to visit the Cavite Korean Meditation Center and the K-12 Lumbini Institute, which he established at the age of 60. Venerable Hui Hao praised Mr. Kim and his wife's unwavering commitment to Buddhism. For 17 years, they have arranged for monks from Korea to give teachings, enabling Koreans in the Philippines to continue their Buddhist faith and establishing schools to teach Buddhism to Filipinos.
Buddhist Council of NSW Celebrates Vesak at NSW Parliament House
Nan Tien Temple Paramatta June 4, 2024 In a heartfelt homage to Vesak, the Buddhist Council of New South Wales (NSW) brought together over 100 Buddhist groups, including secular factions, at the esteemed NSW Parliament House. The gathering was graced by the presence of the Hon. Stephen Kamper, MP, Minister for Multiculturalism, representing the NSW Premier Chris Minns, the Hon. Mark Speakman, MP, Opposition Leader, and Mr. Mark Joseph Coure, MP, Shadow Minister for Multiculturalism. Their joint participation underscored bipartisan support for the event and its significance. Held on Thursday, 9th May, the event stood as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of diverse cultural and religious practices within the state. Notable figures included Nan Tien Temple Paramatta Abbess Chueh Shan and the President of BLIA Sydney Daniel Wu, representing Nan Tien Temple. Hosted by the Honourable Steve Kamper, Minister for Multiculturalism, the gathering aimed to deepen understanding of Buddhism while fostering stronger bonds between the Buddhist community and governmental representatives. Drawing from feedback garnered at previous Annual General Meetings, the Buddhist Council orchestrated this assembly to bolster the visibility of the Buddhist community within governmental circles. Attendees were provided with a unique opportunity to directly engage with Members of Parliament, fostering dialogue and mutual respect. This marked the first formal acknowledgment of Buddhists by the NSW Government. The event served as an excellent platform for networking among numerous Buddhist groups across NSW including the Buddhist Library and Meditation Centre, the Metta Centre, Sydney Buddhist Centre, and Affinity Intercultural Foundation. Ms. Helen Lam, Principal at PAL Buddhist School, commended the teaching resources provided by Fo Guang Shan and Nan Tien Temple, including Ven Miao Guang’s Bodhi Light Tales podcasts. She also expressed gratitude for support from the Hsing Yun Education Foundation, which sponsored a student from a single-parent household, enabling them to thrive despite their disadvantaged circumstances. The proceedings commenced with heartfelt remarks from Opposition Leader Mr. Mark Speakman, followed by Ministers Kamper and Coure, who emphasized the significance of Vesak and the rich cultural diversity within NSW. Chair of Buddhist Council Gawaine Powell Davis emphasised Buddhism as a way of life. More people in the world needs to practice Buddhism to achieve peace and harmony. Theravada chanting and devotional songs set a serene and introspective tone among attendees. The celebration continued with Mahayana chanting and Buddha-bathing. The atmosphere was filled with reverence as participants honored the teachings of the Buddha. The event culminated with the Vajrayana butter lamp prayer, symbolizing enlightenment. Each flickering flame served as a beacon of hope and unity, embodying the universal message of peace and compassion. This gathering at NSW Parliament House stands as a testament to Buddhism's enduring legacy within the multicultural fabric of NSW, reaffirming values of tolerance, understanding, and mutual respect at the core of our society. As attendees departed, inspired by the spirit of Vesak, they renewed their commitment to fostering harmony and goodwill within their communities.
Sagay Education Bureau Visits Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple to Exchange TAG School Campus Concepts
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple June 4, 2024 On May 16th, Dr. Josette P. Balandra, Sagay Education Bureau, led a delegation of six, including art teachers and elementary and middle school teachers, to visit Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple. The visit was in preparation for the upcoming Buddha's Birthday celebration. They were warmly received by Ven. Zhi Rong, who represented the temple, and the teachers participated in a bathing Buddha ceremony, crafting lotus flowers on the spot as offerings. Dr. Josette expressed her honor in representing Filipino educators at the upcoming award ceremony and year-end exhibition for the Three Act of Goodness School Campus initiative held by Fo Guang Shan in Kaohsiung. Sagay City has been the sole Filipino city where all primary and secondary schools have implemented the Three Act of Goodness School Campus concept for several years now. Before departing, Dr. Josette specifically visited the temple to express gratitude to the Buddha. She noted that Fo Guang Shan organizes many meaningful events, with the current Transcendence Lotus Art Exhibition at Yuan Thong Temple showcasing local artists' interpretations of lotus flowers. Dr. Josette hopes that everyone can embody the principles of the Three Act of Goodness. Rema Aguirre, from Sagay National High School, oversees the school's art and activity programs. She has long been involved in and enthusiastic about activities at Fo Guang Shan, recognizing their educational significance. Lyn Lacson, from Sagay City Ecozone Farm School, visited Yuan Thong Temple for the first time and was filled with curiosity. She expressed gratitude to Dr. Josette for the invitation and persistence in arranging this visit over the years. Rose Mermida showed a keen interest in Buddhist artifacts, finding them and Taiwan's artistic creations to be imbued with sacredness and unique flavors. Before concluding their visit, the teachers agreed to return on May 26th to participate in a Three Act of Goodness School Dance event at Yuan Thong Temple.
Tourism Students Visit Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple for Profound Cultural Educational Journey
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple June 3, 2024 On May 17th, nearly 200 freshmen and juniors from the Tourism Department of State University of Northern Negros in Sagay City embarked on a visit to the Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple in the city of Bacolod, Philippines. This visit was part of their specialized practical experience course, led by the school teacher Ellen, with the Dean Richel expressing delight at the realization of this cultural educational trip, emphasizing that field visits provide deeper insights than textbook learning. Volunteers from the Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple, Lyra Ong, Nena King, and Cora, assisted in the visit. Cora introduced the students to the history of the temple, its meditation hall, a brief overview of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and the situation of the Guang Ming College of the Philippines, Tagatay. Venerable Zhi Rong explained the collaboration between Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines and the Philippine Department of Education in the TAG Project, advocating the "Three Act of Goodsness Movement" – Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thoughts. She emphasized the universal law of cause and effect, stating "as you sow, so shall you reap." The students resonated with this concept, acknowledging that their attitudes influence their surroundings. Venerable Zhi Rong also discussed the significance of the ceremonial bath, emphasizing that it serves as both a commemoration and a reminder, with the Buddha not needing bathing, but rather our hearts needing purification to resonate with the Buddha's teachings. Guided by volunteers, the students participated in the bathing ceremony and pledged to uphold the "Three Act of Goodness," aspiring to be compassionate, kind, and noble individuals, spreading joy to themselves and others. They also crafted handmade lotus flowers as souvenirs from their visit to the temple. Student John drew a Dharma word fortune stick, feeling a connection between his wishes and the outcome. Venerable Zhi Rong explained the symbolism of the lotus flower gesture, representing purity and openness, using one's pure and open heart to show respect to others. Finally, the students toured a “Transcendence” lotus flower art exhibition, appreciating the various emotions expressed by the artists through different themes of lotus paintings. School staff Angel and Steffi expressed great satisfaction with the visit, learning about the "Three Act of Goodness" and experiencing the beauty of religious exchange. This visit not only broadened the students' horizons but also deepened their understanding of Buddhist culture. Through field visits and participation in activities, the students gained a deeper understanding of the concepts of cause and effect and the "Three Acts of Goodness Movement," pledging to practice these in their daily lives to contribute positively to society. Dean Richel expressed hope for more similar activities in the future, allowing students to gain valuable experiences and insights.
