FGS News
Philippine GMC Board Trustees Meeting, Working Towards New Milestones
Venerable Zhipu and Lourdes Wang April 19, 2024 On April 16, Guang Ming College (GMC) conducted a board trustees meeting at the Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple in the Philippines. The board trustees’ members expressed their concern about the progress of GMC and discussed ways to achieve new milestones collaboratively. Dr. Michael Tan, the President of GMC, led the Vice President and his team in presenting their achievement report for the school year 2023. This impressive achievement report will be given to the respected venerables supporting the school in pursuing its goals. The BLIA members received this performance report due to everyone's trust and encouragement. The achievement would not have been possible without Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vision and compassion to establish schools in the Philippines. Venerable Yung Guang, the Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan in the Philippines, expressed her appreciation for everyone who worked together to fulfill the Venerable Master's vows. We are delighted that the school has been completed. We want to thank the board members who care about Fo Guang Shan’s education and have been watching Fo Guang Shan's growth and GMC's growth. We would also like to thank President Dr. Michael Tan for moving to Tagaytay. Dr. Alfonso Uy, a member of the GMC board of trustees, shared that he rose from poverty to become a self-made entrepreneur. He previously served as a director at the University of Central Philippines in Iloilo and fully supports the Venerable Master's initiative to establish schools to combat poverty. The church aided Dr. Uy's path to success, and he is committed to contributing both his time and resources to GMC. He cares deeply about the school's growth and the future of its students. Dr. Michael Lao, who serves as the director of the BLIA Headquarters and Chairman of the Fo Guang Shan Educational Fund in the Philippines, expressed his sadness at the news of the Venerable Master's passing. He urged BLIA members to strengthen their support for education and make the Venerable Master’s vows their own. Dr. Lao also expressed his eagerness for future meetings and exchanges, believing that the more we learn, the more we can help the college. Dr. Michael Tan, the President of GMC, expressed his gratitude to the Venerable Master for his contributions to education in the Philippines. The college's founding marked the beginning of a transformation in education, bringing hope for a better future. Since its establishment, the Star and Cloud Art Center have been completed. In 2024, we plan to upgrade the dormitory, library, and office equipment. Currently, there are 132 students enrolled in the academic year. The college strives to improve its teaching system, not only in terms of academic education but also moral education. For instance, Dikachi, an African sports science student, practices the Three Acts of Goodness as a social worker after class to serve the public and takes culture, art, and technology courses as a minor subject. GMC offers a wide range of minor majors to choose from and many international exchange opportunities. The basketball, cheerleading, and track and field teams have recently achieved numerous victories. GMC values compassion, kindness, and the Three Acts of Goodness and encourages its students to organize children's activities. In this case, the teachers, students, parents, and community can grow and learn in a Buddhist educational environment. We thank the Venerable Master for establishing five Fo Guang Shan University Consortium across four countries. It is an honor that GMC is located in the Philippines, providing devotees with the opportunity to cultivate blessings and wisdom. The 2023 achievement report presented by GMC belongs to everyone. All outstanding performances are the glory of all sponsors and supporters. We hope 2024 everyone will continue to achieve new milestones together.
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.
Learn from his Compassion and Wisdom, the “Community of Practices” 2-month series to commemorate Venerable Master Hsing Yun has concluded
Priscilla Wong April 17, 2024 On 31 March, the Sunday “Community of Practices” Check-In to commemorate the one-year anniversary of Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s passing with a 2-month series has concluded. Community members shared their personal and inspiring tributes to Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Venerable Juewei commenced the sessions, sharing the Venerable Master’s example of leading with courage to undertake innovative initiatives which were initially met with great resistance. However, his persistence and fortitude have resulted in the Fo Guang Shan we know today. Venerable reflected on how she draws strength from her teacher’s example - and asked each of us to consider how we too can take courageous action to make a positive impact on the world. Ina Denton (from the USA) and Cecile Manikan (from the Philippines) followed by sharing the joy of their personal interactions with the Venerable Master and also being the recipients of the kindness and generosity from his monastic students throughout the world. Under this genuine care, Ina undertook a personal journey from skeptic to humble student to dharma teacher, while Cecile marvelled at the art of nobility which all of us can be encouraged to practice and perfect. Lipeng Lim and Joey Yeo gave examples of how the Venerable Master’s actions and words guide us in both daily life, and when faced with life’s challenges. Joey was moved by a simple bookmark calling on him to safeguard the mind and encouraged us all to reflect on how we can be mindful of our every thought. Lipeng spoke of her admiration of the Venerable Master’s befriending of illness. Instead of resistance, anger and denial, we can see through his example the possibility to transform our experience to gratitude and acceptance. Stacey Weng gave different experiences of how the Master had touched their lives beyond form. photo／The Life News Agency Finally, our friends Xiaomeng Tian, Liam Carver and Stacey Weng gave different experiences of how the Master had touched their lives beyond form. Xiaomeng, despite never having met the Venerable Master, came to find a spiritual home in the study groups, educational institutes and communities of Fo Guang Shan. Stacey too, was delighted by the wonder and joy created by the artistic ventures nurtured by the Venerable Master - particularly in the Buddha’s Birthday Festivals (BBF) and Buddha’s Birthday Education Project (BBEP) which so many friends from around the world have contributed to. And Liam shared an internal journey of discovery. He confessed his initial disappointment at the dharma name Upholding Affinities given to him by the Venerable Master - a man he had only seen from afar, before gradually coming to appreciate how perfect the name and precious the gift were. Liam offered this final note of tribute to the Venerable Master which the community echoed: “You really were a star among the stars I could only aspire to” The Sunday Check In community now moves to our next series welcoming the authors of the 2023 book Cultivating Compassion who will present their chapters each week over the upcoming months. The link is as follows: https://www.peterlang.com/document/1340151 To learn more, hear the Venerable Master Hsing Yun Tribute sessions, and to register for the Sunday Check In sessions, see the link: https://community.thebbep.org/2024-sunday-check-in/
2024 FGS NZ Buddha’s Birthday Celebration: Cultivating Social Harmony
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand April 16, 2024 On 13 April 2024, the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Auckland hosted the annual Buddha’s Birthday Celebration for World Peace. The ceremony was led by Abbess of FGS NZ Venerable Manshin. Attendees collectively chanted the Heart Sutra and recited the Prayer for World Peace written by the Founder of FGS Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Distinguished guests from various religious backgrounds participated, including Māori elder Kaumatua Tame Hauraki, Dean of Auckland the Very Reverend Anne Mills, and Catholic representative Rev Deacon Chris Sullivan, who each offered prayers for the ceremony. Notable attendees included President Evelyn KU of the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) North Island Chapter, Director General Kendra CHEN of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Auckland, Members of Parliament Nancy LU and Rima Nakhle, Auckland Deputy Mayor Desley Simpson, Councillor Hon Maurice Williamson & Sharon Stewart, Chair of the Howick Local Board Damian Light, Superintendent Shanan Gray and Inspector Rod Honan together with nearly 500 people from diverse sectors, including religious, political, police, arts, media, schools and the community. Participants made generous offerings to the Buddha. The BLIA Young Adult Division performed a lion dance to welcome the statue of Prince Siddhartha. Additionally, students from Papatoetoe Intermediate School sang the New Zealand national anthem and performed a Haka dance. The FGS Auckland Choir performed hymns celebrating the birth of Buddha and expressed gratitude to the Founding Master for bringing the beautiful Temple to New Zealand. Abbess Manshin addressed the Temple’s efforts in sharing the Three Goodness values locally, which is a project of returning to one’s roots and true nature, and thus serving the community. Abbess expressed her wishes for New Zealand to thrive with peace. President Evelyn KU thanked Abbess and the Temple for leading the community in building a Pure Land on Earth through diverse cultural, educational and charitable activities, helping to purify minds and the land. By participating in the Buddha Bathing Ceremony, attendees embodied the principles of Do Good Deeds, Say Good Words & Think Good Thoughts. MP Nancy LU conveyed gratitude from Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, acknowledging the significant contributions of Fo Guang Shan to the community and cooperation with the police. Deputy Mayor Simpson praised the Temple for infusing Auckland, one of the world’s most culturally diverse cities, with harmony, peace and joy. Director General CHEN highlighted the need for the wisdom and light of the Dharma in today’s world. Chairman Light and Inspector Honan also praised the Temple’s supportive role in fostering community harmony. Editor Farida Master of Eastlife described the Temple as an oasis of harmony and a cultural sanctuary, appreciating its efforts in building a supportive society. The celebration also featured a Baby & Children Blessing Ceremony, local market stalls, a One Stroke Calligraphy exhibition by the Venerable Master, a Prince Siddhartha Exhibition and tea meditation. The New Zealand Health Department provided free flu vaccinations at the event, recognizing Temple’s support of the Asian community’s VAX Heroes initiative. The day was filled with auspiciousness and joy.
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.
Setting Out on the Path of Discovery: Toronto Youth Commence Transformative Journey through Youth Temple Retreat
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto April 15, 2024 At the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, the 2024 Youth Temple Retreat was held from March 29th to 31st, drawing 29 young individuals eager to immerse themselves in the teachings and lifestyle of Humanistic Buddhism. This initiative aimed to guide participants on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual exploration. The retreat commenced with an opening ceremony in the Conference Room after participants' registration on the afternoon of the 29th. Venerable Chueh Fan, the Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, extended a warm welcome to the youths, many of whom were visiting Fo Guang Shan or any Buddhist temple for the first time. She commended their courage and urged them to embrace the experience with sincerity, openness and the beginner’s mind. Following introductions, participants received an orientation from Ven. Ru Zhong, detailing the camp's schedule, temple protocols, and essential information. Among the challenging requirements was the temporary surrender of their mobile phones, a rule all participants respectfully adhered to. The retreat's overarching theme, "To Know the Way," guided a diverse array of activities over the three-day temple retreat. These included immersive experiences in learning the Buddhist etiquettes, traditional temple vegetarian culinary arts, Buddhist chanting, fundamental teachings of Buddhism, meditation sessions, group discussions, teamwork and chores, special Dharma lectures, along with morning and evening chanting, provided a holistic understanding of monastic life. A highlight of the retreat was a virtual lecture by Ven. Miao Fan, director of the Humanistic Buddhism Research Institute at Fo Guang Shan. Delving into the “Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch: Daily Practice Insights.” Ven. Miao Fan skillfully intertwined the insights with personal anecdotes, resonating deeply with the participants. During the sharing session, Ven. Zhi Guan and Ven. Ru An encouraged participants to share their reflections. Xu Tao, the president of the University of Waterloo's Buddha Light Community Club, remarked on the practicality of Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and practice in daily life. Many youths shared profound personal insights, recognizing that life's journey is one of self-cultivation and that the most significant transformations are those that occur within. Fule Liu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and the enlightening meditation sessions that underscored the concept of "causality" in her spiritual journey. Guidance from Ven. Zhi Guan provided clarity amidst uncertainty, fostering deep understanding. Jason Au highlighted the value of cherishing current opportunities and the importance of continuous learning and self-awakening at a young age. The retreat proved to be a transformative experience for many, providing them with not only answers to their initial questions but also with Buddhist teachings and practices they plan to incorporate into their lives moving forward, aiming for self-improvement and a deeper understanding of their life journey.
Mellons Bay School Embraces Mindfulness & Joy at Fo Guang Shan Temple
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand April 15, 2024 On the morning of 26th March 2024, 230 students from Years 1 to 3 at Mellons Bay School, accompanied by 58 teachers and parents, visited the Fo Guang Shan Auckland Temple to learn about the value of Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings (3G4G). Upon their arrival, they were warmly greeted by the BLIA members. A lively and uplifting song, 3G GO, composed by the President Jenny CHEN of the BLIA New York Chapter, which was greatly enjoyed by both the students and teachers. The BLIA members engaged the students with interactive teaching methods, incorporating various activities to convey the meaning of 3G4G. The students watched a movie Life of Buddha to learn how to apply good deeds in real life, created lotus flowers origami to practise concentration, learned how to ring a wishing bell with joined palms to make personal vows and experienced calmness of body and mind through meditation. Teacher Jane Craig expressed her gratitude for the warm welcoming and the meaningful educational activities arranged by the team. She was delighted to have the opportunity to lead the Mellons Bay School visit, noting the joyful smiles on each student’s face. Kim, a teacher visiting the Temple for the first time, shared that she found the Temple’s grand architecture and peaceful gardens to be very calming and comforting. Her favourite part of the visit was watching the film about Buddha’s life, which she found inspiring and moving. The Temple specially presented Three Goods stickers as a gift to the students, wishing them to implement these values in their lives and spread joy and hope to those around them, contributing to a harmonious community. The teachers also expressed their anticipation of bringing 250 Year 4 to 6 students to the Temple in May to participate in the 10th 3G4G Festival of Cultural Sharing.
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.
Philippine seminary students visited Yuan Tong Temple at Fo Guang Shan for in-depth exchanges
Fo Guang Shan Yuan Tong Temple April 11, 2024 Philippine Convention Bible Baptist College's master's degree students visited Fo Guang Shan Yuan Thong Temple on April 3rd, aiming to promote communication and understanding among different religions. School teachers encouraged students to actively participate in interfaith dialogues to broaden their perspectives. Two students, Bajghart Sison and Jay Ramos, specifically chose Yuan Thong Temple as the venue for religious exchange. Accompanied by Venerable Zhi Rong, Bajghart raised a series of questions, exploring the meaning of life and religious interpretations thereof. He inquired, "Who am I? What is the essence, mission, and purpose of humanity? Where am I? What is the nature of the world and the universe I inhabit? What are the problems? What fundamental questions or obstacles hinder me from finding fulfillment? (In other words, how do I understand evil?) What are the solutions? How do I overcome obstacles to fulfillment? (In other words, how do I attain redemption?)" This exchange was not merely a superficial interview but rather a profound spiritual dialogue. Venerable Zhi Rong also actively sought the students' views on these questions from a Christian perspective, initiating a clash of religious theories. From their respective religious standpoints, both sides discussed the meaning of life, concepts of good and evil, and paths to solving dilemmas, leading to intellectual collisions and inspirations. This in-depth exchange deepened the understanding and appreciation of Buddhism for students Jay and Bajghart. They expressed anticipation for their return visit to Yuan Tong Temple in May, eager to experience the grandeur of Buddha's Birthday celebration firsthand, participate in the bathing of the Buddha ritual, further immerse themselves in the charm of Buddhist culture, and share their unforgettable exchange with classmates upon returning to school.
BLIA NZ YAD Consensus Seminar Filling Life with Right Understanding and Views
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand April 11, 2024 On 17 March 2024, BLIA Auckland organised the Consensus Seminar at FGS Auckland. Inviting Venerable Manshin, the Abbess of FGS NZ and Supervisor Meggan LAM of the BLIA NZ North Island Subchapter 1 as instructors, the seminar led over 20 young adults in a series of activities. These activities included Tai Chi meditation and interactive discussions, aiming to address and unravel challenges faced in life, learning and work, thereby establishing right understanding and views. Meggan Lam, a member of the Auckland Health Committee and a clinical psychology consultant, guided participants to reflect on the core reasons and values behind their actions. She provided practical advice for youth in school and the workplace, such as the importance of asking for help, understanding one’s limits, maintaining transparent and timely communication with superiors, and using positive language to resolve difficulties. Abbess answered various questions, highlighting the importance of having an enlightened mind regardless of one’s location. This involves caring about the growth of wisdom, harmonising emotions and learning to endure hardships. The Abbess shared a teaching from Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the Founder of FGS Buddhist Order, Keeping up is important. She emphasised that there’s nothing that can’t be done well or kept up with. It’s crucial to admit and accept one’s imperfections, understanding that everything is subject to change. In the transient nature of life, it’s possible to find the right ways, methods, directions and to vigorously catch up. The Abbess encouraged the youths saying, a single person can move fast, but a group can go far. Together, the youth are stronger in the team.
