FGS News
Toronto 2024 Cloud and Water Dharma Talk Series: Blossoms with Insights from Floral Wisdom
The Life News Agency May 16, 2024 The Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Temple of Toronto and the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Toronto Chapter initiated the "2024 Cloud and Water Dharma Talk Series" on April 14th, captivating around 120 attendees with a lecture titled " Blossoms with Insights from Floral Wisdom" by Mrs. Sue Hutchison, BLIA Lay Dharma Teacher. She shared insights on integrating the aesthetics of Buddha-Dharma into daily life through the art of flower arrangement, symbolizing Buddhist cultivation. Venerable Ru Zhong, the Superintendent of FGS Toronto, commenced the event with welcoming remarks. Drawing attention to flower-related analogies abundant in Buddhism, Venerable Ru Zhong elucidated the symbolic significance of flowers, such as the purity embodied by orchids and the transformative journey mirrored in the lotus flower. Mrs. Hutchison, renowned for her role in leading the Reception Team at the Temple and teaching flower arrangement courses at FGS Toronto Humanistic Buddhism Buddhist Courses, delved into three key aspects during her presentation: the profound connection between Buddhism and flowers, the spiritual merits of offering flowers, and the inspirational teachings derived from flowers. Citing Buddhist scripture, she pointed out the symbolic representations of flowers in the Buddha’s life journey, elucidating profound teachings embedded in nature's cycles. The auspiciousness of the white lotus and the Ashoka tree welcomed the birth of the Buddha, while the withering of the sal tree upon his Nirvana speaks of Dharma. The bloom and withering of flowers portray the Four Virtues of Nirvana: permanence and impermanence, happiness and suffering, self and non-self, and purity and defilement. Exploring the benefits of offering flowers to the Buddha and Bodhisattvas as outlined in the Agama Sutra, Mrs. Hutchison elaborated on the virtues bestowed upon practitioners, including serenity, merit accumulation, and alignment with the Dharma. Reflecting on her affinity for the Japanese art of floral design, she underscored the lessons of impermanence and resilience observed through her practice, aligning with Buddhist principles. Mrs. Hutchison briefly introduced the origin of Ikenobō and reflected on her experiences as an enthusiast of the Japanese art of floral design. She learned to appreciate the beauty of all stages of life through her long-time hobby. Aged and bent branches, near-fallen autumn leaves, early spring sprouts, and even branches hit hard by wintry winds showcased unique characters and beauty. The resilience of plants demonstrates the truth of impermanence, quietly manifesting the importance of cherishing every moment. During a demonstration of Ikenobō, Mrs. Hutchison expounded on its simplicity and philosophical depth, emphasizing its harmony with the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Integrating the Five Harmonies principle into floral arrangements, she emphasized the importance of harmonious coexistence at various levels of society for global peace. Drawing parallels between the Vimalakīrti Sūtra and the philosophy of Ikenobō, Mrs. Hutchison urged attendees to perceive the world as a reflection of their inner selves, navigating life with wisdom and compassion. Encouraging mindful observation of flowers as manifestations of Buddha's teachings, she concluded with a call to cultivate positive intentions and spread loving-kindness, fostering a more beautiful and harmonious world. Through Mrs. Hutchison's insightful Dharma Talk, attendees were inspired to perceive the profound teachings of Buddhism in the delicate beauty of flowers, embracing wisdom and compassion on their journey toward enlightenment.
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.
Harmonizing Tradition and Innovation: Workshop on AI Tools for Writing and Translation
Michael April 22, 2024 On April 9, 2024, Nan Tien Institute's Centre for Humanistic Buddhism hosted an online workshop focusing on the application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in writing and translation. The workshop featured Venerable Miao Guang, Deputy Chancellor of Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, who provided innovative translation ideas for volunteers engaged in translating articles for the journal "Studies on Humanistic Buddhism" (https://journal.nantien.edu.au). The event attracted volunteers from regions including the United States, Mainland China, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, and Taiwan. Exploring the AI Landscape The session kicked off with Venerable Miao Guang providing a comprehensive overview of the currently available AI technologies. Through relevant examples, she showcased how these tools not only streamline workflows but also elevate the quality of creative output. The workshopstressed the importance of harnessing AI tools responsibly, with a focus on understanding their limitations. Mastering the Art of AI Interaction A highlight of the workshop was the deep dive into the art of crafting effective AI prompts. Venerable Miao Guang elucidated how well-designed prompts can enhance AI-generated output.Participants were treated to live demonstrations and interactive exercises, experiencing firsthand the impact of strategic prompting on AI's responses. This hands-on approach allowed attendees to grasp the nuanced interplay between AI Capabilities and human creativity. Venerable Miao Guang encouraged reflection on how AI tools can complement the creative process, urging participants to leverage their human insight and creativity to guide AI output. Inspiring Future Integration As the workshop wrapped up, participants emerged with enriched perspectives on the integration of AI in writing and translation. More than just an introduction to AI tools, the event served as a catalyst, inspiring attendees to explore innovative ways to incorporate technology into their creative workflows. The workshop underscored the potential of AI to serve as a powerful ally in the realm of writing and translation, provided it is guided by mindful and discerning human intervention. Venerable Miao Guang's session marked a significant step towards the harmonious fusion of technology and humanistic pursuits, paving the way for future explorations in the field.
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.
Humanistic Buddhism Forum on Dialogue and Linkages
Loisa Soh April 23, 2024 Philippine Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple and Buddha’s Light International Association, Phils- Pasig, San Juan sub-chapters and Young Adult Division in collaboration with Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism and Humanistic Buddhism Center, Philippines hosted the “Humanistic Buddhism On Dialogue and Linkages” at Mabuhay Temple Prajna Hall. The event attracted 200 participants from BLIA members, Educators, Business groups, students and Interfaith friends. Venerable Miao Guang, the personal English Interpreter of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Deputy Chancellor of Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, Associate Professor in the Department of Religious Studies at Nanhua University, and Director of Fo Guang Directory of Buddhism English Translation Project. Mabuhay Temple Abbes Venerable Miao Jing; Trainer of Trainers, Dr. Cecilia Manikan, Dr. Maje Purino, Philosophy Professor of the University of San Carlos; and BLIA President Kathy Lim Uy are also in the panel to share insights and exchanging ideas that can lead to meaningful advancement of humanistic practice in the human world. Ven Miao Guang's speech delved into the profound legacy of Ven Master Hsing Yun, showcasing his impact through Education, Arts, and Culture within the Buddhist context. The speech also explored Buddhism's dynamic relationship with literature, arts, new media, interfaith dialogue, and its role in fostering racial harmony. Looking forward to 2024, there is a strong emphasis on integrating Buddhism in the digital age, ensuring its relevance and accessibility while continuing to promote the teachings of dharma globally. Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple Abbess, Venerable Miao Jing, on the other hand, shared the growing success of the Three Acts of Goodness Program in DepEd Schools around the Philippines. Since TAG Program was launched in 2016, there are currently around 600 DepEd Schools practicing TAG through different school programs, one of the benefits of the TAG program is helping promote Anti-Bullying Advocacy. The program granted 300 schools around the Philippines last 2023, and aims to increase the number of TAG School Grants for this year to a total of 350 schools. Dr. Cecilia Manikan, known as the Trainer of trainers, presented a video presentation of the Whole Brain and Mindfulness Training where she conducted training sessions in various school divisions across the Philippines. The Whole Brain and Mindfulness Training program is firmly grounded in the principles of Humanistic Buddhism, with a strong emphasis on mindfulness and the Three Acts of Goodness. Through the integration of these principles into educational training, Dr. Manikan's program seeks to nurture personal growth, empathy, and positive social interactions within educators and students, underscoring the transformative impact of Humanistic Buddhist philosophy in fostering comprehensive well-being and ethical engagement in both educational settings and broader society. Dr. Maje Purino shared that she is currently spearheading research, academic studies, and linkages with Humanistic Buddhism. She discussed possible researches related to Humanistic Buddhism such as Humanistic Buddhism as a modernization of the Chinese Mahayana Buddhism, Humanistic Buddhism; Theory and Practice, Humanistic Buddhism in the Philippines, Humanistic Buddhism as a Humanistic Buddhism on Artificial Intelligence, Humanistic Buddhism on Education, etc. BLIA President Kathy Lim Uy discussed the success of promoting Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Three Acts of Goodness and Four (4) Givings as exemplified in the construction of Guang Ming College for the future of the young Filipinos. She continued to share that Venerable Master Hsing Yun has changed the lives of many people, through his efforts, Siddhartha the Musical was formed to perform the life of Sakyamuni Buddha, in 17 years, they have performed more than 200 shows locally and internationally, they are also set to go on South African tour this May. Nelson Guevarra, PG Flex Group President and board member of the Filipino Chinese Chamber of Commerce and Industry, commended the GMC Basketball team, a rookie in the field of basketball and already performing well, he reiterated the importance of sports in lessening teenage problems related to too much of social media exposure. Dr. Marjorie Evasco, a known poet and writer, professor emeritus, and Palanca Awardee, she showed appreciation to the panel, especially to Dr. Purino’s sharing, as an academician, she reiterated the importance of Humanistic Buddhism in the Academy.
Three Acts of Goodness Children Blessing Ceremony: Planting Seeds of Kindness with Music and Laughter
Christina April 2, 2024 On March 24th, the Fo Guang Shan Hsi Fang Temple held the "2024 Three Acts of Goodness (TAG) Children Blessing Ceremony," with 18 kids aged 0 to 12 participating. Nearly 60 parents, relatives, and friends attended. Through games, singing, and blessings, the children were brought closer to the teachings of Buddhism. The ceremony began in the dynamic game area, featuring with educational board games, art and physical movement. Both adults and children participated eagerly, creating a lively atmosphere filled with cheers and laughter. The English version of the song "Seek Refuge in the Triple Gem" was sung for the first time, with the original Chinese composition by Most Venerable Hsin Ting. It is adapted into a simplified English version for the benefit of English-speaking children. Sherwood, a YAD member, led the vibrant singing, eliciting laughter from attendees and volunteers alike. Despite the continuous drizzle on the day of the event, Venerable Miaozang remarked that the teachings of Buddhism were akin to the gentle rain, nurturing the hearts of people. The love and care parents show to their children resemble the compassion of Buddhas and bodhisattvas towards all beings. Hosting the Children Blessing Ceremony aims to sow seeds of kindness and beauty for the next generation. The "Do good deeds, speak good words, think good thoughts" helps children cultivate compassion and establish positive connections as they grow. Accompanied by their parents, the children received purification water from the venerable one by one. A girl named Juliet, after receiving her prayer beads, spontaneously hugged the venerable, spreading warmth to everyone. Juliet's father, Moises, mentioned that their family lived near the temple and always saw the venerables smiling during their walks. Upon knowing about the event, he immediately registered. He praised the ceremony for its warmth, particularly the catchy tune of "Seeking Refuge in the Triple Gem," which made it easy for children to remember. He hoped his daughter would grow up safely and happily and appreciated the positive impact of the temple on the community. BLIA member Dong Yang, accompanied by his wife and their 16-month-old daughter, Amy Yue Yang, attended the blessing ceremony. He emphasized that as parents, providing the best for the next generation is not just about material wealth but also passing on faith and fostering a harmonious family environment. He also expressed his hope that his daughter would grow up within the Buddhist community, cultivating compassion and accumulating blessings and wisdom.
Venerable Jue Cheng Inspires Toronto Buddhist Community with Global Humanistic Buddhism Journey
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto April 1, 2024 March 16th, 2024 at Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, Venerable Jue Cheng, the Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan's branch temples in Singapore, Malaysia, India, and Thailand, delivered an inspiring lecture with her profound insights on the global journey of Humanistic Buddhism. The event, hosted by the FGS Temple of Toronto in collaboration with the BLIA Toronto chapter, attracted over 300 attendees from Toronto and Detroit, both in-person and online. In the lecture titled "The Pioneer's Trail: Spreading Humanistic Buddhism Far and Wide," attendees were privileged to witness the culmination of Venerable Jue Cheng's extensive travels and experiences, which she eloquently shared to shed light on the transformative power of Humanistic Buddhism in various corners of the world. The event commenced with a warm welcome from Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Toronto, who expressed deep gratitude to Venerable Jue Cheng's dedication to sharing her wisdom, despite her demanding schedule, including participation in the 68th United Nations Commission on the Status of Women, resonated deeply with the audience. She particularly thanked Venerable Jue Cheng for bringing the precious photos from the Hope Village in India, highlighting the impact of education on the lives of the impoverished. During her lecture, Venerable Jue Cheng provided insights and explanations about the achievements and reactions from local communities to the efforts and projects undertaken by Fo Guang Shan and the BLIA (Buddha's Light International Association) in countries such as India, Indonesia, and Afghanistan. She discussed the positive outcomes, challenges faced, and the impact of these initiatives on the respective regions. Her narratives, enriched with personal anecdotes and touching videos, underscored the core mission of spreading and preserving Humanistic Buddhism in diverse cultural contexts. Drawing from the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Jue Cheng emphasized the importance of perseverance, self-awareness, and compassion in navigating life's challenges, such as in India, Indonesia, and Afghanistan, including the establishment of the Hope Village and humanitarian relief efforts. Her insights, coupled with Venerable Master’s guidance, provided attendees with invaluable tools for personal growth and societal contribution. In according with the Venerable Master's teachings, Venerable Jue Cheng spoke on the importance of perseverance in the face of adversity and the power of transformation through self-awareness and compassion. Venerable Master Hsing Yun's advice on adopting a mindset of "going with the flow" was particularly impactful when Venerable Jue Cheng was planning to launch the educational project in the Hope Village in India. She receives the Master's encouragement symbolized through 20 pieces of precious One Stroke Calligraphies "Buddha" from the Venerable Master. A poignant highlight of the event was Venerable Jue Cheng's recounting of her visits to Pakistan, where she lauded local efforts in preserving Buddhist heritage. Through her experiences, she illustrated the profound impact of Buddhism in fostering hope and resilience amidst adversity. In closing, Venerable Jue Cheng urged attendees to embody the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun and become beacons of Buddhism through love and compassion. Following the lecture, she engaged in a heart-to-heart session with the BLIA Young Adult Division, fostering connections with the younger generation. The event concluded with a shared dinner and singing, symbolizing unity and fellowship within the Buddhist community.
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.
BLIA Scout Sydney Pledging to Serve Society and Contribute to the World at the Investiture Ceremony
Francis Wong MAy 17, 2024 The BLIA Scouts Sydney, adhering to the "Three Acts of Good Deeds and Four Givings" philosophy advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, have deeply garnered parents' support. On 28th April, coinciding with the 30th anniversary celebration of the "2024 Buddha's Birthday Multicultural Festival" held at Darling Harbour in Sydney, a special "BLIA Scouts Investiture Ceremony" was held. Nearly 200 attendees, including Venerable Man Ko, Chief Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Australia & New Zealand; John Dwyer, State Commissioner – Partnerships & Advocacy Scouts NSW; Helen Dwyer, Scout Commissioner of the Bambara District; Ven. Ru Yi, Guiding Venerable of Fo Guang Scouts in Oceania; Daniel Wu, President of BLIA Sydney, Jing Fang, Leader of BLIA Scouts Sydney; along with certified scouts and their parents, witnessed the investiture of 30 scouts and 4 new scout leaders. Since its establishment during the Buddha's Birthday Festival in Sydney Darling Harbour in 2017, the BLIA Scouts Sydney have been committed to learning, community service, and personal growth, integrating into the mainstream scouting community. Their activities have included participation in ANZAC Day events, Clean Up Australia Day, Tree Planting Day, Daffodil Day Cancer Council fundraisers, mainstream scouting outdoor camps, and BLIA events such as the global online examinations. Commissioner Helen Dwyer was pleased to see 34 new scouts joining the BLIA Scouts Sydney, enhancing local scout development and growth, and serving the community. She emphasized the need for parental and leadership efforts in nurturing Scouts' growth, hoping for collective creativity to cultivate social talents. Daniel Wu pointed out the alignment of BLIA Scouts Sydney beliefs with those of Fo Guang Shan, urging everyone to cherish the opportunity to integrate the philosophy of "doing good deeds every day" with the " Three Acts of Good Deeds " principles, applying it in daily life for self-improvement and progress. The ceremony proceeded with a simple yet solemn investiture, inviting Venerable Man Ko, Helen Dwyer, Ven. Ru Yi, and Daniel Wu to certify 4 new scout leaders, 5 Venture Scouts, 2 Scouts, 9 Cubs, 7 Joeys, and 7 transitioning to Scouts. Venerable Man Ko presented the BLIA Scouts scarves, Ven. Ru Yi awarded the BLIA Scouts badges, and Daniel Wu awarded Australian Scout badges and national flag badges. Commissioner Helen Dwyer, in the presence of the public, led the new scouts in the oath to be loyal to the scout spirit, contribute to the community and the world, help others, and abide by scout laws. The scouts affirmed in unison, "Yes, I Do." The solemn investiture ceremony welcomed 34 new members into the BLIA Scouts Sydney family, where they can grow and serve the community in a disciplined and nurturing environment. The emotional feedback from the scout investiture was shared by John Dwyer, State Commissioner – Partnerships & Advocacy Scouts NSW, and Helen Dwyer, Scout Commissioner of the Bambara District, both expressing excitement and pride in collaborating with Fo Guang Shan. They acknowledged the alignment of scout goals and principles with Buddhism, emphasizing mutual understanding, cooperation, and friendship. They further highlighted the theme of the World Scout Conference scheduled for July at Nan Tien Temple, "Mutual Existence and Prosperity," echoing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They firmly believed that scouting is the only organization in the world that aligns with all SDGs. Newly certified scout leader Nora believes that BLIA Scouts Sydney is a trustworthy organization that not only teaches scouting skills but also provides opportunities to learn Buddhism, practice the " Three Acts of Good Deeds " in daily life, and cultivate meaningful values.
International Webinar Explores Chinese Perspectives on Human-AI Interaction
Pema Duddul April 24, 2024 On April 10, 2024, Venerable Dr Juewei , the Director of Nan Tien Institute’s Humanistic Buddhism Centre Australia, participated as a panelist in an international online seminar. The seminar, titled "The Interface between Human and Artificial Intelligence: Chinese Approaches in Global Context," was hosted by the China Forum for Civilizational Dialogue, co-organized by Georgetown University's Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs and La Civiltà Cattolica. The event aimed to foster a comprehensive dialogue on conceptual and practical frameworks for navigating the evolving relationship between humans and AI. At the heart of the discussion were key themes unearthed from a series of closed workshops held throughout the 2022-2023 academic year. These workshops, which attracted scholars, artists, and AI experts from diverse disciplines, underscored the imperative of reimagining accountability amidst the ongoing technological revolution and emphasized the necessity of fostering collaborative and co-creative partnerships between humans and AI. The event's diverse panel of speakers brought a wealth of expertise and perspectives to the table. Among them was Dr. Juewei Shi from Nan Tien Institute, whose unique background blends two decades of experience in Humanistic Buddhism and Buddhist Studies with a deep understanding of artificial intelligence and business process re-engineering. Dr. Shi's presentation shed light on the contemporary applications of Buddhism in navigating the complexities of human-AI interaction, offering valuable insights gleaned from both academia and real-world experience. Participants of "The Interface between Human and Artificial Intelligence: Chinese Approaches in Global Context" online seminar. photo／The Life News Agency Joining Dr. Shi were esteemed figures such as Thomas Banchoff, Director of Georgetown University's Berkley Center for Religion, Peace, and World Affairs; Qiufan Chen, an award-winning Chinese science-fiction writer renowned for his visionary contributions to the genre; Rev. Nuno Gonçalves, S.J., Director of La Civiltà Cattolica; Fen Jennifer Lin, an associate professor at City University of Hong Kong specializing in media, communication, and technology; and Debora Tonelli, the event coordinator and a prominent researcher in the field of religious studies. Throughout the webinar, participants engaged in lively discussions that traversed the philosophical, cultural, and ethical dimensions of AI-human interaction. From the implications of AI on religious and spiritual practices to the role of storytelling in shaping public perceptions of AI, the conversations were as varied as they were insightful. One of the central themes that emerged from the dialogue was the need for a more inclusive global discourse on AI that incorporates diverse perspectives from across the world. While the conversation around AI has predominantly been led by voices from the United States and Europe, the webinar highlighted the importance of amplifying voices from regions such as China, which bring their own rich philosophical and cultural traditions to the table. As the webinar drew to a close, participants were left with a renewed sense of urgency to continue exploring the complex terrain of AI-human interaction. By fostering interdisciplinary collaboration and embracing diverse perspectives, the webinar laid the groundwork for future endeavors aimed at navigating the evolving interface between humans and AI in an increasingly interconnected world. For those interested in delving deeper into the discussions and learning more about the speakers and their work, recordings of the webinar and additional information can be found on the China Forum for Civilizational Dialogue's website: https://chinaforum.georgetown.edu/events/the-interface-between-human-and-artificial-intelligence-chinese-approaches-in-global-context
