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FGS News | 人間福報

FGS News

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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BLIA Sydney walked for charity in Mother’s Day Classic

Florence Yuen June 3, 2024 On May 12, 2024, My-Chinh Tran, Advisor of the BLIA Loving Care Group Sydney Western Subchapters led a group of 23 members, including BLIA Scouts, YAD members, and their families, to participate in the heartwarming Mother’s Day Classic charity walk at Parramatta Park Salters Field. The event was not only a show of support for local community charities but also a collective celebration of Mother’s Day. The Mother’s Day Classic is an annual charity event held in Sydney, dedicated to supporting breast and ovarian cancer research. Participants honoured the fight against cancer through walking or running, commemorating loved ones lost to the disease, and offering support to those currently battling it, fostering unity and mutual support within the community. Susan Khor, member of BLIA Sydney West 2 subchapter, also joined the charity walk with her daughter Carmen, and Carmen’s friend Aaron. Carmen expressed that the event was uplifting and raised her awareness about breast and ovarian cancers, giving her the opportunity to accompany her mother on a meaningful 5-kilometer walk on Mother’s Day. Jean Kho, leader of BLIA Scouts Western Sydney, remarked that it was the scouts’ first time joining the Mother’s Day walk. The event aligned perfectly with the scouts’ love for outdoor activities and embodied their motto: do good deeds, speak good words, and think good thoughts. They were grateful for the opportunity to partake in such a significant event while also supporting the community. Elder Advisor My-Chinh Tran deeply appreciated the value of giving as emphasized by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, which not only enriched our lives but also set a direction for the Loving Care group’s future endeavours. Participating in the Mother’s Day Classic was a concrete action reflecting this philosophy, aiming to pass on the spirit of ‘Four Givings’ without expecting anything in return, positively impacting society and enhancing community cohesion. Joining the event with their families also allowed BLIA members an opportunity to foster harmony and happiness with their loved ones. The Loving Care Group remains committed to contributing to the establishment of a harmonious and healthy society.

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2024 FGS Toronto Press Conference Promoting World Peace and Supports the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto May 31, 2024 The "2024 World Religion Prayers for Peace and Buddha’s Light Vegetarian Food Fair," jointly organized by the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto and the Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) Toronto Chapter, is scheduled for June 9th at the Fo Guang Shan Temple in Mississauga. The event was officially unveiled at a press conference held on May 21st at the Buddha’s Light Center in Markham. The press conference was co-hosted by Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, alongside Mabel Lam, President of BLIA Toronto, Vice President Kevin Cao, and Secretary General Katherine Lam. Venerable Chueh Fan expressed gratitude to the media for their attendance and highlighted the event’s mission to transcend religious, racial, and cultural barriers in today's world. This initiative aligns with the guidance of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of BLIA, who emphasized the importance of meaningful activities, and it supports the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This year’s blessing ceremony will be held outdoors to encourage greater public participation. Mabel Lam underscored that for over 20 years, Fo Guang Shan and BLIA have been dedicated to propagating Buddhist teachings through cultural activities, nurturing talents through education, benefiting societies through charitable programs, and purifying human hearts and minds through Buddhist practices. Each year, they organize the "World Religion Prayers for Peace and Buddha’s Light Vegetarian Food Fair," a vibrant event similar to a vegetarian expo, featuring unique delicacies from China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Singapore. This year, the event will include additional family-friendly attractions such as an ice cream truck, face painting, inflatable castles, games, and educational booths in the temple's back garden, creating a joyful summer day for all. Proceeds from the sales will contribute $10,000 to the Mississauga Food Bank, with a check presentation ceremony scheduled for the event day. Kevin Cao explained that beyond offering innovative and delicious foods, this year's Vegetarian Food Fair emphasizes "carbon reduction and environmental protection." Attendees are encouraged to support these initiatives by registering for the pilgrimage bus. Additionally, on June 22nd, Fo Guang Shan and BLIA will host the "VEGRUN" charity run, with all donations benefiting ERINOAK Kids, Ontario's largest children's treatment center. Venerable Chueh Fan also announced that in celebration of Buddha's birthday, at the temple Buddha’s Cultural Museum presented a special "Multi-media Brushwork Art Exhibition,” artworks by renowned Toronto brushwork artist Henry Ho. Additionally, the Meditation Hall on the third floor is transformed into a 3D theatre. These two exciting projects will run until August, inviting community members to visit and immerse themselves in these unique experiences. At the conclusion, Mabel Lam shared that BLIA members in Canada have recently submitted a "Meatless Monday" proposal to Parliament, which is currently under review. She expressed hope that the media would help promote this initiative among Chinese community groups, showcasing the collective strength and unity of the Chinese community. Media representatives noted that the Buddha’s Light Vegetarian Food Fair in Toronto has already garnered a stellar reputation, with enthusiastic and friendly service provided by the volunteers leaving a lasting impression. They are confident that this annual grand event will continue to receive strong support from the general public.

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BLIA at Asia-Pacific Women of Faith Network to Uplift Children and Youth

Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple May 31, 2024 On May 2, 2024, together with 25 faith-based representatives, Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) Hong Kong Subchapter Dharma Sister Belinda Tantuco was invited to attend Asia-Pacific Women of Faith Network organized by UniHarmony Partners of Manila, and expounded on the topic "Interfaith Women’s Planning Meeting" with faith-based women leaders. Based on the practice of Humanistic Buddhism, Belinda Tantuco raised three social concerns which might be addressed when we have faith. First, BLIA advocates Three Acts of Goodness (TAG) to do good deeds, say good words and think good thoughts. We introduced TAG to the Department of Education as what we had had the subject of Good Manners and Right Conduct growing up. Moral values, proper manners and instilling character formation in our youth development can better social order. Second, BLIA teaches Five Precepts and Five Harmonies to build strong family, societal and environmental relationships. Third, BLIA sponsors youth education through the Guang Ming College scholarship to alleviate poverty and make education accessible. We have seen education flipped life. The Interfaith Women's Planning Meeting has focused on leadership and family value to improve life quality for children and youth.  All who attended had expressed the spirit of altruism and had admired the true spirit of altruism in Venerable Master Hsing Yun as a Buddhist Bodhisattva. Every thought, each word and  action have always shown deep concern, loving care and well-being of others.

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Commemoration of the Buddha’s Birthday at MCRD: Cleansing Our Mind as We Bathe the Buddha

D. Braun May 31, 2024 On May 12th, Venerable Miaozang, Superintendent of Hsi Fang Temple, together with BLIA members, Denny and Cindy, led the Sunday Service with the commemoration of the Buddha’s Birthday at the Marine Corp Recruit Depot (MCRD), San Diego. The venerable started the service by sharing the life of the Buddha, detailing the major events of the journey to the enlightenment, entailing the practice of the Four Noble Truths, and indicating the significance of commemorating the Buddha’s birthday by bathing the baby Buddha (Siddhartha) until today. Almost all of the approximately 60 recruits participated in this event. With each scoop of water, everyone vowed “Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thoughts.”  Everyone’s reaction was extremely positive and joyful.  Three of the recruits were interviewed about their experiences. The first MCRD recruit expressed “great, joyful, and at peace. I felt connected with the Buddha!” The second recruit reported that he experienced a calming effect, and increasingly felt himself to be a part of the wider Buddhist community. The third recruit shared he experienced a good feeling in the air, warm and safe. This event proved to be one of the most remembered and noteworthy services as we celebrated the Buddha’s birthday for the second year.  Attendees were deeply moved by the opportunity to get “up close and personal” with the Buddha, and they were joyful as a result. 01-05:  Commemoration of the Buddha’s Birthday at the Marine Corp Recruit Depot (MCRD).  With each scoop of water,  recruits vowed “Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thoughts.”

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Appreciating the collective vision in wisdom during Fo Guang Shan International University Consortium and Presidents Forum

Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple May 31, 2024 At the annual Fo Guang Shan International University Consortium (FGSIUC) Meeting and President Forum last March 2024, the GMC delegation was led by Head Abbess Venerable Yung Guang of Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Philippines and Dr. President Michael Lim Tan of the youngest consortium member, Guang Ming College (GMC) Philippines, accompanied by Academic Affairs Director Prof. Katherine Sabate, Student Affairs and International Mobility Director Prof. Maru Percela, Prof. Shena Pacano and Prof. Heidi Emelo. The week-long forum was attended by 110 Buddhist education leaders and scholars of 44 worldwide universities from 12 nations and regions, expounding on the theme "remembering the application of Venerable Master Hsing Yun's compassion and wisdom." Head Abbess Venerable Yung Guang expressed that the special topic on artificial intelligence (AI) is timely and powerful as worldwide expertise on Buddhism and Buddhist University assembled to identify the current management climate and discuss future prospective using Buddha's wisdom. Dr. President Michael Lim Tan of the youngest consortium member, Guang Ming College (GMC) Philippines, announced that GMC would celebrate the 10th Founding Anniversary in 2024 to pay tribute to the Founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun for the noble vision to offer scholarship in hope that GMC scholars should be the "leaping carp over the dragon gate". GMC was inaugurated by FGS Abbot Most Venerable Hsin Bau last June 2023. Since then, GMC had completed the restoration of the former construction office into a Multifunctional Facilities and the installation of a container dormitory for basketball players. Dr. Lim Tan further reported on two start-up courses of music theater and human services. Prof. Sabate applauded that the 46 Memorandum of Understanding on academic linkages were being signed and led by Dr. Chancellor Kirby Yung of FGSIUC to strengthen affairs and resolve concerns of Buddhist founded universities. She remarked that such effort should prompt advancement across and interdisciplinary studies. Humanistic Buddhism as a religion and research is a rising work in performing arts and sports. Prof. Percela was inspired by the Opening Speech given by Most Venerable Hsin Bau to apply prajna-wisdom in teaching and learning as in cultivating to transcend from ordinary. As the founding faculty of GMC, she followed Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vow to focus on nurturing talents through education. In his keynote speech, Dr. Ovid Tzeng the former Minister of Education and academician of Academia Sinica emphasized that the future role of university shall "move forward toward the goal of creating a higher education for a humanized ecologically and economically balanced future industrial societies" in which human learns to know, to do, to resolve, further to be free and become the universal one. The GMC delegates also joined the parade to offer Dharma Treasures Entering the Underground Palace of Buddha Museum on FGS Devotee's Day. Prof. Haidi and Prof. Shena were grateful for the opportunity to be part of the applied wisdom of Venerable Master Hsing Yun to capsule today's items which would only be revealed one hundred years later from the underground palace.

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Hsi Lai Temple Buddhist Wedding - Fo Guang Youth Faith Heritage

Fo Guang ShanHsi Lai Temple May 30, 2024 On May 4, at the Hsi Lai Temple Auditorium, a heartwarming Buddhist Wedding was held for Vincent Liu, the advisor of Buddha’s Light International Association-Young Adult Division-Los Angeles 1 Subdivision (BLIA-YAD LA1), and Ricole Wu from the Buddha’s Light International Association-Young Adult Division-Chunghwa Volunteer Subdivision. The abbot of Hsi Lai Temple, Venerable Hui Dong, officiated the ceremony, blessing the couple in front of over 200 witnesses, including Hsi Lai Temple venerables, members of BLIA-YAD, and the couple's family and friends. The newlyweds held hands and pledged their happiness together. Venerable Hui Dong officiated the vows for the groom and bride. The couple performed the marriage rites, signed the marriage certificate, and exchanged gifts under the witness of Venerable Hui Dong and the primary witnesses. Venerable Hui Dong recounted the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan, on the three types of husbands and wives. He advised the couple to be considerate and take care of each other in their future life. Venerable Hui Dong noted that it was his first time witnessing a wedding where he knew everyone, including the couple and their friends from the BLIA-YAD group. He emphasized that this newly established Buddhist family should continue to practice the "Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings”, form good relationships, and cultivate selflessness through community service. At the banquet, Fo Guang Shan Monastery Head Abbot Most Venerable Hsin Bau gave a speech. He remarked on the challenges of transitioning from a single life to a shared life in marriage, encouraging the couple to bravely face the realities of marriage. He emphasized that while love is sweet, life is practical, and to become a divine couple, one must first be a grounded one. He urged the couple to live a sincere life, apply Buddhist wisdom in their daily lives, and foster care and tolerance within their family. He expressed confidence in their ability to establish a Buddhist family, as both of them had grown up in the temple, and encouraged them to continue the legacy of their faith. He presented them with a golden plaque bearing Venerable Master Hsing Yun's calligraphy: "May You Be Free as Cloud and Water, Auspicious and Joyful" as a blessing. The groom, Vincent Liu, grew up at Hsi Lai Temple and has been involved with BLIA-YAD since childhood. His late parents were also Fo Guang Shan devotees, with his father Brian Wu having served as the Secretary-General of the BLIA Los Angeles Chapter. His stepmother, Helena Huang, is a dedicated volunteer at Hsi Lai Temple. His brother Jonathan was also a previous BLIA-YAD president. The bride, Ricole Wu's mother, Hsu Hsiu-chin, is a Fo Guang Shan devotee and a volunteer at Hui Chung Temple, serving as a receptionist at the temple and volunteering at the temple's art gallery. Her sister Wu Yu-tung is involved in the publicity department at Hui Chung Temple, and her younger sister Wu Kuan-ying is the vice president of the Buddha’s Light International Association - Young Adult Division - Chunghwa Central Region. Both newlyweds come from second-generation Fo Guang families and have been certified as second-level White Elephant Executive, Sudhana Lecturer and Sumati Lecturer of the Buddha’s Light International Association World Youth General Association. The couple met in 2014 at the International Buddha’s Light Young Adult Conference in Taiwan. Their eight-year relationship, marked by overcoming distance and cultural differences, was strengthened by their steadfast faith and mutual trust, culminating in their marriage, guided by Buddhist principles.

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