FGS News
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.
2023-2024 BLHLS End-of-the-school-year Ceremony
Audrey Lee May 30, 2024 Yet another great school year has come to a close! With almost 400 people in attendance, Fo Guang Shan Buddha’s Light Hsi Lai School hosted its annual end-of-the-school-year ceremony on May 25, 2024. Venerable Hui Dong, the principal of Hsi Lai School, delivered a speech, stating that Fo Guang Shan cultivates talents through education. In addition to acquiring knowledge, it is more important to guide children to learn compassion, love, respect, and tolerance, to become “three goodness” students, and to become useful members of society. Min-yong Chen, the Director of the Culture Center of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Los Angeles, also delivered a speech. On behalf of the Chairman of the Overseas Community Affairs Council, Chia-ching Hsu, he expressed gratitude for Hsi Lai Temple’s 35 years of continuous promotion of Chinese education overseas, enabling children to learn Chinese culture and Buddhism. He acknowledged that today’s achievements are due to the excellent environment provided by Hsi Lai Temple and the efforts of parents, teachers, and students. Seeing many graduates returning to the school to continue serving, he encouraged the children to continue excelling in their studies and promoting culture. This stellar event featured performances from the students of the after-school and Saturday Chinese school students. They showcased their skills and talents through songs, dances, and plays. There were performances of traditional Chinese Dunhuang dance. Dancers sported beautiful blue and orange robes. They demonstrated elegant dance moves and intricate hand gestures. Kung Fu students demonstrated their athletic abilities. They showed off their flips and tricks with fans and bamboo poles, leaving the audience in amazement. Students and their parents were recognized for their academic achievements. Their hard work over this past year was awarded with certificates and trophies. Teachers, staff members, and volunteers were thanked for their dedication to the school program. They received certificates to thank them for their commitment. The awards and certificates of appreciation were presented separately to students, teachers, and volunteers by Venerable Hui Dong; Chen Min-yong; Christine Che, President of the Southern California Council of Chinese Schools; Venerable Yi Xuan, Superintendent of Hsi Lai Temple; and Steven Chow, Vice President of the Buddha's Light International Association, Los Angeles Chapter. As we were sad to see such an amazing day come to an end, we are glad to have been able to celebrate the year’s accomplishments. Fo Guang Shan Buddha’s Light Hsi Lai School hopes to see you once again at the end-of-the-year ceremony next year!
Thousands Gather to Honor Buddha's Birthday at Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto May 28, 2024 In a grand celebration that marked both Buddha's Birthday and Mother's Day, the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto hosted a series of celebration events. The festivities included the Bathing the Buddha Ceremony, the opening of a Multimedia Brushwork Art Exhibition, a 3D theatre screening of "The Buddha" in the meditation hall, and a special flower offering session in honour of mothers. These activities provided attendees with a profound understanding and experience of the ‘Eight Stages of Buddha’s Progress.' Over a thousand participants joined in the celebrations, reflecting on Buddha's teachings and expressing appreciation for mothers. The event began with an energetic Lion Dance, followed by a solemn recitation of the Ode to the Triple Gem. Eighty-four representatives from BLIA members, youth, Scouts and children presented traditional offerings to the Buddha, including incense, fruit, tea, jewels, pearls, lamps, and flowers, in a ceremony that was both solemn and deeply moving. Venerable Chueh Fan, the Abbess of the FGS Temple of Toronto, presided over the Dharma service, which included the recitation of ‘A Prayer for the Buddha's Birthday’ by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan. In her welcome speech, Venerable Chueh Fan explained the significance of Buddha's Birthday and the 'Bathing the Buddha' ritual, emphasizing the importance of a respectful heart, a purified mind, and rediscovering one's Buddha-nature. Venerable Chueh Fan also highlighted Venerable Master Hsing Yun's dedication to spreading the Buddha's teachings through various means, aiming to foster happiness and peace. She noted that youth and children would offer flowers to mothers, wishing them a happy Mother’s Day. Additionally, renowned artist Mr. Henry Ho's 'Multimedia Brushwork Art Exhibition' on the second floor, and the third-floor Meditation Hall featuring 'The Buddha' 3D Theater, invited participants to experience the ‘Eight Stages of Buddha’s Progress’ through various artistic and meditative expressions. The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including the Artist, Mr. Henry Ho; Ms. Ally Cai, Dean of the Institute of Arts at the Canadian National Artists Association; Ms. Lien Chao, Internal Vice-President of the Canadian Foundation for Asian Culture; Mrs. Mabel Lam, President of the BLIA Toronto Chapter; Venerable Miaole from the Hamilton Hermitage; and Venerable Xinlian. In his address, Mr. Henry Ho expressed gratitude for the opportunity to host the Multimedia Brushwork Art Exhibition during Buddha's Birthday celebrations. He viewed his artwork as offerings that convey inner thoughts and experiences across different times and spaces, hoping to gift attendees with his artistic expression. Mrs. Mabel Lam appreciated the thoughtful arrangements by the Venerables, which allowed for meaningful celebrations of both Buddha's Birthday and Mother's Day. She reaffirmed the FGS Toronto and BLIA Toronto Chapter’s commitment to promoting Humanistic Buddhism and extended warm wishes to all mothers. The event concluded with the chanting of the 'Bathing the Buddha Verse,' led by Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan, followed by youth and children presenting 'chocolate flowers' to mothers, symbolizing gratitude. Attendees then explored exhibitions, watched the 3D film 'The Buddha,' participated in meditation sessions, and enjoyed performances including dragon and lion dances and martial arts demonstrations. The meticulously crafted Lumbini Garden and Bathing the Buddha pool in the main shrine, adorned with intricate images and flower arrangements, left a lasting impression on everyone present.
Eight Fo Guang Shan Volunteers Honored at the 2024 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto May 27, 2024 Eight dedicated volunteers from the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto were honoured at the 2024 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards ceremony, held at the Mississauga Convention Centre. The ceremony, which took place on the evening of May 9th, saw Ontario MPP Rudy Cuzzetto and Mark Pelayo, Director of the Ministry of Citizenship and Multiculturalism, personally recognizing each volunteer with badges and certificates for their outstanding commitment and dedication. The 2024 Ontario Volunteer Service Awards recognized a total of 6,650 volunteers from 1,450 organizations, including 642 youth under the age of 25, across 46 sessions from April to July. Premier Doug Ford conveyed his heartfelt appreciation to all volunteers through a video message, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to improving the quality of life in Ontario. The honoured Fo Guang Shan volunteers attended the ceremony with their friends and family, dressed in formal attire. Venerable Ruzhong, the Superintendent of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, represented the temple and expressed gratitude for their longstanding dedication and support. The eight honoured volunteers, Wai Ming Wong, 30 years with the altar team; Christina Ng, 25 years with the chanting team and Water Drop Teahouse; May Yuan, 25 years with the flower arranging team; Kam Wan Li, 20 years at the Fo Guang Bookstore; Lily Pang, 20 years with the Fo Guang Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe; Jimmy Chan, 5 years with the general affairs team; Kiana Yue, active in the Fo Guang Dragon and Lion Dance Troupe and Fo Guang Scouts since childhood; and Angel Hsieh, youth volunteer leading Buddha’s Light English Children's Dharma Class. In sharing their perspectives, all eight volunteers reiterated the selfless and voluntary nature of volunteering, highlighting their individual dedication and deep gratitude for the chance to make a positive difference in their community. These volunteers exemplify the Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s spirit of giving and dedication that enhances community life, embodying the values of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto.
Fo Guang Shan North America Water and Land Dharma Talk Series: Most Venerable Hsin Ting Encourages Everyone to Achieve Right Understanding and Right View
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple May 27, 2024 The 2024 Fo Guang Shan North America Water and Land Dharma Service Lecture Series invited Most Venerable Hsin Ting, the abbot of Fo Guang Shan Taihua Temple (Thailand), to give a lecture on Right Understanding and Right View at the Ding Hall of Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple on April 23. He encouraged the audience to observe the impermanence of the world through the "Three Dharma Seals", that the Five Aggregates are selfless, and to firmly believe in cause and effect. He urged cultivating a focused mind and diligently practicing the "Four Right Efforts" to create a happy life of Buddhist practice. The lecture was simultaneously translated into English, with nearly a thousand people attending in-person and online to receive the Dharma teachings. Most Venerable Hsin Ting stated that the devotees diligently cultivating during the Water and Land Dharma Service deserve affirmation. The founding master of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, emphasized that a "Dharma Service" is not just devotees reciting sutras, eating vegetarian meals, and making charitable offerings. Rather, the true meaning is for monastics to offer the Dharma to devotees, with both monastics and lay practitioners equally making offerings of materials and the Dharma, connecting through the Dharma, establishing Right Understanding and Right View. Why is it important to establish the Right Understanding and Right View? Most Venerable Hsin Ting stressed that for Buddhist practitioners, it is crucial to correctly and truly observe the world through Right Understanding and Right View and to practice according to the truth. From a worldly perspective, blessings like wealth and longevity are what people seek. However, in the Noble Eightfold Path, the Right View, which is also included in the idea of "Three Dharma Seals" - impermanence, non-self, and nirvana is perfect tranquility - represents the ultimate truth that Buddhist practitioners should constantly contemplate and uphold. Most Venerable Hsin Ting analyzed the impermanence and non-self nature of all phenomena by relating the six senses, six sense objects, and six consciousnesses to the Five Aggregates of form, feeling, perception, volition, and consciousness mentioned in the Heart Sutra. Although the 260 words of the Heart Sutra are simple enough for a three-year-old child to recite, how many people can truly comprehend it as "Avalokitesvara, while practicing the profound Perfection of Wisdom, perceived that all five aggregates are empty"? The reason beings cannot transcend all suffering is because of the notion of "self" and the grasping, clinging mind that causes suffering. Most Venerable Hsin Ting encouraged the audience to observe the arising and cessation of all things in the world with clarity, understanding, and discernment, but without grasping or generating the mind of renunciation and liberation, as the Buddha rarely emphasized renunciation and liberation. Instead, he advocated that practitioners be mindful of every thought and intention, acting to benefit others, and cultivating generosity, moral discipline, and meditation. Believing in karmic cause and effect, one should prevent wrongdoing from the fundamental level of thoughts, and accumulate virtues and blessings. Most Venerable Hsin Ting used the "rhyme of karmic retribution" to illustrate that "good deeds are rewarded, evil deeds are punished, not that they go unrewarded, but the timing has not arrived." "Firmly believing in the causes and effects of the three periods of time, guarding the body and mind, raising right mindfulness, and diligently practicing the Four Right Efforts is Right Understanding, which is also right wisdom." While "Right Understanding" sounds easy, it tests one's cultivation when faced with conflicts of interest. Most Venerable Hsin Ting further explained the importance of cultivating the "Nine Stages of Mindfulness", corresponding to the "non-abiding" mentioned in the Diamond Sutra, which refers to non-grasping. The "abiding" in the nine stages means dwelling, but not letting the mind follow after conditions. Ultimately, one's body and mind will be at ease, and even if one achieves some attainment, one will not develop arrogance, but will constantly reflect on whether one's actions of body, speech, and mind have inadvertently harmed others. "Practicing Buddhism is the most blissful thing," Most Venerable Hsin Ting encouraged establishing Right Understanding and Right View, firmly believing in the causes and effects of the three periods of time, understanding that such causes lead to such effects, and not blaming others. Happiness lies in one's own hands and can be anticipated in the future. Finally, he offered his blessings to the audience, "May the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas protect you all to be happy, healthy, prosperous, and safe every day," and provided each audience with a copy of his new book Interviewing Most Venerable Hsin Ting's: Walking the Buddhist Path – Taking the Teacher's Heart As One's Own.
Free Clinic At UWest: Collective Effort Serving the Community
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple May 24, 2024 University of the West (UWest), UCLA APA Health Care, Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple, and LA County Department of Mental Health Co-Host Annual Community Free Health Check-Up on May 4. The annual free health clinic event took place on the UWest campus, providing services to over 150 community members. This year's event expanded its range of services to include eye exams, blood sugar tests, cholesterol analysis, and popular services such as dental care, traditional Chinese medicine consultations, Alzheimer’s and dementia workshops, and mental health counseling. The clinic was supported by over 20 suppliers and 80 volunteers from various groups, including UWest, UCLA, UC Irvine, BLIA LA YAD 2, Hsi Lai Buddhist Academy, Garfield Health Center, Asian Youth Center, U.S. Public Health Service, Chinatown Service Center, AltaMed PACE, and the North America Taiwanese Medical Association, demonstrating a strong commitment to community health. UWest President Dr. Minh-Hoa Ta delivered a welcome speech, expressing gratitude for the collective service to the community. Ven. Hui Dong, Abbot of Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple, followed with a speech thanking the participating organizations and highlighting the event's role in promoting the practice of the "Three Acts of Goodness," bringing light to the world and fostering inner peace and beauty. Appreciation certificates were then presented to all organizations that assisted in organizing the clinic and workshops. The event attracted a large crowd early in the morning, with some arriving as early as 8 AM. By noon, several service stations, including dental services and the UCLA mobile eye clinic, were fully booked. The Garfield Health Center also exhausted its blood sugar and cholesterol test supplies. Most attendees were seniors, particularly interested in workshops related to Alzheimer's and aging. Leader of the Social and Outreach Department of Hsi Lai Temple, Ven. Zhi Xing, BLIA LA San Gabriel Subchapter members, BLIA LA YAD 2 youths, and students from Hsi Lai Buddhist Academy also assisted in guiding community members through the clinic.
Los Angeles Arcadia Interfaith Prayer Day Unveils Infinite Hope with "Hope Chest"
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple May 24, 2024 The Los Angeles Arcadia Interfaith Action Group (AIAG), in conjunction with the annual National Day of Prayer, held a prayer event on May 2, 2024, at Santa Anita Church in Arcadia. Representatives and followers from Christian, Islamic, Catholic, Sikh, Bahá'í, Jewish, Hindu, and Buddhist communities, totaling around 200 people participated. Ven. Hui Ze, from Hsi Lai Temple, led the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) members and the Buddha’s Light Youth Symphony Orchestra (BLYSO) in attendance. The theme of the prayer meeting was the "Hope Chest." Father Kevin Rettig, representing the Catholic faith, began the event with a story, emphasizing that "hope" was not merely passive waiting but active engagement, offering hope to others through practical actions. In line with the theme, each religious representative randomly selected a poem or prayer related to the theme from the chest and read it aloud. Rabbi Ira Rosenfeld read "A Prayer for the Offering of Light" by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, representing Buddhism. Ven. Hui Ze read a Sikh prayer. The event kicked off with performances by the Buddha’s Light Youth Symphony Orchestra (BLYSO), followed by songs from Rev. Gina Milligan and Jimmy and Tony Licata. The finale featured the BLYSO performing "Ode to the Venerable Master" and "Dance of the Hours," concluding the prayer event successfully.
BLIA Toronto Members and Children's Dharma Class Extend Heartfelt Gifts to Vulnerable Women on Mother's Day
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto May 23, 2024 In a heartwarming gesture to celebrate Mother's Day, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Toronto English Sub-Chapter and the Children's Dharma Class joined hands to organize 'The Shoebox Project for Women.' The initiative, aimed at fostering compassion and community service, focused on collecting essential items for vulnerable women in community shelters. The project, which ran for two weeks from April 27th to May 4th, saw active participation from BLIA members. Over 20 boxes were collected, filled with items such as gift cards, toiletries, socks, and chocolates. The collaboration between the English Sub-Chapter and the Children's Dharma Class exemplified the spirit of giving and solidarity within the community. Juyenty Lim, Vice President of the English Sub-Chapter, expressed gratitude for the active participation of BLIA members. From planning to executing the project, both the English Sub-Chapter and Children's Dharma Class worked together smoothly, harnessing the kindness of the public to serve women in need within the community. It was a successful endeavour. On May 5th, members of the English Subchapter organized and categorized the donated items, while children and parents engaged in various activities to honour maternal love. Teachers used this opportunity to share stories about Guanyin (Avalokitesvara) Bodhisattva, and shared stories about compassion and filial piety, encouraging them to appreciate their mothers' unconditional love. Afterwards, the children and parents decorated shoeboxes, created blessing cards, and decorated and packaged the shoeboxes, collectively sending their heartfelt wishes. Venerable Ru An, the Advising Monastic of the Children's Dharma Class, inspired the children with stories emphasizing the importance of appreciating their mothers' loving-kindness. The Venerable led everyone in dedicating the merits of the day's activities to mothers and all sentient beings. Angel, a teacher from the Children's Dharma Class, expressed gratitude towards the English Sub-Chapter for co-hosting this meaningful Mother's Day event, which not only celebrated Mother’s Day but also taught the children about the joyful Buddhist cultivation of giving. She explained that a smile, a greeting, and a kind thought all embody the "Three Acts of Goodness," similar to a farmer sowing seeds—what seems like a loss at first, ultimately yields a rich harvest of internal joy. The event concluded with a group photo session, where children proudly displayed their creations, marking a heartwarming conclusion to the day's activities.
Environmental and Spiritual Preservation in Tandem: Every Day is Earth Day in Los Angeles County
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple May 21, 2024 The "Every Day is Earth Day" event was held at William Steinmetz Park in Hacienda Heights, Los Angeles County on May 4, 2024. The event was organized by the Office of the First District of Los Angeles County and the Department of Parks and Recreation, with support from Valley Vista Services (VVS), Hsi Lai Temple, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Los Angeles Chapter, and various other organizations. Around 250 individuals participated in activities promoting tree planting, conservation, the Vege A Project, and mental well-being. Brian Ceballos, Assistant Regional Recreation Director of the County of Los Angeles Department of Parks and Recreation, delivers opening remarks, expressing gratitude for the support of the First District Supervisor Hilda L. Solis, and the participation of all organizations. Fo Guang Shan Monastery Head Abbot Most Venerable Hsin Bau commends the efforts of BLIA members in caring for the Earth, emphasizing vegetarianism as the primary environmental protection measure. He also highlights "Spiritual Preservation" inspired by the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, wishing for a reduction in inner turmoil and mental peace for all. Venerable Hui Dong, the abbot of Hsi Lai Temple, expresses confidence in a more beautiful and peaceful Earth through collaboration between BLIA members and community organizations advocating for Earth Day. Following their speeches, Brian Ceballos, Most Venerable Hsin Bau, and Venerable Hui Dong planted camphor trees donated by Hsi Lai Temple. At the same time, attendees captured the moment with cameras and videos, generating applause. At the Resources Fair, Valley Vista Services and the Los Angeles County Public Works Department promoted the 7R environmental concept, waste sorting, organic composting, and recycling. They demonstrated the consequences of littering, which not only affects humans but also marine life. The Department of Parks and Recreation's Natural Areas Unit introduced wildlife and insect conservation. Additionally, there were areas for children to learn about planting and caring for flowers, fruits, and vegetables, as well as a "Smoothie" area where children could enjoy nutritious fruit and vegetable smoothies after learning about their benefits. Throughout the event, there were intermittent raffle draws and laughter. Hsi Lai Temple engaged with attendees through the "Buddhism in Every Step" English book series, promoting mindfulness and compassion with phrases such as "Respect and Inclusion," "Achievement through Harmony," and "Altruism in the Heart" in the mindful coloring activities. The Three Acts of Goodness Word Game encouraged parent-child cooperation in identifying words like "Hope," "Care," and "Sharing," attracting participation from attendees. Additionally, the Hsi Lai Girl Scouts recycled milk cartons to make succulent plant pots and distributed mosquito-repelling plants to attendees. The BLIA Riverside Subchapter collaborated with Lucky Farms Inc. to provide nearly 1,100 pounds of organic fruits and vegetables, which were quickly claimed. Members of the various subchapters jointly promoted the "Vege A Project," urging people to eat less meat and more vegetables to reduce carbon emissions and protect the Earth, gathering 113 signatures. The Hsi Lai Subchapter's Sasha De Nijs led outdoor yoga sessions, allowing participants to connect with nature.
Toronto 2024 Cloud and Water Dharma Talk Series: Explores the Essence of Pure Land in the Human Realm
The Life News Agency May 21, 2024 The Toronto 2024 Cloud and Water Dharma Talk Series jointly organized by Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Temple of Toronto and the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Toronto, featured the second lecture, invited Lay Dharma Lecturer Ms. Winnie Kwong to speak on "The Essence of the Vimalakriti Sutra: Pure Land in the Human Realm." On April 28th, at Toronto FGS. Kwong shared insights from Vimalakirti, a lay disciple of the Buddha, whose words and deeds serve as a model for lay practitioners. Utilizing various sutra passages, she elucidated that the Pure Land in the Human Realm is characterized by a pure mind, a blend of small and big worlds, immeasurable conveniences, and The Dharma Gate of Non-Duality, benefiting over 120 attendees. The lecture began with a welcome speech by Venerable Ru Zhong, the Superintendent of FGS Toronto, emphasizing this year's Buddhist Exam focus on the Vimalakirti Sutra and urging attentive listening to Ms. Winnie Kwong's sharing. Kwong introduced the Vimalakirti Sutra, also known as the Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra or Inconceivable Liberation Sutra, spanning three volumes and fourteen chapters. She underscored Vimalakirti's transcendence of worldly affairs and his discussions on Mahayana Buddhism with Manjusri as a model for lay practitioners. Referencing the Buddha Land chapter of the Vimalakirti Sutra, Kwong explained how the perceptions of sentient beings are influenced by factors like karma, aspirations, and thoughts, highlighting the purity of the Buddha Land when individuals purify themselves. She expounded on achieving the "Five Harmonies" through practicing the Three Goods and the Four Givings, constituting life in the Pure Land on Earth. Additionally, she referenced the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, emphasizing the significance of entertainment within the framework of self-cultivation and mind cultivation. For instance, chanting the Buddha's name, prostrating to the Buddha, and meditation bring peace to both body and mind. Kwong concluded by stressing the teachings from "Buddha-Dharma: Pure and Simple" by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, asserting that the Pure Land exists within the human realm—a realm of pure minds, harmonious coexistence of the big and small, immeasurable conveniences and the Dharma Gate of Non-Duality. Through Ms. Winnie Kwong's use of simple and engaging examples to illustrate the concept of the Pure Land on Earth from the Vimalakirti Sutra, the classical Chinese text became accessible and easy to comprehend, eliciting enthusiastic applause from the audience, reflecting their enjoyment and appreciation for the teachings.
