FGS News
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.
" TBIF " English Lecture: Buddhism in a Technologically Advancing World
Ching Pan April 10, 2024 Fo Guang Shan Hsi Fang Temple hosted the "Thank Buddha It’s Friday” (TBIF) English monthly lecture on March 29, featuring Ven. Jue Wei, Director of the Humanistic Buddhism Centre at Nan Tien Institute in Australia. The lecture, titled "Buddhism in a Technologically Advancing World." About 40 attendees from Australia and North America attended. Ven. Jue Wei led the discussion on the mindful use of technology to nurture Bodhicitta and foster a compassionate world (MettāVerses). Ven. Jue Wei invited the participants to contemplate on their daily screen time and social media usage, reflecting on its impact on mental and interpersonal well-being. Participants expressed fatigue and decreased concentration and yet struggled to detach from it. Ven. Jue Wei then explained the concept of the "Attention Economy," where social media platforms constantly feed tailored information and products to users based on algorithmic analysis, creating addiction while fostering an illusion of control. "Attention and mindfulness are crucial," Ven. Jue Wei emphasized. In the rapidly changing technological era, not all impacts are negative. By applying Buddhist principles of impermanence, interdependence, non-self, and dependent origination, emptiness, individuals can make informed choices regarding their relationship with technology. Ven. Jue Wei encouraged attendees to focus their attention on the "Four Immeasurables" of loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity, constituting a "Buddhist-Inspired Attention Ecology" aligned with the Mahāyāna principle of benefiting all beings. By cultivating Bodhicitta and utilizing technology to propagate Buddhism, Buddhists can then contribute positively to the society and create a compassionate world (MettāVerses). "Metta" in Pali, commonly translated as "loving-kindness" or "universal love." It refers to the genuine, unconditional benevolence and goodwill towards all beings. In alignment with the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, who defines compassion as selflessness, genuine care, and mutual assistance, Ven. Jue Wei regarded the "compassionate world" (MettāVerses) as an antidote to the violence and discrimination prevalent in today's online environment, encouraging solidarity among attendees. Peter Meluso, an attendee with a Master's degree in Business Administration, found the lecture enlightening. Noting Ven. Jue Wei's own MBA degree, he inquired about applying Bodhicitta in profit-oriented marketing. Ven. Jue Wei stressed the importance of ethical conduct, conscience, and moderation, advocating for the Circular Economy principle in marketing to balance profitability with societal well-being. Peter expressed gratitude for the insightful response.
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.
Triple Gem Refuge Ceremony in Ottawa New Life is born at Easter
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa April 9, 2024 On March 31st, during the Canadian Easter long weekend, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa held the "Fo Guang Shan Triple Gem Refuge Ceremony ." Over 30 individuals of all ages, ranging from the very young to the elderly, took refuge and became devoted Buddhist laypersons. In the presence of over 30 Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) members and relatives, the preceptees sincerely followed Ven. Yung Ku, the abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa, in taking the Triple Gem refuge and receiving the blessings of the holy nectar. The preceptees conducted themselves with utmost respect, making the ceremony solemn and extraordinary. Among the 30 new preceptees, their ages ranged from 5 to 79 years old. Some were college students who traveled from Queen's University, others were mothers who took refuge with their children, and there were also those who took refuge on behalf of their beloved family pets. “Do I need to become a monastic after taking refuge?” “Why should I take refuge if I can still learn Buddhism without taking refuge?” In response to these questions from the public regarding taking refuge in the Triple Gem, Ven. Yung Ku patiently addressed everyone's doubts and concerns during the "Good Morning Fo Guang" program. An online briefing was conducted on March 28th to provide an explanation of the ceremony procedures. During the refuge ceremony, Ven. Yung Ku explained that taking refuge means relying on the Triple Gem. The Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha are invaluable spiritual treasures. Before we embark on the path of learning Buddhism, our lives are bestowed upon us by our parents. However, after taking refuge, we nurture our Dharma bodies through sincere study in accordance with the guidance of the Triple Gem. Fo Guang Shan is a bodhisattva temple that embodies the concepts of right understanding, right view, and right faith in Buddhism. Ven. Yung Ku hopes that everyone can study with a peaceful mind, gradually cultivate their aspirations, consider Fo Guang Shan as their spiritual home, and make frequent visits to it. Ban Tongyan, whose Dharma name is Hai Yue, is a student at Queen's University. With the help and support of Ven. Miao Rang and other venerables, she established the BLIA club on campus. She expressed gratitude to all the Dharma friends she encountered that offered her guidance. She hopes to fully comprehend every word spoken by the abbess and will hold it close to her heart. Furthermore, she aspires to use the Triple Gem – the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha – as guides and to diligently study and practice Buddhism, and uphold the teachings in her life. Zheng Xiang, whose Dharma name is Hai Xian, is a member of the Buddha's Light Choir. She not only participated in the Triple Gem Refuge Ceremony but also officially became a member of BLIA. Hai Xian shared, "When the abbess presented me with the refuge certificate and blessed me with the holy nectar, tears welled up in my eyes. In my heart, I couldn't help but think, 'It feels so good to be home!' Taking refuge in the Triple Gem is like 'being reborn,' and from now on, I have faith in life. There is a light illuminating my heart and I vow to follow the teachings earnestly from this day forward."
The Creative Studio Class at Hsi Fang Temple Gain Insight into News Production at CBS News 8
By Qing ling Chan Students and parents from the Creative Studio class at Hsi Fang Temple had an educational visit to CBS News 8 on May 3rd, where they gained insights into the intricate process of news production. Guided by Josh Meza from the marketing department, the group received a comprehensive overview of the various aspects involved in delivering news to the public. The visit commenced with an exploration of the control room, where the intricacies of screen broadcasting, coding, and content sequencing were elucidated by Shawn and John from the production department. The students were fascinated to learn about the dynamic nature of news production, where timely adjustments are essential to reflect evolving events accurately. Transitioning to the studio, the visitors encountered the marvel of green screen technology. Josh demonstrated how the weather forecast is often presented, showcasing the versatility of the green screen in creating immersive visual experiences for viewers. The students marveled as they witnessed firsthand the magic of the green screen, with objects such as a green sandbag and even their name tags seamlessly integrating with the news backdrop. The group was then treated to a tour of the news set, providing them with the opportunity to sit at the anchor desk and experience the perspective of news reporting. Observing the computers beneath the desk, they learned about the vital role of technology in facilitating seamless communication and information access for news reporters. In a session with a member of the digital team, the students gained insights into the modern approach to news dissemination, emphasizing the importance of understanding audience preferences and feedback. The team's efforts to leverage data analytics to optimize news distribution across various platforms resonated with the visitors, highlighting the evolving landscape of journalism in the digital age. The visit concluded with a viewing of the four o'clock news broadcast in the employee lounge, where the group presented Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s calligraphy blessing of “May you be free as cloud and water, auspicious and joyful” expressing gratitude for the hospitality extended by Josh and his colleagues. The experience left a lasting impression on the students, with some expressing aspirations to pursue careers in news production. As they bid farewell, enriched with newfound knowledge and inspiration, the students departed with a deeper appreciation for the collaborative efforts driving the dissemination of information through the media.
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.
Setting Out on the Path of Discovery: Toronto Youth Commence Transformative Journey through Youth Temple Retreat
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto April 15, 2024 At the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, the 2024 Youth Temple Retreat was held from March 29th to 31st, drawing 29 young individuals eager to immerse themselves in the teachings and lifestyle of Humanistic Buddhism. This initiative aimed to guide participants on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual exploration. The retreat commenced with an opening ceremony in the Conference Room after participants' registration on the afternoon of the 29th. Venerable Chueh Fan, the Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, extended a warm welcome to the youths, many of whom were visiting Fo Guang Shan or any Buddhist temple for the first time. She commended their courage and urged them to embrace the experience with sincerity, openness and the beginner’s mind. Following introductions, participants received an orientation from Ven. Ru Zhong, detailing the camp's schedule, temple protocols, and essential information. Among the challenging requirements was the temporary surrender of their mobile phones, a rule all participants respectfully adhered to. The retreat's overarching theme, "To Know the Way," guided a diverse array of activities over the three-day temple retreat. These included immersive experiences in learning the Buddhist etiquettes, traditional temple vegetarian culinary arts, Buddhist chanting, fundamental teachings of Buddhism, meditation sessions, group discussions, teamwork and chores, special Dharma lectures, along with morning and evening chanting, provided a holistic understanding of monastic life. A highlight of the retreat was a virtual lecture by Ven. Miao Fan, director of the Humanistic Buddhism Research Institute at Fo Guang Shan. Delving into the “Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch: Daily Practice Insights.” Ven. Miao Fan skillfully intertwined the insights with personal anecdotes, resonating deeply with the participants. During the sharing session, Ven. Zhi Guan and Ven. Ru An encouraged participants to share their reflections. Xu Tao, the president of the University of Waterloo's Buddha Light Community Club, remarked on the practicality of Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and practice in daily life. Many youths shared profound personal insights, recognizing that life's journey is one of self-cultivation and that the most significant transformations are those that occur within. Fule Liu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and the enlightening meditation sessions that underscored the concept of "causality" in her spiritual journey. Guidance from Ven. Zhi Guan provided clarity amidst uncertainty, fostering deep understanding. Jason Au highlighted the value of cherishing current opportunities and the importance of continuous learning and self-awakening at a young age. The retreat proved to be a transformative experience for many, providing them with not only answers to their initial questions but also with Buddhist teachings and practices they plan to incorporate into their lives moving forward, aiming for self-improvement and a deeper understanding of their life journey.
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.
Hsi Fang Temple Honored with President's Volunteer Service Award for Service at Marine Corps Recruit Depot
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Fang Temple May 17, 2024 On April 30th, the Marine Corps Recruit Depot (MCRD) in San Diego hosted a Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony, Venerable Miao Zang and Venerable Zhi Ching, Dharma propagation volunteers Denny and David from Hsi Fang Temple, were invited to attend. Approximately over a hundred people attended the event. Since 2021, Hsi Fang Temple has been leading a team of Dharma propagation volunteers, regularly visiting the base to spread the Buddha’s teachings, lead meditation sessions, and conduct the Triple Gem Refuge ceremony to provide spiritual support to the recruits. In 2023, Hsi Fang Temple served at the base for over 100 hours, and the services of the venerables and volunteers were recognized, earning them the President's Volunteer Service Award. Every Sunday morning, there are 11 religious organizations, including Hsi Fang Temple, are there to conduct Sunday services. At MCRD, among all categories of volunteers, religious ministers collectively served for over 11,000 hours in 2023, topping all categories, with an impressive 62 individuals receiving the President's Volunteer Service Award. Brigadier General James A. Ryans II, Commanding General of MCRD, delivered a speech expressing gratitude and acknowledging the volunteers' dedication, which greatly contributes to the recruits' mental and emotional stability, enabling them to complete rigorous training. He emphasized the importance of "serve those who serve."
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.
