AHB Community School Students Visit Xiang Yun Temple for a Cultural Introduction to Buddhism

By The Life News Agency Reporter Bob Taylor

On March 3, 2026, Xiang Yun Temple welcomed a group of 21 fifth- and sixth-grade students from AHB Community School in Austin, Texas. The students were accompanied by seven teachers and parents, led by Ms. Lorrie Salome, a teacher with 22 years of experience who is passionate about teaching world religions. Having visited the temple with her students last year and leaving with a deep impression, Ms. Salome once again arranged this educational visit during the Lunar New Year season to help students gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist culture.

The program began with a video presentation on the life of the Buddha, allowing students to learn about the origins of Buddhism and the spirit of compassion and wisdom that lies at its core. Through a guided tour, students were introduced to the history of Xiang Yun Temple and the dedication of the many volunteers and devotees whose efforts helped establish and sustain the temple.

Inside the main shrine hall, students observed the Three Buddhas, appreciating the solemn beauty of Buddhist art and sacred imagery. In front of the wood-carved panels of the Diamond Sutra, they listened to an explanation of the profound wisdom of the Prajna teachings. Through a display of Buddhist ritual instruments, students also gained a preliminary understanding of the daily practice and spiritual discipline of the monastic community.

As the visit took place during the Lunar New Year period, the temple grounds were adorned with festive red lanterns and a wishing tree, creating a joyful and welcoming atmosphere. The calligraphy works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, known as “One-Stroke Calligraphy,” also inspired students to reflect on the connection between art, culture, and spiritual cultivation.

At the conclusion of the visit, Venerable Yongjia welcomed the group to the temple’s Water Drop Teahouse and introduced the tradition of tea culture. The venerable also encouraged students to practice the “Three Acts of Goodness”: doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts in their daily lives.

As a token of blessing for the Lunar New Year, the venerable presented each student with an auspicious, orange-shaped candy box symbolizing good fortune and joy. The visit concluded with a group photo taken in front of the temple archway, bringing this meaningful cultural and educational exchange to a harmonious close.