Toronto Fo Guang Shan Youth Retreat Cultivates Inner Strength Through “Aspiration and Practice”

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto
April 28, 2026

In today’s fast-paced and high-pressure world, many young people face uncertainty in their studies, relationships, and future direction. From April 10 to 12, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto hosted the 2026 Youth Temple Life Retreat, themed “Aspiration and Practice,” offering a meaningful space for participants to pause, reflect, and reconnect with themselves through Buddhist learning and lived experience.

A total of 21 youth participated, including 17 attendees and 4 young adult volunteers. Most were English-speaking, and many were visiting a Buddhist temple for the first time—reflecting a growing interest among youth from diverse backgrounds in exploring inner growth and spiritual well-being.

The retreat began with the solemn chanting of the Oath to the Triple Gem. In her opening remarks, Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan emphasized that temple life is not only about acquiring knowledge, but about returning the mind to simplicity and stability. She encouraged participants to remain open to unfamiliar practices—such as early morning routines and chanting—and to cultivate awareness by being fully present in each moment.

Superintendent Venerable Zhi Guan introduced the program and daily guidelines, and also shared Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s teaching that “Buddhist education is the education of self-awakening,” encouraging youth to begin with inner awareness and discover their potential.

The program integrated both understanding and practice, featuring introductions to Buddhist teachings, guided meditation, temple etiquette, chanting, and hands-on activities such as vegetarian cooking and community service. Through this balanced approach, participants gradually developed focus, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation of how Buddhist principles can be meaningfully applied in daily life.

At the closing ceremony on April 12, a reflection video revisited the three-day journey, capturing moments of learning, connection, and personal growth. Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan reminded participants that “aspiration” is not merely an idea, but a direction in life, while “practice” is the steady commitment to walk that path. She encouraged the youth to embody the Three Acts of Goodness “do good deeds, speak good words, and think good thoughts,” as guiding principles in their everyday lives.

During the sharing session, participants offered heartfelt reflections. Many shared that they learned to pause and observe their thoughts rather than react impulsively to stress, while others discovered the value of cooperation and giving through group activities. For many, the retreat was not only an introduction to temple life, but also a practical pathway to cultivating clarity, resilience, and confidence in facing life’s challenges.