Fo Guang Shan Tsung Lin University Overseas Exchange Tour Visits Renowned Universities in Toronto

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto
July 19, 2024

From July 10 to 11, 2023, Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, and Venerable Zhi Guan led a delegation of students and teachers from Fo Guang Shan Tsung Lin University, along with three students from Fo Guang University, to visit prominent educational institutions in the Toronto area for academic exchanges. The purpose of this visit was to broaden the international views of students and share the concepts of Humanistic Buddhism with scholars. Venerable Chueh Fan emphasized that Humanistic Buddhism must evolve with time, integrating modern technology and human care to serve all beings.

On July 10, the group visited Wilfrid Laurier Universityin Waterloo, one of Canada’s fastest-growing universities, known for its diverse and inclusive campus culture. The visit included Martin Luther University College and its Delton Glebe Counselling Centre. Elma Plant, the centre's director, warmly welcomed the group and introduced the centre’s history, mission, and services, emphasizing the importance of spirituality andinter personal relationships in psychotherapy, which aligns with the principles of Humanistic Buddhism.

At Martin Luther University College, Rev. Dr. AnneAnderson and Dr. Mitra Barua showcased the university’s multicultural and interfaith campus, highlightingthe integration of culture, art, psychotherapy, and community care. Dr. Baruanoted the insights that Buddhist studies can provide for psychotherapy.

Venerable Zhi Nian led the students in a tea meditation session, discussing the application of Humanistic Buddhism in modern life and emphasizing the importance of meditative concentration and courage in facing challenges for mental health. In the evening, young members of the University of Waterloo Buddha's Light Community Club guided a campus tour, introducing the campus life of modern youth.

On July 11, Venerable Chueh Fan, Venerable Zhi Guan, Venerable Ru An, and the group visited the University of Toronto, established in 1827 and recognized as Canada’s largest and most comprehensive university with world-leading research and teaching standards. The visit focused on Victoria University, which includes Victoria College (focused on arts and sciences) and Emmanuel College (the largest theological school associated with the United Church of Canada).

At Emmanuel College, Buddhist scholar Professor Henry Shiu introduced Buddhist theology through the lens of the Heart Sutra, sharing his efforts to promote academic understanding of religious experiences, including meditation, chanting rituals, and the value of understanding sutras. Professor Jennifer Bright, through a video presentation, discussed "Buddhismand Psychotherapy," sharing her personal experiences in guiding and supporting terminally ill individuals with the help of Buddhist teachings.

Venerable Zhi Nian led a discussion on "Humanistic Buddhism and Education for the Modern World, "introducing the educational philosophy of Fo Guang Shan’s founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and the global educational system of Fo Guang Shan, including the Sons of Zulai Program in Brazil, Guang Ming College, and the Hope Villages in India.

In the afternoon, the group discussed with Emmanuel College Principal Dr. HyeRan Kim Cragg, exploring future collaboration opportunities. Venerable Chueh Fan briefed on Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto’s efforts in community spiritual care and children's education, and introducedthe Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, inviting the principal and professors to visit the Fo Guang Shan Monastery in Taiwan.

The students and teachers of Fo Guang Shan Tsung Lin University expressed gratitude for the overseas exchange tour, which broadened their international views. The exchange with renowned institutions like the University of Toronto also laid a foundation for future academic collaborations, opening a new chapter for the localization of Humanistic Buddhism.