Exploring New Opportunities for Collaboration in Humanistic Buddhist Education

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto
November 13, 2024

On November 7, Rev. Dr. Christopher Brittain, Dean of Divinity at Trinity College, University of Toronto, visited Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto to gain insights into Humanistic Buddhism and explore potential collaborative initiatives. He was joined by Dr. Jizhang Yi, Adjunct Professor and Fellow in Religious Philosophy, and graduate student Miao Lin. The delegation received a warm welcome from Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, along with Superintendent Venerable Zhi Guan, Venerable Ru An, Social Education Supervisor, and University of Toronto alumna Cindy Choi.

The visit commenced with a welcoming ceremony led by Venerable Chueh Fan at the Main Shrine. As gestures of goodwill, she presented Dr. Brittain and his team with Treatises on Humanistic Buddhism, The Glossary of Humanistic Buddhism from the Institute for Humanistic Buddhism, and a wind chime inscribed with Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s calligraphy, “Every Day is a Good Day.” The delegation then toured the temple’s facilities, including the Main Shrine, Water Drop Tea House, and library. Mr. Wilson, Local Culture Coordinator, guided the guests through the museum, showcasing the “Immersive and Multimedia Brushwork Art” exhibition and sharing insights into the temple's cultural heritage.

During the discussion, Venerable Chueh Fan introduced the life and contributions of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, highlighting his role in modernizing Buddhism, advancing educational initiatives, and promoting Humanistic Buddhism on a global scale. She also conveyed the admiration of renowned Buddhist scholar Professor Lancaster and Leslie Weir, Librarian and Archivist of Canada, who regard the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum as a distinguished center for Buddhist education and research.

Trinity College, established in 1851 as Canada’s oldest Anglican theological college, is rooted in religious tradition. Rev. Dr. Brittain, an Anglican pastor, emphasized the importance of education in serving communities and promoting multicultural and interfaith dialogue. He outlined the college’s mission to instill ethical values and global perspectives in students, preparing them for future leadership and service roles.

Dr. Yi praised Fo Guang Shan’s approach to monastic education and its dedication to Humanistic Buddhist values, a legacy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Recognizing the temple’s achievements in Buddhist education and cultural development, Dr. Yi extended an invitation to Dr. Brittain to explore collaborative opportunities with Fo Guang Shan, particularly in Buddhist studies and community service.

In response, Venerable Chueh Fan invited Dr. Brittain and his team to visit Fo Guang Shan’s headquarters and introduced them to the Institute for Humanistic Buddhism and the University of the West, both key institutions within the Fo Guang Shan network. She expressed hope for strengthening interfaith exchanges and educational partnerships, fostering mutual understanding and cultural connection.