FGS Auckland Expressed Gratitude to the Founding Master

Fo Guang Shan New Zealand March 11, 2024 On 24th February 2024, coinciding with the 15th day of the first lunar month, Fo Guang Shan Auckland commemorated the First Anniversary of Fo Guang Shan Founding Master—Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Passing Away. At 3pm NZ time, Abbess Manshin of Fo Guang Shan NZ led the monastic and BLIA members in joining a global live stream to pay tribute to the Venerable Master in a memorial service. The attendees included President Evelyn KU of BLIA North Island Chapter NZ, Deputy President Larry YANG, Nick YOONG and over fifty BLIA members. Head Abbot of FGS, the Most Venerable Hsin Bau expressed gratitude to the global Buddhist community for their unwavering commitment to protecting and promoting the faith. Abbot Hsin Bau explained that wisdom is the light of salvation for the world. The Founding Master hoped that everyone could find peace and happiness through faith. Abbot Hsin Bau blessed everyone to continue progressing and serving the community, drawing inspiration from the Founding Master’s spirit. Keeping Up is crucial, said Abbess Manshin, quoting the Founding Master to inspire the attendees. The opportunity to connect with the Founding Master is precious. By undertaking, enduring, striving and accomplishing in the service of the community, we enrich our lives with joy and value. President Evelyn expressed gratitude for the guidance of the Founding Master in understanding and strengthening faith, establishing correct views and beliefs. The Founding Master left countless writings to unlock our potential and gain wisdom. She encouraged the members to seize the moment and closely follow the Buddha’s teachings to enrich their lives. Advisor Lintao commented, that BLIA members are honored to uphold the Founding Master’s faith and legacy, which enhance our quality of life. Deputy President Larry reminisced emotionally about his time with the Venerable Master, During my volunteering at the headquarters, I had the precious opportunity to meet with the Venerable Master and was touched by his compassionate heart. I vow to cultivate the strength to bear responsibility, devote myself to the teachings and bring value to the community.

MORE

Jiangsu Province Buddhist Association from China Visited FGS Auckland NZ

Fo Guang Shan New Zealand March 28, 2024 On 16 March 2024, a delegation from the Jiangsu Province Buddhist Association, including Abbot of Nanjing’s Qixia Temple Venerable LongXiang, Abbot of Xuzhou’s Xinghua Chan Temple Venerable GuoGuang, Abbess of Rugao’s Fahua Temple Venerable ZhaoKong and the Academic Affairs Head of Jiangsu Buddhist College Venerable ZongZe, visited Fo Guang Shan Auckland. They were warmly received by Venerable Manshin, the Abbess of Fo Guang Shan in New Zealand. Abbess led the visitors to pay homage at the Main Shrine and to pay tribute to the Founding Master of FGS Buddhist Order Venerable Master Hsing Yun, with a flower offering. Abbess Manshin guided the guests through the facilities, explaining the community projects carried out in local society, based on the teaching of Venerable Master. Abbot LongXiang expressed gratitude to the Venerable Master for sharing kindness worldwide and benefiting the global citizens. He noted the significance of Buddhism serving the public and commended the BLIA members for their united and strong mission of bringing a joyful and positive attitude to the community. Abbot encouraged the members, acknowledging their fortune in continuing the spirit of Venerable Master’s teachings Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings in New Zealand. He appreciated the Team for their efforts, emphasising the need for increased cooperation and unity. Gifts were exchanged, including calligraphy, Pu’er tea and incense burners. FGS Auckland presented a book 366 Days with Wisdom written by the Founding Master in return.

MORE

BLIA South Island NZ Training and Fellowship Seminar with Newly Appointed YAD President

Fo Guang Shan New Zealand April 1, 2024 On 16th March 2024, BLIA South Island held a Training and Fellowship Seminar at the Fo Guang Shan Christchurch Temple. The session featured insights from Minister in Charge of FGS Christchurch Venerable Juexi, Subchapter Senior Advisor CAO Qian, and Subchapter 1 President Tiffany SU. The session was attended by over 40 members, including Subchapter Senior Advisor Louisa KUO, BLIA South Island Deputy Presidents James LOW and Dong ZHANG and other committees. During the event, a charter ceremony was conducted for the newly appointed BLIA Young Adult Division Christchurch President Tim SONG and Deputy President Elaine HUANG. President Tiffany SU, quoted Venerable Master Hsing Yun, encouraged all participants to serve the community, thus forging positive connections. She emphasized that BLIA members strive to purify human minds, fostering compassion within society and making a meaningful historical impact through organising various activities. Senior Advisor CAO Qian shared her personal experiences to convey the essence of the BLIA and the attitudes that members should maintain. She stressed Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s teachings for BLIA members to embrace virtues of unity and benevolence, and to actively engage in the Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings in their daily lives to cultivate happiness and peace. Venerable Juexi highlighted the significance of essence, form, and function in practice. Venerable encouraged attendees to develop wisdom as the essence, compassion as the form, and skilful means for function, as one should return to the basics by cultivating the right understanding and right view from within. Venerable urged BLIA members to care for all beings and practice the principles of Truthfulness, Virtue, and Beauty inherent in Humanistic Buddhism at all times. The session also included vibrant and energetic singing by the YAD group. Attendees expressed their appreciation for the organizers’ dedication, gaining deeper insights into BLIA’s operations and feeling proud to be part of the community.

MORE

Prayer for Peace and Coexistence at 30th Anniversary of Sydney Buddha's Birthday and Multicultural Festival

Francis Wong May 15, 2024 Co-organised by Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple, BLIA Sydney, and Hsing Yun Education Foundation, sponsored by the New South Wales Government, Multicultural NSW, and Darling Harbour Place Management of NSW, the 30th anniversary "2024 Darling Harbour Buddha's Birthday and Multicultural Festival" was held for two consecutive days on 27th and 28th April at Darling Harbour Sydney. The opening ceremony of the Buddha's Birthday Festival was held at Tumbalong Park at 3 p.m. on the 27th. Dignitaries attending included The Hon. Chris Minns MP, the Premier of New South Wales, The Hon. Stephen Kamper MP, the Minister for Multiculturalism of New South Wales, Clr. Emelda Davis representing the mayor Clr. Clover Moore AO, Professor Denise Kirkpatrick, the President of Nan Tien Institute, Venerable Man Ko, Chief Abbess FGS Australia and New Zealand, and Mr. Daniel Wu, President of BLIA Sydney, among nearly 500 attendees. The ceremony began with an address from Elder Uncle Michael West of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council, promoting "care," "respect," "unity," and "collaboration," welcoming the Buddha's Birthday to be held at Darling Harbour. "The celebration of Buddha's Birthday and multiculturalism is an important annual event in New South Wales," stated The Hon. Chris Minns MP, emphasizing that the values of "peace," "compassion," "joy," and "harmony" advocated by Buddhism are the driving forces and virtues for promoting social harmony. The Premier further expressed gratitude to Fo Guang Shan and BLIA for their selfless service to the community over the years, especially thanking the BLIA Scouts for their participation in the "ANZAC Dawn Service" on 25th April, reinforcing the scouts' learning of the virtue of gratitude. Clr. Emelda Davis, representing the Sydney City Council, acknowledged the importance of coexistence and mutual prosperity, noting the global impact of climate change and emphasizing the need for mutual respect between humans and nature for coexistence and mutual prosperity. She encouraged the community to embody the Fo Guang Shan brand of "Three Acts of Good Deeds and Four Givings" in social and family life to promote family harmony. The Hon. Stephen Kamper MP, Minister for Multiculturalism, believed that the values of peace, selflessness, and compassion advocated by Buddhism are suitable for any religious belief, especially emphasizing that "compassion" can easily bring friends, colleagues, and families together. He thanked the organizers for organising the Buddha's Birthday and Multicultural Festival at Darling Harbour for 30 years, promoting cultural exchange within the community and bringing joy to the community. "NTI is Australia's first Buddhist university," proudly stated Professor Denise Kirkpatrick, noting the significant progress of NTI graduates in wisdom and compassion cultivation, which has positively impacted their families and careers, thus influencing society. Daniel Wu pointed out that "coexistence and mutual prosperity" embody the importance of service, environmental protection, and community cohesion. He further highlighted Fo Guang Shan's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, participation in community activities, and the development of BLIA Scouts as prime examples of coexistence and mutual prosperity. The organizers, adhering to the principles of Fo Guang Shan, enriched the content of the Buddha's Birthday festival in four aspects, including culture, education, activities, and charity. Culturally, various religious representatives were invited to pray for "world peace," promoting cultural exchange among groups from different countries and cultural backgrounds, along with traditional rituals, blessing ceremonies, tea meditation, and the bathing of Buddha area. For education, there were Alms Rounds by venerables, allowing community and visitors to sow seeds of merit, contributing to the educational of Nan Tien Institute. Additionally, there were exhibitions of calligraphy by Master Hsing Yun, books, and investiture for BLIA Scouts Sydney, nurturing children's growth with proper faith-based education. For charity, funds raised from the VEGRUN were donated entirely to two charitable organizations, Lifeline Australia and the Black Dog Institute, to contribute to the promotion of mental health in society. Through the joyous celebration of Buddha's Birthday, the organizers expressed gratitude for the enlightenment and hope brought by the birth of the Buddha, bringing joy, auspiciousness, and harmony to society. The simultaneous global celebration of Buddha's Birthday brings peace and hope to the world.

MORE

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."

MORE

Buddha’s Light Shines Warmly Upon Women & Children Displaced by Fire in LA County Shelter Home

Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple March 19, 2024 After flames engulfed the first floor of Lydia House, a shelter home supported by Long Beach Rescue Mission for women and children who have already faced extreme difficulties in their past were forced to evacuate—nearly 50—on December 22, 2023. The Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) Long Beach Subchapter, together with the Hacienda Heights Improvement Association (HHIA), Hacienda Heights Women's Club, and Safer Hacienda Heights united in a common cause, on the morning of January 21, 2024, outside Hsi Lai Center, to bring hope and warmth back into the lives touched by tragedy. With compassionate-filled hearts, monastics and BLIA members from Hsi Lai Temple, and community members responded to the donation drive. Within five hours, over 1,000 packages of precious goods were collected—enough to fill two trucks! The fire not only took away a safe refuge for many, but the first floor also served as a warehouse for necessities and supplies, exacerbating the challenging situation even more. Gifts of clothing, blankets, hygiene products, toys, and books were donated and far exceeded the needs of the Long Beach Rescue Mission, bringing much-needed relief and joy to the displaced women and children. The surplus was distributed to the New Hope Rescue Center and other shelters, extending the impact of the generous donations. HHIA board member Andrea Gordon expressed genuine admiration for all the generous donations; thanking Hsi Lai Temple for providing a convenient venue for the donation drive and praising the BLIA Los Angeles Chapter and Long Beach Subchapter for all their hard work collecting, sorting, and delivering, not only material packages but also “hope” to numerous children and women.

MORE

Traveling throughout South Asia with a Compassionate Heart and Vows, The ten-thousand mile bhikkhuni goes to Ottawa

Grace Zhang, The Life News Agency April 1, 2024 Venerabble Chueh Cheng, the head abbess of the Singapore-Malaysia-Thailand-India Region of Fo Guang Shan monastery, traveled to Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa to give a lecture, "The Pioneer’s Trail: Spreading Humanistic Buddhism Far and Wide,” on March 17th. 2024. Venerable Yung Ku, the abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa, Venerable Miao Mu, the superintendent of Fo Guang Shan Montreal, other venerables and close to 200 devotees joined the lecture in person and online. Simultaneous translation in English and Cantonese was provided to facilitate the participation of community residents. Venerable Chueh Cheng took time from her busy schedule to give a lecture tour in Canada after participating in a UN conference in New York City.  Due to time constraints, she could only arrange two lectures in Toronto and Ottawa. Chuan Shan Ye, the president of Montreal Chapter of BLIA, along with 10 chapter members, traveled to Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa to listen to the Dharma teachings. First, Abbess Venerable Yung Ku introduced Venerable Chueh Cheng, who has dedicated herself to propagating Buddhism for 16 years in South America and Malaysia. Currently, she serves as the Vice Secretary-General of BLIA Headquarters for the Southeast Asia region. With unwavering determination, she follows in the footsteps of the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, in promoting Humanistic Buddhism. She truly is the great king of vows as she spreads the seeds of compassion, vows, wisdom, and courage to various parts of the world. During the two-hour lecture, Venerable Chueh Cheng led everyone on a journey from the "Sons of Zu Lai" in Brazil to the "Village of Hope" in India, from the post-war reconstruction in Afghanistan to the Institute of Humanistic Buddhism in Pakistan, and from the Dong Zen Temple in Malaysia to the Village of Happiness. These were all sanctuaries of Humanistic Buddhism. Despite the Venerable Chueh Cheng's calm and gentle demeanor, the difficulties and challenges encountered along the way were beyond imagination. Whenever faced with obstacles, she recalled the teachings of the Venerable Master, "tolerance of non-arising dharmas, following the causes and conditions." The prayer beads and a simple bowl of plain noodles in broth signify Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s compassion for sentient beings and his unsurpassed Vajra-like mind. Venerable Chueh Cheng mentioned that the construction of Fo Guang Shan Temple in Ottawa is currently underway. Although the current environment may seem desolate, under the guidance of Abbess Yung Ku, it will surely be transformed into a solemn Dharma center. The vast forest surrounding the temple also provides an excellent setting for large-scale meditation retreats. If everyone actively supports and participates in this endeavor, witnessing the transformation of the temple from nothingness to fruition, it will create a stronger sense of belonging and a feeling of home. Abbess Yung Ku extends a heartfelt invitation to Venerable Chueh Cheng to once again visit and preside over meditation in the forest when the construction of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa is completed. During the lecture, Venerable Chueh Cheng led everyone in reciting the verse of Master Taixu, "I am the future of Buddhism!" as a source of self-inspiration. Devotee Helen Ge was deeply moved by Venerable Chueh Cheng's adherence to the teachings of the Venerable Master, her embodiment of compassion as a driving force for vows, and her unwavering perseverance even in the face of unbearable circumstances as the center for Dharma, all for the sake of promoting Humanistic Buddhism. Hui Li admired Venerable Chueh Cheng's profound love and compared her to a contemporary Master Xuanzang, bringing light to lives struggling in darkness. When seeing Abbess Yung Ku, with head held high, persevering through the icy world for temple construction, and Venerable Chueh Cheng standing firm in the endless yellow sands, radiating boundless compassion for sentient beings, Richard Li couldn't help but be amazed and firmly believed that the aspirations of these two great kings of vows will surely be successfully fulfilled.

MORE

BLIA Scout Sydney Pledging to Serve Society and Contribute to the World at the Investiture Ceremony

Francis Wong MAy 17, 2024 The BLIA Scouts Sydney, adhering to the "Three Acts of Good Deeds and Four Givings" philosophy advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, have deeply garnered parents' support. On 28th April, coinciding with the 30th anniversary celebration of the "2024 Buddha's Birthday Multicultural Festival" held at Darling Harbour in Sydney, a special "BLIA Scouts Investiture Ceremony" was held. Nearly 200 attendees, including Venerable Man Ko, Chief Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Australia & New Zealand; John Dwyer, State Commissioner – Partnerships & Advocacy Scouts NSW; Helen Dwyer, Scout Commissioner of the Bambara District; Ven. Ru Yi, Guiding Venerable of Fo Guang Scouts in Oceania; Daniel Wu, President of BLIA Sydney,  Jing Fang, Leader of BLIA Scouts Sydney; along with certified scouts and their parents, witnessed the investiture of 30 scouts and 4 new scout leaders. Since its establishment during the Buddha's Birthday Festival in Sydney Darling Harbour in 2017, the BLIA Scouts Sydney have been committed to learning, community service, and personal growth, integrating into the mainstream scouting community. Their activities have included participation in ANZAC Day events, Clean Up Australia Day, Tree Planting Day, Daffodil Day Cancer Council fundraisers, mainstream scouting outdoor camps, and BLIA events such as the global online examinations. Commissioner Helen Dwyer was pleased to see 34 new scouts joining the BLIA Scouts Sydney, enhancing local scout development and growth, and serving the community. She emphasized the need for parental and leadership efforts in nurturing Scouts' growth, hoping for collective creativity to cultivate social talents. Daniel Wu pointed out the alignment of BLIA Scouts Sydney beliefs with those of Fo Guang Shan, urging everyone to cherish the opportunity to integrate the philosophy of "doing good deeds every day" with the " Three Acts of Good Deeds " principles, applying it in daily life for self-improvement and progress. The ceremony proceeded with a simple yet solemn investiture, inviting Venerable Man Ko, Helen Dwyer, Ven. Ru Yi, and Daniel Wu to certify 4 new scout leaders, 5 Venture Scouts, 2 Scouts, 9 Cubs, 7 Joeys, and 7 transitioning to Scouts. Venerable Man Ko presented the BLIA Scouts scarves, Ven. Ru Yi awarded the BLIA Scouts badges, and Daniel Wu awarded Australian Scout badges and national flag badges. Commissioner Helen Dwyer, in the presence of the public, led the new scouts in the oath to be loyal to the scout spirit, contribute to the community and the world, help others, and abide by scout laws. The scouts affirmed in unison, "Yes, I Do." The solemn investiture ceremony welcomed 34 new members into the BLIA Scouts Sydney family, where they can grow and serve the community in a disciplined and nurturing environment. The emotional feedback from the scout investiture was shared by John Dwyer, State Commissioner – Partnerships & Advocacy Scouts NSW, and Helen Dwyer, Scout Commissioner of the Bambara District, both expressing excitement and pride in collaborating with Fo Guang Shan. They acknowledged the alignment of scout goals and principles with Buddhism, emphasizing mutual understanding, cooperation, and friendship. They further highlighted the theme of the World Scout Conference scheduled for July at Nan Tien Temple, "Mutual Existence and Prosperity," echoing the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). They firmly believed that scouting is the only organization in the world that aligns with all SDGs. Newly certified scout leader Nora believes that BLIA Scouts Sydney is a trustworthy organization that not only teaches scouting skills but also provides opportunities to learn Buddhism, practice the " Three Acts of Good Deeds " in daily life, and cultivate meaningful values.

MORE

The 10th 3G4G Festival of Cultural Sharing New Zealand Joyfully Commenced

Fo Guang Shan New Zealand May 17, 2024 The 3G4G Festival of Cultural Sharing has entered its 10th anniversary from 2014 to 2024. The Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple New Zealand following the Founder of the FGS Buddhist Order, Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s concept of the Temple functions as an education centre, collaborated with the New Zealand Police and local schools to collectively build a harmonious society. Under the guidance of Abbess Manshin, participation has grown from 3 schools in the first year to 63 schools in 2024, with over 30,000 students, teachers and parents stepping into the Temple. Since its commencement, the New Zealand Police had 47 officers to support this education program fully, enabling students to understand and apply the principles of the Three Acts of Goodness and the Four Givings in making correct choices in life. In this 10th year, Auckland and Christchurch Temples have 23 schools, with over 4,000 students and teachers registering to participate. The one-month long Festival of Cultural Sharing commenced on 30th April 2024 at FGS Buddhist Temple in Auckland, 123 students from Year 4 to 6 from St Francis Catholic School, along with 27 teachers and parents visited joyfully. The students’ anticipation filled every corner of the Temple with vitality and enthusiasm. Students from St Francis Catholic School participating in the education program for the first time are divided into three groups to engage in various enriching activities in an orderly manner. These activities include watching the movie Life of Buddha, mindfulness meditation, calligraphy experience, incense offering, writing wishing cards and police interaction sessions. The specially prepared Three Goodness Rice from the Temple received high praise from the students. In addition, the exquisite pencils imprinted with 3G Wording also brought them surprises. Deputy Principal Olivia expressed gratitude to FGS Auckland for arranging such a rich and exciting program, stating that the visit provided students with an incredible experience. Director of  Religious Studies Veronica Jones, remarked that the values presented by 3G4G resonate with the school’s core values and the tranquillity of the Temple allowed students to engage deeply and enjoyably in the activities. Student Nikki shared that her favourite session was the mindfulness meditation in the courtyard, feeling extremely comfortable with the warm sunlight shining on her. Student Natalie expressed her delight in visiting the Temple, and learning how to become a better person through 3G4G. Students Kevin and David found the calligraphy experience quite challenging but expressed their determination to return for more practice.

MORE

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa Offers Compassionate Support Amidst Tragedy

Wen Guo, The Life News Agency May 17, 2024 On April 2nd  2024, the monastics of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa and Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA), visited a Sri Lankan temple of the Buddhist Congress of Canada, to donate $2,000 in support of the sole surviving member of a Sri Lankan family affected by an unfortunate incident that occurred in Ottawa on March 6, 2024. The donation was presented by Venerable You Wang of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa, Felicia Kho, treasurer of the BLIA Ottawa Chapter, Nancy Zhang, president of BLIA Ottawa South Subchapter, and Kwok Chun Suen and Tim Wang, members of the South Subchapter. Ven. Bhante Suneetha, a Theravada Buddhist monk from the Buddhist Congress of Canada, received the donation. Venerable Suneetha stated that the funds would be used directly to support the affected Sri Lankan family, to help them overcome their difficulties. The Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa and the BLIA Ottawa Chapter did not hesitate to extend a helping hand in the face of this tragedy. These organizations did not only send monastics and BLIA members to the memorial service, but they also expressed their emotional support and condolences to the affected family through substantial support. Venerable Suneetha of the Buddhist Congress noted that such direct acts of kindness would bring warmth and hope to the family, and demonstrate the unity and compassion of the community. Venerable Suneetha, who has been propagating the Dharma in the Ottawa region for over 10 years, has always strived to actively promote interaction and solidarity among religious communities. Venerable Suneetha became acquainted with the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa at the "Vesak Day on Parliament Hill" event that was hosted by Member of Parliament Chandra Arya in 2023. He was subsequently invited to attend the "Venerable Master Hsing Yun Memorial Concert" on August 4th in same year. Venerable Sunneetha expressed deep appreciation for Fo Guang Shan's approach in propagating "Humanistic Buddhism." Although this meeting was prompted by a tragedy, Venerable Suneetha hoped there would be more exchanges with Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa in the future to increase understanding of the Buddhist faith in the Ottawa area, and, to do so again during this year's Vesak Day celebrations.

MORE