FGS News
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.
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."
The Creative Studio Class at Hsi Fang Temple Gain Insight into News Production at CBS News 8
By Qing ling Chan Students and parents from the Creative Studio class at Hsi Fang Temple had an educational visit to CBS News 8 on May 3rd, where they gained insights into the intricate process of news production. Guided by Josh Meza from the marketing department, the group received a comprehensive overview of the various aspects involved in delivering news to the public. The visit commenced with an exploration of the control room, where the intricacies of screen broadcasting, coding, and content sequencing were elucidated by Shawn and John from the production department. The students were fascinated to learn about the dynamic nature of news production, where timely adjustments are essential to reflect evolving events accurately. Transitioning to the studio, the visitors encountered the marvel of green screen technology. Josh demonstrated how the weather forecast is often presented, showcasing the versatility of the green screen in creating immersive visual experiences for viewers. The students marveled as they witnessed firsthand the magic of the green screen, with objects such as a green sandbag and even their name tags seamlessly integrating with the news backdrop. The group was then treated to a tour of the news set, providing them with the opportunity to sit at the anchor desk and experience the perspective of news reporting. Observing the computers beneath the desk, they learned about the vital role of technology in facilitating seamless communication and information access for news reporters. In a session with a member of the digital team, the students gained insights into the modern approach to news dissemination, emphasizing the importance of understanding audience preferences and feedback. The team's efforts to leverage data analytics to optimize news distribution across various platforms resonated with the visitors, highlighting the evolving landscape of journalism in the digital age. The visit concluded with a viewing of the four o'clock news broadcast in the employee lounge, where the group presented Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s calligraphy blessing of “May you be free as cloud and water, auspicious and joyful” expressing gratitude for the hospitality extended by Josh and his colleagues. The experience left a lasting impression on the students, with some expressing aspirations to pursue careers in news production. As they bid farewell, enriched with newfound knowledge and inspiration, the students departed with a deeper appreciation for the collaborative efforts driving the dissemination of information through the media.
Toronto 2024 Cloud and Water Dharma Talk Series: Blossoms with Insights from Floral Wisdom
The Life News Agency May 16, 2024 The Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Temple of Toronto and the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Toronto Chapter initiated the "2024 Cloud and Water Dharma Talk Series" on April 14th, captivating around 120 attendees with a lecture titled " Blossoms with Insights from Floral Wisdom" by Mrs. Sue Hutchison, BLIA Lay Dharma Teacher. She shared insights on integrating the aesthetics of Buddha-Dharma into daily life through the art of flower arrangement, symbolizing Buddhist cultivation. Venerable Ru Zhong, the Superintendent of FGS Toronto, commenced the event with welcoming remarks. Drawing attention to flower-related analogies abundant in Buddhism, Venerable Ru Zhong elucidated the symbolic significance of flowers, such as the purity embodied by orchids and the transformative journey mirrored in the lotus flower. Mrs. Hutchison, renowned for her role in leading the Reception Team at the Temple and teaching flower arrangement courses at FGS Toronto Humanistic Buddhism Buddhist Courses, delved into three key aspects during her presentation: the profound connection between Buddhism and flowers, the spiritual merits of offering flowers, and the inspirational teachings derived from flowers. Citing Buddhist scripture, she pointed out the symbolic representations of flowers in the Buddha’s life journey, elucidating profound teachings embedded in nature's cycles. The auspiciousness of the white lotus and the Ashoka tree welcomed the birth of the Buddha, while the withering of the sal tree upon his Nirvana speaks of Dharma. The bloom and withering of flowers portray the Four Virtues of Nirvana: permanence and impermanence, happiness and suffering, self and non-self, and purity and defilement. Exploring the benefits of offering flowers to the Buddha and Bodhisattvas as outlined in the Agama Sutra, Mrs. Hutchison elaborated on the virtues bestowed upon practitioners, including serenity, merit accumulation, and alignment with the Dharma. Reflecting on her affinity for the Japanese art of floral design, she underscored the lessons of impermanence and resilience observed through her practice, aligning with Buddhist principles. Mrs. Hutchison briefly introduced the origin of Ikenobō and reflected on her experiences as an enthusiast of the Japanese art of floral design. She learned to appreciate the beauty of all stages of life through her long-time hobby. Aged and bent branches, near-fallen autumn leaves, early spring sprouts, and even branches hit hard by wintry winds showcased unique characters and beauty. The resilience of plants demonstrates the truth of impermanence, quietly manifesting the importance of cherishing every moment. During a demonstration of Ikenobō, Mrs. Hutchison expounded on its simplicity and philosophical depth, emphasizing its harmony with the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Integrating the Five Harmonies principle into floral arrangements, she emphasized the importance of harmonious coexistence at various levels of society for global peace. Drawing parallels between the Vimalakīrti Sūtra and the philosophy of Ikenobō, Mrs. Hutchison urged attendees to perceive the world as a reflection of their inner selves, navigating life with wisdom and compassion. Encouraging mindful observation of flowers as manifestations of Buddha's teachings, she concluded with a call to cultivate positive intentions and spread loving-kindness, fostering a more beautiful and harmonious world. Through Mrs. Hutchison's insightful Dharma Talk, attendees were inspired to perceive the profound teachings of Buddhism in the delicate beauty of flowers, embracing wisdom and compassion on their journey toward enlightenment.
Toronto Buddhist Community Celebrates International Buddhist Day
The Life News Agency May 15, 2024 On the evening of April 10th, 2024, Venerable Chueh Fan, the Abbess of the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, along with Ven. Ru Zhong, Ven. Zhi Guan and eight representatives of the temple attended the "International Buddhist Day Celebration" held at the West End Buddhist Temple in Mississauga. Nearly a hundred representatives from various Buddhist organizations and government officials from the Greater Toronto Area participated in the event, expressing the sincere wish of Canadian Buddhists for the United Nations to officially recognize April 8th as "International Buddhist Day," as proposed by The World Buddhist Summit. The ceremony commenced with a symbolic gesture of offering flowers to the Buddha by representatives from 26 Theravada and Mahayana Buddhist monastics. Bhante Saranapala, the Canadian representative of the World Buddhist Summit, set the tone with an opening speech expressing gratitude for the widespread support. Venerable Ahangama Rathanasiri Nayaka Mahathera highlighted the importance of compassion and inclusivity in today's society, advocating for actions that foster harmony and support for those in need. Representing Mahayana Buddhism, Venerable Chueh Fan emphasized the significance of cooperation among Canadian Buddhists and the rationale behind designating April 8th as "International Buddhist Day." She underscored the principles of "Humanistic Buddhism" and the concept of "Five Harmonies" as pathways to inner peace and societal harmony, resonating with the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan. Buddhists should begin with cultivating inner peace and joy, extending it to the family, practicing respect towards oneself and others, fostering social harmony, and ultimately achieving world peace. We should step out of the narrow circle of self-interest and embrace a broader sense of compassion for all beings, fostering understanding and respect to create a world filled with love and peace. The event continued with monastics offering prayers and blessings for global peace, followed by a loving-kindness meditation led by Venerable Ananda from the Cambridge area. Distinguished guests including city councilors Christina Fonseca, Alvin Tedjo, and Dipika Damerla from Mississauga, along with Rev. Earl Smith representing Toronto's religious diversity, reiterated the importance of cultural preservation and fostering a cohesive society. Through speeches, prayers, and meditations, the gathering exemplified the shared commitment of the Toronto Buddhist community toward promoting understanding, compassion, and peace in the world.
Setting Out on the Path of Discovery: Toronto Youth Commence Transformative Journey through Youth Temple Retreat
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto April 15, 2024 At the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, the 2024 Youth Temple Retreat was held from March 29th to 31st, drawing 29 young individuals eager to immerse themselves in the teachings and lifestyle of Humanistic Buddhism. This initiative aimed to guide participants on a transformative journey of self-discovery and spiritual exploration. The retreat commenced with an opening ceremony in the Conference Room after participants' registration on the afternoon of the 29th. Venerable Chueh Fan, the Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, extended a warm welcome to the youths, many of whom were visiting Fo Guang Shan or any Buddhist temple for the first time. She commended their courage and urged them to embrace the experience with sincerity, openness and the beginner’s mind. Following introductions, participants received an orientation from Ven. Ru Zhong, detailing the camp's schedule, temple protocols, and essential information. Among the challenging requirements was the temporary surrender of their mobile phones, a rule all participants respectfully adhered to. The retreat's overarching theme, "To Know the Way," guided a diverse array of activities over the three-day temple retreat. These included immersive experiences in learning the Buddhist etiquettes, traditional temple vegetarian culinary arts, Buddhist chanting, fundamental teachings of Buddhism, meditation sessions, group discussions, teamwork and chores, special Dharma lectures, along with morning and evening chanting, provided a holistic understanding of monastic life. A highlight of the retreat was a virtual lecture by Ven. Miao Fan, director of the Humanistic Buddhism Research Institute at Fo Guang Shan. Delving into the “Platform Sutra of the Sixth Patriarch: Daily Practice Insights.” Ven. Miao Fan skillfully intertwined the insights with personal anecdotes, resonating deeply with the participants. During the sharing session, Ven. Zhi Guan and Ven. Ru An encouraged participants to share their reflections. Xu Tao, the president of the University of Waterloo's Buddha Light Community Club, remarked on the practicality of Buddhism, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and practice in daily life. Many youths shared profound personal insights, recognizing that life's journey is one of self-cultivation and that the most significant transformations are those that occur within. Fule Liu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and the enlightening meditation sessions that underscored the concept of "causality" in her spiritual journey. Guidance from Ven. Zhi Guan provided clarity amidst uncertainty, fostering deep understanding. Jason Au highlighted the value of cherishing current opportunities and the importance of continuous learning and self-awakening at a young age. The retreat proved to be a transformative experience for many, providing them with not only answers to their initial questions but also with Buddhist teachings and practices they plan to incorporate into their lives moving forward, aiming for self-improvement and a deeper understanding of their life journey.
Venerables Visit Just Food community Farm in the Ottawa Greenbelt
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa April 11, 2024 On March 28, a group of nine people, including Venerable Yung Ku, abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa, along with superintent Ven. Zhi Yin, other venerables and groundskeeping volunteers went to the Just Food community farm in the Ottawa Greenbelt. The group was led by Wu Chen, a student from Algonquin College’s Business Agriculture program. During the Chinese New Year, Wu Chen and her roommates, Emma and Iris, who are studying carpentry, visited the temple to participate in activities and Dharma services. They had conversations with the venerables about their respective majors and learned that Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa had established a "Happy Farm" since 2023. Upon receiving an invitation from the advising venerable, they eagerly joined the team of farm volunteers and enthusiastically contributed to planning the 2024 planting schedule. In order to assist the venerables with the understanding of agricultural cultivation, Wu Chen organized this visit. Sun Shan and Li Bo, who were her previous working partners in Beijing, led a guided tour of the farm. During the farm tour, the venerables and volunteers were presented the concepts advocated by Just Food, and that Just Food is committed to improving food production and distribution efficiency through sustainable agricultural practices, with a focus on fostering community engagement and providing training opportunities. Although they couldn't witness the early spring crop plantings and the farm's breeding and planting experiments firsthand, Sun Shan and Li Bo's introductions inspired the group with the passion and philosophy of "Just Food Urban Agriculture" towards sustainable agriculture and food safety. Coincidentally, during the visit, the group had the opportunity to meet Erin O'Manique, the executive director of the Gloucester Emergency Food Cupboard and a member of the board of directors of the Ottawa Food Bank. Sun Shan and Li Bo, who were her previous working partners in Beijing, led a guided tour of the farm. photo／The Life News Agency During this visit, everyone profoundly realized the importance of Ottawa Greenbelt. This vast green space serves as not only a vital natural resource for the city of Ottawa but also as a key factor in maintaining ecological balance and sustainable development of the entire region. The Ottawa Greenbelt is known for its rich biodiversity and beautiful natural landscapes, while also providing many important ecosystem services, such as water conservation, air purification and carbon absorption. Protecting and preserving the Ottawa Greenbelt is crucial for ensuring the health and prosperity of local communities, which also echoes the sustainable development concept advocated by Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa and the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA). This visit not only provided the venerables and volunteers with a deeper understanding of sustainable agriculture but also laid a solid foundation for the "Happy Farm" to learn from the practices of "Just Food Urban Agriculture." Through collaborative efforts, the venerables and volunteers firmly believe that they can contribute even more to the sustainable development and food safety of the communities near Richmond which will further advance the progress and prosperity of the society.
" TBIF " English Lecture: Buddhism in a Technologically Advancing World
Ching Pan April 10, 2024 Fo Guang Shan Hsi Fang Temple hosted the "Thank Buddha It’s Friday” (TBIF) English monthly lecture on March 29, featuring Ven. Jue Wei, Director of the Humanistic Buddhism Centre at Nan Tien Institute in Australia. The lecture, titled "Buddhism in a Technologically Advancing World." About 40 attendees from Australia and North America attended. Ven. Jue Wei led the discussion on the mindful use of technology to nurture Bodhicitta and foster a compassionate world (MettāVerses). Ven. Jue Wei invited the participants to contemplate on their daily screen time and social media usage, reflecting on its impact on mental and interpersonal well-being. Participants expressed fatigue and decreased concentration and yet struggled to detach from it. Ven. Jue Wei then explained the concept of the "Attention Economy," where social media platforms constantly feed tailored information and products to users based on algorithmic analysis, creating addiction while fostering an illusion of control. "Attention and mindfulness are crucial," Ven. Jue Wei emphasized. In the rapidly changing technological era, not all impacts are negative. By applying Buddhist principles of impermanence, interdependence, non-self, and dependent origination, emptiness, individuals can make informed choices regarding their relationship with technology. Ven. Jue Wei encouraged attendees to focus their attention on the "Four Immeasurables" of loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity, constituting a "Buddhist-Inspired Attention Ecology" aligned with the Mahāyāna principle of benefiting all beings. By cultivating Bodhicitta and utilizing technology to propagate Buddhism, Buddhists can then contribute positively to the society and create a compassionate world (MettāVerses). "Metta" in Pali, commonly translated as "loving-kindness" or "universal love." It refers to the genuine, unconditional benevolence and goodwill towards all beings. In alignment with the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, who defines compassion as selflessness, genuine care, and mutual assistance, Ven. Jue Wei regarded the "compassionate world" (MettāVerses) as an antidote to the violence and discrimination prevalent in today's online environment, encouraging solidarity among attendees. Peter Meluso, an attendee with a Master's degree in Business Administration, found the lecture enlightening. Noting Ven. Jue Wei's own MBA degree, he inquired about applying Bodhicitta in profit-oriented marketing. Ven. Jue Wei stressed the importance of ethical conduct, conscience, and moderation, advocating for the Circular Economy principle in marketing to balance profitability with societal well-being. Peter expressed gratitude for the insightful response.
Toronto Educational Talk on Psychological Counseling: Nurturing Children with Love and Hope
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto April 10, 2024 On March 23rd, the Social Education Department of FGS Toronto and BLIA Da Tzu Subchapter organized an educational talk titled "Giving Children Love and Hope" at FGS Temple of Toronto. The talk was conducted by a registered social worker and psychological counsellor Ms. Zhihong Chen, and attracted 80 Fo Guang members, both in-person and online. Ven. Zhi Guan, the Superintendent of FGS Toronto, delivered a welcoming speech, sharing the educational philosophy of the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Emphasizing education based on compassion and tailored to individual needs, she highlighted Ms. Zhihong Chen's academic and clinical achievements, recognizing her contributions to the community. Ms. Zhihong Chen began by discussing the importance of self-education and social education among the four types of education. She addressed common concerns about procrastination and screen time, emphasizing its role as a coping strategy for stress. Elaborating on psychologist Erickson's "eight stages of life" growth theory, Ms. Zhihong Chen illustrated the developmental characteristics of each stage of life, along with potential challenges, using lively examples. Drawing from her own childhood experiences, she emphasized the profound impact of language on a child's growth, encouraging parents to "think good thoughts and say good words" and to pay attention to the importance of body language in communication. Addressing the question of "how to resolve conflicts between children and parents," Ms. Zhihong Chen guided parents to meet their children's emotional needs by providing companionship, love, play, praise, recognition, and apologies. She introduced the "TK model" to meet emotional needs and the "five-step communication support method" for effective communication. Attendees actively engaged in practicing these methods. She then demonstrated scenarios to help parents apply her designed "five-step communication support method" and emphasized the importance of rational analysis combined with emotional support when practicing the method. The attending parents actively participated in practicing the five-step support method. In conclusion, Ms. Chen pointed out that when we have faith, we are in the "self-actualization needs" level, and "Humanistic Buddhism" is in touch with people. Ms. Aiqing Liu, president of the Da Tzu 1 Sub-chapter thanked Ms. Zhihong Chen for her informative lecture. She encouraged attendees to apply the knowledge, nurture their families with love and joy, and grow with their children.
Triple Gem Refuge Ceremony in Ottawa New Life is born at Easter
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa April 9, 2024 On March 31st, during the Canadian Easter long weekend, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa held the "Fo Guang Shan Triple Gem Refuge Ceremony ." Over 30 individuals of all ages, ranging from the very young to the elderly, took refuge and became devoted Buddhist laypersons. In the presence of over 30 Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) members and relatives, the preceptees sincerely followed Ven. Yung Ku, the abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Ottawa, in taking the Triple Gem refuge and receiving the blessings of the holy nectar. The preceptees conducted themselves with utmost respect, making the ceremony solemn and extraordinary. Among the 30 new preceptees, their ages ranged from 5 to 79 years old. Some were college students who traveled from Queen's University, others were mothers who took refuge with their children, and there were also those who took refuge on behalf of their beloved family pets. “Do I need to become a monastic after taking refuge?” “Why should I take refuge if I can still learn Buddhism without taking refuge?” In response to these questions from the public regarding taking refuge in the Triple Gem, Ven. Yung Ku patiently addressed everyone's doubts and concerns during the "Good Morning Fo Guang" program. An online briefing was conducted on March 28th to provide an explanation of the ceremony procedures. During the refuge ceremony, Ven. Yung Ku explained that taking refuge means relying on the Triple Gem. The Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha are invaluable spiritual treasures. Before we embark on the path of learning Buddhism, our lives are bestowed upon us by our parents. However, after taking refuge, we nurture our Dharma bodies through sincere study in accordance with the guidance of the Triple Gem. Fo Guang Shan is a bodhisattva temple that embodies the concepts of right understanding, right view, and right faith in Buddhism. Ven. Yung Ku hopes that everyone can study with a peaceful mind, gradually cultivate their aspirations, consider Fo Guang Shan as their spiritual home, and make frequent visits to it. Ban Tongyan, whose Dharma name is Hai Yue, is a student at Queen's University. With the help and support of Ven. Miao Rang and other venerables, she established the BLIA club on campus. She expressed gratitude to all the Dharma friends she encountered that offered her guidance. She hopes to fully comprehend every word spoken by the abbess and will hold it close to her heart. Furthermore, she aspires to use the Triple Gem – the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha – as guides and to diligently study and practice Buddhism, and uphold the teachings in her life. Zheng Xiang, whose Dharma name is Hai Xian, is a member of the Buddha's Light Choir. She not only participated in the Triple Gem Refuge Ceremony but also officially became a member of BLIA. Hai Xian shared, "When the abbess presented me with the refuge certificate and blessed me with the holy nectar, tears welled up in my eyes. In my heart, I couldn't help but think, 'It feels so good to be home!' Taking refuge in the Triple Gem is like 'being reborn,' and from now on, I have faith in life. There is a light illuminating my heart and I vow to follow the teachings earnestly from this day forward."
