FGS News
Fo Guang Cup schedule was postponed due to rain,BK Academy advanced to the semifinals with an undefeated record in the preliminary rounds
The Merit Times July 25, 2024 On the third day of the 2024 Fo Guang Cup University Basketball Tournament, the afternoon schedule was postponed due to Typhoon Gaemi. In the men's division morning games, the Malaysia Selection Team defeated National Formosa University 81-73, and Brian Kerle Basketball Academy beat the University of Tsukuba 74-71. In the women's division, Mukogawa Women's University won against Brian Kerle Basketball Academy with a score of 104-70. During the game between the Malaysia Selection Team and National Formosa University, Bosango Tychique secured the win for his team with a three-pointer in the final minute. Bosango Tychique scored 22 points and grabbed 12 rebounds, while Michael Munnesvicky contributed 19 points and 6 rebounds. In another men's division game, Brian Kerle Basketball Academy narrowly won by 3 points, thanks to Adam Kerle's 25 points and 6 rebounds, Griffin Biwer's 15 points and 20 rebounds, and Christian Pang's 12 points and 3 rebounds. Brian Kerle Basketball Academy won all three of their preliminary games, securing the top seed in Group A of the men's basketball division. In the women's division game, Suzune Miyamoto from Mukogawa Women's University scored 17 points and grabbed 2 rebounds, Koharu Segawa contributed 14 points and 12 rebounds, and Kaede Takahashi scored 13 points and grabbed 2 rebounds, helping their team easily defeat Brian Kerle Basketball Academy.
Typhoon Gaemi Hits Taiwan, Fo Guang Cup Proceeds as Scheduled and Fo Guang University Advances to the Semifinals
The Merit Times July 24, 2024 2024 Fo Guang Cup University Basketball Tournament was held on July 23, and on July 24, Fo Guang University becomes the first team to advance to the semifinals in the women's division after beating National University of Philippines by 76-72. Typhoon Gaemi struck Taiwan on July 24th, but the Fo Guang Cup games held at the Kaohsiung Arena were unaffected and proceeded as scheduled. Fo Guang University achieved their second consecutive victory, advancing to the semifinals. Ting-Chi Chen scored a game-high 20 points, along with 5 rebounds and 5 steals. Despite securing two consecutive wins, both were narrow victories by single-digit margins. Coach Shu-Ching Yang admitted that the players did not perform at their usual pace. In the other matches on the 24th, in the women's division, the Malaysia Selection Team defeated Basketball New Zealand 67-53. Key player Xin-Jie Chen delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 24 points and grabbing 4 rebounds, keeping the team’s hopes of advancing alive. In the men's division, the Malaysia Selection Team defeated Basketball New Zealand 71-57. Bosango Tychique from the Malaysia Selection Team scored 21 points and grabbed 5 rebounds, Michael Munnesvicky scored 11 points with 4 rebounds, and De Wee Yiang contributed 10 points, 6 rebounds, and 2 assists. The Brian Kerle Basketball Academy beat Taiwan Normal University 96-62. Adam Kerle from the Brian Kerle Basketball Academy scored 19 points, with 14 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals; Darcy Ryder scored 13 points and grabbed 9 rebounds; and Liam Fletcher scored 23 points, with 5 rebounds and 2 steals.
2024 Fo Guang Cup Kicks Off on July 23, Mayor of Kaohsiung Chen Chi-mai Presided Over the Tip-Off Ceremony
The Merit Times July 23, 2024 The Opening Ceremony of the 11th Fo Guang Cup University Basketball Tournament was held on July 23. Chen Chi-mai, the Mayor of Kaohsiung, attended the opening ceremony and presided over the ceremoiny with Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Head Abbot of Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Monastery. The honoured guests include Venerable Tzu Jung, Buddha's Light International Association(BLIA) World Headquarters Acting President; Venerable Yi Lai; Venerable Ru Chang, Director of Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum; Venerable Chueh Pei, BLIA World Headquarters Secretary General; Venerable Yung Guang; Jow-Fei Ho, president of Fo Guang University; Liu Chao-ming, President of the Three Acts of Goodness Sports Association; Yang Chao-hsiang, presidentof Fo Guang Shan University Consortium; and Hou Tsun-yao, Director of the Sports Development Bureau of Kaohsiung City Government. Chen Chi-mai presided over the tip-off ceremony, cheering on the players. Most Venerable Hsin Bau gave a teaching. He encouraged the players to give their best effort, enjoy the competition, practice the "Three Acts of Goodness," and make the world a better place. At the opening ceremony, a message from Fo Guang Shan Monastery Venerable Master Hsing Yun was played, expressing his hopes for the basketball tournament. He wished for the sincerity, friendship, and excellence of the sport to be fully demonstrated on the court. 16 teams compete for the highest honor，with 8 teams in the men's division, including National Formosa University, National Chengchi University, National Kaohsiung Normal University, Brian Kerle Basketball Academy (Australia), University of Tsukuba (Japan), Guang Ming College (Philippines), Basketball New Zealand, and Malaysia Selection Team. In the women's division, there are also 8 teams participating, including Fo Guang University, Taiwan Normal University, Brian Kerle Basketball Academy (Australia), Oklahoma Baptist University (USA), Mukogawa Women's University (Japan), National University (Philippines), Basketball New Zealand, and Malaysia Selection Team. Many distinguished guests were invited to the opening ceremony. After the auspicious dragon dance by Fo Guang Shan, the organizer, Fo Guang University's president Jow-Fei Ho, gave a speech, welcoming all the teams and guests to the Fo Guang Cup. He expressed gratitude to Venerable Master Hsing Yun for advocating the spread of the "Three Acts of Goodness" through sports. Lastly, he specially thanked the city government of Kaohsiung and various organizations for their support of the event. After the cheerleading performance, the women's match began, featuring Fo Guang University against the Malaysia Selection Team. Fo Guang University led the game from the start, with the Malaysia Selection Team continually chasing. With only 5.6 seconds remaining, they closed the gap to just 1 point but couldn't take the lead. Ultimately, Fo Guang University won the game 75-74.
Be The Light! The 11th Fo Guang CUP University Basketball Tournament kicks off on July 23
The Merit Times July 22, 2024 The 11th Fo Guang Cup(Buddha’s Light International Association CUP) University Basketball Tournament will take place from July 23 to 28 at the Kaohsiung Arena. The Fo Guang Cup University Basketball Tournament is jointly organized by the Kaohsiung City Government and Fo Guang University, aiming to enhance friendship and cooperation among young people from various countries through sports activities. The organizers held a pre-tournament press conference on July 22, inviting coaches and key players from each team to attend. Attendees of the press conference included Hou Tsun-yao, Director of the Sports Development Bureau of Kaohsiung City Government; Jow-Fei Ho, president of Fo Guang University; Liu Chao-ming, President of the Three Acts of Goodness Sports Association; Sunny Li, Vice President Human Resources of ASE Technology; Kuniaki Oga, President of Yamagata Basketball Association, and Venerable Yong Guang, Head Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Philippines. They led the players in releasing dream balloons to announce the start of the Fo Guang Cup. The event was kicked off by the Little Star Kindergarten and the Philippine Guang Ming University cheerleading squad, igniting the enthusiasm of the audience with their energetic performance. Hou Tsun-yao stated that he, on behalf of Chen Chi-mai, the Mayor of Kaohsiung, welcomed everyone to Kaohsiung. Following the philosophy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Kaohsiung City has collaborated on many local activities, promoting the "Three Acts of Goodness" moral education. He also expressed the hope that during the tournament, everyone would come to Kaohsiung to watch the games and fall in love with the city through tourism. Jow-Fei Ho stated that Fo Guang Cup is not just a competition; it embodies the spirit of the "Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings." It is also a showcase of teamwork and collaboration from everyone involved. Liu Chao-ming expressed the hope that the BLIA Cup will fully demonstrate diversity, inclusiveness, enthusiasm, vitality, and social responsibility, spreading positive energy. He aims to promote the "Three Acts of Goodness" movement worldwide through the tournament. Sunny Li acknowledged the long-standing organization of the Fo Guang Cup and the emotional connections it has fostered over the years. She firmly believes that young people's participation in sports events can bring even more strength. The Three Acts of Goodness Sports Association and the Fo Guang Cup Basketball Tournament combine basketball with the principles of Humanistic Buddhism, revitalizing Taiwan's basketball scene. Founded by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the association sees basketball as a platform for physical and mental well-being and the cultivation of good character. It embraces values like courage, sportsmanship, teamwork, and respect, in line with Buddhist teachings. Established in 2009, the association not only supports basketball but also promotes the Three Acts of Goodness—doing good, speaking good, and thinking good—for the entire population. The Fo Guang Cup Basketball Tournament, inspired by Venerable Master Hsing Yun's passion for basketball and inclusive sports, has become a convergence of diverse basketball styles from the East and the West since its inception in 2010. It offers university teams an international stage to showcase their principles and character. The tournament also emphasizes holistic development, covering moral, intellectual, physical, social, and aesthetic aspects. Held at the Kaohsiung Arena, the tournament embodies Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vision of balancing sports development between Taiwan's north and south and aims to establish Kaohsiung as a basketball stronghold. Despite the interruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, the organizers remain committed to bringing the Fo Guang Cup back to the forefront of basketball fans' attention. With the joint efforts of the Kaohsiung City Government and Fo Guang Shan viharas across five continents, the Fo Guang Cup has become a highlight of high-level international competitions in southern Taiwan. The Fo Guang Cup invites outstanding teams from various countries to come to Taiwan, not only promoting sports development and cultural exchange but also serving as a sports event that encourages participation from the public. A total of 16 teams are participating in 2024 Fo Guang Cup, with 8 teams in the men's division, including National Formosa University, National Chengchi University, National Kaohsiung Normal University, Brian Kerle Basketball Academy (Australia), University of Tsukuba (Japan), Guang Ming College (Philippines), Basketball New Zealand, and Malaysia Selection Team. In the women's division, there are also 8 teams participating, including Fo Guang University, Taiwan Normal University, Brian Kerle Basketball Academy (Australia), Oklahoma Baptist University (USA), Mukogawa Women's University (Japan), National University (Philippines), Basketball New Zealand, and Malaysia Selection Team.
Guang Ming Bodhisattva in Action: A Summer of Service and Compassion
Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple July 17, 2024 On July 2nd, Fo Guang Shan successfully held an energetic summer youth camp, followed by the eagerly anticipated volunteer service program. Participants included students from the Guang Ming College - Guang Ming Bodhisattva organization. The students were divided into five groups, focusing on two routes: one for the elderly and one for children, with the goal of enhancing community engagement through compassion. This service journey was jointly organized by Buddhist College, Yuanfu Temple, and Nanhua University. The students assisted the elderly by providing companionship, helping with daily tasks, and organizing recreational activities to promote social interaction and reduce loneliness. For the children, the students hosted educational workshops, games, and creative arts sessions, aiming to create a fun and supportive learning environment, fostering enthusiasm and participation among both the children and the elderly. Red Mike Cinco, a student from Guang Ming College, shared how volunteering gave him a renewed sense of purpose. He realized the importance of benefiting the community and understood that the true essence of service lies in the mutual exchange of kindness and compassion. We were not just helping others; we were growing and learning alongside them. Meanwhile, Junina Gabia reflected on this experience with a renewed commitment to continue serving her community. This summer taught her that every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the potential to make a significant impact. The bonds she formed, the lives she touched, and the lessons she learned will stay with her forever. This program was not just an event but a journey of growth, compassion, and connection. She is deeply grateful for the opportunity and looks forward to continuing this journey of service in the future. President Gao Jun Xiong of Nanhua University expressed his gratitude to everyone who dedicated their effort and time to establishing a warm connection with the elderly and children. This volunteer service program demonstrated the power of collective effort and compassion. It set a benchmark for future initiatives and showed how community engagement can significantly impact society. Guang Ming College students learned to carry forward the commitment to serving and uplifting their communities. This initiative serves as an inspiring reminder of the potential within each individual to make a difference, fostering a more connected and compassionate society. From July 2nd to 4th, students had the opportunity to connect with various organizations. Through Q&A sessions with Venerable Hui Ping and discussions led by Venerable Yi Lai, the head of the charity institute, students gained a deep understanding of Fo Guang Shan's charitable philosophy of providing relief rather than perpetuating poverty. Guang Ming College offers skills and learning opportunities, enabling students to become self-reliant rather than dependent on others. Abbot Venerable Hui Chuan, along with supervising monks, shared insights that made students understand the concept of giving and receiving. Those capable should continue to give and grow. Students are encouraged to become givers rather than perpetual receivers. Some students even plan to volunteer at Fo Guang Shan after graduation to give back to the community that has supported them. Vice Director of the Buddha Memorial Center, Venerable Yung Jung, explained the founding causes of the Buddha Memorial Center, emphasizing the meticulous care and consideration in every aspect.
Fo Guang Shan Monastery Won Excellence Award of the 9th National Environmental Education Award
The Merit Times June 27, 2024 The National Environmental Education Award is the most esteemed recognition of the grandest scale in the field of environmental education. On June 26th, the Awards ceremony of the 9th National Environmental Education Award was held, and Fo Guang Shan Monastery won Excellence Award of the Group Category. Venerable Hui Chuan, Executive Vice Abbot of Fo Guang Shan, and Director of Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum Venerable Ru Chang accept the award on behalf of Fo Guang Shan Monastery. Venerable Hui Chuan then went to the Office of the President to meet Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao. In addition to Fo Guang Shan Monastery，the other five winners of the Excellence Award of the Group Category include Lanyang Museum, HoPing Industrial Harbor, Yue Ming Elementary and Junior High School Yilan, Hong Mingshi, Haomei Village Community. Minister of Environment Peng Chi-ming expressed gratitude to all the award recipients for their dedication and contributions to environmental protection. He stated that the Ministry of Environment not only works to improve pollution issues but also promotes education to raise public awareness about environmental matters. ●Promoting environmental and spiritual preservation to establish a sustainable home Peng Chi-ming affirmed Fo Guang Shan Monastery's "Meet, Educate, Heal" trilogy in promoting environmental education, conducting carbon reduction internally, and advocating for net-zero, cultural, and food and agriculture education externally. The Ministry of Environment is actively promoting "net-zero" and "green growth" initiatives, relying on the efforts of all sectors. He also invited all award-winning communities, organizations, and individuals to become "Ministers of Environment," contributing efforts that rival technological advancements for a sustainable home. Venerable Hui Chuan stated that Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan Monastery, delivered a speech in 2010 on the theme of "Environmental and Spiritual Preservation," addressing the dangers of extreme weather and forest fires. In 2022, a heatwave in Europe caused the deaths of at least several thousand people, and over 2,000 cows died from heat in a farm in Kansas, USA. "As long as we have a sense of crisis, we will realize that these events are not far from affecting us." Fo Guang Shan Monastery has transformed "Spiritual Preservation" into environmental sustainability actions. Specific initiatives include promoting the spirit of the "Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings," encouraging children to care for the Earth starting from their hearts, and organizing the International Book Fair and Vegetarian Expo to influence cooperation among academia, industry, and government agencies. The Buddha Museum focuses on being a "low-carbon museum," actively engaging in activities that are socially friendly and contribute to environmental conservation in the areas of religion, culture, ecology, and green living. Venerable Hui Chuan stated that the Buddha Museum is an integral part of the Fo Guang Shan Monastery organization, widely recognized in the museum community for its public service and diverse charitable activities. The Buddha Museum's environmental education efforts have steadily progressed, and in May 2024, representing Kaohsiung City, it competed in the Ministry of Environment's 9th National Environmental Education Award and received the Excellence Award. ●The Buddha Museum leverages its unique characteristics to become a model for green travel During the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the environmental education team of the Buddha Museum, under the guidance of the Director of Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, Venerable Ru Chang, recommended candidates for environmental education training and certification. They organized relevant materials and went through the submission, initial review, and re-examination processes, receiving guidance from review committee members at each stage to improve the content of their reports. The environmental education team held frequent meetings, continuously revising the reports. With the spirit of "no matter how good you get you can always get better," they entered the final review. Venerable Hui Chuan said, "This was no easy task. We also saw the collective effort and perseverance of the Fo Guang Shan Monastery." Venerable Ru Chang pointed out that the Buddha Museum effectively utilizes its unique characteristics and resources in environmental education, promoting net-zero green living, environmental education venues, and eco-friendly restaurants, continually advancing the development of integrated green tourism and becoming a model for green travel. Last year, the Tourism Administration, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, and the Buddha Museum signed a cooperation agreement. Recently, they have been jointly promoting "Smile South Bay," which highlights ten major exhibition sites and surrounding attractions in Kaohsiung, boosting tourism in southern Taiwan. After Fo Guang Shan Monastery received the "9th National Environmental Education Award," Peng Chi-ming is scheduled to visit the Buddha Museum on July 19. He will join Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Abbot of Fo Guang Shan, and Venerable Ru Chang, Director of Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, to unveil the "Environmental Education Facility and Field" plaque. Additionally, they will participate in the opening ceremony of the "Net-Zero Green Living Permanent Exhibition."
Spreading the Dharma: The Second Basic Buddhist Interpretation Workshop
Amy Jiang, Fo Guang University June 6, 2024 To train Buddhist interpreters and promote international Dharma propagation, the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism, Department of Buddhist Studies at Fo Guang University, and the Fo Guang University Center for Buddhist Studies jointly organized the “2024 Second Basic Buddhist Interpretation Workshop” from May 17 to 19 at the Yun Shui Building, Fo Guang University. 32 participants from the United States, Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, the Netherlands, Argentina, Hong Kong, and Taiwan participated in the workshop to enhance their skills in Buddhist interpretation, and vow to share the compassion and wisdom of Buddhism. Building on the introductory course from the first workshop, this workshop focused on advanced interpreting techniques, strategies, and practical exercises for participants who have prior experiences in Buddhist interpretation. Esteemed instructors included Four instructors were invited to: Grace Huang, Chinese-English conference interpretation and bilingual hosting professional; Dr. Yinyin Wu, Assistant Professor of the Graduate Program in Translation and Interpretation at National Taiwan University; Venerable Miao Guang, Deputy Chancellor of the Fo Guang Shan Institute of Humanistic Buddhism and personal interpreter for Venerable Master Hsing Yun; and Professor Cheng Wei-Yi, Director of the Department of Buddhist Studies at Fo Guang University. These experts shared their rich experiences and engaged with students through practical exercises and feedback sessions. Grace Huang and Venerable Miao Guang jointly taught paraphrasing as an interpretation strategy. Grace recommended categorizing and describing information on the spot, making technical terms and poetry more understandable and thus allow for effective communication. From a Buddhist interpretation perspective, Venerable Miao Guang outlined six strategies for handling Buddhist terminology: literal translation, description and explanation, instant request for confirmation, use of general terms, advance preparation, and flexible adaption. She also suggested using reference tools like The Glossary of Humanistic Buddhism and 365 Days for Travelers for preparation. Further sessions by Grace covered “sight translation,” “shadowing and multi-tasking,” and interpretation exercises, where participants learned techniques such as chunking, parts of speech conversion, adding or omitting information, and effort model. She introduced professional interpretation equipment including “translation booth” and booth etiquette, and arranged for participants to practice simultaneous Buddhist interpretation in an immersive setting. Dr. Yinyin Wu, an expert of Buddhist interpretation and translation, lectured on “Into-B Interpreting Strategies” and “B Language Enhancement.” She shared four key strategies for English translation: be flexible, one chunk at a time, be clear, and be concise, as she guided students through practical exercises to refine their interpretative tasks. Venerable Miao Guang discussed “Buddhist Translation Tools,” focusing on the accurate interpretation of Buddhist terminology using paraphrasing skills, sharing experiences, and providing resources and methods to build confidence through self-training. During the general discussion session, participants from various professions, including interpreters, emcees, military personnel, and students from the Graduate Institute of Translation and Interpretation at National Taiwan Normal University, Fo Guang Shan Tsung Lin University, and Fo Guang University, seized the opportunity to seek advice from the instructors. They have greatly benefited from the workshop’s intensive and rich curriculum, comparable to that of a translation graduate program, and valued the systematic learning opportunity it provided. The workshop also rekindled the passion and direction for interpreters already engaged in Dharma propagation, motivating them to enhance their skills. Instead of pursuing perfection, Venerable Miao Guang advised that Buddhist interpretation is about attaining completeness. Furthermore, she inspired participants to purify people’s minds through their interpretation and thus contributing to world peace. At the closing ceremony, the instructors presented the “Certificate for Completion of the 2nd Basic Buddhist Interpretation Workshop” to the 31 participants who have completed the 15-hour course. Plans are underway to prepare for the third workshop, which will introduce intermediate-level courses, as well as the establishment of the Buddhist Translation and Interpretation Association in the near future.
30 Lost Relics Donated to NCHA, Marking the Largest-Scale Donation of Buddhist Relics from Taiwan in Recent Years
Albert lin March 26, 2024 Taiwanese Buddhists have verified that a batch of Buddhist relics scattered overseas belong to ancient temples in Shanxi Province, China. With efforts from various sectors, a total of 30 colored sculptures dating from the Song Dynasty (960-1279) to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) have successfully returned. On March 25th, these relics were donated by the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, at a ceremony held in Beijing, to the National Cultural Heritage Administration (NCHA). This donation ceremony, held at the National Museum of China (NMC) on Monday, marks the largest-scale donation of Buddhist relics from Taiwan in recent years. Li Qun, head of the NCHA, presented a certificate of appreciation, which was accepted by Most Venerable Hsin Bao. photo/ Chiris Chang The donation ceremony was held at the National Museum of China (NMC), with 12 distinguished guests presiding over the opening ceremony, including Song Tao, head of both the Taiwan Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council; Sun Yeli, minister of Ministry of Culture and Tourism (China); Li Qun, head of the NCHA; Pan Xianzhang, deputy director of Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council; Liu Yuzhu, head of the China Foundation for Cultural Heritage Conservation; Venerable Yen Jue, Preisdent of the Buddhist Association of China; Most Venerable Hsin Bao, head abbot of Fo Guang Shan Monastery; Dharma Master Hsin Tao, founder of Ling Jiou Mountain Buddhist Society; Venerable Tzu Jung, Acting President of Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) World Headquarters; Dr. Charles Kao, founder of Global Views - Commonwealth Publishing Group; Venerable Shou Yu, the founding abbot of Ten-Direction Buddhist Community; John Wu, Legal Affairs Officer of BLIA World Headquarters. Song Tao met with Most Venerable Hsin Bao. photo/ Chiris Chang In order to express gratitude to the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, Li Qun, head of the NCHA, presented a certificate of appreciation during the donation ceremony, which was accepted by Most Venerable Hsin Bao on behalf of the association. Song Tao also met with representatives of the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua after the donation ceremony. The United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, pointed out that this batch of Buddhist colored sculptures consists of a total of 30 pieces, including 9 Buddha seated statues, 1 Buddha Nirvana statue, 5 Bodhisattva standing statues, 3 Buddha disciple statues, and 12 head statues of Arhats, Wei Tuo, Bodhisattvas, and Buddha disciples. These artworks fully utilize realistic, abstract, and exaggerated artistic techniques, presenting traditional Chinese art. They are almost identical to the colored sculptures in Xiaoxitian, Xixian County, Shanxi Province, in terms of subject matter, sculpture techniques, painting styles, and stylistic features, even the state of weathering. The United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, stated that the purpose of this donation of relics is to promote consensus on the protection of precious cultural relics across the Taiwan Strait. Song Tao met with representatives of the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua after the donation ceremony. photo/ Chiris Chang John Wu, representing the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, delivered a speech, stating that "cross-strait peace" and "revitalizing Buddhism" were the two most concerning matters for Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan Monastery, in his later years. He emphasized that this Buddhist cultural relics donation is not only about the exchange of art and artifacts between the two sides of the strait and the Buddhist community, but also about a deep exchange of emotions and spiritual civilization. He expressed hope for closer interaction and communication across the strait, accumulating mutual trust and goodwill, and promoting the compassion and wisdom of the Buddha. This, he emphasized, represents the highest realm and greatest contribution of Buddhist cultural relics donation. Head statues of Arhats. sphoto/ Chiris Chang Most Venerable Hsin Bao, head abbot of Fo Guang Shan Monastery, stated in his speech that in March 2016, Venerable Master Hsing Yun returned the Northern Qi dynasty's Buddha head to Beijing, and the "Universal Shining of Buddha’s Light: the Sacred Reunion - Presentation Ceremony of the Buddha’s Head Statue to Youju Temple" donation ceremony took place at the National Museum of China. At that time, Venerable Master Hsing Yun said, "There will be many more antiques and cultural relics returned in the future." Now, on the anniversary of Venerable Master Hsing Yun's passing, the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, has fulfilled Venerable Master Hsing Yun's promise, demonstrating the spirit of "learning from the past to create the future" in Taiwan's Buddhist community. Most Venerable Hsin Bao pointed out that the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, dispatched 200 people to escort the 30 lost relics back to the mainland. This not only allows Buddhist relics to return to their roots but also hopes to bring an opportunity for peace, harmony, and unity across the Taiwan Strait. It is prayed that the compassion of the Buddha enlightens all directions, illuminates the universe, and protects all beings. It is also hoped that the exchanges and interactions between the two sides can realize the wish of Venerable Master Hsing Yun for "Oneness and Coexistence" across the strait. Buddha seated statues. photo/ Chiris Chang Sun Yeli, Minister of Culture and Tourism (China), stated in his speech that eight years ago, Venerable Master Hsing Yun escorted the Northern Qi Buddha head, which had been lost overseas for 20 years, back to its homeland, setting a precedent for cross-strait cooperation in protecting Chinese culture. Now, once again, cooperation across the strait has enabled the return of 30 lost relics. The Ministry of Culture and Tourism will conduct research and organize exhibitions to allow the public to share in the achievements of cultural heritage protection. Relics donated by United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua. photo/ Chiris Chang Song Tao expressed that the outstanding traditional Chinese culture is the spiritual root and belonging of compatriots on both sides of the strait. Eight years ago, when Venerable Master Hsing Yun donated the head of the Shakyamuni Buddha from the Northern Qi period to the NCHA free of charge, it was a major event in cultural exchange at that time. Now, precious cultural relics collected by compatriots from Taiwan have been donated to the NCHA through the United Association of Humanistic Buddhism, Chunghua, once again writing a touching chapter. Song Tao said, "the magnificent Chinese culture is our common foundation, pride, wealth, and soul," and he hopes that both sides of the strait will continue to strengthen cultural exchanges and work together to protect Chinese cultural relics and heritage. Bodhisattva standing statues. photo/ Chiris Chang
Toronto Buddha’s Light Scouts Launch Winter Clothing Drive for Diabetes Research Support
FGS Toronto January 31, 2024 In a bid to provide warmth to those in need and support Diabetes Canada, the Toronto Buddha’s Light Scouts have initiated a winter clothing drive. The "Three Acts of Goodness, Four Givings Clothing Dive " running from January 13th to 21st, calls on BLIA Toronto Chapter members and community residents to participate. The clothing drive achieved significant success, coordinated by the Venture Scouts, collecting 8 large boxes of clothing. This collective effort symbolizes the repurposing of quality garments for a noble cause. Despite facing the coldest week of the winter season, BLIA members demonstrated unwavering commitment by generously donating unused yet well-maintained clothing. Collection boxes, stationed beside the main gate, quickly filled with clothes, hats, shoes, handbags, and suitcases, highlighting the community's compassion and solidarity. Despite frigid temperatures, the Toronto Buddha’s Light Scouts remained dedicated to organizing the donated clothing. Their unwavering commitment highlights the collective effort to make a meaningful impact within the community. photo／FGS Toronto Undeterred by temperatures plummeting to minus 20 degrees Celsius, the Venture Scouts dedicated two consecutive weekends to meticulously organizing the donated clothing. Even amidst exam pressures, the scouts remained steadfast in their commitment to social responsibility, seamlessly coordinating logistics and outreach efforts. Through their proactive engagement, the Buddha’s Light Scouts demonstrated the Scout spirit of embracing challenges and embodying the Buddha’s Light values of "Three Acts of Goodness, and Four Givings." Beyond providing tangible support to the community, the winter clothing drive serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of compassion and unity.
Gratitude Abounds at TAG School’s Fall Closing Ceremony
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple January 31, 2024 Hsi Lai Temple’s TAG School held its Fall closing ceremony with nearly 200 teachers, students, parents, and friends gathered together, Dec. 17th. Abbot of Hsi Lai Temple, Ven. Hui Dong, the superintendent Ven. Yi Shan, and Vice President Connie Yip of the BLIA Los Angeles Chapter shared in the excitement as many of the students were acknowledged for their remarkable progress, excellent performance, and perfect attendance. A Heartwarming “thanks” to the teaching staff. photo/Jonathan Thang Abbot Ven. Hui Dong expressed his heartfelt joy in witnessing all the students’ successful completion of the semester. He wished that their studies of the "Three Acts of Goodness" and "Four Givings" would continue to fuel and to inspire them in their future personal growth, and he encouraged each one to strive to become an outstanding individual. In an era marked by conflicts and animosity, the expansion of knowledge and of wisdom will help to elevate an inner awareness of peace that will benefit oneself and contribute to creating a more harmonious world. TAG School Guiding venerable – Ven. Hui Cheng expressed gratitude to all the parents for their continued support and extended deep appreciation to the diligent teachers, teaching assistants, and volunteers. This gratitude-filled gathering would surely propel everyone present to carry the "Three Acts of Goodness" back home and spread Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s aspiration to share Buddhism with others through education. Ven. Hui Cheng, TAG School's guiding venerable, extends gratitude to all the supportive parents, and dedicated teachers, teacher assistants, and children. photo/Jonathan Thang
