FGS News
BLIA Lay Dharma Lecturer James Chao Presents Insights from the Diamond Sutra for Daily Life Cultivation at FGS Toronto
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto March 7, 2024 Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto was honoured to invite Mr. James Chao, the General Representative of Devotees of Fo Guang Shan Monastery, and BLIA Lay Dharma Lecturer to give a Dharma talk last Sunday, February 25th. His talk “Relevance of Buddhism in Today’s World” attracted more than 200 online and in-person participants. Thanks to Mr. Chao's diligent research and preparation, Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan of FGS Temple Toronto expressed gratitude and warmly welcomed him to Toronto. Mr. Chao also prepared a valuable edition of the Diamond Sutra for distribution among the attendees. Mr. Chao first explained how he came to learn Buddhism through his mother. In the last 50 years, he had read and recited the Diamond Sutra. He suggested using the “listen, contemplate, cultivate” method to discover and explore one’s inherent Buddha nature. Try asking yourself practical questions such as “Am I happy?”, “Is there meaning in my life?”, “What are my expectations of the future?” Through these reflections, one can start to incorporate the Buddha Dharma into daily life. He told the audience to observe before responding, “Where there is Dharma, there is a way”. Listen and read the Buddha’s teachings such as the “Heart Sutra” and “The Eight Realizations of the Great Beings”. He also quoted the various chapters of the Diamond Sutra: Chapter 1: Convocation of the Assembly, Chapter 2: Venerable Subhuti’s request, Chapter 3: Subdue one’s heart to cause all beings to enter nirvana, Chapter 4: Conduct without dwelling, practice generosity without attachment, Chapter 5: All with marks are empty and false. There is a step-by-step approach to learning the Dharma, starting from the Three Dharma Seals and Four Noble Truths.
BLIA Sydney’s Sustainable Living Communal Learning Space: inspiring Happiness and Peace on Buddha’s Birthday
BLIA Sydney May 15, 2024 Buddha's Birthday Multicultural Festival took place at Darling Harbour, Sydney for the 30th time on April 27 and 28, 2024. In alignment with the festival theme of “Coexistence and Coprosperity”, BLIA Sydney East 1, West 1, and West 2 Subchapters created a “Sustainable Living” communal learning space at the festival to promote the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3: "Good Health and Wellbeing." SDG3 is connected to the theme of "Happiness and Peace," proposed by the founding president of BLIA, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. The Sustainable Living communal learning space was created to allow participants to "Learn, play, create, and be with Nature”, experience happiness and peace in life, in the hope of promoting sustainable wellbeing and coprosperity among all beings. At the "Happiness Corner", visitors could sit down and enjoy their very own hand-ground coffee, savour handmade flower vegan cookies, and just be in the present moment to experience simple pleasures in life. The "Happiness Corner” was inspired by the "Tea Pavilion of Fo Guang Shan, which offers free tea to visitors to recharge on their tour between Fo Guang Shan Monastery and Buddha Museum. It hopes to spread happiness and the spirit of the Four Givings: giving others confidence, joy, hope, and convenience. Artist and art practitioner Dr Cindy Chen hosted two art talks titled "Listening to Nature." In the interactive talks Cindy offered valuable insights into the creative process behind her work "Resonant Flows". She described how she created the collaborative artwork with nature in the rain along Parramatta and Lane Cove Rivers. Her art practice of embodied listening and emplaced experimental drawing was presented in simple and engaging language that children among the audience could understand. At the "Flower Pounding Art Workshop" organised by FGS Nan Tien Buddhist Temple Parramatta and BLIA Sydney West subchapters, the public could try their hands at pound-dyeing, an intangible cultural heritage craft of China. The stall was filled with lively hammering sounds of adults and children decorating their “Happiness and Peace” eco-friendly cloth bags with pounded flowers and leaves. Audrey Blackman, a BLIA YAD volunteer at the workshop, received positive feedback from the participants. She was told that the session was therapeutic, and a lesson in mindfulness, and in accepting imperfections, something that is relevant in our lives. The SDG Communal Learning Space also featured artworks collected through the Fo Guang Three Acts of Goodness Young Artist Award drawing, writing and creative nature artwork competitions. The exhibition of nature artwork took inspirations from Venerable Master Hsing Yun's essay "My Little Animal Friends," to depict the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature and to convey messages of equality, compassion, and respect. To promote the Buddhist values of cherishing blessings and the SDGs, BLIA Sydney also organised a series of sustainable living workshops, highlighting ways to tackle food waste. Kathryn Sunantha from Bliss Pure Foods taught participants how to transform imperfect apples into apple cider vinegar and enzyme to harness their untarnished health effects. Environmental educator Louie Leung demonstrated composting and setting up a worm farm at home. Margaret Mossakowska from Moss House shared some practical sustainable practices, such as natural fermentation and creating natural skincare products from pantry items. Margaret also led two workshops on making eco-friendly beeswax wraps to encourage plastic free living. The Buddha's Birthday Sustainable Living communal learning space attracted nearly 500 visitors daily, offering a variety of hands-on activities that showcased the simplicity and joy of sustainable living and the harmonious coexistence with nature.
A Journey of Enlightenment and Growth- FGS Toronto Hosts the Commencement Ceremony for the 2024 Humanistic Buddhism Courses and Universal Tea Gathering
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto March 28, 2024 After the conclusion of the 2024 Spring Festival celebrations, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto held its Commencement Ceremony for the 2024 Humanistic Buddhism Courses, followed by a Volunteer Tea Gathering on the afternoon of March 2nd. The event aimed to express gratitude to all supporting groups and volunteers, while also marking the beginning of the 2024 Humanistic Buddhism Courses. Over 160 volunteers attended, eager to embrace the intellectual and spiritual enrichment promised by the New Year." The event began with the Humanistic Buddhism Courses Commencement Ceremony. Venerable Chueh Fan, the Chancellor of the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto Humanistic Buddhism Courses, encouraged the dedicated volunteers to deepen their engagement with Buddhist studies. She highlighted the temple's commitment to offering a wide range of courses designed for enhancing wisdom and skills through continuous learning and study of the Dharma. She emphasized the temple's dedication to providing diverse courses aimed at enhancing wisdom and skills through continuous learning and the study of Dharma. Of particular note was the announcement of a new initiative: a 40-minute Buddhist etiquette class after the Sunday Dharma Service, tailored to guide beginners in their understanding of Buddhism. Venerable Ru An, Director of Social Education, presented the "Practice the Buddha’s Way Passport," explaining its purpose and practicality in monitoring progress in Buddhist cultivation. Betty Young, leader of the Social Education team offered instructions regarding course registration and attendance procedures, guaranteeing a seamless educational journey for all students. A video lecture selected from the Venerable Master’s “One Hundred Lessons on Monastery Language and Affairs” series was presented, emphasizing the significance of the “Universal Tea Gathering” as a platform for community building, exchange, and talent demonstration. Following this, the sharing sessions by all Venerables highlighted the achievements of various teams during the Spring Festival events, showcasing the harmonious collaboration among volunteer groups and monastics. These efforts vividly illustrated the profound impact of volunteerism at the temple, characterized by joy, dedication, and a selfless commitment to service. As volunteers rejoiced in exquisite tea and snacks, highlights from the Spring Festival activities were showcased, celebrating the teamwork and perseverance that contributed to the event's success. Speeches and musical performances by various volunteer team leaders conveyed deep gratitude for the collective effort, resonating with all present and earning enthusiastic applause. The communal singing of "My Hometown is at Fo Guang Shan" served as a heartfelt expression of solidarity and support for the temple and its community. In her concluding remarks, Venerable Chueh Fan reflected on the volunteers' pivotal role in enhancing the temple's environment, expressing hope that the insights gained would be deeply integrated into daily practice. This aspiration aligns with Master Hsing Yun's vision of "Coexistence and Co-prosperity," as shared at the 2023 BLIA General Conference. The gathering concluded with warmth and joy, all participants joined in a collective aspiration of Buddha's Light Shines Universally.
Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto Presents the “Cultural Legacy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun” Exhibition for the Lunar New Year
FGS Toronto March 6, 2024 In honour of the anniversary of the passing of the Founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto has launched the “Cultural Legacy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun” exhibition for the Lunar New Year. This exhibit features Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s One-Stroke Calligraphy Before and Post-Surgery Works, spanning from 1953 to 2022, coinciding with the Compassionate Life of Venerable Master Hsing Yun Exhibition. Starting on February 9th, the exhibition is displayed on the second floor inside the Buddha’s Cultural Museum. All descriptions are provided in both Chinese and English, to introduce the legendary life of Venerable Master Hsing Yun and his cultural accomplishments achieved through profound literary cultivation and the dissemination of Buddhist teachings. Additionally, visitors also experienced virtual tours of the Fo Guang Shan Temple at the “Journey to the Buddha Land” exhibition inside the Conference Room on the second floor during the Chinese New Year. Using AI technology, visitors virtually explored inside the Fo Guang Shan Monastery, the Sutra Repository, and the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum which are located thousands of miles away, irrespective of geographical limitations.
Nan Tien Temple New Year's Eve Carnival Embracing the New Year with Vegetarianism and Environmental Preservation
Francis Wong February 22, 2024 To bid farewell to the past and welcome the new, ushering in the Year of the Golden Dragon with joy, on 9 February, for the first time, Fo Guang Shan Nan Tien Temple organized the "New Year's Eve Carnival" at the Nan Tien Bridge Plaza, featuring an international vegetarian food market. The carnival began at 6pm until the early hours of the next day, aimed to bring joy to the community on New Year's Eve. Nearly 2,000 participants, including Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery AM, devotees, community residents, and visiting guests, gathered to partake in the festivities. The carnival, themed around "vegetarianism," aimed to promote fellowship while aligning with the environmental and mindful principles advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan. It also supported the United Nations' goal of reducing carbon emissions by encouraging more consumption of fruits and vegetables and less meat. The food market featured vegetarian vendors from both Eastern and Western traditions, preparing exquisite vegetarian New Year dishes for all attendees to enjoy in a harmonious atmosphere and cultural exchange. Lord Mayor Gordon Bradbery inaugurated the vegetarian market, praising Nan Tien Temple for its significant contributions to religious harmony, community cohesion, and cultural education in Wollongong over the past 30 years. He wished everyone a happy Lunar New Year, good health, and prosperity. Local resident Victoria Bromage, who found spiritual purification through Nan Tien Temple's meditation courses, attended the New Year's Eve event to express her strong support for promoting vegetarianism to protect the environment. She commended Nan Tien Temple for creating a harmonious and loving atmosphere in the community. Visitors and vegetarian advocate Zen were delighted with the vibrant celebration of the Lunar New Year and expressed that the delightful vegetarian dishes effectively promote the concept of healthy eating. Following the carnival, two significant dharma functions, the "New Year's Eve Prayer Dharma Function" and the "New Year's Blessing and Prayer Dharma Function," were held at the Main Shrine. Venerable Man Ko, Chief Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Australia and New Zealand, presided over these dharma functions to seek New Year blessings from the Buddha for all sentient beings. The dharma functions were live-streamed, attracting nearly a thousand participants both online and offline, enjoying the spiritual benefits. After the New Year's Eve Universal Prayer, a video featuring Venerable Master Hsing Yun's "New Year's Eve Prayer" was played. Following the ceremonies, the attendees paid their respects to Venerable Master Hsing Yun and Nan Tien Temple's Abbot Venerable Xin Bao to bid farewell to the past year. The New Year's Blessing Ceremony began at midnight, with the aspiration for all participants to purify their body and mind through practicing the "Three Acts of Goodness" and welcoming the new year. A video of Venerable Master Hsing Yun's "New Year's Prayer" was played, invoking blessings for everyone to eliminate obstacles, cultivate positive aspirations, and increase wisdom. Nan Tien Temple utilized technology to allow remote worshipers to participate by lighting virtual lamps online, expressing respect for the Triple Gem and their aspirations for the new year. The lights in front of the Buddha symbolized the illumination of Buddha's radiance, spreading joy to the hearts of all. Venerable Man Ko emphasizing the tradition of acquiring new items for the new year, symbolizing a fresh start. She encouraged individuals to understand the importance of "self-renewal" in the contemporary era, letting go of old beliefs and thoughts, and adapting to the times while coexisting with the current era. "If an individual can practice the Three Acts of Goodness, then they will be dignified and upright; if everyone in society practices the Three Acts of Goodness, then society will be harmonious," added Venerable Man Ko. She further pointed out that Venerable Master Hsing Yun summarized a lifetime of practice into the concept of the "Three Acts of Goodness," capable of purifying hearts and promoting social harmony. She urged everyone to diligently cultivate with sincerity, compassion, and wisdom in the new year, wishing all attendees "peace and joy in the cloud and water-like tranquillity." Venerable Man Ko led the countdown to the Year of the Dragon, expressing prayers with the sound of the bell, "Hearing the bell, afflictions are lightened, wisdom grows, Bodhi increases..." Venerables at Nan Tien Temple then assisted to distribute the red envelopes and spring couplets, allowing the crowd to feel the festive atmosphere of the Lunar New Year and the warmth of humanistic Buddhism. Antonio from Spain, feeling relaxed in the natural and integrated environment of Nan Tien Temple, enjoyed the friendly and joyful atmosphere of the New Year's Eve carnival, experiencing it together with his family. Akane from Japan and Aidan from Newcastle, after learning about the event online, specifically travelled together to participate. They expressed great joy in attending the New Year's ceremonies and prayers, wishing for harmonious families and world peace.
Toronto Buddha’s Light Caring Group Resumes Lunar New Year Celebrations at Nursing Homes Post-Pandemic
FGS Toronto March 1, 2024 After a hiatus of four years due to the pandemic, the Toronto Buddha’s Light Caring Group has joyously resumed its community outreach, marking a poignant reunion for residents and staff at local nursing homes. Led by Venerable Miao Tsun, the group rekindled connections with over 150 individuals at Tendercare Nursing Home, Mon Sheong Scarborough Long-Term Care Centre, and Heritage Nursing Home in downtown Toronto on February 17th and 18th, infusing warmth and compassion into the Lunar New Year festivities. Specially invited the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto Dragon and Lion Dance Team to perform contributing to a lively and heartening Chinese New Year program for seniors. Seniors eagerly gathered outside the activity room, expressing excitement at the prospect of experiencing the Lunar New Year celebrations again. The event commenced with a captivating Lion Dance performance accompanied by additional performances featuring a small dragon, youth kung-fu, and elegant fan dancing, eliciting laughter and applause from the seniors. Volunteers from the caring group then presented a series of uplifting New Year songs, fostering an atmosphere of joy and celebration. The grand final was a Light Offering Ceremony, where Venerable Miao Tsun explained the symbolic meaning of bringing light, hope, and happiness. Amidst serene chanting, seniors, staff, and volunteers offered lamps in front of the statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva. The caring group also prepared the Lunar New Year Greeting couplets written by the Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, and auspicious red envelopes presented to all seniors. The resumption of these heartwarming Lunar New Year celebrations signifies a significant step towards reconnecting with the community.
Nurturing Our Planet BLIA North Island Chapter’s T-Earth Initiative for Earth Day
Fo Guang Shan New Zealand May 16, 2024 In response to Earth Day, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) North Island Chapter held the T-Earth: Environmental Protection and Spiritual Prevention event on 21st April 2024. Despite the chilly weather, over 50 BLIA members and youths participated under the guidance of the Minister in Charge of FGS Auckland Venerable Rulian. At 9am, the group gathered in the Front Shrine, where Venerable Rulian led a blessing ceremony. She encouraged everyone to take action to care for the Earth, not just for themselves but also for future generations. Mental mindfulness is equally important, purifying thoughts, ideas, language and intentions promotes social harmony and benefits all. The group then split into five teams to work in different areas, cleaning gutters, clearing fallen leaves, trimming hedges, cleaning the parking lot and pruning vines. Volunteers in the kitchen prepared a tasty vegetarian lunch to refuel everyone. President Evelyn KU of BLIA North Island Chapter, noted that beautifying the Temple grounds helps create a dignified environment while reminding people to purify their body, speech and mind, and bring joy to others. She emphasised that caring for the Earth is everyone’s responsibility. Through tree planting, vegetarian promotion, reducing energy consumption and plastic use, and proper waste sorting, BLIA members aim to slow down global warming and create a sustainable world. Sub-president Anita Chu of the Third Subchapter, praised everyone’s commitment to protecting the planet through small actions. Sara, a BLIA member, acknowledged that although she felt physically tired, she was glad to be able to serve both the Earth and the Temple. She thanked the Temple for offering a beautiful environment that provided opportunities to improve herself. Fred Gu shared that through teamwork he learned to focus, persevere and reflect. He found peace and recognised the value of the Founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s teaching that strong determination can help achieve goals. President Steven of BLIA Auckland Senior YAD, emphasised that T-Earth isn’t a one-day event but an ongoing initiative. He mentioned taking care of the Earth starts with caring for one’s environment and contributing even through small acts. Youth member Alan Han appreciated the importance of teamwork, noting the group’s harmonious collaboration and the positive feedback that energised him and gave him a sense of achievement. He expressed gratitude to the Temple for providing opportunities to cultivate good fortune.
Hsi Lai Girl Scouts Creatively Celebrate World Thinking Day by Showcasing Japan
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple March 20, 2024 Girl Scouts united together to embrace perspectives different from their own, to learn and experience various cultures, and to gather new insights to help create a world filled with peace and harmony. On March 2, 2024, the Buddha's Light Hsi Lai Girl Scouts joined approximately 170 members from seven neighboring Girl Scout troops at the St. Mark's Lutheran School in Hacienda Heights, Los Angeles, USA, to celebrate World Thinking Day. The day promoted thinking BIG—what are small things one can do that could make a big impact on the world—and supported the theme for 2024: “Our World, Our Thriving Future: The Environment and Global Poverty.” Buddha's Light Hsi Lai Girl Scouts chose Japan as their exploration country this year, delving into Japanese history, geography, culture, customs, flag, attire, cuisine, and dances. Sixteen girls adorned themselves in traditional Japanese yukata (a lightweight kimono), reflecting Japanese tradition's elegance. World Thinking Day, observed annually on February 22nd, has been celebrated by Girl Scout troops from 150 countries and regions worldwide since 1926—nearly 10 million Girl Scouts commemorate the day globally. This year, Buddha’s Light Hsi Lai Girl Scouts handcrafted 170 beautiful Japanese origami cherry blossoms to symbolize their goodwill and elegant integration of Japanese traditional culture, which seemed to receive accolades from everyone. They, along with all the other Girl Scout Troops, exhibited a friendly and enthusiastic demeanor, fully embodying the essence of their represented countries. The Girl Scouts meticulously created vibrant decorations, posters, costumes, performances, and food, representing the unique flair of seven countries—Greece, Brazil, Mexico, South Korea, Fiji, Ireland, and England. Meaningful group performances were presented with culturally distinctive dances from their respective countries, each earning enthusiastic applause and the delighted audience's approval. Girl Scouts collected their travel passports to visit each "country" booth and received a stamp confirming their "visit" and signifying their new understanding and appreciation of the differing cultures. Participants also immersed themselves into each culture by tasting various traditional foods, such as English afternoon tea, muffins, and gingerbread cookies; Irish Dublin cream scones; Fijian tropical fruit cups; Korean dumplings; chocolate pies; and Greek hummus dips. By exchanging gifts-of-appreciation with one another, they took home special mementos—bracelets, wristbands, masks, and other treasures. Annie Yang, attending the event for the first time, expressed her fascination with Japanese attire and dressing techniques. Molly Huang, with multiple event experiences, emphasized the happiness she feels when providing newer Girl Scouts with more practical opportunities and collaboratively completing activities after numerous communications. The World Thinking Day event not only allowed participants to experience joy but encouraged them to contemplate upon those still facing challenges and hardships, urging every Girl Scout to take action, utilizing their influence and creativity to make the world a better place.
Hsi Lai Temple Shares Over 12,000 Bowls of Tasty Laba Porridge Filled with Auspicious Blessings
Fo Guang Shan Hsi Lai Temple March 6, 2024 On January 18, Hsi Lai Temple distributed over 12,000 bowls of Laba porridge to the public—marking the first time the dining hall was open for Laba porridge dine-in since the pandemic. Both inside and outside the dining hall, people eagerly waited to enjoy the tasty Laba porridge, with over 40 BLIA members guiding them. The 8th day of the lunar December commemorates the day when Buddha attained enlightenment; also referred to as the "Dharma Day" to honor the Buddha's grace. On this day, Fo Guang Shan Monastery in Taiwan, along with branches worldwide on five continents, cook and distribute savory Laba porridge to convey the compassion and wisdom of Buddha. A bowl of fragrant Laba porridge symbolizes the blessings and care from the temples for the public, wishing everyone peace, prosperity, and the growth of merit and wisdom. Ven. Hui Dong, the Abbot of Hsi Lai Temple, delivered a sermon after the Dharma service, emphasizing that the Dharma Day commemorates the Buddha's enlightenment and liberation. He shared the story of a shepherdess offering a bowl of milk porridge to Buddha, who, after gaining strength, ultimately attained enlightenment under the Bodhi tree on the diamond throne. Buddhism commemorates the Buddha's enlightenment by consuming Laba porridge, but more importantly, it is an opportunity to understand and to learn the Dharma. Ven. Hui Dong also expressed gratitude to over 100 volunteers, "Today, over a hundred volunteers returned to the temple before dawn to assist. The kitchen started preparations at 4 a.m. Volunteers participated in porridge distribution activities to experience service and dedication, letting go of attachments, and purifying their hearts." Alex Wu, President of BLIA Los Angeles Chapter, mentioned that Hsi Lai temple, BLIA members, and volunteers collaborated to prepare, pack, and distribute Laba porridge. The goal was to spread joy and warmth to every family. To ensure smooth traffic flow at Hsi Lai Temple, BLIA members from various subchapters adopted a "quick in, quick out" approach to collect the porridge. The BLIA LA Chapter Elder Advisor committee and a team of 30 elder advisors began preparations at 7 a.m., providing nearly 4,000 bowls of porridge to BLIA members. Elder advisor director Zhao Linfeng expressed joy in preparing Laba porridge filled with blessings and compassion. BLIA LA Chapter Board of Directors member Yeh Li-Mei brought her 93-year-old mother, Yeh Wu Wen-Chuan, to the event. Mother Yeh is a first-generation follower of Fo Guang Shan, sharing the family's five-generation connection with Fo Guang Shan. She choked up with emotion while recounting her relationship and affinity with founding master Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Influenced by Venerable Master's "Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings," Mother Yeh once pledged to sponsor over 200 Vietnamese refugee families, offering them hope. Sorba Shakya, a descendant of the Shakya clan from Nepal, and his family have been supporting the temple since its early days and returns every year on Dharma Day to enjoy the steaming hot Laba porridge. Anjelene Quin, a local resident, praised the taste of the porridge during her first experience at Hsi Lai Temple, expressing admiration for the temple's serenity and the friendly volunteers.
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.
