On October 7th, the temperature had dropped sharply and the cold dew was forming in Toronto. BLIA volunteers in Waterloo held the "Golden Autumn Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) 30th Anniversary Tea Party" to share the global achievements of the BLIA in the past 30 years with the community.

At 3 pm, the venue of nearly 100 people was incredibly lively. The Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple (FGS) of Toronto, Venerable Chueh Fan was present to give a speech. The Abbess explained in depth the history of Waterloo Water Drop Teahouse, and the Buddha’s Light Center (BLC). Looking back to the beginning of 1998, the devotees had invited FGS Toronto Venerables to Waterloo to spread the Dharma. Buddhism had then
begun to take root in Waterloo. In January 2003, Waterloo Water Drop Teahouse was officially opened. In 2012, Buddha’s Light Center Waterloo was officially opened to provide the community with services of meditation, Dharma service and spiritual care. During the pandemic, FGS Toronto established the Buddha’s Light Spiritual Care Group in 2020, and trained more than 10 volunteers. The future plans of Water Drop Teahouse will focus on culture and art, while Waterloo BLC is actively oriented towards supporting the mental and spiritual health of modern people with Buddhist teachings. In the past
two months, educational activities were held at the center. Focussing on themes such as painting and calligraphy, combining art, spirituality, and life cultivation.

Member of Parliament for Waterloo, Ms. Bardish Chagger, a distinguished guest at this meeting, affirmed that the BLIA has become increasingly important in the past two difficult years, contributing to the stability of the community. The Mayor of Kitchener, Mr. Vrbanovic pointed out that diversity is a topic of focus in today's world. He also thanked the BLIA for its respect and inclusiveness of multiculturalism. Ms. Romy Yee (Board of Director, KW Multicultural Center) expressed her hope that the BLIA continues to work and benefit and reach a greater audience in the community.

After the speakers, volunteers from the receptionist group guided the guests to the "BLIA Worldwide Photo Exhibition" to view the 30-year history of Dharma propagation. Ms. Andrea Binkle, Executive Director of Lisaard and Innisfree Hospice, praised the hard work of BLIA both globally and in the local community after watching the video exhibition. Whilst also commending BLIA members and volunteers for their commitment
and participation, in some cases spanning as many as 30 years. Lastly, recognizing the BLIA and its subchapters now have branches spreading over five continents, setting a 30-year milestone for this association.

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