On November 20, Emmanuel College at the University of Toronto hosted its first Buddhist-centered spiritual gathering, attracting over 100 faculty members and students. The event, organized by Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto under the guidance of Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan, introduced participants to Humanistic Buddhism through a series of presentations,interactive sessions, and a communal vegetarian meal.

Representing the temple at the event were Venerable Zhi Guan, superintendent; Venerable Ru An, director of social education; and Venerable Ru Xing. Supporting staff included Cindy Choi and Michelle Tan. This collaborative effort between the temple and the college marked the first partnership following initial discussions in August 2024.

The gathering began with a vegetarian lunch provided by the temple. In her opening remarks, Emmanuel College Principal Professor HyeRan Kim-Cragg expressed gratitude for the temple’s involvement and noted the record-breaking attendance, with some students seated in the upstairs gallery. She commended the delicious vegetarian meal and emphasized the educational and cultural significance of Humanistic Buddhism, encouraging students to explore its teachings more deeply.

Venerable Zhi Guan delivered a keynote address on Humanistic Buddhism, focusing on the principles of the Three Acts of Goodness and the Four Givings. She emphasized the integration of Buddhist teachings into everyday life and extended an invitation to students to visit the templefor further exploration. Representing the student body, Alec Zhang, a graduate student and president of the University of Toronto Buddha’s Light Society, thanked the faculty for their support and shared his commitment to organizing meaningful Buddhist activities for students with the temple’s guidance.

The afternoon session took place in the chapel on the third floor, where Ven. Zhi Guan and Ven. Ru An presented videos on the life and teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan. Clips from Venerable Master Hsing Yun—The Navigator of Humanistic Buddhism illustrated the modernization, practicality, and international reach of Humanistic Buddhism. Participants also viewed scenes of monastic life at Fo Guang Shan Tsung Lin University, offering insights into daily routines.

Interactive group sessions followed, where the Venerables demonstrated Buddhist Dharma instruments, and the significance of monastic attire, including robes, kashayas, and Luohan shoes. Faculty and students engaged attentively, gaininga deeper appreciation of Buddhist culture.

The event concluded with a practice session led by Venerable Zhi Guan, who explained the teachings of the Heart Sutra. Participants recited thesutra, chanted the Three Refuges, and dedicated merits under the guidance of the Venerables. Many attendees expressed their enthusiasm for the profound experience and suggested organizing off-campus visits to the temple.

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto prepared gifts for participants, including English booklets, scratch cards featuring Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s wisdom words, and temple brochures. Books like Where Is the Way were presented to Rev. Dr. David Kim-Cragg, other faculty members, and student volunteers.

Prominent faculty attendees included Professor Henry Shiu, an expert in Chinese Buddhism; Professor Jennifer Bright, specializing in spiritual care and counseling; Professor Nazila Isgandarova, and Professor Eleanor Shiu.