On October 5th, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto held a seminar on "Taking Refuge in the Triple Gem and Upholding the Five Precepts," featuring a special lecture by Venerable Hui Zhao, Deputy Abbot of Fo Guang Shan Monastery. The seminar offered an in-depth exploration of key Buddhist practices, focusing on those preparing for the Triple Gem Refuge and Five Precepts Ceremony scheduled for October 13th. Participants gained a deeper understanding of the spiritual significance of taking refuge in the Buddha,Dharma, and Sangha, and of following the Five Precepts as guiding principles in their daily lives.

Several attendees, initially intending only to take refuge, were inspired to also embrace the Five Precepts, making a greater commitment to their practice. Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, emphasized the special importance of this opportunity, as the upcoming October 13th ceremony will be the first of its kind in Toronto since the pandemic. Over 300 participants are expected, traveling from cities such as Ottawa, Montreal, Edmonton, New York, and Detroit.

The seminar attracted more than 200 participants, both in person and online. Inside the Main Shrine, attendees in traditional Buddhist robes listened attentively as Venerable Hui Zhao explained that taking refuge in the Triple Gem—Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha—establishes the foundation for faith, while the Five Precepts act as a moral compass for spiritual growth. "Upholding the precepts is the foundation of liberation," he emphasized, encouraging participants to be mindful in their everyday lives and to see the precepts astools for cultivating compassion, mindfulness, and spiritual freedom.

Drawing on the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Venerable Hui Zhao used a metaphor to illustrate the Triple Gem: "The Buddha is light, the Dharma is water, and the Sangha is a field of blessings." He explained that these treasures help sentient beings overcome suffering and achieve happiness. He further clarified that the Five Precepts are not restrictive but protective, designed to guard against wrongdoing and curb harmful actions, leading to inner peace and liberation.

The seminar also included a practical session where participants, guided by monastics and volunteers, practiced wearing precept robe to ensure proper etiquette and dignity during the official ceremony.

The seminar laid a strong foundation for faith and cultivation, leaving participants feeling spiritually strengthened and more committed to their Buddhist path.