Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto Hosts Chan Tea Gathering to Honor Teachers

February 3, 2024

In a heartwarming display of appreciation, the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto hosted the "Humanistic Buddhism Courses Teachers 2024 Appreciation Chan Tea Gathering" on February 3rd. This event, held at the temple's serene Meditation Hall, aimed to express gratitude to the dedicated educators of Dharma and interest classes.  

Led by Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan, the gathering commenced with a tranquil Chan Tea session. Attendees were guided to sit upright and ease their minds through visual concentration, setting the tone for a reflective and mindful experience.  

As part of the session, tea practitioners made offerings to the Buddha, extending their gratitude to all Buddhas and teachers present. Venerable Chueh Fan emphasized the importance of cultivating a Chan mindset, urging attendees to embody Buddhist teachings through action and connect with the profound wisdom of the Buddha. Participants then immersed themselves in "Chan in motion," observing the graceful process of tea brewing and service. During this time, Venerable Chueh Fan shared insights into the significance of focused mindfulness, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun.  

Following the Chan Tea session, educators took the stage to share their teaching experiences and reflections on the Venerable Masters Hsing Yun’s wisdom words from the “108 Positive Forecasts for Life” received. Their heartfelt expressions of gratitude added depth and sincerity to the gathering, highlighting the profound impact of Buddhist teachings on their lives and work.

Venerables Ru Zhong, Venerable Zhi Guan, Venerable Man Long, and Venerable Ru An offered words of wisdom on seizing the present moment, embracing peaceful resolutions, cultivating joy, and enduring difficulties for personal growth and wisdom.  

In her concluding remarks, Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan underscored the importance of self-learning and self-awakening in every aspect of life. The final step of the Chan Tea session involved "Appreciating the Water" and "Appreciating the Leaves," symbolizing clarity of thought and sincerity in the face of life's challenges.  

Accompanied by captivating images capturing moments of gratitude andcommunal appreciation, the Chan Tea Gathering culminated in a group photo,signifying unity and shared purpose among educators and practitioners.

On the afternoon of February 3rd, 2024, FGS Toronto held a "Thank You Chan Tea Gathering" in the Meditation Hall for the first time, expressing gratitude to the teachers for their hard work in teaching over the past year. Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan first led everyone to sit upright and relax their minds. (Photographed by TracyLiu)
Teachers observed the Chan Tea practitioners brewing tea and practicing Chan. (Photographed by Tracy Liu)
Teachers focused on tasting tea. (Photographed by Tracy Liu)
Teachers expressed gratitude to the Chan Tea practitioners. (Photographed by Tracy Liu)
Ven. Ru Zhong shared insights from the "108 Positive Forecasts for Life" wisdom words. (Photographed by Tracy Liu)
Chan Tea practitioners joined palms to thank the participants. (Photographed by Tracy Liu)
Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan presented the book written by the Most Venerable Hsin Bao, andauspicious golden coins for the Year of the Dragon as auspicious blessings for teachers. (Photographed by Tracy Liu)
After experiencing the essence of "Chan Tea," teachers from the Buddhist studies classes and Interest classes posed for a group photo. (Photographed by TracyLiu)