On New Year’s Day 2025, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto hosted its annual New Year Baby Blessing Ceremony, welcoming 82 Buddha’s Light Babies aged 0 to 11 and their families. Led by Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan, the event brought warmth and joy to nearly 400 participants, marking a hopeful start to the year.

The ceremony began with the chanting of the Heart Sutra and the Prayer for Buddha’s Light Babies by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan. Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan presided over a purification ritual and blessed the children with wishes for the compassionate protection and guidance of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, along with wishes for wisdom, health, and happiness. Each child received a beaded bracelet as a keepsake, symbolizing good merits and blessings.

Venerable Chueh Fan praised the parents for bringing their children to the temple to seek blessings at the start of the year. She emphasized the importance of raising children in a positive and mindful environment and encouraged families to participate in temple programs such as the Dragon and Lion Dance Team, Scouts, Chinese School, and Children’s English Dharma Class.These activities aim to nurture children’s well-being and development.

The celebration continued with engaging activities designed for children of all ages. Six parent-child games, including Zhuazhou, ball toss, ring toss, snowball relay, and musical chairs, brought families closer together. Organized by the Toronto Buddha’s Light Young Adult Division (YAD) and Chinese School volunteers, these games created a joyful and interactive atmosphere. The Main Shrine, adorned with colorful balloon arches, transformed into a vibrant playground, blending dignity with childlike wonder.

Over 100 volunteers contributed to the event’s success. YAD members facilitated activities, acted as emcees, and wore costumes of beloved characters like Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh, adding a festive touch. Thirty Chinese School volunteer teachers and their families also supported the planning and activities. A self-service photography area allowed families to capture cherished memories together.

This year’s event saw a 75% increase in first-time attendees, while some families returned for their third consecutive year. Jun Wu, a BLIA Da Tze subchapter Committee member, attended with his family of five, including his 7-year-old son and4-month-old daughter. He expressed gratitude for the blessings received and hopes for his children to stay close to virtuous friends, cultivate merit, and grow in wisdom.

The Baby Blessing Ceremony concluded with joy, laughter, and gratitude, ushering in a bright and hopeful 2025 for all participants.