Fo Guang Shan Toronto Youth Commit to Self-Awareness and Buddhist Practice

October 19, 2024

On October 19, the inaugural session of the Fo Guang ShanToronto Youth Academy opened with an inspiring ceremony at Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto. Twelve young participants from Canada, China, Taiwan, and India gathered to start on a journey of self-discovery through HumanisticBuddhism. The group includes university students and working professionals suchas doctors, engineers, programmers, and managers, with an average age of 25.

Theceremony was led by Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple ofToronto, alongside the temple’s monastic community. Participants solemnly recited their vows before the Triple Gem, committing themselves to Dharma studies, cultivating wisdom, and fostering self-awareness.

In her opening address, Venerable Chueh Fan encouraged the youth to embrace everylearning opportunity, emphasizing that discipline plays a crucial role in building self-awareness and laying a solid foundation for a meaningful life.She urged participants to apply Buddhist teachings in overcoming life’s challenges, transforming their journey of self-discovery into a beacon that guides their paths. Venerable Chueh Fan also announced plans for a pilgrimage to Fo Guang Shan Monastery in Taiwan, giving students a chance to connect more deeply with their spiritual roots and experience life at Tsung Lin University firsthand.

The academy’s curriculum offers a diverse range of topics, including studies on the Vimalakirti Sutra, an introduction to Buddhism, Buddhist etiquette, Chanting and Liturgy, and the life of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Beyond academic learning, participants will engage in meditation, cooking classes, hymn singing, and temple chores, creating a balanced program that integrates both theory and practice. The academy aims to nurture wisdom, compassion, and resilience, equipping students with tools for personal growth and an enriched life.

Venerable Zhi Guan, the temple’s superintendent, elaborated on the program’s schedule and shared insights from Venerable Master Hsing Yun: “In Buddhism, we do not focus on outward appearance but on the sincerity of the heart. Learn to cooperate with others, gain acceptance, and have the courage to take responsibility.”

The opening ceremony of the 2024 Fo Guang Shan Toronto Youth Academy on October 19, featuring 12 participants from Canada, Mainland China, Taiwan, and India. Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan led the monastic community in attending the event.
Venerable Chueh Fan emphasized the importance of discipline in developing self-awareness and improving life’s quality in her welcoming remarks.
Venerable Zhi Guan guided the youth through orientation activities designed to introduce them to the academy’s structure and practices.
The participants were fully engaged in their training, practicing mindfulness and aligning their actions with Buddhist principles.
Venerable Ru Zhong provided detailed instruction on Buddhist etiquette, helping participants develop a deeper understanding of traditional practices.
Venerable Ru Sing led sessions on the Chanting and Liturgy, and demonstrated how to handle Dharma instruments with respect and precision.
VenerableRu An facilitated an engaging discussion on Master Hsing Yun’s article, “Relieving Stress,” encouraging participants to strengthen their resilience and carry outtheir responsibilities with mindful dedication.