On February 12, the 15th day of the Lunar New Year, Toronto Fo Guang members joined practitioners worldwide in commemorating the second anniversary of Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s passing. In honor of the Grand Master’s kindness and compassion, devotees gathered at Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto to prepare Yangzhou dumplings, a traditional delicacy from his hometown.

Under the guidance of Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan and following instructions from Fo Guang Shan headquarters, Venerable Yong Kang led monastics and kitchen volunteers in preparing the dumplings as an offering to all attendees. Special efforts were made to source shepherd’s purse locally, ensuring the dish retained its authentic flavor. Venerable Yong Kang shared that the meticulous preparation symbolized remembrance and blessings, emphasizing that making Yangzhou dumplings during the Lantern Festival represents both the fullness of the New Year and the harmony of all conditions coming together. He encouraged participants to reflect on the Venerable Master’s teachings while savoring the dumplings, carrying forward the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism.

Following the Buddha Offering Dharma Service, Venerable Zhi Guan presented an AI-generated video titled Remembering the Venerable Master's Kindness – Eating Yangzhou Dumplings. She recounted that two years ago, on this very day, VenerableMaster Hsing Yun passed away at the age 97. The temple has upheld the tradition of offering Yangzhou dumplings on the 15th day of the Lunar New Year as a tribute to the Grand Master’s lifelong dedication, spirit of unity, and pursuit of completeness in all endeavors.

Lay Dharma Lecturer Sue Hutchison, head of the hospitality team, described her experience: “The dumpling skin was soft and chewy, and the shepherd’s purse filling had a delicate, fresh fragrance. Iimmediately thought of the phrase ‘simple yet profound’—just like the Venerable Master’s life philosophy: ‘Be good to others." She expressed deep gratitude,saying, “The Grand Master’s care continues through the monastics who carry onhis teachings. His presence is like the warm winter sun, always comforting and uplifting.”

Senior volunteer Puqin was equally moved, sharing, “Eating this bowl of dumplings filled me with warmth, as if the compassionate Grand Master were right beside me.” Another devotee, Fengwei Lin, who had never encountered Yangzhou dumplings before, found them both delicious and deeply meaningful, remarking, “At the moment I tasted the dumpling, I felt as if the Grand Master was with us.”

On this special day, nearly 300 devotees gathered at the temple to share this symbolic dish. For many, it was their first time tasting Yangzhou dumplings, and beyond the delightful flavors, they were deeply touched by the love, warmth, and Dharma joy infused in every bite.