On October 15, a group of 25 students from the University ofToronto Mississauga's Museum Studies program, led by Professor Li Lan, visited the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto as part of their course curriculum. The visit aimed to enhance their understanding of Buddhist architecture, art, andculture while fostering intercultural exchange. It also highlighted the spirit of Venerable Master Hsing Yun in promoting Buddhism through art in modern society.

Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Toronto, welcomed the group with anintroduction to the meaning of “Fo Guang Shan” and shared the compassionate vision of the founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. She emphasized how his mission to spread the Dharma has led to the establishment of temples acrossfive continents.

The students explored the Main Shrine, where they were introduced to the artistic symbolism of the Five Buddhas and the significance of offerings such as incense, flowers, and light. Venerable Zhi Guan, Superintendent of FGS Toronto, along with Venerable Ru An, guided the students through a detailed tour,explaining the morning bell and evening drum rituals. They also highlighted thedesign philosophy of the Water Drop Tea House, which reflects the principle of "gratitude for every drop of water, repaying it with a gushing spring."

At the temple’s Museum, the group experienced the Multi-Media Brushwork Art Exhibition, where the interplay ofspace, visuals, and sound created a serene Chan-inspired atmosphere. The students were immersed in the artistic beauty of Buddhist sculptures, gaining adeeper appreciation of their aesthetic and spiritual dimensions.

Beyond admiring Buddhist art, the students actively participated in discussions withthe monastics, posing thoughtful questions about the lives of monastics before and after renunciation and the distinctions between Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.The monastics patiently responded, emphasizing the sense of purpose that comes with a life devoted to service. These exchanges enriched the students' understanding of Humanistic Buddhism.

In recognition of the academic value of the visit, the temple presented the English edition of the Illustrated Encyclopedia of World Buddhist Art to the University of Toronto’s History Department. Venerable Chueh Fan introduced the encyclopedia’s ten key features and eight categories, encouraging its use as ascholarly resource. Professor Li Lan expressed her gratitude on behalf of the department and encouraged students to incorporate the encyclopedia into their future research.

As a token of appreciation, each student received a golden bell engraved with Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s “One-Stroke Calligraphy” and two books: 365 Days for Travelers and Whereis the Way? Humanistic Buddhism for Everyday Life.

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