Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto

Education

Humanistic Buddhist College

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The objectives of the Buddhist Studies offered Humanistic College are as follows:

  1. To provide spiritual training.
  2. To promote education in Buddhist principles.
  3. To encourage practices based upon faith or confidence in the Dharma, learning, community service.
  4. To give people an opportunity to embrace the principles of Humanistic Buddhism that enhances spiritual practice in daily life.
  5. To build a bridge between East and West.

Certificate Program:

Each Term = 3 months and the full course = 2 years.
During the program, students will be given a Buddhist education that incorporates the fundamentals of Buddhism. The full course is designed for students who wish to deepen their knowledge and understanding of Buddhist philosophy and practice.

In order to receive the certificate, each of the Registered Students must fulfill the following responsibilities:

  1. 85% participation in the Classes for the full two years of the course.
  2. Attendance at the annual Buddhism examination.
  3. Maintaining of a satisfactory grade point average.
  4. Adherence to the rules and regulations of the temple.

Those who successfully complete the full course and fulfill the above requirements will receive a certificate from the Temple. Classes include:

Introduction

  • Introduction to Buddhism
  • Introduction to Buddhist Culture
  • Principles of Humanistic Buddhism
  • Ethics and Conduct
  • Buddhist Ethics
  • Buddhist Rituals
  • Chanting and Religious Musical Instruments

Practice

  • Participation of BLIA activities
  • Participation in activities at the local nursing homes, schools and cancer care support group
  • Support for religious activities at Fo Guang Shan Temple
  • Interfaith dialogues to build mutual understanding and respect between diverse religious groups.

What benefits will you receive?

  1. You will gain an understanding of Buddhism both in theory and as well as in practice.
  2. At our library, you will be given plenty of time to read and study the important areas of Buddhism as well as time to research the areas you are specifically interested in.
  3. You will learn more about yourself and break free of your old bad habits and patterns.
  4. You will learn how to have a carefree mind and joy in your life through study and volunteerism at the Temple.
  5. You will learn teamwork and tolerance of others in an environment that is harmonious and caring.
  6. You will also learn another language either Mandarin or Cantonese depending on your background and meet people from around the Temple.
  7. After attending one year of classes, students will be offered the opportunity to help around the Temple, enabling them to practice what they have learned in the classroom by getting involved with the translation, the kitchen, the Tea House, Reception area, the Shrines, or even giving guided tours.

Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is Buddhism?

    Buddhism is the teaching of an enlightened being known as Buddha. Buddha discovered the truth of all universal phenomena. Buddhism has a timeless and universal relevance, and can be practiced by anyone, in any culture, regardless of race, gender or age.

  2. Do I have to be a Buddhist to attend this class?

    No, you do not need to be a Buddhist. This class is for anyone who would like to improve their quality of life by developing inner peace, love and wisdom.
Prerequisites:

The most important things for a potential student are to have a willingness to learn, an open mind, and lots of energy. There are three study terms each year starting in February and December. The Temple will accept new students at the beginning of each new term. The cost is by donation on completion of the course. Students can come and join the Class for three months (1 term), one year (3 terms) or two years (6 terms).

 

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