On October 12, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto held a solemn and auspicious Triple Gem Refuge Ceremony, presided over by Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto. Thirty-six participants joyfully became disciples of the Buddha, taking refuge under the blessings and protection of the Triple Gem. Among them were couples and siblings who made the vow together, while nearly 150 disciples, Buddha’s Light members, and guests attended to witness this sacred milestone.

Continuing the outreach connection built through last year’s library volunteer program, the Young Adult Division (YAD) of BLIA Toronto Chapter visited Westminster Court Retirement Home on October 11 to co-host the “Mid-Autumn Reunion — Sending Blessings” celebration.

At the invitation of Trinity College, University of Toronto, Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, delivered a special lecture on October 8. Drawing from Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s book Humanistic Buddhism: Holding True to the Original Intents of the Buddha, Venerable Chueh Fan explored how faith traditions today face the shared challenge of redefining their roles in modern society. Through the six key frameworks of Humanistic Buddhism, she emphasized that while rooted in daily life, the Dharma also provides transcendental insight—guiding people to find inner peace and spiritual balance amid contemporary challenges.

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto has joyfully resumed its Spiritual Care Visit Program at Credit Valley Hospital in Mississauga, marking the first visit since the pandemic. On October 7, Stephanie Hong, head of the temple’s Spiritual Care Group, together with member Debbie Choi, visited Buddhist patients at the hospital to offer comfort, blessings, and compassionate support.

“6th Meadowvale Scouts, assemble!” With that cheerful call, more than fifty Scouts and leaders gathered for the Fo Guang Shan Toronto Scouts Autumn Camp, held from October 3 to 5 at Mount Nemo in Burlington. Themed “Every Day Is Earth Day,” the three-day camp encouraged participants to live in harmony with nature through hiking, mountain cleaning, nature-inspired art, and homemade vegetarian meals. The program reminded everyone that caring for the planet is not just reserved for April 22, but a daily practice of mindfulness, gratitude, and respect for all living beings.

On October 5, the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto Chinese School held a Mid-Autumn Festival cultural experience class titled “Blossoms and Full Moon Celebrate the Mid-Autumn.” More than seventy teachers, students, and parents participated, filling the temple with festive warmth and joyful learning. The event allowed students to not only study the Chinese language but also experience the depth and beauty of traditional Chinese celebrations.