A Warm Reunion: Toronto International Students Welcome the Lunar New Year at Fo Guang Shan

January 10, 2026

To offer comfort and a sense of home to international students studying in Toronto, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto hosted the 2025 Year-End Reunion Dinner for International Students on January 10. Nearly 100 students from institutions including the University of Toronto and the University of Waterloo gathered amid the winter season to welcome the Lunar New Year through a guided temple tour, light-offering prayers, and a vegetarian dinner, fostering warmth, reflection, and meaningful connections.

Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, shared that the year-end reunion reflects the compassionate vision of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, who consistently cared for students pursuing their studies far from home. Venerable Chueh Fan noted that the gathering aims to illuminate students’ inner resolve, bring peace of mind, and encourage them to move forward with confidence and clarity during their academic journeys abroad.

Venerable Chueh Fan also mentioned that Kevin Cao, the newly inaugurated President of the Buddha’s Light International Association Toronto Chapter, was formerly a member of the University of Waterloo Buddha’s Light Club. Abbess encouraged students to cherish wholesome affinities with the Dharma and allow seeds of goodness to grow throughout their studies and future endeavors, offering the New Year blessing, “Harmony and Coexistence, Galloping Towards Success.”

During the temple tour, Venerable Chueh Fan introduced Fo Guang Shan’s Four Major Objectives—culture, education, charity, and spiritual cultivation—and highlighted Venerable Master Hsing Yun’sstrong emphasis on education, noting that the first building he established was a Buddhist college rather than a shrine. Venerable Ru Zhong shared the history of the temple and the long-standing dedication of volunteers, while VenerableZhi Shen guided students through the temple library, introducing key publications that convey the educational and cultural spirit of Humanistic Buddhism.

The evening concluded with a warm vegetarian dinner and student performances, followed by a light-offering ceremony in the Main Shrine. Led by Venerable Chueh Fan, participants sincerely recited “A Prayer to Broadly Form Good Affinities” by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, setting heartfelt aspirations for the year ahead and opening a new chapter filled with purpose, gratitude, and hope.

Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto hosts the 2025 Year-End Reunion for International Students on January 10, welcoming nearly 100 students from the University of Toronto, the University of Waterloo, and other institutions.
Venerable Chueh Fan shares that the year-end reunion originated from the compassionate vision of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, who hoped to illuminate the inner light of students studying abroad.
1.    At the conclusion of the evening, monastics present Dharma word red envelopes and affinity gifts, offering blessings for the New Year.
During the temple tour, students browse and explore books in the temple library.
Monastics and representatives of the Buddha’s Light International Association Toronto Chapter attend the event to show care and support for the youth.
To create a warm Lunar New Year atmosphere, Fo GuangShan Temple of Toronto prepares a vegetarian feast for international students.
The dinner program features student performances, including a musical presentation by Fo Guang youth studying in the University of Toronto’s music program.
Participants gather in the Main Shrine to offer lights and recite “A Prayer to Broadly Form Good Affinities,” making wishes for the year ahead.
Monastics present Dharma word red envelopes and affinity gifts.
Together, participants offer lights and recite “A Prayer to Broadly Form Good Affinities,” setting heartfelt intentions for the New Year.

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