Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto celebrated a dignified and heartfelt Buddhist wedding on November 15 for long-time BLIA youth member Keven Chen and Lien Tran. Nearly 140 relatives, friends, and members of the Buddha’s Light community gathered to offer their blessings through music, smiles, and warm applause. Before the Buddha, and under the witness of Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan, the couple solemnly exchanged their vows with sincerity and gratitude.

During her address, Venerable Chueh Fan conveyed guidance based on the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, emphasizing that the strength of a harmonious marriage lies in mutual respect, understanding, and appreciation. Abbess encouraged the newlyweds to recognize each other’s virtues, support one another’s growth, and cultivate patience and compassion in building a stable and joyful family life.

For Keven Chen, the occasion held particular significance. Having begun his volunteer service at Fo Guang Shan Toronto at the age of sixteen, he later served as President of the BLIA Toronto Young Adult Division and is now a board member of BLIA Toronto. Over the past two decades, he has assisted in numerous temple activities and has served as emcee for several Buddhist weddings. As he stood in the role of groom, he expressed his gratitude with deep emotion.

Keven thanked his family, all Venerables, and the Fo Guang community for their unwavering guidance. He also acknowledged the support of his Dharma friends, including youth members who traveled from the United States to attend—an expression of the strong bonds cultivated through years of shared service. A particularly touching moment occurred when Keven offered his appreciation to his Vietnamese in-laws in their native language, bringing warmth and joy to the gathering.

To commemorate this meaningful event, the temple prepared a vegetarian banquet, welcoming guests of diverse cultural backgrounds to share in the celebration of this auspicious union.

‍