To help the community prepare thoughtfully for life’s uncertainties, the BLIA Toronto Da Tzu Subchapter organized an Estate Planning Fundamentals Seminar on March 14 at Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto.The seminar was delivered by Grace Wei, Regional Vice President of MeriTrust Financial, and drew nearly 60 participants, including temple members and their families. The session aimed to provide practical knowledge on estate planning, enabling individuals to arrange their affairs with clarity while easing potential burdens on loved ones.

Before the seminar, Venerable Ru Sing offered opening remarks, noting that a Workshop on Chanting Support for the Deceased had been held earlier that day. She explained that chanting support and estate planning are closely connected, as both encourage mindful preparation for life’s final stage. She also encouraged participants to revisit “An Honest Revelation –An Open Letter” by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, reflecting on the Master’s guidance and aspirations for the future.

Venerable Ru Sing shared a personal story about her grandmother, who had clearly expressed her wishes before passing away. When the time came, the family was able to follow her instructions and arrange Buddhist chanting and memorial services with the support of the temple, bringing comfort and reassurance to family members. She emphasized that clear arrangements made during one’s lifetime help loved ones manage final matters with peace of mind. Preparing a will, she noted, should not be regarded as a taboo but rather as a responsible and compassionate act for one’s family.

During the seminar, Grace Wei introduced key aspects of estate planning, including wills, financial and medical powers of attorney, trusts, beneficiary designations, tax considerations, and charitable giving. She also addressed participants’ questions and provided practical guidance on personal financial planning and legacy arrangements.

BLIA Toronto Da Tzu Subchapter President Zheng Zhen remarked that Buddhist teachings frequently remind people of life’s impermanence. With this awareness, thoughtful planning becomes an expression of wisdom and care. Through professional guidance, the seminar aimed to help participants gain a clearer understanding of estate and financial planning while encouraging charitable giving to support community and Dharma initiatives.

Grace Wei has longstanding ties with Fo Guang Shan. She took refuge in the Triple Gem in Hong Kong in 1999 and was inspired by a Dharma talk by Venerable Master Hsing Yun at the Hong Kong Coliseum. After immigrating to Canada, she joined BLIA and has remained actively involved in temple volunteer service and meditation practice.

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