On September 20, members of Buddha’s Light International Association – Young Adult Division (BLIA-YAD) Toronto and volunteers visited Westminster Court Seniors Residence in Mississauga, bringing music, cultural activities and festive treats to nearly 100 seniors in celebration of the Mid-Autumn Festival.

The afternoon opened with the gentle sounds of the guqin, followed by Yuanji dance, guzheng and clarinet performances, as well as a martial arts demonstration. The diverse program filled the room with applause and offered residents an opportunity to experience different aspects of Chinese arts and culture. To share the spirit of reunion traditionally associated with the Mid-Autumn Festival, the young adults prepared vegetarian refreshments, including sushi, pandan cake and snow-skin mooncakes. Volunteers introduced the treats and shared their cultural significance with the residents.

A highlight of the afternoon was a lantern-painting activity. After learning about the tradition of Mid-Autumn lanterns, residents decorated white lanterns with colourful designs, Chinese characters and ink-style landscapes. Some traced Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s calligraphy, while others searched for Chinese characters on their phones to add personal messages and blessings. For many, it was their first experience with Chinese calligraphy and lantern art.

BLIA-YAD member Melissa guided the program, while Brian and other volunteers served tea and assisted residents throughout the creative activity. More importantly, the young adults spent time listening, talking and creating alongside the seniors.

Through music, food, art and companionship, the celebration brought generations and cultures together, sharing the warmth of the Mid-Autumn Festival and the Humanistic Buddhist values of compassion, kindness and community care.

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