On April 13, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto was invited to participate in the academic forum “Sacred Space: Finding, Fabricating, Fashioning” at Trinity College, Toronto University. Bringing together scholars, artists, and faith representatives, the forum explored how sacred space is understood and enacted in contemporary society, continuing dialogue from the college chapel’s 70th anniversary in 2025.

Representing the temple, Superintendent Venerable Zhi Guan delivered a presentation titled “Constructing Sacred Space through Repentance: The Contemporary Significance of the Great Compassion Repentance Practice.” She explained that in Buddhism, sacred space extends beyond physical settings or ritual environments and is fundamentally cultivated through inner transformation. Centered on the vows of Avalokiteśvara (Guanyin) Bodhisattva, the practice guides practitioners to purify body, speech, and mind through repentance and vows, establishing an inner field of clarity and compassion that naturally influences the external environment.

As part of the experiential program, Venerable Zhi Shen led a 27-member Fo Guang chanting ensemble in a solemn recitation of the Great Compassion Mantra within the college chapel. The chanting created an immersive and dignified atmosphere, demonstrating how sound, intention, and collective practice can transform space into a living sacred experience.

Participants responded positively to the interfaith encounter. One attendee described the experience as “sacred, dignified, and harmonious,” reflecting the vision of Venerable Master Hsing Yun on mutual respect among religions. Others noted that such exchanges help dispel misconceptions about Buddhism and encourage younger generations to engage with its values. The participation of the Institute for Humanistic Buddhist Thought and Practice at the University of Toronto was also recognized as a meaningful step in strengthening the presence of Humanistic Buddhism within academic contexts.

Following the event, Provost Nicholas Terpstra and Christopher Brittain, Dean of Divinity, commended the Fo Guang Shan team for their contribution. The forum further strengthened academic and cultural collaboration, highlighting the contemporary relevance of Humanistic Buddhism in academic and interfaith exchange.