On May 4, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto welcomed over 2,000 visitors to its grand multicultural celebration of Buddha’s Birthday, fostering harmony, compassion, and inclusion across the Greater Toronto Area. The event featured a traditional Buddha bathing ceremony, family-friendly activities, a 3D immersive film, a photography exhibition, and freshly prepared vegetarian cuisine.

In her opening remarks, Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan emphasized that Buddha’s Birthday is both a spiritual milestone and an opportunity for cultural exchange. “Guests from many cultures and faiths are united today by the Buddha’s compassion and wisdom,” she said. “This is the spirit of coexistence.” She encouraged all to practice the “Three Acts of Goodness”—do good deeds, speak good words, and think good thoughts—as taught by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Founding Master of Fo Guang Shan.

The day’s highlights included the opening of “Harmony in the Himalayas: even Steps to Happiness,” an exhibition by international photographer and orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jon Kolkin. His 14-year project, shot in India, Bhutan, and Tibet, features 39 black-and-white images printed with a rare 19th-century platinum process and displayed in Buddhist thangka style.

In his address, Dr. Kolkin shared insights from his years among Himalayan monastics. “People everywhere seek happiness,” he said. “The key lies in living with compassion, balance, and inner peace.”

Notable guests included Kevin Cao and Rachel Fan, vice presidents of the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Toronto Chapter, Henry Ho, advisor to the Ontario Chinese Painting and Calligraphy Association; and Judith Reda, fundraising manager at the North York Food Bank.

A Buddha’s Birthday Stamp Trail guided visitors through the event, including the bathing ceremony, a “Three Acts of Goodness” craft zone, 3D screening of The Buddha, and guided tours of the photo exhibition. Children learned about the birth of Prince Siddhartha and made lotus-shaped crafts to symbolize open minds and hearts.

Guests received commemorative gifts and plant-based meals, including Auspicious Curry Rice, Ruyi Noodles, Buddha Bowls, and Vietnamese Prajna Noodles—highlighting the temple’s advocacy for sustainable living.

Many attendees shared reflections: teacher Kiana Wong said guiding the children helped her appreciate the Buddha’s wisdom more deeply; BLIA Toronto English subchapter president Tyrie Norris praised the joyful spirit of the day; and first-time visitor Suesie Agostino was moved by the solemn yet welcoming atmosphere.

Through this vibrant celebration, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto brought together diverse communities in the shared pursuit of compassion, understanding, and inner joy.

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