More than 600 people from diverse cultural backgrounds gathered at Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto on July 1 for its annual Prayer for Canada and Temple Open House, celebrating Canada Day through mindfulness, cultural exchange, and community connection. Now in its third year, the event welcomed families, newcomers, and visitors of all ages, providing an opportunity to experience Buddhist culture while celebrating Canada's diversity and shared values.

The celebration began with a variety of interactive activities that introduced visitors to Buddhist culture in an open and welcoming environment. Guests enjoyed meditation, temple tours, mindfulness art, One-Stroke Calligraphy rubbings, a Canada Gratitude Wall, and wellness workshops that encouraged them to slow down and reconnect with themselves. Many also visited the interactive Ask a Buddhist Corner, where first-time visitors explored Buddhism through conversations with volunteers. Questions such as "Who was the Buddha?", "Is the Buddha a god?", and "What Buddhist teaching can help us in everyday life?" became meaningful starting points for dialogue, reflection, and intercultural understanding.

Later, participants gathered for the Prayer for Canada service led by Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto. Together they offered lights, sang O Canada, and recited Venerable Master Hsing Yun's Prayer for the Nation, dedicating blessings to Canada's continued peace, harmony, and well-being.

"Canada is more than a country—it is a community built upon diverse cultures, languages, and faiths," said Venerable Chueh Fan. "This spirit of inclusion reflects Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vision of harmony and coexistence. When we respect one another's differences, celebrate diversity, and care for our neighbours, we help build a more peaceful and compassionate society. As Buddhists believe, peace begins within each of us."

Children attending the temple's summer camp also joined the prayer ceremony. Introducing this year's theme, "Little Bodhisattvas Lighting Up the World," Venerable Chueh Fan encouraged everyone to become a "little bodhisattva" through simple acts of kindness, compassion, and service—regardless of age.

Reflecting Canada's multicultural community, temple tours were offered in English, Cantonese, and Hindi, while visitors wrote messages of gratitude and hope in multiple languages on the Canada Gratitude Wall. The event also promoted the Vege Plan A initiative, encouraging participants to enjoy plant-based cuisine and make environmentally friendly food choices as a simple way to care for both people and the planet.

Through prayer, mindfulness, cultural exchange, and everyday acts of kindness, the Canada Day Open House reflected Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto's ongoing commitment to serving the community by fostering compassion, inclusion, and mutual understanding.