Despite heavy rain, nearly 5,000 people gathered at Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto on June 14 for the annual Interfaith Prayers for Peace and Harmony and Buddha's Light Vegetarian Food Fair. Organized by Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto and the Buddha's Light International Association Toronto (BLIA Toronto), the event brought together religious leaders, government representatives, community organizations, and members of the public in a shared commitment to peace, compassion, and social harmony.

The interfaith prayer service began with a Land Acknowledgement, followed by the chanting of the Heart Sutra and Venerable Master Hsing Yun's Prayer for World Peace, led by Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto. Representatives from Buddhism, Christianity, Judaism, Islam, and the Bahá'í Faith then offered prayers and blessings in Sanskrit, Hebrew, Arabic, and other languages, dedicating their prayers to peace, human dignity, freedom from fear, and relief for those affected by conflict and violence around the world.

“Although we come from different faith traditions and cultural backgrounds, our aspiration for peace is the same,” said Venerable Chueh Fan. Reflecting on the rainy weather, she noted that while external circumstances cannot always be controlled, individuals can choose how they respond to them. She also highlighted recent collaborative efforts by the Canadian Buddhist community to advance the recognition of Buddhist Heritage Month in Canada and support national Vesak celebrations, demonstrating a spirit of unity and shared purpose. Quoting Fo Guang Shan founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vision of “Harmony and Coexistence,” she encouraged participants to transform prayers into action through compassion, respect for life, and care for the planet.

Kevin Cao, President of BLIA Toronto, noted that the Buddha's Light Vegetarian Food Fair has been a longstanding community tradition for more than 25 years. Rooted in the principles of environmental stewardship and inner well-being, the event brings together volunteers, community partners, and families in a shared spirit of service. He expressed appreciation to the hundreds of volunteers whose dedication ensured the event's success despite challenging weather conditions.

The event received commendations from all levels of government in recognition of its longstanding contributions to interfaith dialogue, community service, and cultural understanding. Michael Ma, Member of Parliament for Markham–Unionville, attended the celebration and presented a congratulatory message recognizing Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto and BLIA Toronto for their contributions to Humanistic Buddhism, interfaith friendship, education, philanthropy, and community harmony. Councillor Isa Lee, City of Markham Ward 8, presented a certificate of recognition acknowledging the event's role in fostering mutual understanding, cultural exchange, and community engagement.

Other distinguished guests included Yi-Peng Liang, Director General of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Toronto; Dato' Sri Henry Lee Leong Bee, Honorary Consul of Malaysia in Toronto; Councillor Dipika Damerla of the City of Mississauga; and Councillor Castro Liu of the City of Richmond Hill. A congratulatory message was also received from The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State (Small Business and Tourism).

Visitors enjoyed more than 100 vegetarian dishes representing cuisines from around the world, together with lion dance performances, cultural presentations, family-friendly activities, mindfulness workshops, and community outreach exhibits. Community partners, including Peel Regional Police, Peel Public Health, and Trillium Health Partners, shared information and resources with attendees. A fundraising booth in the Main Shrine Hall supported the Institute for Humanistic Buddhist Thought and Practice, helping advance scholarship and education in Humanistic Buddhism.

The event concluded with songs of gratitude performed by monastics, BLIA Toronto leaders, volunteers, and members of the BLIA Toronto Young Adult Division (YAD). Their heartfelt performance expressed appreciation to the thousands of supporters whose participation helped make the celebration a meaningful expression of compassion, unity, and hope..

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