On April 5, 2025, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto held the third session of its ongoing Spiritual Care Training Program, focusing on the theme of “Empathy and Compassion.” Led by registered psychotherapists Stephanie Hong and Erica Wan, the workshop welcomed Venerable Zhi Guan and 22 members of the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA)Toronto Chapter for reflective learning and meaningful discussion.

The session explored the practice ofempathy—the ability to understand and acknowledge others' emotions—as well as the deeper development of compassion, the heartfelt wish to relieve the suffering of others. Participants were encouraged to consider diverse perspectives and examine how empathy and compassion serve as vital tools in building authentic, caring relationships.

Venerable Zhi Guan enriched the training by sharing insights from Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s teachings on “Compassion.” She encouraged participants to take inspiration from Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, who is said to observe all sentient beings with eyes of compassion. Venerable Zhi Guan emphasized that while offerings and prayers are important, the most meaningful practice is to embody the Bodhisattva’s compassion in everyday interactions.

Through case studies and role-playing activities, Hong and Wan offered practical strategies for responding to others with empathy and care in real-life situations. Participants engaged in open dialogue, sharing personal experiences and reflecting on how to strengthen their emotional sensitivity and deepen human connections.

The session also featured the well-known story “Three Eights Make Twenty-Three,” drawn from the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and used the architectural symbolism of the three gates of the Sutra Repository at the temple to illustrate the balance between compassion and wisdom. Venerable Zhi Guan explained that while compassion forms the foundation of spiritual practice, wisdom is essential in guiding that compassion into right action. She urged participants to cultivate a deeper understanding of interdependence and causality through Buddhist teachings.

BLIA member Polly Tang shared her key takeaways from the training: to see others with compassionate eyes, as Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva does; to cultivate deep listening in order to perceive unspoken needs; and to speak with kindness, offering words that uplift and empower those facing hardship.

Participants left the session inspired and better equipped to offer warmth, presence, and support in both spiritual care and daily life.

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