On May 16, in commemoration of the59th anniversary of the founding of Fo Guang Shan, the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto joined Fo Guang Shan temples across five continents in the “Fo Guang Shan 59th Anniversary of Inauguration Global Sutra Transcription Cultivation.”

Led by Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, more than 160 Toronto devotees gathered in the evening to participate in the mindful transcription of the Heart Sutra. This solemn practice was held to honor the Founding Master, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and to offer prayers for world peace, the enduring presence of theDharma, and the well-being of all sentient beings.

Since 2019, this global sutra transcription has been held annually on Fo Guang Shan’s founding day, continuing without interruption, even during the COVID-19 pandemic. Venerable Chueh Fan highlighted the significance of this observance, explaining, “The founding anniversary is not a time for festivity, but for calm, focused cultivation to purify the body and mind. This is the most meaningful way to commemorate Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s legacy.”

The evening began with a recorded teaching by Venerable Master Hsing Yun on the profound spiritual value of sutra transcription. As the gentle melodies of the guqin resonated through the Main Shrine, participants quietly transcribed the Heart Sutra, stroke by stroke, immersing themselves in its timeless wisdom.

Several participants shared personal reflections on the experience. Winnie Kwong, a BLIA Lay Dharma Lecturer, expressed, “Listening to the Master’s words filled my heart with gratitude. The Dharma keeps me grounded and brings peace to my mind.”

BLIA Lay Dharma Lecturer Sue Hutchison remarked, “The Master’s prayer reflects his deep care for all of us.I feel so fortunate to walk this path, and my faith has grown even stronger.”

Annie Du, President of BLIA Toronto’s Da Tze Subchapter, added, “Participating in this global practice allowed me to truly feel the enduring transmission of the Dharma lineage.”

First-time participant and volunteer Amy Kao shared, “I felt what the Amitabha Sutra describes as ‘all the virtuousones gathered in one place.’ I am deeply grateful to Venerable Master Hsing Yun forguiding me to the joy of the Dharma.”

Through this global act of unity and devotion, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto reaffirmed its dedication to Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s vision of spreading Humanistic Buddhism and nurturing faith across generations.