To support the upcoming “Fo Guang Shan 60 Years of Passing the Lamp Honoring a 100-Year Legacy” commemorative exhibition and prepare volunteers for Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto’s 30th anniversary programs, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto held its first Buddhist Cultural Museum Volunteer Guide Training on May 2. Conducted in English, the program welcomed nearly 20 volunteers from diverse backgrounds and age groups, many fluent in English, Cantonese, and Mandarin, reflecting the temple’s commitment to engaging the wider local community through Humanistic Buddhism.

Rooted in the principles of Humanistic Buddhism, the training combined foundational learning with practical application. Sessions introduced the origins of the Buddhist Cultural Museum, the mission of volunteer guides, and the Four Objectives of Fo Guang Shan. Through the stories behind Fo Guang Shan Founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s “One-Stroke Calligraphy,” participants explored how Buddhist teachings can be integrated into everyday life and contribute positively to society.

The program also included exhibition walkthroughs, tour-flow training, live demonstrations, and group practice sessions. Volunteers learned how to present Buddhist culture and the exhibition content with clarity, warmth, and accessibility, helping visitors gain meaningful insights within a limited tour experience.

Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan emphasized that volunteer guides are more than exhibition presenters—they serve as bridges connecting people with Buddhism. She noted that the training’s purpose extends beyond presentation skills, encouraging volunteers to deepen their understanding of Fo Guang Shan’s history and spirit so they may naturally share the beauty of Buddhism with the community and help foster a more harmonious society.

Director of the Social Education Department Venerable Ru An encouraged participants to continue studying Buddhism and Humanistic Buddhism while becoming familiar with the exhibition materials. She reminded volunteers to embody the spirit of the Four Givings in every tour, emphasizing that service itself is a practice benefiting both oneself and others.

Volunteer Grace Wei, who served as group leader, shared that although she had volunteered at the temple for many years, this training was her first opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Fo Guang Shan’s history and development.