On May 20, the Senior Activity Program at Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto concluded its Spring 2025 term with a joyful fellowship gathering that celebrated learning, spiritual growth, and community connection. The event was graced by the presence of Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan, Superintendents Venerable Ru Zhong and Venerable Zhi Guan, Venerable Miao Hsin, and the full assembly of resident monastics, who offered heartfelt blessings and guidance.

More than 40 senior participants gathered to express their appreciation to the temple for providing a meaningful platformfor lifelong learning and spiritual enrichment. The program featured storytelling performances, a group rendition of “Chanting the Buddha’s Name,” and handmade thank-you cards, all reflecting the students’ deep commitment to Humanistic Buddhist practice.

In her Dharma talk, Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan praised the students’ enthusiasm and perseverance. “To study Buddhism in the human realm,” she noted, “is to eliminate afflictions and cultivate good causes and conditions. The temple is where wholesome affinities come together.” She emphasized that while Dharma teachers provide the platform, it is the community that must carry the flame of cultivation forward.

A memorable highlight was the group chorus of “The Four Givings,” led by the Abbess. Each student received a mini card featuring the One-Stroke Calligraphy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. These personalized messages servedas treasured keepsakes, offering wisdom and encouragement.

Students also presented a video recap of the 12-week course, highlighting a diverse curriculum that included group cultivation, “100 Humanistic Buddhism’s Pathsto Happiness,” wellness Tai Chi, sutra transcription, Sounds of the Human World, creative arts, and communication psychology. The video brought smiles and warm reflections as participants revisited memorable class moments.

To honor Buddha’s Birthday, students presented a trilingual dramatization of “The Story ofthe Buddha” in Mandarin, English, and Cantonese. The performance traced the Buddha’s life from birth to parinirvana and affirmed the students’ sharedvow to follow the path of the Buddha. The gathering concluded with group chanting and the offering of handmade blessing cards to the monastics and instructors.

Since its inception in July 2023, the Senior Activity Program has grown from 20 to 45 regular participants and has become a vital space for seniors to deepen their understanding of the Dharma and cultivate meaningful connections.

Guiding monastic Venerable Ru An encouraged students to cherish their good causes and engage actively with the Dharma. Class leader Amy Kao expressed heartfelt gratitude to the temple for its compassionate support and ongoing commitment to Humanistic Buddhist education.