On July 1, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto celebrated the 158th anniversary of Canada’s founding with a vibrant and uplifting “Pray for Canada & Temple Open House,” drawing nearly 1,000 guests from diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. Blending national pride with spiritual reflection, the event invited participants to celebrate unity while cultivating peace from within.

The temple was beautifully adorned with Canadian flags and festive red-and-white decorations. Volunteers in maple leaf-themed attire warmly welcomed guests, guiding them through a range of enriching activities—including meditation, tea meditation, sutra transcription, guided temple tours, and a solemn prayer ceremony.

The day began at 10:00 a.m. with hands-on experiences such as transcribing wisdom words from Venerable Master Hsing Yun,writing “Three Acts of Goodness” vow cards, and receiving personal insight through the “Mind Spa Station.” Children and youth counselors from the temple’s summer camp also took part, sharing joyful interactions that filled the temple with energy and hope.

The highlight of the event was a moving prayer ceremony led by Abbess Venerable Chueh Fan. Participants lit offering lamps and recited Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Prayer for the Nation, sincerely praying for peace, prosperity, and harmony throughout Canada. “May this land continue to be a place where people of all backgrounds live together in harmony,” said the Abbess. “True peace begins within—radiating outward to families, communities, and the world.”

The “Mind Spa Station” offered guests a moment of inner reflection, featuring calligraphy, origami, and Buddha Board painting—where water-based brushstrokes slowly disappear, symbolizing impermanence and the art of letting go. One participant described the origami session as “a quiet conversation with oneself.”

Guided tours led by members of the BLIA English subchapter introduced visitors to Buddhist teachings and temple culture. Public outreach campaigns such as “Vege Plan A” and “VegRun” promoted healthy, mindful living, while a buffet-style vegetarian lunch showcased the warmth of Buddhist hospitality.

Many guests expressed appreciation for the temple’s peaceful, welcoming atmosphere. “The spirit of Canada Day was truly alive here—with kindness, celebration, and deep serenity,” shared one attendee.

The event embodied Fo Guang Shan’s mission of compassion, education, and cultural exchange—offering a meaningful and inspiring way to honor Canada Day by connecting hearts and nurturing peace.