On December 11, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto’s Waterloo Buddha’s LightCenter welcomed 17 Grade 11 students from Rockway Mennonite Collegiate, accompanied by their World Religions teacher, Kristen Mathies, for an educational visit focused on Buddhist culture and practice. Prior to the visit, the teacher had proactively contacted the center, hoping to arrange an in-person learning experience to deepen students’ understanding of Buddhism as part of their curriculum.

The visiting group was warmly received by Venerable Zhi Guan, together with Outreach Coordinator Cindy Choi, Buddha’s Light Spiritual Care Team Lead Stephanie Hong, and several volunteer hosts, who carefully prepared for the visit. Venerable Zhi Guan first explained the meaning and purpose of meditation and guided the students through a short guided meditation, allowing them to experience a sense of calm and focus. A short introductory video produced by Fo Guang Shan was then screened, offering students a clearer understanding of temple life, daily practice, and the organization’s mission. Cindy Choi introduced the founding history of Fo Guang Shan, its Four Objectives, and the compassionate vision of its founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun.

During the question-and-answer session, students actively engaged with inquiries ranging from the origins of The Complete Works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun displayed in the Main Shrine, to the functions of Dharma instruments, and the symbolic meanings of monastics’ robes in different colors. Venerable Zhi Guan and Cindy provided clear and detailed explanations, creating a lively and interactive exchange.

Before concluding the visit, students were invited to draw inspirational quotations from 108 Insights for Life by Venerable Master Hsing Yun as a keepsake. Many students responded with enthusiasm, remarking that the messages felt “so accurate” and personally meaningful.

At the close of the visit, teacher Kristen Mathies expressed her sincere appreciation for the thoughtful and well-organized program. She noted that although the visit was brief, students gained valuable and lasting insights into Buddhism. She shared her hope to return with students in the coming semester and to share the meaningful experience with her family as well.