On July 18, under the leadership of Ontario-licensed psychotherapist and spiritual care counselor Ms. Stephanie Hong, the Buddha’s Light Spiritual CareGroup visited the Mon Sheong Stouffville Long-Term Care Centre as part of their monthly outreach program. This visit marked the second anniversary of the initiative, which began in 2023, and brought care and comfort to 17 elderlyresidents aged 76 to 95.

Through warm companionship and the sharing of Buddhist teachings, the team conveyed the compassion and blessings of Humanistic Buddhism. Each visit is thoughtfully adapted to the residents’ linguistic, cultural, and religious backgrounds. Volunteers respectfully tailor their approach to meet individual needs, ensuring every interaction is meaningful and inclusive.

In addition to friendly conversations and life-sharing, volunteers offer stories and reflections from Buddhist teachings upon request. For those who identify as Buddhist, the team shares and recites A Prayer Upon Arising in the Morning, composed by Fo Guang Shan’s founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, offering sincere blessings for physical and spiritual well-being.

Ms. Hong noted that over the past two years, a strong sense of trust and friendship has developed between the Fo Guang Shan volunteers and the residents. Although each visit lasts approximately 20minutes per resident, many describe the interaction as a highlight of theirmonth, an uplifting and comforting presence they always look forward to.

The outreach program not only brings warmth tothe elderly but also offers volunteers a transformative experience. Throughlistening and empathizing, they deepen their emotional understanding andcompassion, putting into practice the Humanistic Buddhist principle of “usingservice as a form of cultivation.”

Founded in 2021 with the support of Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, the Spiritual Care Grouph as developed a structured training program to prepare volunteers for this meaningful work. Training includes compassionate listening, effective communication, emotional and spiritual support, and respectful engagement with diverse religious and cultural perspectives, equipping the team with both professionalism and heart.

Looking ahead, the group remains committed to expanding their reach and continuing to shine the light of Buddhism into more corners of the community, helping to build a Pure Land on Earth, a world of compassion, connection, and peace.

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