On October 18, forty Master’s and Doctoral students from the Department for the Study of Religion at the University of Toronto visited Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto to gain deeper insight into Humanistic Buddhism and Buddhist temple culture. The group was warmly welcomed by Venerable Ru An and volunteer Martyn Knowles, who led a guided tour introducing the founding history of Fo Guang Shan, its development in Toronto, and the lifelong vow and vision of Venerable Master Hsing Yun.

Through a short documentary, participants learned how Humanistic Buddhism embodies the spirit of “what the Buddha taught, what people need, what purifies, and what is good and beautiful,” highlighting Fo Guang Shan’s global contributions in culture, education, interfaith dialogue, and community service.

Students showed great interest in Buddhist teachings and temple life, asking about the meaning behind the many Buddha statues and the range of services offered at the temple. Venerable Ru An and Martyn responded thoughtfully, with Martyn sharing the story of Prince Siddhartha’s awakening and the Bodhisattva’s vow to relieve all beings from suffering.

Following the tour, a discussion session introduced the Institute for Humanistic Buddhist Thought and Practice, a collaborative initiative between FGS Toronto and the University of Toronto. Stephanie Hong, Registered Psychotherapist and Head of FGS Toronto’s Spiritual Care Team, also shared the temple’s partnership with Emmanuel College, University of Toronto, which has been recognized as a practicum site for “Psychological and Spiritual Care” training in Canada.

Venerable Ru An concluded with a teaching from Venerable Master Hsing Yun:“ With faith comes strength, with faith comes treasure, and with faith comes purpose.” Group leader Brian Carwana expressed appreciation for the enriching visit, noting the students’ enthusiasm for learning about the modern, diverse, and inclusive spirit of Humanistic Buddhism. Each participant received English editions of Humanistic Buddhism: Holding True to the Original Intents of Buddha, Essays on Humanistic Buddhism, and a One-Stroke Calligraphy charm by Venerable Master Hsing Yun titled “Keep Going, the Futureis Bright,” as blessings for their academic and life journey.

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