At the invitation of the Lyle S. Hallman Faculty of Social Work at Wilfrid Laurier University, Venerable Zhi Guan, Superintendent of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, together with Temple staff Cindy Choi and five volunteers, visited the university campus on February 13 to present a cultural lecture titled “Welcoming the New Year: Humanistic Buddhism and Social Care.” Nearly 20 Master of Social Work students participated in the session.

The program was introduced by faculty representative Brian Seng-Low. Through a visual presentation highlighting the Temple’s Lunar New Year celebrations, Venerable Zhi Guan guided students in exploring both the cultural heritage and spiritual significance of the Spring Festival. Citing Fo Guang Shan founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s teaching—“Buddhism is cultural Buddhism, not Buddhism of the mountains; it is Buddhism for daily life, not abstract philosophy”—she underscored that Humanistic Buddhism is grounded in everyday life and social engagement. The Lunar New Year, she explained, serves not only as a cultural tradition, but also as a meaningful occasion for reflection, gratitude, and renewed aspiration.

Drawing on the Master’s encouragement, “Tomorrow will be better,” she emphasized that the essence of the New Year lies in inner renewal. The core values of compassion, coexistence, and care closely parallel the principles of social work, where self-awareness and a commitment to serving others are fundamental. True wealth, she noted, extends beyond material resources to include health, joy, wisdom, and the ability to cultivate positive human relationships.

The session concluded with interactive cultural activities, including traditional ink rubbings of the Master’s calligraphy and lantern painting themed “Peace and Harmony,” symbolizing light and hope. Participants also joined in reciting the Master’s New Year Prayer, dedicating merits toworld peace and societal harmony.

Associate Dean Professor Michelle Skop expressed heartfelt appreciation for the depth and warmth of the presentation and conveyed her hope for continued collaboration and academic exchange in the future.