Beyond Differences: Mississauga Church Visits Buddhist Temple to Foster Interfaith Understanding

On October 17, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto welcomed 11 visitors from Hope Church in Mississauga for an interfaith visit fostering mutual understanding, respect, and dialogue. For most participants, it was their first visit to a Buddhist temple, offering an opportunity to explore Buddhist teachings and discover shared values across religious traditions.

Led by Venerable Zhi Shen, the tour introduced Buddhist history, Chan Buddhism, and Humanistic Buddhism as taught by Fo Guang Shan founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Visitors also learned about the temple’s cultural, educational, and community programs, which bring Buddhist teachings into everyday life.

Venerable Zhi Shen highlighted the Three Acts of Goodness—doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts—as simple ways to cultivate kindness and make a positive difference in society.

Visitors raised questions about vegetarianism, karma, and monastic life. To make Buddhist concepts more accessible, Venerable Zhi Shen drew comparisons with familiar Christian traditions, including baptism and the compassion associated with the Virgin Mary, while explaining the distinct meanings of Buddhist beliefs and practices.

The group also explored the special exhibition 60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honoring a 100-Year Legacy, learning about Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s One-Stroke Calligraphy and his lifelong dedication to compassion, education, and humanitarian service.

Dr. Hans, coordinator of the church delegation, expressed gratitude for the warm welcome and insightful tour. He shared that the experience had challenged participants’ previous assumptions about Buddhism and deepened their understanding of the tradition.