[Reported by Ven. Ru Lien, Mon-Di Tsai, Life News Agency, Auckland]  2026-04-11

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of the founding of Fo Guang Shan and the 100th birthday of its founder, Master Hsing Yun, the Fo Guang Yuan Art Museum New Zealand Branch held a grand opening ceremony on April 11th for the "60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honoring a 100-Year Legacy." special exhibition commemorating Master Hsing Yun. More than one hundred distinguished guests attended, including Venerable Man Hsin, Director of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Museum; Rt Hon Christopher Luxon, Prime Minister of New Zealand; Superintendent Jill Rogers, Deputy Commissioner of Police of New Zealand; Dr. Amanda Dixon McLever, Head of the Medical Laboratory; Superintendent Shanan Gray of the Manukau Police District; Director Chen Yung-Shao of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Auckland; Inspector Rodney Honan, Chief of the Manukau East Precinct; Gu Yuling, President of the Fo Guang Shan International Association of New Zealand North Island; and Inspector Anson Lin, Commander of the Northern Regional Communications Center of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery. 

The opening ceremony of this special exhibition commemorating Master Hsing Yun marks the first time a national prime minister has attended the global Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery, demonstrating the significant recognition and deep cultivation of Humanistic Buddhism in New Zealand through cultural and artistic means. 

Abbot Hsin Pao of Fo Guang Shan delivered a congratulatory message via video, recounting how the Master led Fo Guang Shan through 60 years with the principles of Humanistic Buddhism, promoting Buddhism through culture, and establishing Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery, which spans five continents. He hoped that the public could approach and deepen their understanding of Buddhism through art exhibitions, making the museum an important platform for the spread of Dharma and guidance.

Venerable Ru Chang, Director of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery, stated in his video address that this special exhibition was jointly planned by the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery headquarters and its 27 branches worldwide. Presented in five sections, it outlines Master Hsing Yun's life, thought, spirit, and practice, covering ten periods of his life, the four principles of Fo Guang Shan, the Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings of Humanistic Buddhism, as well as calligraphy and a wishing tree exhibit. The public can not only see the exhibits but also take home gifts of truth, goodness, and beauty to purify their hearts. 

A documentary about the ceremony of "Master Hsing Yun's Remains Spreading 5 continents" was shown at the event. Lu Kesen expressed that after watching the film and viewing the exhibits, he deeply felt the Master's compassionate vows, unwavering faith, and spirit of spreading the Dharma across five continents. He also expressed his gratitude to Fo Guang Shan North Island for its long-term care for local communities and the selfless dedication of the Sangha, hoping that the Master's spirit would become a model for the public.

"This exhibition is the deepest admiration and remembrance of Master Hsing Yun by Fo Guang Shan members worldwide," said Venerable Manxin. He added that although the Master has passed away, his compassion, wisdom, and Dharma life remain in the world. He hoped that the exhibition would allow people to revisit the Master's Dharma-spreading journey and once again feel the life force of the Master who "was born in hardship, grew up in difficulties, and lived a joyful life."

Han Xiaoye, Administrative chief of IBT New Zealand Art Gallery, guided the tour of the exhibition, introducing that the exhibition was planned and completed by Venerable Manxin and his team over four months. The central display features four calligraphic scrolls in the style of "Never Forget the Original Intention," "Life with Hands Together," "Emptiness and Existence Are Not Two," and "Enlightenment in the Present Moment." The exhibition also showcases New Year's blessings from "Writing Spring Festival Couplets Every Year" from 1996 to 2026, as well as ten exhibition areas depicting the Venerable Manxin's 100-year life. The photo wall on the left records the 20-year history of Fo Guang Shan in New Zealand's North Island, following its four principles in propagating Buddhism locally, witnessing the deep cultivation and practice of Humanistic Buddhism in New Zealand.  

[Reported by Li Xueli, Life News Agency, Taichung] 2026-01-19

The Fo Guang Yuan Art Museum Taichung Branch, the 17th branch of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Museum, has been open for 18 years since its opening in 2008. With the relocation of Fo Guang Shan Huizhong Temple to a new location, the new building on the second floor and the Huizhong Children's Art Center were officially opened on January 18th with a grand unveiling ceremony. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the founding of Fo Guang Shan and the 100th birthday of its founder, Master Hsing Yun. The museum launched its inaugural exhibition with "Sixty Centuries of Passing on the Torch: A Commemorative Exhibition of Master Hsing Yun's One-Stroke Calligraphy," while the Children's Art Center simultaneously exhibited "Master Hsing Yun's Little Animal Affinities."

 Guests from all over the region added luster to this grand arts and cultural event in central Taiwan. Abbot Hsin Pao of Fo Guang Shan, Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen, Vice President of the Legislative Yuan Chiang Chi-chen, and Chairman of the Republic of China Museums Association and Director of the National Museum of History Hung Shih-yu attended to offer their congratulations. Over a thousand attendees gathered in the main hall on the third floor to witness this historic moment. A lively lion dance and resounding drums celebrated the opening of the new museum. Weng Lirong, a teacher at Humanistic Buddhism University, led the Yazhu Zither Ensemble in a melodious performance, while Zheng Xiuzhen's Fo Guang Dunhuang Dance Troupe offered blessings with "Fragrant Clouds and Flower Rain, Thousand-Hand Music."

Venerable Xinbao pointed out that Master Hsing Yun humbly stated, "Don't look at my words, look at my heart," emphasizing that believers should understand the Dharma through the lines of his writings. He stressed that life inevitably brings troubles, but by remembering the Master's teachings and learning to "let go," one can immediately attain liberation and true happiness. Venerable Xinbao encouraged everyone to constantly observe their own minds in daily life, practicing generosity and forbearance, allowing the wisdom of the Dharma to manifest within.

Lu Xiuyan stated that Master Hsing Yun promoted Humanistic Buddhism not only through the propagation of doctrines but also through education, culture, and art. The establishment of the museum, exhibiting his collected precious Buddhist artifacts, is particularly significant as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of Fo Guang Shan's founding and the opening of the new museum, commemorating the Master's 100th birthday. With the Dharma Treasure Festival approaching, Lu Hsiu-yen expressed her gratitude to Fo Guang Shan for preparing Laba porridge to give to citizens and city government staff.

Chiang Chi-chen recalled his time as Director of the Information Bureau and his connection with Master Hsing Yun in promoting the "Truth, Goodness and Beauty Journalism Award," emphasizing that art is a concrete practice of Buddhism, inspiring good thoughts in the public through the pursuit of truth, good deeds, and aesthetics. The new museum officially opened on the eve of the Lunar New Year, a perfect New Year's gift to the citizens. Fo Guang Shan promotes social peace and harmony through art, hoping that the public can personally experience the emotions brought by art.

Hung Shih-yu stated in his speech that since its establishment in 1994, the Fo Guang Yuan Art Museum has upheld Master Hsing Yun's vision of purifying people's hearts and promoting social harmony through art. It not only boasts a rich collection but also serves as a platform for exchange between artists and the public. He affirmed the influence of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Museum's 27 locations worldwide and hoped that the Taichung branch would continue to exert its cultural power and contribute to world peace and social harmony.

After the unveiling ceremony, Venerable Ru Chang, curator of the "One-Stroke Calligraphy" exhibition and director of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery, led the tour, mentioning that this was the first exhibition of "One-Stroke Calligraphy" since Master Hsing Yun's passing. Among the exhibits is a monumental work of the Heart Sutra, consisting of 66 scrolls totaling over 20 meters in length, which is being displayed for the first time. This work was written by the Master when he was nearly 90 years old. The exhibition also features calligraphy pieces personally inscribed by the Master, donated by several devotees from the central Taiwan region who have followed him in spreading the Dharma for over 30 years. These works are not only invaluable but also important testaments to Fo Guang Shan's deep cultivation and development in Taichung, carrying the bond between Master and disciples and the long-standing Dharma lineage.

The exhibition area is divided into three themes: "Broadly Develop Good Affinities," "Harmonious Coexistence," and "Success Upon Arrival." There is also a spring couplet wall featuring the New Year's greetings written by Venerable Master Hsing Yun over the past 30 years, since 1996.  Additionally, the space includes a video area and a sutra-copying area, while the interactive zone offers activities such as spring couplet rubbing, layered-color stamping, and a prayer tree.

Venerable Jueju, director of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery Taichung Branch, said that it is a rare and auspicious opportunity for Master Hsing Yun's calligraphy to be exhibited in Taichung. He invited the public to visit the exhibition with their families during the Lunar New Year holiday and hoped that everyone could receive Master Hsing Yun's compassionate blessings that transcend time through his calligraphy.

Exhibition Date：2026/1/18-6/28

Opening Ceremony：2026/1/18(Sun.) 14:30

Opening Hours：10:00-19:00 (Free Admission • Closed on Mondays )

Guiding Organization ：Board of Directors of Fo Guang Shan

Organizers:

FGS Foundation for Buddhist Culture and Education 

Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery Headquarter

Fo Guang Shan Hui Chung Temple 

Presented by ：Fo Guang Yuan Taichung Art Gallery

Venue ：No. 69, Yuanfu Street, Xitun District, Taichung City 407, Taiwan 

Tel.：+886-4-2252-0375 

[Reported by: Xin Yong,  Life News Agency, Christchurch, New Zealand]   2026-04-20

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of Fo Guang Shan's founding and the centennial birthday of its founding master, Veneral Master Hsing Yun, IBA New Zealand Art Gallery held a grand event on April 18. Opening ceremony of the '60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honoring a 100-Year Legacy' Venerable Master Hsing Yun Memorial Special Exhibition. New Zealand Pavilion Director Venerable Manxin, Consul General He Ying of China in Christchurch, Canterbury Area Commander Superintendent Tony Hill, New Zealand Commission for Human Rights Dr. Melissa Derby, Head of Race Relations, Riccarton City Councillor Tyla Harrison-HUNT, Friends of Fo Guang Yuan Chairman Gayel MARQUET, President Liu Angqi of the International Buddha's Light Association New Zealand South Island Association, Supervisor Xiao Wenhui, North Island Association Supervisor Yu Lintao, and over a hundred distinguished guests from various sectors attended.

Fo Guang Shan's abbot, Venerable Hsin Bao, shared through video recording the Master's aspirations to establish the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery across five continents, allowing the public to connect with the Dharma through artistic aesthetics, purifying their hearts. Venerable Ruchang, Chief Director of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery, also delivered a speech over internet, stating that the special exhibition is jointly curated by the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery headquarter and 27 branches worldwide, presenting Venerable Master Hsing Yun's spiritual philosophy, the Three Act of Goodness and Four Givings of Humanistic Buddhism, and the four core principles of Fo Guang Shan, allowing the public to have a clear  understanding of the founding patriarch of Verneral Master Hsing Yun.

Venerable Manxin stated that Vernerable Master Hsing Yun's life was marked by war and turmoil. Through a poor childhood, he diligently taught himself and grew through hardship, ultimately accomplishing the great cause of Dharma propagation across five continents worldwide. Throughout this journey, the master's heart was always filled with boundless joy and gratitude. Now, as the master turns 100, by revisiting the footprints he traveled throughout his life, we honor the life and achievements of this master, and wish every attendee the joy of life and the wisdom of existence.

A documentary of the "Venerable Master Hsing Yun Holy Relics Distribution Ceremony in Oceania" was screened at the event, and the youth paid tribute to the Venerable Master by performing the "Sounds of the Human World" song, "Star and Cloud," in sign language. 

Following the opening ceremony, Venerable Manxin personally led the distinguished guests on a tour of the exhibition areas. The contents included Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s "A Proclamation of Sincerity," an exhibition section featuring the ten major periods of the Master’s century-long life, and a photo wall documenting twenty years of local Dharma propagation. The organizers also specially prepared Venerable Master Hsing Yun badges to develop affinities with the attendees. 

After viewing the exhibition, the distinguished guests were deeply moved. He Ying paid high tribute to Venerable Master Hsing Yun, thanking him for his lifelong practice of Humanistic Buddhism and his contributions to world peace. After reading the "A Sincere Proclamation", Canterbury Area Commander Inspector Tony Hill and Interfaith Chairperson Noeline Odgers expressed their admiration for the Venerable Master’s selfless spirit toward the global assembly. City Councilor Tyla Harrison-HUNT praised Humanistic Buddhism, noting that simple acts—like a smile or an offer of companionship—can accumulate into a powerful force for fostering social harmony. 

[Reported by Chung Hsiu-feng, Life News Agency, Johor Bahru, Malaysia]    2026-05-19

 On May 16th, Fo Guang Shan Xinma Temple officially launched its 60th anniversary celebration series of events, "60 Years of Passing the Lamp: Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" To commemorate the spirit of our founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, in spreading Humanistic Buddhism and benefiting all beings, the "Venerable Master Hsing Yun Calligraphy Commemorative Exhibition" kicked off the event. The opening ceremony was solemnly held at the 25th branch of Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery worldwide, with hundreds of Fo Guang members, art enthusiasts, and members of the public gathering to witness this important moment. At the opening ceremony, the audience sang the "Fo Guang Shan Song" and took photos with the "Three Acts of Goodness" gesture, creating a warm and solemn atmosphere.

The exhibition, themed "60 Years of Passing the Lamp: Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" showcases Venerable Master Hsing Yun's calligraphy, as well as artifacts, manuscripts, graduation certificates, and other valuable collections from different stages of his life, such as letters to his mother and elder brother, his handwritten copy of the "Biography of Shakyamuni Buddha," the manuscript of the Pumen Junior/Senior High School song, his ordination certificate, and his graduation certificate from Jiaoshan Buddhist Academy. The Venerable Master's compassionate vows allowed visitors to deeply appreciate how fortunate it is that Humanistic Buddhism has taken root in Southern Malaysia.

An interactive area was set up at the exhibition, where the "A single seal to Pass the lamp, a century of following the steps. " activity allowed the public to feel the warmth of the fusion of culture and Buddhism through participation.

The exhibition also featured a "What I Want to Say to 

the Venerable Master Hsing Yun" area, where visitors could write down their words in remembrance of the Master, and viewing lifelike statues of him at ages 30, 50, 70, and 80 – a popular spot for taking photos and commemorating the occasion.

In his address, Lin Pei Chuan, President of the Fo Guang Shan International Buddhist Association Malaysia Federation, pointed out that Venerable Master Hsing Yun dedicated his life to promoting Humanistic Buddhism, leaving behind teachings on the "Three Acts of Goodness" and the "Four Givings," as well as numerous cultural works, inspiring self-reflection and the practice of Buddhism. He expressed gratitude to the Singapore and Malaysia temples for providing a platform for public practice and learning, and looked forward to continuing to participate in promoting Humanistic Buddhism across the five continents.

In his address, Venerable Ru-Bin, Abbot of Xinma Temple, stated that Fo Guang Shan's sixty-year journey has not been easy. "60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" is not only a commemoration but also symbolizes the responsibility of Fo Guang Shan members to carry on the legacy and usher in the future. Venerable Master Hsing Yun dedicated his life to promoting Humanistic Buddhism, bringing Buddhism into society and closer to the public, earning respect and recognition from Buddhist communities both domestically and internationally. 

Venerable Ru-Bin also thanked the volunteers and the organizing team for their tireless efforts in setting up the exhibition, completing the setup with a shared aspiration and showcasing the collective spirit of Fo Guang Shan members. He encouraged the public to cherish the opportunity to live in the same era as the Venerable Master and continue to practice Buddhism and promote goodness and beauty in the world.

The "60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" exhibition is on display from now until August 23rd, open daily from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The public is welcome to visit and experience the spiritual power of Venerable Master Hsing Yun's cultural and Dharma propagation.

[Reported by Wei Xing, Life News Agency, Wollongong, Australia]  2026-05-19

The "60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" commemorative exhibition, jointly curated by the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery Headquarters and its 27 branches worldwide, opened at the Nan Tien University Art Gallery on Mar. 21 and will run until June 31, attracting over a thousand visitors to date. The exhibition unfolds its narrative through five sections, covering the Master's conduct and character across ten periods of his life, the four principles of Fo Guang Shan, the practical concepts of "Three Acts of Goodness" and "Four Givings" in Humanistic Buddhism, and the Master's calligraphy, a testament to his compassion and dedication to spreading the Dharma in his later years. Visitors can trace the Master's lifelong compassionate vows and aspirations along historical timelines, write their thoughts before the wishing tree, and leave blessings on the "What I Want to Say to Master Hsing Yun" message wall, transforming the exhibition into a spiritual dialogue across time and space.

The exhibition features a special "Passing Down the Lamp: A Century of Following the Path" layered-stamping souvenir postcard area. Visitors can personally stamp the cards layer by layer to create a commemorative card featuring the Venerable Master’s Dharma image, bringing the Truth, Virtue, and Beauty that purify the body and mind back into their daily lives. 

To commemorate the 80th anniversary of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), International Museum Day 2026 focuses on the theme "Museums Connecting a Divided World." On May 18th, the Nan Tien University Art Gallery, in conjunction with the ongoing "60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" commemorative exhibition, offered a series of interactive activities. These included a song-writing station reciting the lyrics of "The Song of Fo Guang Shan," a treasure hunt quiz in the Time Corridor, a crossword puzzle about Venerable Master Hsing Yun's life, a "Peace in Mind" prayer writing activity, and a "Our Connections" keyword sorting activity. These activities guided visitors through the 60-year journey of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan, in propagating Humanistic Buddhism through culture and cultivating talent through education, allowing them to experience the harmonious, peaceful, and symbiotic ideals of Humanistic Buddhism. 

 Visitor Yuteng Huang shared that many people find the doctrines of Buddhism profound when they first encounter them; however, Venerable Master Hsing Yun's Humanistic Buddhism emphasizes integrating Buddhism into daily life, a concept that brought her new insights. 

Anna visited with her husband, Gordon. As a volunteer at Nan Tien Temple, she views the temple as an important bridge for integrating into Australian society. Anna reflected that despite people coming from different cultural backgrounds and holding diverse languages and faiths, art can transcend all barriers, allowing the mind to return to tranquility. She praised the Venerable Master for establishing Nan Tien Temple, noting that through the organization of various activities, it has made a positive contribution to promoting multicultural exchange within the community. 

Amy Robston, a resident of the Wollongong community, visited with her daughter and friends. She expressed her admiration for the Venerable Master’s spirit of inclusiveness. She believes that the rich exhibitions allow children to naturally be close to Buddhist culture and understand the diverse perspectives on happiness held by different ethnic groups. She hopes to invite more friends and family to share in this wonderful experience. 

[Reported by Tong Yuting from Life News Agency, Fukuoka, Japan]    2026-05-09

The "60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" special exhibition commemorating the 60th anniversary of the founding of Fo Guang Shan and the 100th birthday of its founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, opened its first stop in Japan on May 8th at the Fukuoka Prefectural Museum of Art. As the first stop of its nationwide tour, the exhibition not only gathered devotees from all over Japan but also attracted many tourists from around the world. 

The opening ceremony was attended by distinguished guests, demonstrating a strong local connection. Consul Wang Hongming of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Fukuoka was present to offer his congratulations. He praised Venerable Master Hsing Yun's outstanding achievements in cultural promotion, noting that this special exhibition, being the first in Japan, was not only of great significance but also strengthened the cultural exchange and friendship between the two places. 

Saito Shuo, Director of the Fukuoka Office of NPO International Bridge, shared his experience of having the privilege of attending a course taught by Master Hsing Yun during his studies at Tunghai University. This auspicious connection remains deeply etched in his memory. Seeing the exhibits depicting Master Hsing Yun's ten periods in his life, along with details of his teaching experience at the university, resonated deeply with him. He hoped that this special exhibition would not only review the magnificent past of Venerable Master Hsing Yun and Fo Guang Shan, but also lead the public towards a hopeful new beginning. 

Gazing at the vibrant calligraphy pieces in the exhibition, Venerable Rukai, Abbot of Fo Guang Shan  in Fukuoka, guided the audience to "Principles are elucidated through phenomena " He encouraged volunteers to calm their minds, carefully appreciate the Master's calligraphy, and contemplate the wisdom of life conveyed in these words. This was not only a visual feast of art, but also a journey of introspection. 

Stepping into the exhibition area was like entering a time tunnel. The event comprehensively presented the "Ten Periods" of Venerable Master Hsing Yun's life and the "Four Major Principles" of Fo Guang Shan's development. It also exhibited a collection of New Year's Festival couplets from previous years and numerous precious manuscripts, such as a manuscript dedicated to his mother, a letter to his elder brother Li Guohua, a graduation certificate from Jiaoshan Buddhist Academy, and a record of his ordination. 

This event was integrated with the Youth's 10 Billion Overseas Dream-Come-True Fund Project. Three young people from Taiwan, Li Licheng, Li Linxuan, and Huang Bojun, participated in the exhibition's design and layout. Through the power of youth and their innovative and diverse perspectives, the event took on a different look. Li Linxuan, who served as the emcee for the opening ceremony, said that she was caught off guard and unprepared when she received the task, but bravely accepted it after careful consideration. Li Licheng also expressed that seeing everyone's collective creation and collaborative completion of the exhibition gave him a different perspective, and the process of communication made the project successful. 

To ensure that all who attend may have a deeper and more meaningful experience, the organizers have specially designed interactive workshops filled with warmth.  Visitors can touch the paper of New Year's Festival couplets and experience the joy of calligraphy rubbing; they can also blindfold themselves and engage in a silent "heart-to-heart" writing experience, personally feeling how the Master, in his later years when his vision was blurred, relied on his powerful "inner eye" and compassionate vows to write moving words. 

This special exhibition, "60 Years of Passing the Lamp: Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" will run until May 17th. Through the fragrance of ink, manuscripts, and interactive experiences full of Dharma, Venerable Master Hsing Yun's compassion and wisdom transcend language and national boundaries, touching every visitor who enters the exhibition. 

In his remarks, Luxon acknowledged the “fabulous Abbess Manshin” and thanked her and her team “yet again for all the incredible work you’re doing across the community”.

“It’s really awesome to be here with you celebrating Buddha’s birthday, because it’s a very good reminder to stop and take time to reflect on what’s important in life, and how we’re looking after each other and how we’re treating each other.

“I think the values that have been extolled around wisdom, kindness, patience, generosity and compassion are as true today as they were two and a half thousand years ago. But we’re also acknowledging 60 years of this great order that’s now across 27 branches worldwide and the incredible work they do around the world promoting and extolling those values and virtues.

“We want to say, ‘thank you very much for that’, as well as also acknowledging 100 years of the master Hsing Yun. So it’s a fantastic time for us to come together, take time out of our busy days, and stop and reflect and think about the relationships we have with each other.

“Abbess, can I say ‘thank you’ to your and your team for the incredible work you do out here in east Auckland, but also now across the whole of New Zealand. You have an amazing team of people and supporters, and we’re always so welcome when we come here. We want to say thank you, it’s a real privilege to be with you today.”

[Reported by Life News Agency Yixing from Manila, Philippines]

2026-05-23

To celebrate the three major festivals of May 16, "Buddha's Light Day" on May 18, "International Museum Day" on May 18, and "Buddha's Birthday" on May 24, the Fo Guang Yuan Manila Art Gallery, upholding the philosophy of Fo Guang Shan's founding master, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, "promoting Buddhism through culture and cultivating talent through education," has specially organized a series of cultural exchanges, religious dialogues, and special exhibitions. Through architectural art, humanistic philosophy, and educational care, it showcases the spirit of compassion, altruism, inclusiveness, and mutual goodness of Humanistic Buddhism, fostering good connections from all directions.

On the 17th, the Fo Guang Yuan Manila Art Gallery held a cultural seminar with a second-year architecture students from Adamson University. Through guided tours and in-depth discussions, students gained a deeper understanding of the architectural philosophy and symbolic meanings of Eastern Buddhist temples, with particular impression by the design concepts of Fo Guang Shan and Wannian Temple in Kaohsiung. The students deeply resonated with the compassion and wisdom conveyed by Buddhist art and were also impressed by the "dougong" structure on the temple roof, believing it combines the engineering wisdom of climate adjustment with the beauty of Eastern aesthetics, demonstrating how architecture integrates function and philosophy.

FGS Mabuhay Temple  integrates a diverse range of facilities such as an art gallery, library, classrooms, conference spaces, and a dispuddle archway, opening a spacious courtyard where every visitor can feel inclusive and approachable. Architecture student Dylan James Villanueva shared emotionally: "This visit made me realize that temple architecture is far more than just spatial design; it contains deep values of the soul and culture. Every detail conveys tranquility and wisdom."

On the 20th, FGS Mabuhay Temple once again welcomed 12 professors from the Department of Philosophy at De La Salle University for in-depth exchanges on spirituality, ethics, education, and interfaith shared values. Through dialogue, they practiced the Humanistic Buddhist spirit of 'coexistence, respect, and inclusiveness,' promoting understanding and harmony among different cultures and beliefs.

Professor Jeremiah Joven Joaquin from the Department of Philosophy stated that Humanistic Buddhism makes people to reconsider the true meaning of religion. It is not only a practice of faith but also a form of humanistic wisdom that responds to the needs of modern society. The spirit of compassion, equality, and altruism emphasized by Buddhism provides important philosophical inspiration for contemporary people facing anxiety, division, and value loss, and also shows how religion can become a vital force in promoting social harmony and the common good of humanity.

Celebrating Fo Guang Shan's "60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" the Fo Guang Yuan Manila Art Gallery is presenting the "Fo Guang Shan 30th Anniversary of Dharma Propagation in Philippines" Special Exhibition, showcasing Fo Guang Shan's 30-year journey in promoting culture, education, charity, and communal Dharma cultivation in the Philippines. From campus 'Three Good Education' to community care, from cultural and artistic exchanges to nurturing young talent, the show showcases Humanistic Buddhism's commitment to rooting locally and benefiting society, as well as Fo Guang Shan's long-standing efforts and achievements in purifying people's hearts through cultural education.

During the sharing session, Master Miaojing, abbot of FGS Mabuhay Temple, used Veneral Master Hsing Yun's frequent words: 'What can I do for you?' Encouraging the public, encouraging everyone to practice the Four Giving Spirit: 'Give confidence, bring joy, give hope, and provide convenience,' and uphold the philosophy of 'volunteering as a volunteer,' helping others through humility, sincerity, and dedication.

[Reported by Guo Bosi and Chen Jingchun of Life News Agency, Manchester City, UK]  2026-05-27

To celebrate the Buddha's birthday, the Manchester Association of Fo Guang Shan and the International Buddha Light Association Manchester held a Buddha's Birthday Prayer for World Peace on May 24, coinciding with the opening ceremony of the 60th anniversary of Fo Guang Shan and the centennial commemorative special exhibition of Master Hsing Yun. The event combined Buddha bathing and blessing rituals, religious exchanges, cultural performances, vegetarian culture, and youth workshops, attracting nearly 500 Chinese and Western believers and community members to participate and pray together for world peace.

Distinguished guests included Greater Manhattan Mayor Shaukat Ali, Trafford Mayor Jane Brophy, Chinese Consul General in Manchester Tang Rui, Greater Manhattan Deputy County Lieutenant Ren Jieyi, as well as representatives from Jain, Sikh, Judaic, Islamic, and other religions and overseas Chinese communities, showcasing the spirit of multi-religious exchange and cultural integration.

The event began with the Lion Dance, featuring the Fo Guang Scout Corps performing 'Daily Guanyin,' ethereal drums, erhu, cello, and dance performances, showcasing the Humanistic Buddhist spirit of truth, goodness, and beauty through music and art.

Shaukat Ali expressed that he felt deeply honored to participate in the Buddha's Birthday celebration at this important moment marking Fo Guang Shan's 60th anniversary, and affirmed Venerable Master Hsing Yun's advocacy of the 'Three Acts of Goodness' philosophy of 'Do good deeds, Speak good words, and Thank good thoughts,' which brings goodwill and hope to society. Jane Brophy praised Manchester City's pure and solemn Buddhist temple, which brings stability and harmony to the community. Tang Rui stated that people from different religious and cultural backgrounds come together because of their shared goodwill, making it even more precious.

Bathing the Buddha Dharma Service  was organized by 40 Buddha's Light members, youth, scouts, and Shaantong Academy, forming a dedication procession to honor the Buddha with the 'Ten Offerings,' and distinguished guests jointly offering lanterns, symbolizing the light shining upon the world. Led by Abbot Jueyen of Fo Guang Shan in Manchester, the audience chanted the 'Three Jewels Ode' and the 'Heart Sutra,' and respectfully read Venerable Master Hsing Yun's 'Prayer for World Peace.' As the 'Bathing Buddha Verse' played, the attendees took turns bathing the Buddha, cleansing body and mind with pure and virtuous thoughts.

Master Jueyen explained that Bathing the Buddha is not just about bathing the statue; more importantly, it cleanses the inner self of greed, anger, and ignorance, and puts the 'three acts of goodness'—do good deeds, speak good words, and think good thoughts—into daily life. At the same time, he encouraged the public to resolve conflicts between people and mes with kindness, to resolve global conflicts with tolerance, to work together to avoid disasters and bring peace and stability to all beings worldwide. 

To commemorate the 60th anniversary of Fo Guang Shan's founding and the centenary of Master Hsing Yun, Manchester Fo Guang Shan is simultaneously launching the three-month '60 Years of Passing the Lamp, Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" commemorative special exhibition, accompanied by Venerable Jueyan and distinguished guests, who cut the ribbon, introduced the four core principles of Fo Guang Shan, and Venerable Master Hsing Yun's spirit of propogating the Dharma and benefiting all beings. Shaukat Ali also wrote on the message board, "Do good deeds, speak good words, think good thoughts," expressing her recognition of the Humanistic Buddhist ideals.

The vegetarian charity sale was also very popular, jointly undertaken by various members of BLIA, youth groups, and Fo Guang Scouts. They set up a hundred kinds of vegetarian dishes to promote the concept of "vegetarian as part of daily life," with all proceeds used for the temple's renovations. The Fo Guang Scouts also raised funds by selling food and souvenirs to fund the Scout Camp activities for July this year.

The youth arts workshop also attracted many participants, including watercolor calligraphy and painting exhibitions and ethereal drum experiences. Many people encountered ethereal drums for the first time, feeling peace of mind and body amid the melodious sounds.

Stephen Rayner, Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Manchester, said that seeing people from different religious backgrounds interact and communicate through shared goodwill is even more rare in today's world. First-time participants also shared that through the event, they learned the concept of the Three Acts of Goodness and felt the compassion and harmony of Buddhist culture.

This Buddha's Birthday celebration not only showcased Fo Guang Shan's achievements in promoting Humanistic Buddhism, religious exchange, and social care, but also united the community's forces of goodness and beauty through cultural exhibitions, Buddha bathing for blessings, vegetarian promotion, and youth participation, allowing the public to experience the Buddha's compassion and wisdom together in harmony and joy.

[Reported by Cheng Hai-Chin, Bisy Saint-Georges, Life News Agency]  2026-05-27

Fo Guang Shan France and the International Fo Guang Association Paris Association held their annual "Buddha's Birthday Carnival and Vegetarian Carnival" on May 24, Buddha's Birthday Day, attracting over 2,000 people celebrating the Buddha's birthday together.

Distinguished guests included Claudine Thomas, Member of the Seine-Marne Departmental Council; Yann Dubosc, Mayor of Bissi, the city government team; Himali Rathnaweera, Minister of the Sri Lankan Embassy in France; Shen Gang, Minister of the Chinese Embassy in France; Counselor Wan Lei; Zhang Huiwu, Deputy Director of the Consular Overseas Chinese Office; as well as Cai Junzhu, representative of the Bissi Multicultural Association and Honorary Chairman of the French Chinese Association, More than 20 distinguished guests, including Liang Lihua, President of the French-Chinese Chamber of Commerce; Liu Xiaoyong, President of the French-Chinese Association; Hu Lirong, President of the French Chinese Women's Federation; Wen Xiaodan, President of the International Buddha's Light Association Paris Association; and Cai Youdi, Director of the World Headquarters, joined the grand event.

The Bathing Buddha Festival began with the graceful dance of the Paris Fo Guang Dunhuang Dance Troupe. Fo Guang youth welcomed the crown prince's sacred statue into the venue, followed by over 80 Fo Guang volunteers forming six solemn offering teams, presenting incense, flowers, lanterns, fruits, treasures, and robes in sequence, making the ceremony solemn and grand.

Master Miaoduo's teachings emphasized that disaster relief and longevity depend on extending life energy. Using the Buddha's propagation of the Dharma and the founding patriarch Master Hsing Yun's "300-year lifespan" as metaphors, he encouraged everyone to do good deeds, build good relationships, practice the spirit of the Four Generosity, and enhance the quality of life and compassion and altruism.

In his speech, Yann Dubosc stated that Buddha's Birthday conveys universal values such as peace, compassion, wisdom, and respect, which are closely related to everyone. He also praised Fo Guang Shan France for promoting interfaith dialogue and cultural exchange, advocating listening and inclusion in a chaotic world, praying for everyone's safety and the creation of a harmonious society together.

Himali Rathnaweera pointed out that Fo Guang Shan's promotion of humanistic Buddhism and the concept of peace aligns with the core values of Sri Lankan Buddhist doctrine. She hopes that through the spirit of Buddhist compassion and tolerance, friendship and exchange can be further deepened, and that they will join hands toward peace.

Shen Gang stated that the day not only commemorates the Buddha's birth but also holds significant meaning for the 60th anniversary of Fo Guang Shan's founding and the centenary of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. He praised Fo Guang Shan France for promoting Humanistic Buddhism, advancing Sino-French cultural exchange and cross-strait spiritual connection, fostering dialogue and integration among civilizations, and injecting positive energy into society.

After that, cultural performances began. The Paris Fo Guang Dunhuang Dance Troupe presented the graceful and elegant dance "Dharma nectar " while children from Qu Qian Dance Studio performed the lively and festive "Full make up Hua Dan" Guzheng player Hsu Yu-Tien and double bassist Chen Hsiu-Ming performed the "Fo Guang Shan Song" and "Star and Cloud Poem" together. The melodies were clear and moving, offering a feast to the Buddha and adding a harmonious and joyful atmosphere to the event.

Then, the main hall held the opening ceremony of the Fo Guang Yuan Art Gallery's "60 Years of Passing the Lamp: Honoring a 100-Year Legacy" commemorative exhibition, inviting distinguished guests to jointly cut the ribbon, witnessing the Dharma propagation power and cultural spirit of Humanistic Buddhism over 60 years. On both sides of the main hall, ten stages of Master Hsing Yun's Dharma propagation journey are displayed, carrying profound meaning.

Another highlight of the event was the Vegetarian Carnival, with booths set up in the park opposite Fahua Zen Temple, attracting a continuous flow of people and creating a lively atmosphere. The event featured 18 booths, jointly organized by 17 clubs, offering vegetarian cuisines from various countries including Chinese, Japanese, Lao, Thai, Vietnamese, and Italian, with diverse flavors that wheted on the appetite. Besides worshippers, it also attracts many local residents and visitors from afar to taste and experience the rich and diverse vegetarian culture. There is also a cultural booth titled "Painting the Buddha in My Heart" for the public to freely express their creativity. 

To widely spread the joy of the Buddha's birthday, the main hall is equipped with four bathing pools, and three outside the door are also set up to facilitate public worship and bathing. At the same time, the center is equipped with longevity peaches and sweet dew water to help the assembly make connections. The event was also broadcast live online, allowing worshippers who could not attend in person to participate remotely and share in the blessings of the Buddha, with about a thousand views viewed online.