FGS President of Education Visits South Island

On the 5th of March, Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Head of Education Venerable Yong Guang arrived in FGS South Island New Zealand, interested in the repair progress of the temple. She was accompanied by FGS North Island NZ Venerable Rulian, Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) North Island General Advisor Dolly Tsai. Upon their arrival at the airport, BLIA South Island President See Shen Lee, Director Jack Liu, Director Benny and other BLIA volunteers warmly welcomed them to the city.

Venerable Yong Guang was given an inspection tour of the Christchurch temple under the guidance of President See Shen Lee and BLIA staff members. She was particularly interested in how the repairs were progressing and the current state of the works. As a pick up, she later shared her experience seeing through a temple being constructed in the Philippines, saying that we shouldn't be afraid when faced with such difficulties, but know that Venerable Master Hsing Yun and FGS are always behind us to support our efforts. Every one of the tasks Venerable Master Hsing Yun gives is meant to be a meaningful challenge to our life, a symbol and living proof of our dedication to Buddhism. It is during such hard times when we can most easily express our love for the temple.

Venerable Yong Guang also shared a promotional clip of Guang Ming College, saying that Venerable Master Hsing Yun is very keen on promoting culture and education, and that the future direction of Buddhism will place great emphasis on education. The Philippines now has Guang Ming College and an Arts Institute, and through these educational institutions, more children now have the opportunity to change their destiny. What was especially good to know was how the musical “The Biography of Prince Siddhartha” had been broadcasted all over the world in over 58 locations. This year through NE Tiger, a famous fashion design company, the main cast actors will be provided with excellent costumes, and they will then perform at Beijing and Shanghai's Opera Houses. It is also hoped that “The Biography of Prince Siddhartha” will be shown here when the FGS South Island reopens fully again.

BLIA South Island members were very humbled by Venerable Yong Guang's visit, and certainly welcomes the idea of “The Biography of Prince Siddhartha” arriving in Christchurch's theatres to let the public indulge in simple Buddhism joy. We hope too that one day, some of us will have the opportunity to visit the Philippines' temple, and socially interact with BLIA members over there.