202209_佛光特刊

Light

Headquarters

Association

BLIA Founding President ~ Venerable Master Hsing Yun

Words from the World Headquarters President~ Most Venerable Hsin Bau

Words of the Acting President ~ Venerable Tzu Jung

A Message from the Secretary General~ Venerable Chueh Pei

BLIA 30th Anniversary

Origin of Founding – Internationalization of Buddhism

Themes over the Years – Globalization of Dharma Propagation

Celebration of BLIA 30th Anniversary

• BLIA 30th Anniversary – Photo Exhibition

• BLIA 30th Anniversary – Stories of BLIA

• BLIA 30th Anniversary – A Musical Feast

Buddha’s Light Honor and Achievements

Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun Honored with “Compassion Award”

World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau Recognized as “Outstanding Alumni”

World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau and BLIA Chunghua Won the “Social Education Contri bution Award”

BLIA Chapters and Members Worldwide Recognized and Honored

Wisdom and Innovation

2021 BLIA Virtual General Conference

United Nations Commission on the Status of Women Meeting

BLIA Fellowship Meetings on the Continents

• 2021 BLIA North America Online Fellowship Meeting

• 2022 BLIA Oceania Online Fellowship Meeting

• 2022 BLIA Europe Executive Seminar

Online Training – Cloud-based Learning

• Virtual Global Buddhism Exam

• Preparatory Lay Dharma Lecturer Seminar

• Training Humanistic Buddhism Speakers

Propagate the Dharma Through Technology

• Cloud-based Membership and Financial Systems

• Three Acts of Goodness International Microfilm Contest

• Beauty of Buddha’s Light Photo Contest & AR Dynamic Exhibition

• Sound of the Human World – Dharma Propagation with Music North America Sounds of the Human World

Sounds of the Human World Global Songwriting Contest

Environmental and Spiritual Preservation

T-Earth 4/22 Tree-planting for Environmental Preservation and Love for the Earth Vege Plan A eVeg Revival ~ All Come Support VegRun – Global Veg-revival Virtual Community Run

Faith and Legacy Chan and Pure Land Virtual Light-offering Buddha’s Birthday Celebration – Purify People’s Mind Triple Gem Refuge and Five Precepts – Planting Roots for Faith Buddhist Wedding and Bodhi Couples Buddha’s Light Baby Blessing Ceremony Buddha’s Light Scouts International Exchange

• Global Culture Jamboree in Sri Lanka

• Buddha’s Light Scouts International Troop Affairs Exchange

BLIA Young Adults Looking to the Future

2022 International Buddha’s Light Young Adult Conference

2021 Fo Guang Shan Youth Summit

2022 Australia & New Zealand Buddhist Youth Conference

Change the World and Benefit Humanity

The Pandemic is Devastating – Buddha’s Light has Love International Disaster Relief

Ukraine War Relief

Sri Lanka National Economic Crisis Relief

Afghanistan Humanitarian Aid

Philippines Typhoon Relief

Pakistan Flood Relief

Assam Flood Relief

Social Care – Charity Relief

Charitable Donations – Giving Timely Support

Educational Support – Donation of Dharma Treasure

Social Care Spreading Warmth

結就是力量。

鄉鎮都有別分院，所以佛光會的督導、會長、祕書、會員們，就

Venerable Master Hsing Yun

Spreading Harmony and Happiness Around the World

Auspiciousgreetings to Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Chairperson of the conference; Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) chapter presidents, elder advisors, and members around the globe. May peace and safety be with you!

In 1991, the Fo Kuang Buddhist Association, was established in Taiwan, and in 1992, the Buddha’s Light International Association World Headquarters was officially founded in Los Angeles, U.S.A. As we go from Taiwan to the United States, and from the United States to the world, a new chapter in BLIA’s history is being written.

“May the Buddha’s light shine universally on the three thousand realms; may the Dharma stream flow across all five continents.” My motivation for establishing BLIA was to address the issue of disorganized Buddhist communities in the past. In spite of the Buddhist Association of China, the Buddhist faith was still rooted in temples and monastics. There were no organizations or associations for lay devotees. In this sense, BLIA plays the same role as the Association of Right Faith founded by Master Taixu—an organization for Buddhists of the right faith. We welcome everyone to interact, cultivate, and participate in our activities for we are stronger when united.

Fo Guang Shan and BLIA are like two arms of a person, and two wings of a bird. In every major city of the world, there is a Fo Guang Shan branch temple. These temples serve as meeting places for BLIA advisors, presidents, secretaries, and members. Furthermore, the monastics assist BLIA with their activities as their guiding venerables. What kind of activities should be held? Humanistic Buddhismrelated events! We can spread the Buddha’s loving-kindness, compassion, and ethical conduct, as well as his teachings of familial harmony and happiness with the world. Traditional Buddhist communities secluded themselves in remote mountain regions, but we are now bringing them back to society. Buddhist teachings were only available in temples, but now we are reaching out to families and homes. Until recently, only monastics were eligible to teach Buddhism, but now lay devotees can share the responsibilities as BLIA Lay Dharma Lecturers.

It is hoped that BLIA members can join and meet in this way even within the next fifty years. Success is certain if we make a wish like this. Through gatherings, the Buddha-Dharma can continue to be passed down. Through regular gatherings, the heirs of the Linji (Chan) School will spread all across the globe.

Through gatherings, we form good affinities with one another. We have planted wholesome roots not just with one buddha, or two buddhas, or three, four, and five buddhas, but planted wholesome roots with millions of buddhas. Because of this, our gathering today is thus made possible. I give my best wishes to you!

Words

the

Most Venerable Hsin Bau

Wisdom and Innovation – Looking into the Future

On May 16, 1992, under the guidance of Founding President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Buddha's Light International Association World Headquarters held its inauguration at the Music Center in Los Angeles, California, and the first General Conference was held at Hsi Lai Temple in the United States. BLIA members from the five continents gathered to witness the historic moment. In the 30 years since its establishment, BLIA has developed much from its infancy, flourishing and growing as an organization. Through continuous learning and training as well as various outreach activities, serving the public, and broadly developing good affinities, it helped purify people’s minds. BLIA has been able to introduce Buddhism to the public and bring the beauty of Humanistic Buddhism into families and the community.

Since its establishment, BLIA has followed the philosophy of Humanistic Buddhism advocated by its Founding President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun to reach out to people internationally, spreading happiness and peace throughout the world. The Venerable Master has advocated themes for each BLIA General Conference, which are the collective direction and goal of BLIA chapters worldwide. From “Joy and Harmony” at the first General Conference to “Environmental and Spiritual Preservation,” “Future and Hope,” “Faith and Legacy,” and the most recent “Wisdom and Innovation,” all are in line with the needs of the time to reassure and empower people.

In particular, the Covid-19 Pandemic in the past few years has brought much inconvenience and caused panic among many individuals. We need wisdom to face the seriousness and challenges brought by the pandemic; we also need innovation to turn this crisis into an opportunity. As we can see, the impact of the pandemic resulted in us switching to online meetings for last year’s General Conference, Fellowship Meetings on the different continents, and this year’s Board of Directors Meeting. This has resolved the difficulty of physical meetings and further enhanced the skills of BLIA in propagating the Dharma through technology. In response to the outbreak of the pandemic, BLIA chapters worldwide have spared no effort in providing emergency relief, donating masks, protective suits, rapid test kits, and other materials and food, in particular, the donation of ventilators and other medical equipment for saving countless lives.

BLIA’s development has progressed with the current times, not departing from the trend of the time nor from the needs of people, and in these turbulent days, people’s minds need Dharma. Therefore, we must affirm that Dharma has the strength to calm people’s minds in society, and we must also recognize that BLIA is a refueling station for the human spirit. We need to spread the joy of Dharma among people to make the world a better place! On BLIA’s 30th anniversary, we are thankful for the efforts and dedication of BLIA members worldwide for achieving the accomplishments we have today. We hope that in the next 50 or 100 years, BLIA will continue to flourish, bringing positive energy to society and a clear stream to the world. Once again, thank you all!

Words of the Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung

Auspicious blessings to all BLIA members worldwide!

Time passes by like the shuttle as the seasons change over the years. On May 16, 1992, Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) was formally inaugurated in Los Angeles, U.S.A. Members came from Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa, and Australia to participate in the major event, lighting a bright lamp for Humanistic Buddhism to bring hope and brightness, and writing a new page in the history of Buddhism.

Now that BLIA has entered its 30th year, during its more than 19,000 days, thanks to all BLIA members around the world in following the footsteps of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. We have upheld the philosophy and spirit that Buddhism depends on us as well as its core value of unconditional loving-kindness and universal compassion, taking one step at a time to actively return to the original intent of the Buddha and fulfilling Humanistic Buddhism’s mission of propagating the Dharma and benefiting sentient beings. We have actualized the objectives of Fo Guang Shan: propagating the Dharma through culture, fostering talent through education, benefiting society through charity, and purifying people’s minds through spiritual cultivation; that have created a platform for compassion, loving-kindness, joy, and equanimity in all corners of the world to purify people’s minds and enhance social wellbeing.

During these thirty long years, BLIA volunteers around the world have taken the Triple Gem as their vessel and the Venerable Master’s compassion and vows as the beacon to guide them in diligent practice to find the right direction for their spiritual abode, delivering themselves from delusive attachment to the Buddha pure land in the human world. Over the years, we have been constantly improving and self-enriching our studies in Buddhism while paying equal attention to understanding and practice. By unlocking the infinite prajna-wisdom and energy treasure in our mind, we have seen the bright road of Buddha's light for attaining the unsurpassed bodhi.

In the past 30 years, especially in the past two years, the severe COVID-19 pandemic has caused tragic human casualties in the world. BLIA members worldwide could not bear the suffering of humanity and have responded with care and sympathy, regardless of ethnicity, time and space, or national boundaries. We have actively collected and donated protective medical equipment, providing medical workers on the frontline in a timely manner much needed protective items in their highly infectious work environment so they have the basic protection against infection risk. I wish to express my deep gratitude for the tireless and painstaking efforts of BLIA members around the world.

Looking back at the history of BLIA, in the next 30 years, through wisdom and innovation, BLIA members should join hands and hearts to uphold the spirit and philosophy to never forget our initial resolve in progressing to sustain the wisdom life of the Dharma by passing it on to future generations and spreading the teachings to the world for fulfillment of Buddhahood. We hope and encourage BLIA members to offer the incense of our hearts in practicing the Four Givings, so that the seeds of truth, kindness, and beauty of Buddhism can be spread to every corner of the world, enhancing collaboration, harmony, warmth, and fulfilled friendships between people.

Let us give rise to the bodhi mind in unity and cooperation, with our minds focused as one any matter can be accomplished in promoting BLIA affairs for Buddhism to flourish. As such, we can accomplish perfect harmony for the wondrous meaning of the Dharma to bring joy and ease to the world, creating a new opportunity and a beautiful vision for the future of Humanistic Buddhism. The Buddha's light is to shine universally for a warm, beautiful, happy, and peaceful Buddha land in the world, developing beautiful new hope and a bright future for the whole world.

Buddha’s light shines universally for thirty years, Ten-thousand families give rise to the Buddha’s compassion and wisdom; Wisdom and innovation brighten prospects over time, Persistent efforts sustain conditions for the Dharma.

A Message from the Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei

Predecessors Planted Trees, Later Generations Continue to Cultivate

Buddha's Light International Association is 30-years-old! During these thirty years, Founding President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun had taken BLIA members “by the hand” to reach out from mountains into society and from monasteries into families. These reversals have enabled BLIA members to transform from homemakers into volunteers in society, and from disciples listening to the Dharma to teachers teaching the Dharma. Within these thirty years, I would like to thank Acting President, Venerable Tzu Jung for her personal guidance in many major activities, writing countless pages in Buddhist history. Thanks to World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau and monastic advisors at home and abroad for giving careful guidance and direction of development; to the tens of thousands of chapter and subchapter presidents, elder advisors, and executives around the world for their dedication to service and care in every city and corner, serving as “thousand-arm and thousand-eye bodhisattvas.” As such, year after year, Buddhism emerges in temples, communities, campuses, prisons, national halls, and different kinds of stadiums. They have demonstrated demeanor of the contemporary bodhisattva, walking into mountains, by the sea, in cities and countryside, generating the most beautiful vistas in the world!

If BLIA is likened to the growth of a person, 30-years-old is a mature young person with some experience but still working hard: from a person, a family, to a group of people. It is also like a dreamer with a vision about to spread their wings to fly for the goal: from determination, aspiration, practice, to fulfillment of principles and matters. This is a turning point in life, a stage where we say goodbye to youth and move toward maturity; it is a stage of moving forward and not digressing, of forming a link between the preceding and the following, and of cultivating different abilities in the face of rapid changes. If BLIA is likened to a school, the founding philosophy of the school is “for the sake of Buddhism” so the Dharma sustains over time to “bring benefit and joy to sentient beings,” it is also “for the sake of all sentient beings” in giving happiness and peace to countless families. The substance of the school is elevating from seeking to giving and transforming ignorance into enlightenment. It is the training ground for subduing strong habitual tendencies and the teaching center for learning Bodhisattva altruism. Venerable Master Hsing Yun encourages us to break through difficulties with an attitude of “never forget one’s initial aspiration, do not hold grudges,” exhorting us to resolve and to develop, to be self-aware and practice the Buddha’s way, and within self and other, to change the world and benefit humanity, bravely and actively marching towards the wider world.

In particular, the pandemic has changed the lives of all humanity in recent years, there have also been floods, heavy rains, heat waves, forest fires, and the surges of wars. “The world is impermanent and that nations are dangerous and fragile” is constantly verifying the wisdom and truth taught by the Buddha more than 2,500 years ago. BLIA members experiencing impermanence of the world cherish the causes and conditions for learning Buddhism in this life to realize essence of the Dharma. In knowing that nations are dangerous and fragile, we pay more attention to forest restoration and promote vegetarianism to reduce carbon imprint; on seeing international wars and countless refugees, we deeply feel that peace is by no means cheap, it needs to be built on the basis of equality and requires mutual respect and tolerance.

BLIA is a “whole-person” school offering scouting life education for children, public service education for youth, and lifelong learning for adults. Taking refuge is the admission procedure, after enrollment, we must learn more, read and listen to the Dharma to increase wisdom and understanding; in life, we need to see whether what we have learned can pass “the test of service.” The gathering of each activity is based on the Dharma as a meeting, and its substance is inseparable from three main axis: to embrace life is the attitude of the learner, to resolve living and dying is the core of the practitioner, and to actualize in daily living is the essence of both understanding and practice.

In the past, people said, “Predecessors planted trees, later generations enjoy the shade.” This saying is not appropriate for BLIA members. At 30-years-old, a more appropriate saying for BLIA would be, “Predecessors planted trees, later generations continue to cultivate,” in living up to the expectations of Founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun!

Origin of Founding – Internationalization of Buddhism

May 16, 1991, the Ministry of the Interior awarded the "National and District-level People's Organizations Registration Certificate" to the China Foguang Association to indicate its official establishment.

Founder Venerable Master

Buddhism is jointly shared by the four divisions of disciples.

Traditional Buddhism mainly focused on the sangha, with the strength of lay devotees not fully initiated, resulting in Buddhism gradually growing out of touch with society. Founding President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, wanted to break through this traditional framework, changing the roles and functions of Buddhism in society for actualizing the concepts: from monastics to devotees, from temple to society, from self-learning to benefiting others, from passive to active, from students to teachers, from local to the world. The common goal is to create a society of joy and peace and progress to a world with respect and tolerance.

On February 3, 1991, the Fo Kuang Buddhist Association, an organization founded by lay Buddhist devotees was born smoothly according to the trend of the times. The founding general conference was held at the National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall in Taipei, it became the pioneer for BLIA.

On May 16, 1992, “Buddha's Light International Association World Headquarters” was founded at the Music Center in Los Angeles, and also conducted the First General Conference. Over 4,000 BLIA members from forty-five countries around the world voted for Venerable Master Hsing Yun to be the President of the Buddha's Light International World Headquarters. This major event was a gathering of many distinguished Buddhists from around the world, an embodiment of the internationalized, joyful, and harmonious characteristics of BLIA.

In July 2003, the UN recognized BLIA as an NGO with special consultative status in the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations associated with the Department, and in December the same year, the UN recognized BLIA as an NGO associated with the Department of Public Information. On entering the United Nations, BLIA has connected with the world to become internationalized, stepping on the global path of Dharma propagation, opening up a new era for the century, and setting a new milestone for Buddhism. There are 200 chapters with over 1,000 subchapters in 100 countries and regions in the world. Its founding opens up causes and conditions for many lay devotees to learn the Dharma; its establishment provides a fresh stream and warmth for the world. The contributions of BLIA have received the commendation of many local governments and its achievements are universally recognized.

On May 16, 1992, the founding of Buddha's Light International Association World Headquarters with the First General Conference held at the Music Center in Los Angeles, United States of America. During the ceremony, Ms. Julia Wu presented a commemorative certificate in recognition of Venerable Master’s achievement on behalf of President George H.W. Bush.

Since the founding of Buddha's Light International Association in 1992, Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun has proposed a different theme for each General Conference, setting directions and goals for the organization

s development in response to trends and needs of the times. The theme of the General Conference, from “ Joy and Harmony

in 1992 to “ Wisdom and Innovation ＂ in 2022, interprets the philosophy of Humanistic Buddhism. Through actualization and practice, BLIA members worldwide spread the bodhisattva spirit and sentiment of Humanistic Buddhism to every corner of the world; through cultivation of the bodhisattva path, they serve the public to benefit self and other, enhancing the essence of life to make it more meaningful and valuable.

BLIA World Headquarters Keynote Speeches

General Conferences & Directors Meetings

Content Date Place

Joy and Harmony

1992 General Conference

May 16-20,1992

The Music Center, Los Angeles & Hsi Lai Temple, America

1st Meeting of the First Board of Directors May 18, 1992 Hsi Lai Temple, America Oneness and Coexistence

1993 General Conference

October 16-20, 1993 Taipei and Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

2nd Meeting of the First Board of Directors February 12-14, 1993 Hong Kong

3rd Meeting of the First Board of Directors October 16, 1993 Taiwan

4th Meeting of the First Board of Directors

Oneness and Coexistence

April 29 - May 1, 1994 Tokyo, Japan

1994 General Conference September 23-27, 1994 Vancouver, Canada

5th Meeting of the First Board of Directors September 23, 1994 Vancouver, Canada

6th Meeting of the First Board of Directors April 6-9, 1995 Manila, Philippines Respect and Tolerance

1995 General Conference October 14-17, 1995 Sydney, Australia

7th Meeting of the First Board of Directors October 15, 1995 Sydney, Australia

1st Meeting of the Second Board of Directors April 23-26, 1996 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia Peace and Equality

1996 General Conference

August 3-7, 1996 Paris, France

2nd Meeting of the Second Board of Directors August 30, 1996 Paris, France

3rd Meeting of the Second Board of Directors May 9, 1997 Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan Wholeness and Freeness

1997 General Conference

November 29-December 2, 1997 Hong Kong

4th Meeting of the Second Board of Directors November 29, 1997 Hong Kong

5th Meeting of the Second Board of Directors February 27-March 1, 1998 Bangkok, Thailand Nature and Life

1998 General Conference

October 1-4, 1998 Toronto, Canada

6th Meeting of the Second Board of Directors October 1, 1998 Toronto, Canada

7th Meeting of the Second Board of Directors May 13, 2000 Taipei Vihara, Taiwan

One Truth for All

2000 General Conference

May 14-20, 2000

Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

1st Meeting of the Third Board of Directors April 18-22, 2001 Nan Hua Temple, South Africa

2nd Meeting of the Third Board of Directors April 27, 2002 Tokyo, Japan To Develop and To Resolve

2002General Conference

April 27-May 1, 2002 Tokyo, Japan

3rd Meeting of the Third Board of Directors October 1-5, 2003 Zu Lai Temple, Brazil

Self-awareness and Practicing the Buddha’s Way

2004 General Conference

September 1-5, 2004 Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

4th Meeting of the Third Board of Directors September 1, 2004 Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

1st Meeting of the Fourth Board of Directors September 21-25, 2005 Hsi Lai Temple, America

Content Date Place

Change the world and Benefit Humanity

2006 General Conference

October 1-8, 2006

Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

2nd Meeting of the Fourth Board of Directors October 4, 2006 Taipei Vihara, Taiwan

3rd Meeting of the Fourth Board of Directors October 6-9, 2007 Nan Tien Temple, Sydney, Australia Bodhisattva and Volunteer

2008 General Conference October 4-9, 2008

Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

4th Meeting of the Fourth Board of Directors October 5, 2008 Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

5th Meeting of the Fourth Board of Directors

Environmental and Spiritual Preservation

2010 General Conference

October 17-21, 2009

October 2-7, 2010

6th Meeting of the Fourth Board of Directors October 2, 2010

SuperStar Virgo, Singapore (Singapore/Malaysia/Thailand)

Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

1st Meeting of the Fifth Board of Directors December 21-24, 2011 Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan Happiness and Peace

2012 General Conference

October 10-12, 2012

Fo Guang Shan Taiwan

2nd Meeting of the Fifth Board of Directors October 10, 2012 Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

3rd Meeting of the Fifth Board of Directors

October 10-16, 2013 Hong Kong & Da Jue Temple, Yixing Future and Hope

2014 General Conference

October 3-8, 2014

Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

4th Meeting of the Fifth Board of Directors October 3, 2014 Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

1st Meeting of the Sixth Board of Directors October 18-22, 2015 Da Jue Temple, Yixing Consensus and Openness

2016 General Conference

October 11-15, 2016

Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

2nd Meeting of the Sixth Board of Directors October 11, 2016 Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

3rd Meeting of the Sixth Board of Directors October 4-8, 2017 Hsing Ma Temple, Malaysia

Faith and Legacy

2018 General Conference

October 4-9, 2018

Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan

4th Meeting of the Sixth Board of Directors October 4, 2018 Fo Guang Shan

1st Meeting of the Seventh Board of Directors October 2-5, 2019 Fa Hua Temple in Paris, France /NESCO

2020 Virtual General Conference October 4, 2020 Online Meeting (Pandemic) Zoom, Webinar, YouTube

2nd Meeting of the Seventh Board of Directors October 4, 2020 Wisdom and Innovation

2021 Virtual General Conference October 2-4, 2021 Online Zoom, YouTube

3rd Meeting of the Seventh Board of Directors October 2, 2021

Fo Guang Shan

4th Meeting of the Seventh Board of Directors October 2-9, 2022 Online Vfairs Hsi Lai Temple, USA

Joy and Harmony

Oneness and Coexistence

October 17, 1993, ten BLIA Lay Dharma Teachers, including devotee Ngiam Hoo-pang and thirty BLIA Lay Dharma Lecturers, including John Chao, were appointed at the Second General Conference, writing a new page for the history of Buddhism.

Michelle

Second

Linkou Stadium

Teng-hui

October

General Conference

Oneness and Coexistence

September 24, 1994,

over the

Master

Yun

Conference held

Respect and Tolerance

Master Hsing Yun presided over the opening ceremony of the Fourth BLIA General Conference held

International Convention Center.

October 16, 1995, Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Australia Minster of Immigration Nick Bolkus (right), New South Wales Premier Bob Carr (left), and more than 3,000 people from over 80 countries worldwide attended the Flag-raising Ceremony at the Fourth BLIA General Conference held at Nan Tien Temple. Raising of the Australian flag and the Buddhist flag symbolized the flourishing of Buddhism in Australia.

October 15, 1995, the Fourth BLIA General Conference

held at the

& Exhibition Centre in Darling Harbour, Australia.

Equality and Peace

On April 24, 1996, BLIA World Headquarters 1st Meeting of the Second Board of Directors was hosted by BLIA Malaysia onboard the Langkapuri Star Aquarius. President Venerable Master Hsing Yun conducted the “Triple Gem Refuge and Lightoffering Dharma Function” for a gathering of 80,000 local residents at the Shah Alam Stadium, Selangor. On the left of the Venerable Master is Venerable Kong Euee, Abbot of Meow Heong Lim Temple in Malaysia.

August 4, 1996, BLIA Fifth General Conference motioned the establishment of Buddha’s Light Scouts Troops for nurturing children and youths.

August 4, 1996, the Fifth BLIA General Conference was held at Le Palais des Congres, Paris, France. The 5,000 participants listened attentively to the Venerable Master’s keynote speech, “Equality and Peace.”

Wholeness and Freeness

Nature and Life

Nature and Life

One Truth for All

truth for all is the rule

for

One truth for all is not self-centered, it is dependent on

in the world

good

and righteousness.

bad, right

wrong; it is with wisdom that there is one

One truth for all is not for a family or a country; it is for the happiness and peace for all sentient beings.

One truth for all is the truth of prajna, with the truth of prajna there is realization and liberation.

September 3, 2000, World Headquarters President Venerable Master Hsing Yun inaugurated the Chunghua Buddha’s Light Scouts Troops at the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Taipei. A total of 40 troops with 400 cub and girl scouts from grades 2 to 6 received certification. The Venerable Master presented the scout flag to the Taipei Buddha’s Light Scout Troop.

first National Buddha’s Day and parade were celebrated on May 14, 2000 at the Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Taipei. Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun presided over the Bathing the Buddha Ceremony by sounding the gong.

To Resolve and To Develop

Four resolutions

Resolve to be kind and compassionate, and treat friend and foe alike.

Resolve to strengthen our minds by practicing both concentration and wisdom.

Resolve to develop the oneness of equality and coexistence.

Resolve to attain the enlightened mind of perfect freedom.

Four developments

1. To develop truth, goodness, and beauty in human nature.

To develop the wealth of blessings, wisdom, and virtue in this world.

To develop harmony, joy, love, and respect in human relationships.

To develop the future oneness between self and the Buddha.

Light International Youth Conference reached out of Asia for the first time going to North America. The “6th Buddha’s Light International Youth Conference” was held on December 29, 2001 at Hsi Lai Temple in Los Angeles, America, with forty-eight subdivisions inaugurated.

September 14, 2002, the Second Buddha’s Light Scouts Staff Seminar was held at

Guang Shan, with about 200 staff members from all the troops in Taiwan participating.

To Resolve and To Develop

On October 1, 2003, BLIA 3 rd Meeting of the Third Board of Directors was held at Zu Lai Temple in Brazil, with World Headquarters President Venerable Master Hsing Yun presiding.

The North America Executives and Preparatory Lay Dharma Lecturers Seminar was conducted on October 18, 2003 at Hsi Lai Temple in America, 300 executives and preparatory Lay Dharma Lecturers attended the seminar.

2003, Buddha’s Light Scouts participated in the First World Scout Interreligious Symposium in Spain. During the event, the troops won the right to conduct the Second World Scout Interreligious Symposium in 2006 at Fo Guang Shan, Taiwan.

On December 27, 2003, the 7th Buddha’s Light International Youth Conference was held at Fo Guang Shan, with its closing ceremony conducted at Gin Guang Ming Temple. BLIA World Headquarters Secretary General, Venerable Tzu Jung was present to give encouragement to the young members.

July 2003, the UN recognized BLIA as an “NGO with Special Consultative Status in the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations Associated with the Department.”

December 2003, the UN recognized

as

with the Department of Public Information.”

Self-awareness and Practicing the Buddha’s Way

the Buddha’s Way

To be compassionate and generous is the Buddha’s Way

be charitable and benevolent is the Buddha’s Way

To serve society is the Buddha’s Way

be moral and ethical is the Buddha’s Way

To preserve personal integrity is the Buddha’s Way

To observe the precepts is the Buddha’s Way

To be respectful and magnanimous is the Buddha’s Way

To do good deeds is the Buddha’s Way

To be repentant and grateful is the Buddha’s Way

To tolerate losses and injustice is the Buddha’s Way

To be patient and complying is the Buddha’s Way

To believe in the Four Incorruptible Faith is the Buddha’s Way

To progress with the times is the Buddha’s Way

To be an integral part of the Dharma Realm is the Buddha’s Way

To co-exist with all beings is the Buddha’s Way

To apply Buddhism to the world is the Buddha’s Way

1st Meeting of the

was held

Hsi Lai Temple with

A

with

Change the World and Benefit Humanity

Second World Scout Interreligious Symposium was conducted at Fo Guang Shan on May 5, 2006. More than 100 religious leaders and scout staff members from eight religions in 18 countries held a morning prayer service at the Dharma Transmission Center.

held on July 28, 2006. The participating scouts joined in the Fo Guang Shan 40th anniversary pilgrimage.

Second Buddha’s Light Scouts Camporee

Bodhisattva

2008 Buddha’s Light International Youth Conference was the first time when White Elephant

received certification, opening the stage for internationalization of young adults

the Dharma. Ven. Hui Chuan, BLIA YAD Chief Executive, presented certifications to Ellen Wang, Fanny Liu, Frank Yao, and Karin Chau as White Elephant Executives.

Bodhisattva and Volunteer

The 2009 Buddha’s Light International Youth Conference was on July 27 at Motosu Temple in Japan. It was the first certification for Pegasus Executive, and three new subdivisions were inaugurated, bringing the total number of subdivisions to 190 worldwide.

“A Thousand Monastics and Ten-Thousand Devotees Celebrate the Buddha’s Birthday; One Mind, Ten Vows Express the Gratitude for All Mothers,” jointly conducted by Executive Yuan Environmental Protection Agency, Fo Guang Shan Monastery, and BLIA Chunghua. The “National Buddha’s Day and Mother’s Day Celebration” held in front of the Presidential Building on the Ketagalan Boulevard was a major event in the history of Buddhism.

BLIA 5th Meeting of the Fourth Board of Directors was held On October 20, 2009. All participants boarded the Star Cruise SuperStar Virgo and took a group photo in Phuket, Thailand.

Environmental and Spiritual Preservation

Guang Shan and BLIA Chunghua jointly conducted the six-day 2010 International Youth Seminar on Life and Ch’an on August 6, with life education as its theme. 1,000 outstanding young members from 400 renowned colleges in 150 countries on the five continents participated in the seminar, jointly exploring the value and meaning of life. Taiwan President Ma YingJeou provided encouragements to the young participants at the closing ceremony

Environmental and Spiritual Preservation

In celebration of the Centennial of the Republic of China and the 100th anniversary of Chinese Scouts, the General Association of the Scouts of China held the “10th National Scouts and the 28th Asia Pacific Scouts Jamboree '' at Chengcing Lake Campsite in Kaohsiung, Taiwan. 640 cub scouts and boy and girl scouts from the Buddha’s Light Scout Troops participated in the event, making them the largest organization on the entire campsite.

Happiness and Peace

October 13, the 2012

General

discussion was held at

Building, presided over by World

President Venerable Master Hsing

Happiness and Peace

October 10, 2013, BLIA 3rd Meeting of the Fifth Board of Directors was held in Hong Kong followed by the “Root-seeking Journey at Fo Guang Ancestral Monastery Yixing Da Jue Temple.”

October 12, 2013, at BLIA 3rd Meeting of the Fifth Board of Directors, World Headquarters Venerable Master Hsing Yun gave instructions and encouragements to members during the “Root-seeking Journey at Fo Guang Ancestral Monastery Yixing Da Jue Temple.”

October 12, 2013, at the

3rd Meeting of the Fifth Board of Director,

Journey at Fo Guang Ancestral Monastery Yixing Da Jue Temple.”

members gathered happily at the

October 8, 2014, BLIA Founding President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun handed over the baton of World Headquarters President, symbolic of handing down the light, to the new president of the Sixth Board of Directors, Most Venerable Hsin Bau and presented him with a certificate.

first Buddha’s Light Scout in South Africa was established on March 1, 2014 at Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple under the supervision of District Committee Member of North Pretoria, Gauteng, Neil Marshall.

and

opening ceremony of “2017

Buddha’s Light

held

Hsi

March 12, 2018, BLIA World Headquarters Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei led Vice Secretaries General from various regions to attend the “62nd Session of the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW62)” to share their insights on gender equality.

Faith

Legacy

Closing ceremony of the 2019 BLIA 1st Meeting of the Seventh Board of Directors was held at Disney’s Newport Bay Club Convention Centre on October 5, and Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei read the Meeting’s major resolutions.

From July 23 to 28, the “2019 International Buddha’s Light Young Adult Executive Conference” was held at Templo Zu Lai. in Brazil, South America. More than 300 young people jointly discussed “Faith and Legacy”

The 63rd Session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women (CSW63) was held at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, U.S.A. on March 11-22, 2019. BLIA shared Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s philosophy of equal rights and education at the parallel session.

2019 Buddha’s Light World Scout Camporee was held at Fo Guang Shan Deer Park in New York during July 4-7 with 250 scout members from USA, Canada, France, South Africa,

and Taiwan Chunghua participating.

On October 2, Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun gave a video presentation on the causes and conditions for the establishment of BLIA and explained the unique and invaluable gatherings of BLIA members with the auspiciousness of the Western Pure Land.

Celebration of BLIA 30th Anniversary

BLIA Chunghua was inaugurated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun at National Dr. Sun Yet-Sen Memorial Hall in Taipei on February 3, 1991, and the BLIA World Headquarters at the Los Angeles Music Center on May 16, 1992, setting a new milestone for international Dharma propagation. During the past 30 years, BLIA has flourished and completed its systematical organization. BLIA chapters worldwide on the five continents have actively joined the ranks of Humanistic Buddhism in actualizing the bodhisattva path, taking their Buddhist faith as compass to sprinkle the Dharma water of Humanistic Buddhism.

On BLIA 30th anniversary, BLIA members worldwide celebrate joyfully through “BLIA 30 – Rise and Soar High” Photo Exhibition, reflecting on the historical images of BLIA’s growth and how it has calmed people’s mind. “BLIA 30 – Stories of BLIA Forum” related the origins and path of BLIA for better understanding of the difficulties of its establishment and process of its growth. “BLIA 30 – A Musical Feast” performed songs from Sounds of the Human World with lyrics composed by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, interwoven with historic photos and videos to present the Venerable Master’s lifelong Dharma propagation.

BLIA Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun gave instructions through a video, indicating that in the authoritarian age of the past it was very difficult to establish a civic organization. It was till Taiwan became more open that BLIA could be established, until today there are over a thousand subchapters worldwide. It is an important civic organization for Chinese in the world, the objective of which is to bring joy and happiness to humanity for the Dharma sound to spread. Where people propagate the Dharma, there will people believing in it; where people resolve to promote it, the Buddha’s light will shine universally and the Dharma stream will flow over time.

On February 3, 2021, BLIA Chunghua celebrated BLIA 30th Anniversary at the National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall via livestreaming online. World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau led in waving flags with Buddha’s Light cub scouts singing the happy birthday song for BLIA 30th year!

30周年 影像展

BLIA 30th Anniversary – Photo Exhibition

February 3, 2021, BLIA Chunghua hosted the “Stories of BLIA” at National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall, inviting Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung, World Headquarters Director

and Commonwealth Publishing Group Founder Charles H.C. Kao in reflecting on

founding

Chuan; World Headquarters Vice President, Liu Chao-Ming’s family; and

Chapter President, Lin Wenhui’s family

how the wisdom of Dharma influence harmony in the

sharing stories of their participation and the history of their growth.

April 24, 2022, BLIA Brazil held a forum “Stories of Fo Guang Shan and BLIA” hosted by BLIA South America Fellowship Committee Director Szu Pi-Yao, with Zu Lai Temple Abbess, Venerable Miao You; BLIA World Headquarters Director, Hong Tsu-ho; and lawyer Dr. Miguel sharing their experiences of BLIA 30 years of growth.

World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau provided encouragements: by singing the lyrics of the “Sounds of the Human World,” the Dharma will enter deep into the mind, generating more confidence and strength. He hoped that we should maintain the essence of Dharma within our minds at all time.

BLIA World Headquarters Acting President, Venerable Tzu Jung encouraged that singing can express our intent to communicate with buddhas and bodhisattvas, bringing spiritual joy and wealth.

first civic organization established by Buddhist devotees, “Fo Kuang Buddhist Association” was founded in Taiwan on February 3, 1991. On its 30th anniversary in 2021, BLIA Chunghua held a special “BLIA 30 – A Musical Feast” on February 2. The songs performed are based on Founder President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s lifelong Dharma propagation, together with a unique display of historical images. The performance was divided into five periods: “Bright Star Light, Cloud on Saha,” “Yilan Dharma Propagation, Teaching around Taiwan,” “Breaking Through Hardships, Never Forget the Initial Vow,” “Bodhisattva Volunteers, Joyful Practice of Buddha’s Way,” and “Faith and Legacy, Spreading Dharma on Five Continents.” All the Buddha’s Light choirs in Taiwan gathered at the National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall to perform Buddhist songs with lyrics composed by Founding President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. The moving melodies interwoven with precious historical videos, it was a virtual experience of the Venerable Master’s lifelong Dharma propagation.

Light Tainan Choir:

Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun Honored with “Compassion Award”

On December 20, 2020, the “15th Compassion Award Ceremony,” a global Chinese Charity was held simultaneously in Taipei, Beijing, and Hong Kong. Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun was recognized with the award for his lifelong effort in propagating Humanistic Buddhism, and outstanding contributions in charity, education, culture, and promoting cross-strait harmony.

BLIA World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau represented the Venerable Master to receive the award and certificate from Formosa Plastics Corporation President, Wang Wen-yuan and Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital Honorary President, Chen Chao-long.

BLIA World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau Recognized as “Outstanding Alumni”

On December 16, 2020, BLIA World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau was recognized as “Outstanding Alumni” by Taichung City Tachia High School. Tachia High School Principal Chien Ching-lang, and Alumni Association Director General Chang Tong-po presented the outstanding alumni certificate. A group of twenty people from Tachia High School held an exchange session at the third floor of the Buddha Museum Front Hall. Most Venerable Hsin Bau mentioned that it has been 37 years since he graduated from the school, now that everyone could still meet together is certainly good affinity. He also spoke the Dharma at the request of former teacher Wu Shi-shui.

BLIA World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau and BLIA Chunghua Won the “Social Education Contribution Award”

On December 10, 2021, the Ministry of Education held the “Year 110 Social Education Contribution Award Presentation Ceremony” at the National Library to commend individuals and groups that have made outstanding contributions to social education. A total of 111 outstanding individuals and groups were recommended and after careful review by the evaluation team, Fo Guang Shan Abbot and BLIA World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau together with BLIA Chunghua were recognized. Fo Guang Shan and BLIA have always upheld the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism of Founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun, promoting education, culture, charity, religion, and other activities, implementing life-long learning with actualization in all parts of Taiwan. They are highly recognized by the judges and are the only monastic and religious organization to receive the awards.

Humanistic Buddhism’s Hsing Yun Theory and Practice”

Silver Medal Award

On August 5, 2022, “Be a Buddha - Humanistic Buddhism's Hsing Yun Theory and Practice” by Venerable Man Yi, published in 2021 by Buddha’s Light Publications, USA won silver medal in the 2022 Independent Publishers Living Now Book Awards under the category of Enlightenment/Spirituality. The publisher has been recognized for providing good books for quality of life, spiritual health, and personal physical and mental development, etc. “Be a Buddha – Humanistic Buddhism’s Hsing Yun Theory and Practice,” was recognized by the American publishing industry in winning the award.

Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s “Words of Wisdom” Ranked Top of the Charts

On July 12, 2020, Chief Editor Zhu Zhiwei of Singapore's Shin Min Daily, published the daily column “Master Hsing Yun's Words of Wisdom.” In July, he collected and published a series of books “Master Hsing Yun’s Words of Wisdom 10,” setting the record of the only column in the history of Singapore's Chinese newspapers, with the exception of novels, that has been serially published for 11 years. Since its launch, it has become the third bestseller of Popular Bookstore in Singapore. On August 29, it was reported in issue 34 of Asia Weekly that “Master Hsing Yun’s Words of Wisdom 10” had been the top bestseller in the Popular Bookstore list of Singapore for three consecutive weeks, while the first published English version of “Master Hsing Yun’s Words of Wisdom 1” was the ninth English book bestseller.

On December 13, 2021, BLIA Chunghua Group Member Jin Guang Ming Temple won the public construction quality award of the 22nd “National Building Gold Award.” The temple architecture skillfully integrates tradition and modernity, adopts Chinese palace style architectural design, and has an area of more than 5,000 square meters. The various spaces such as the Main Shrine, auditorium, and conference room, specifically actualizing Founding President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s concept: “temples functioning as schools.” The temple won the “Public Construction Quality Award -Religious Architecture Category.” Jin Guang Ming Temple Abbess and BLIA World Headquarters Secretary General, Venerable Chueh Pei was the only non-governmental representative invited to speak at the event, “This award should be given to Venerable Master Hsing Yun, because the Venerable Master expects the temple to be a school, a refueling station for life, a safe haven for body and mind, and a caring home for the community and people.”

Fo Guang Shan Jin Guang Ming Temple won the 22nd “National Building Gold Award”

Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Christchurch Honored with the

Civic

On December 1, 2020, Christchurch city government, New Zealand held the “2020 Christchurch Civic Award” ceremony at the city hall to commend outstanding organizations and citizens who have made contributions to Christchurch. Awards were presented to eighteen Christchurch civic organizations and individuals, including Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Temple Christchurch for their outstanding service and contributions to the community. Temple director Venerable Chueh Hsi accepted the award, accompanied by BLIA New Zealand South Island First Subchapter President Guo Ming-yuan, Second Subchapter President Cao Qian, and Chapter Director Liu Guowei. There were 120 Christchurch residents sharing in the honor.

December 1, 2021, “Year 110 Contribution Award for Social Organizations and Commendation Meeting for Outstanding Professional Groups” was held at the Evergreen International Convention Center in Taipei. With fifty-four organizations winning the award, BLIA Chunghua won the highest category of “Gold Award” and was also the only religious organization to win the honor. Premier Su Tseng-chang presented the award and BLIA World Headquarters Vice President Wu Chin-sun accepted the honor, affirming the Founding President’s concept of Humanistic Buddhism and social service. BLIA Chunghua Vice Secretary General, Venerable Jue Duo indicated that BLIA has assisted in the pandemic prevention, promoted Vege Plan A as well as youth and scout activities, in particular, the advocacy of vegetarianism and environmental preservation to save the Earth with more than 78,000 people worldwide responding. Premier Su Tseng-chang said, “The recognized organizations have made tremendous contributions to community, it is hoped they become exemplars for the community.”

BLIA Chunghua Recognized with “Gold Award of National Social Organizations”

On February 5, 2022, South Plainfield Mayor Mathew Anesh, City Council President Christine Faustini, and council members Derryck White, Joseph Wolak, and Peter Smith, brought the city's Lunar New Year Message to New Jersey Buddhist Culture Center, proclaiming the 15-day Celebration of the Lunar New Year in South Plainfield City from February 1, offering new year greetings to BLIA members. Participation in community activities, promotion of multi-cultural exchanges, and donations of pandemic prevention materials by the New Jersey Buddhist Cultural Center and BLIA New Jersey were recognized, having successively awarded the Lunar New Year Proclamation.

as

On April 21, 2021,

of BLIA Toronto for their care and fight against the pandemic, sponsorship of Trillium Health Partners, a Mississauga health care system, and support of the Mississauga Food Bank, Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie, Canada nominated BLIA Toronto as “COVID Hero” The city held an online tribute ceremony on April 21 to recognize the contributions of BLIA members to the community.

On the eve of Brazil's “National Tourism Day” on May 8, 2022, Cotia City Tourism Director Nelson held a “Tourism Development Consensus Fellowship Meeting” at Templo Zu Lai, inviting directors, representatives, and hoteliers from eleven cities in the western region of Sao Paulo and eight cities in the southwestern region to participate. A total of 162 people attended the event, including Vice Mayor Angela, representative Edson da Silva, and Abbess Venerable Miao You was awarded a certificate of honor for her contribution to the country's tourism industry.

On March 24, 2022, the Mayor of Brisbane held an award ceremony to recognize the outstanding contributions of Brisbane citizens, presenting the Citizen of the Year Award, Senior Citizen Award, Young Citizen Award, Corporate Citizen Award, and Australia Day Achievement Award to 26 recipients. In particular, he presented the “Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year Award” to Yuan Fu, BLIA World Headquarters Social Charity Service Committee Director. The mayor expressed gratitude on behalf of Brisbane, recognizing her contribution to the Brisbane community.

Brazil Elder Advisor Hong Li-yue Recognized as Honorary Citizenship of the City of São Bernardo

On August 25, 2020, BLIA Brazil Elder Advisor, Hong Liyue was recognized as a Honorary Citizen by the City of São Bernardo do Campo. Due to the pandemic, the presentation ceremony was held at the Evergreen Company of BLIA Brazil director Hong Tsu-Ho and Hong Li-yue, with city council member, Minami presenting the award. Hong Li-yue is also an overseas Chinese affairs consultant in Brazil. She has lived in Brazil for 55 years and has given back to the community with the spirit of BLIA of Four Givings. Director Feng Guangzhong of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Sao Paulo, representatives from the Brazilian overseas Chinese community, and BLIA executives attended the ceremony.

BLIA Los Angeles Executives Honored as Outstanding Asian Americans

In celebration of Asian American Heritage Month on June 4, 2021, Congresswoman Young Kim of California's 39th District held an online award ceremony to recognize Asian Americans who have made contributions to the community. Sixteen outstanding Asian Americans were honored, including BLIA Los Angeles Vice Elder Advisor General, Gena Ooi and Supervisor Kenny Chang, who accepted the honor on behalf of BLIA Los Angeles and the first generation of immigrants respectively. Gene Ooi said that through many charitable activities and services, such as Winter Love Joy and pandemic prevention supplies donation, FGS Hsi Lai Temple and BLIA Los Angeles have been connecting with local governments, hospitals, firefighters, police officers, and community members, cultivating compassion and bodhisattva vows and contributing to peace and happiness in society.

On March 26, 2022,

Los Angeles Vice President Echo Tsai was recognized as one of “2022 Women of Achievement.” Senator Bob Archuleta of the 32nd District of California presided over the annual award ceremony at the Hilton Hotel in Whittier. Eleven outstanding women in various fields won the award. BLIA Los Angeles Vice President Echo Tsai represented Hsi Lai Temple and was the only Asian woman to be recognized. Senator Achuleta praised vice president Tsai for her contributions to the community and further affirmed Hsi Lai Temple’s efforts in enhancing peace and happiness in the community.

BLIA Chicago Director Named Best Gastroenterologist in Chicago Region

January 29, 2021, Dr. Sun Wei Ming, BLIA Chicago Director and a Fellow of the American College of Gastroenterology, was honored by Chicago Magazine as one of the top gastroenterologists in the Greater Chicago area for 2021. Dr. Sun is a long-time devotee of Fo Guang Shan Chicago Buddhist Temple, often providing volunteer medical services at the temple and giving health talks during the pandemic. His wife, Du Bao-shi is the president of BLIA Chicago Third Subchapter, and his daughter, Sun Yuan-yuan is an important executive of BLIA YAD; the whole family is diligently cultivating in the spread of Humanistic Buddhism.

BLIA Toronto Volunteers Received Service

On the February 25, 2021, affected by the pandemic, the Ontario provincial government of Canada conducted 27 “Online Volunteer Service Award Ceremony” for the year to commend the outstanding contributions and efforts of 6,658 volunteers in the province in 2020. Eight BLIA volunteers, David Leung, Joanna Leung, Susanna Fong, Fu Yiufong, Po Tinliu, Stephanie Hong, Annie Cheung, and BLIA YAD member Christine Huang received recognition at the online award ceremony, affirming the dedicated service of BLIA volunteers.

BLIA Toronto Executives & Volunteers Honored with Ontario Service Award

On February 28, 2022, the “2021 Ontario Volunteer Service Award Ceremony” was held online with more than 6,200 volunteers were commended. A total of eight people, including BLIA Toronto director Chin Yu Yu, vice president Rachel Fan, Subchapter elder advisor May Ho, Amy Kwong, and Annie Leung, BLIA volunteer Luisa Wong, and BLIA YAD members Karen Hu and Jaycie Linh were honored. Minister Parm Gill of Citizenship and Multiculturalism of Ontario thanked the volunteers for their dedication to meaningful services in the past year to make Ontario a better place.

BLIA Sydney Recognized with

for Services”

On January 17, 2020, the Parramatta municipal government of Western Sydney held the “2020 City of Parramatta Australian Day Awards Ceremony” in Rosehill Gardens, Western Sydney. BLIA Sydney former president, Huang Jinfeng and Buddha’s Light Scout Leader in Western Sydney, Zeyun Jenny Huang were commended for their services. This affirmed Huang Jinfeng’s contributions as president in leading BLIA members to participate in the Clean Australia Day, donate charity gift baskets, and visit nursing homes, etc.; affirming Jenny Huang’s contributions to the growth and development of the West District Buddha’s Light Scout Troop.

BLIA

On November 13, 2020, BLIA Sydney South First Subchapter President Guo Hongrong, and Guangming Subchapter President You Ruiyun, were recognized with the “2020 Banks Volunteer Award,” attending the awarding ceremony at ATS Park Sports Club. The award was established by the Hon. David Coleman MP, Minister of Immigration of Australia and the Commonwealth MP in 2015. David Coleman MP affirmed the service

BLIA Chennai President Honored with Humanity Award

Dr. S. Geethakumari, President of BLIA has made caring for people her mission in life. For the last 19 years, she has devoted her time and energy to helping others in her community who are less fortunate and disadvantaged, secluded caste members, and tribal members. She has developed and distributed several programs: education for women and girls, increased awareness of sexual assaults committed against women, the means of subsistence for those with varying degrees of ability. India's National Crime Intelligence Agency Founder Amit Pal, South India Joint Director Ramakrishnan, Tamil Nadu State President Mrs. Radhika presented the “2022 Humanitarian Award” to Dr. S. Geethakumari in recognition of her meritorious service rendered for humanity.

On March 12, 2022, the Youth Development Department of the Ministry of Education held the final selection and award ceremony of the “Year 110 Annual Youth Volunteer Team Competition and Application Unit Recognition Program” at the Youth Development Department of Taipei. BLIA Chunghua YAD stood out from many applications and was recognized as the “Outstanding Social Application Unit.” BLIA Chunghua Vice Secretary General, Venerable Jue Duo attended the award ceremony, encouraging BLIA YAD members to cultivate compassion, develop their skills, and understand themselves through each service.

July 31, 2021, BLIA YAD member, Tang Chih-chun won the silver medal in the men's archery team competition at the Tokyo Olympic Games. Together with Teng Yu-cheng and Wei Chun-heng. earning a medal for Taiwan in the Olympic archery competition after a period of 17 years. On August 22, accompanied by his mother, Tang Chih-chun went to the temple to pay respects to the Buddha and shared his insights with YAD members. BLIA World Headquarters Secretary General, Venerable Chueh Pei provided teachings and presented them with the calligraphy work, “Chan Heart” on behalf of Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun, newspaper clippings of “BLIA YAD – Buddhism Flourishes” by BLIA YAD Executive Director Venerable Hui Chuan, and a BLIA Chunghua “BLIA YAD – Buddhism Flourishes” gold medal as gifts of encouragement.

YAD Member Tang Chiih-chun Won the Silver Medal in the Team Competition at the Tokyo Olympic Games

Brazil's National Scout Headquarters Certifies the First Buddhist Badge

On July 13, 2020, the Brazilian National Scout Headquarters added the Buddhist badge of honor to the Brazilian National Scout through the proposal submitted by the 516 Buddha’s Light Scout in Brazil. This is the first Buddhist badge of the Brazilian National Scout in more than 100 years. In the future, all scout troops in Brazil can be awarded with this honorary badge when they pass the general knowledge of Buddhism test. The badge is divided into primary, intermediate, high, and honor badges.

Buddha's Light Scouts of Brazil Received the “Gold Award” from the National Scouts

On February 14, 2022, Brazil 516 Buddha's Light Scout, established for four and a half years, actively organized many online activities in 2021 despite the pandemic, during which six people passed various tests and were awarded the Southern Cross Medal. The team received a special “Gold Award” from the Brazilian National Scout Group in recognition of their outstanding performance, following the Bronze Award received the year before.

BLIA Brazil Monastic Advisor, Venerable Miao You praised the Buddha's Light Scouts for their hard work during the pandemic and outstanding achievements.

Hsi Lai Buddha’s Light Girl Scout Received the Highest Honor of Gold Medal

On June 5, 2022, Kristin Chieh of Troop 18894 was awarded the Gold Award by the Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles (GSGLA). Kristin’s focus was on childhood obesity and the development of curriculum and exercise programs to educate children on the importance of a healthy diet and physical exercise, combined with the fun practice of Chinese martial arts, students have increased their motivation and interest in martial arts, the results of which have been recognized.

Western

Light Scout

On October 16, 2021, Australian Scout, Western Australia region held the annual “Adult Recognition Awards” at the Perth Concert Hall to commend 135 volunteers and leaders of over 90 organizations in the region who provided excellent scout services. Tony Goh was awarded the Special Service Awards in recognition of his two years of continuous good service to the Scouts of Western Australia and his ability to perform at a high level. Tony was affirmed because his two children joined the Buddha’s Light Scouts in Western Australia, he also participated in the service, arranging and hosting scout meetings, leading and uniting the team spirit of the scout leaders.

2021 BLIA Virtual General Conference

The 2021 BLIA General Conference was held online on October 2-4, 2021, approximately 20,000 people across the five continents attended the conference, with eight languages being translated simultaneously, and the theme song “Love and Peace” was presented in praise of the beauty of world peace. During the opening ceremony, Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun gave a talk on the origins of establishing BLIA, explaining the wonders of BLIA gatherings with auspiciousness of the Western Pure Land of Ultimate Bliss. The conference invited World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Honorary President Wu Po-hsiung, Vice President Liu Changle, and United Nations representative Andi Gitow to speak and present the Pandemic Award, Three Acts of Goodness International Microfilm Contest Award, Beauty of Buddha’s Light Photo Contest Award, and Global Buddhism Examination Award etc.

World Headquarters Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei and representatives of BLIA chapters presented work reports. World Headquarters President Venerable Hsin Bau was invited to speak on the theme, “Wisdom and Innovation,” that Dharma propagation can meet the needs of sentient beings by wisdom and innovation, keeping in pace of the changing times. Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung, Director Venerable Yi Kong, Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei, and New Media Development Vice Committee Director Venerable Miao Xi were the theme forum speakers, illustrating with examples of wisdom and innovation in Humanistic Buddhism from the Buddha’s time till the current age. They invited the audience to reflect on how to carry on the legacy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Dharma propagation philosophy, providing leadership in the development of Buddhism.

On October 4, 2021, motion discussion was led by World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau, proposals including BLIA World Headquarters 30th Anniversary, promotion of T-Earth and Vege Plan A, BLIA membership card, a total of 18 motions. During the closing ceremony, Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei read the Conference major resolutions. BLIA North America was given the hosting right by BLIA Chunghua for the 2022 BLIA Board of Directors Meeting.

On October 2, 2021, the 2021 BLIA Virtual General Conference was attended

by BLIA members across the five continents, with BLIA Hong Kong being one of them.

that under the leadership of Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun, interreligious dialogue were supported and great emphasis had been placed on faith, racial equality, as well as respect and tolerance.

BLIA World Headquarters Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei spoke at the closing ceremony, thanking all the teachers and monastics involved in education for the past seventeen years in India, allowing everyone to witness the brightness brought by education to India.

Parallel session of the UN Women Commission on the Status of Women

TheUnited Nations 66th Session of the Commission on the Status of Women held its third day of meeting on March 16, 2022, the focus included the theme of “BLIA in India: Advancing Equality and Equity for Girls & Women.” The “Under the Big Tree” education project in India was shared to almost a thousand people attending the meeting online. The project is the result of FGS Founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun, who advocated women’s rights to education when he was spreading the Dharma in India many years ago.

World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung, Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei, Chief of Civil Society Unit Outreach Division of Department of Global Communications United Nations Hawa Diallo, and NFBPWC Afghan Women Project President Voyka Soto gave speeches during the meeting. Vice Secretary General (Southeast Asia) Venerable Chueh Cheng shared the origins of BLIA in India, she also explained the process of Dharma propagation by Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun in India as well as the education plan for Chennai Buddha’s Light Hope Village.

India Buddhist College Dean Venerable Miao Xuan introduced the “Under The Big Tree” educational project through a video, Stanzin Samchok and four other Buddhist college students shared their experience and thoughts in propagating Three Acts of Goodness for the “Under the Big Tree” educational project. They were grateful to Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun for providing the opportunity for personal growth, allowing them to understand that practicing Three Acts of Goodness is experiencing the Dharma. In a “Under the Big Tree” video, the participating public indicated, “This is what India truly needs, hopefully whoever listens to the Dharma will actually practice it and propagate it, so that India will progress forward.” Hence, with the propagation by “Under The Big Tree,” the public has fully recognized the concept of Three Acts of Goodness.

BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General (Southeast Asia) Venerable Chueh Cheng shared the origins of establishment of BLIA India and Dharma propagation. The session was hosted by BLIA United Nations Committee Director Mabel Lam.

June 6, 2021, during the BLIA North America Online Fellowship Meeting, World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung, and Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei started the event by giving encouragements to the attendees. Florida Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings also offered a congratulatory message via video.

BLIA Fellowship Meeting on the Continents

2021 BLIA North America Online Fellowship Meeting

On June 6, 2021, North America conducted the 2021 BLIA North America Online Fellowship Meeting, this event was coorganized by BLIA Florida, BLIA Miami, and executives from BLIA America East. Participants included 1,200 BLIA members from twenty-seven chapters in Canada, United States of America, and Costa Rica, gathering online for the event. World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau, Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung, and Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei spoke to the gathering via videos. Florida Orange County Mayor, Jerry Demings also offered a congratulatory message via video. BLIA North America members used internet technology to divide a thousand people into twentyfive groups to discuss five major topics: BLIA affairs promotion, faith and legacy, promotion of education, Dharma propagation via internet, and T-Earth tree planting for environmental preservation. Activities included BLIA affairs observation and exchanges, theme forum, group discussion, integrated reporting, review of activity highlights, award ceremony, and lucky draw. There was also the handover ceremony for the host of 2022 BLIA North America Fellowship Meeting, BLIA Nevada. The 2023 BLIA North America Fellowship Meeting will be co-hosted by BLIA Austin, BLIA Dallas, and BLIA Houston.

BLIA North America Fellowship Meeting group discussion was chaired by Vice Secretary General America East, Venerable Yung Ku and Vice Secretary General America West, Venerable Hui Dong.

On June 6, 2021, when BLIA chapters were introduced during the North America Online Fellowship Meeting, the chapters happily presented their unique characteristics.

World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau encouraged the gathering members with the concepts of “Environmental and Spiritual Preservation.” While the environment needs to be green, our mind also needs to be brighter and at ease through the Dharma, this is spiritual preservation.

2022 BLIA Oceania Fellowship Meeting

With BLIA World Headquarters as the organizer and BLIA North Island, New Zealand as the host, the 2022 BLIA Oceania Online Fellowship Meeting was held on February 26, 2022. Monastic advisors, BLIA members and executives, YAD members from BLIA chapters in Oceania, a total of 550 people gathered online for the event, transcending time and space. World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau and Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung provided encouragements through video; World Headquarters Vice President ChaoMing Liu, Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei, Vice Secretary General Oceania Venerable Man Ko, Oceania Fellowship Committee Director Su Fen Tsai, and FGS New Zealand Abbess Venerable Man Hsin also spoke to provide encouragements. During the meeting, video of BLIA Oceania chapter activity highlights was shown. Lay Dharma Lecturer and Teachers Fellowship Committee Vice Chairperson Kwong Djee Chan led the joyful bazaar game and conducted the “Report Peace, Gain Peace” group discussion and integrated reporting. At the meeting closing, a handover ceremony for hosting was held with BLIA North Island, New Zealand handing over to BLIA Western Australia. BLIA members are set meet in Western Australia in 2024!

February 26, 2022, BLIA North Island, New Zealand served as the host for the 2022 BLIA Oceania Online Fellowship Meeting. A professional IT team was in charge of every segment, allowing the activity to be conducted smoothly.

the handover ceremony,

North Island, New Zealand handed over to the next host, BLIA Western Australia. BLIA members will meet in Western Australia in 2024!

Lothe

Eidsgård

On June 24, 2022, during the opening ceremony of 2022 BLIA Europe Executive Seminar, Vice Secretary-General Europe Venerable Man Chien, Buddhist Federation of Norway Secretary-General Egil Lothe, Buddhist Federation of Norway Secretary Nirmala Eidsgård and other distinguished guests were present.

On June 25, 2022, the “Holding True to the Original

of Buddha” forum was conducted by FGS Europe Chief Abbess Venerable Chueh Jung with monastic advisors leading the reading session.

2022 Europe BLIA Executive Seminar

The 2022 Europe BLIA Executive Seminar was held at the Sundvolden Hotel in Oslo, Norway on June 24-26, 2022. A total of 250 members from eighteen BLIA chapters in fourteen countries in Europe overcame great difficulties for the event after dealing with the 3-years-long COVID-19 pandemic, thrilled beyond words and cherished the rare learning opportunity. During the opening ceremony on June 24, Vice Secretary General Europe, Venerable Man Chien, Buddhist Federation of Norway SecretaryGeneral Egil Lothe, Buddhist Federation of Norway Secretary Nirmala Eidsgård, FGS Europe Chief Abbess Venerable Chueh Jung, and Vice Chief Abbess Venerable Miao Hsiang, World Headquarters Director & Elder Advisor Viviane Khamsing were present for the major event. World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau and Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung provided encouragements via video. Vice Secretary General Europe Venerable Man Chien presented a talk on “Wisdom and Innovation,” there were also the recording of Sounds of the Human World “Light of Hope,” Vege Plan A Vegrun walkathon, Cloud and Water tea meditation, “Holding True to the Original Intents of Buddha” forum, mock exam for the Buddhism exam, Night of Buddha’s Light, and other exciting activities. BLIA members had all gained tremendously and were filled with Dharma joy!

On June 25, 2022, the executive seminar invited BLIA chapter presidents to share their experience on how to undertake the responsibility as an executive. The presidents presented their personal experiences earnestly.

2022 BLIA Europe Executive Seminar was held on June 24, 2022. A total of

in fourteen countries in Europe overcame great difficulties to gather for the event after dealing with the

pandemic. They were happy to attend the opening ceremony.

Online Training Cloud-based Learning

Virtual Global Buddhism Exam

The “2021 BLIA Global Buddhism Exam” was organized by BLIA World Headquarters, with BLIA World Headquarters Lay Dharma Lecturer Fellowship Committee and BLIA North America as the institutions in charge, and co-organized by BLIA chapters worldwide. The exam venues were located in 58 countries and regions on the five continents; the exam questions were in eight languages, including Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Portuguese, French, and Indian Tamil to overcome language barriers. The exam covered different time zones with nearly 40,000 participants aged from 4 to 104 years old, and close to fifty different versions of the exam paper available. The exam was based on “Buddha-Dharma – Pure and Simple.” It was conducted through an online Google form, hard copy, and dictation. It was hoped that the Buddhism examination could provide the public with a deeper understanding of Humanistic Buddhism, right understanding and right views, as well as to actualize what they learn in daily life.

The “2022 BLIA Global Buddhism Exam” was launched on August 28 both online and in person. The exam questions were based on “Humanistic Buddhism: Holding True to the Original Intents of Buddha” and “The Three Acts of Goodness is Very Simple.” The exam for this year have added Sri Lanka language and Hindi, comprising a total of ten languages and more than 200 versions of the examination paper. In order to allow the whole family to learn the Dharma together, a group category was available this year, so that everyone could learn with ease and happy to take the tests. More than 50,000 students, as well as community and BLIA members used the internet or paper version to answer the open-book test. BLIA World Headquarters Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei said that she hoped everyone would “penetrate deeply into the Sutra Pitaka, gaining an ocean of wisdom” just as Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun has wished.

September

held the

Buddhism

for all

on the

of

gaining joy and wisdom in taking the

Preparatory Lay Dharma Lecturer Seminar

BLIA Chunghua organized the online “2022 Preparatory Dharma Lecturer Seminar” on June 11-12 for nurturing Lay Dharma Lecturers. More than ten well-qualified lecturers were invited to teach: “The Prerequisites of Lay Dharma Lecturer,” “Self-learning for Lay Dharma Teachers/Lecturers,” “Concepts of a Humanistic Buddhism Propagator,” and “Perspectives of Dharma Propagation,” all of which were taught through livestreaming. More than 1,000 BLIA members who take spreading Humanistic Buddhism as their mission came together for the two-day online program.

World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau indicated that in order to help more people to come into contact with the Dharma to settle their body and mind, and to develop right view, right mindfulness, and right faith, BLIA members with resolve in joining Dharma propagation should read broadly, practice, and elevate their skills in spreading the Dharma. Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung encouraged that lay people speaking the Dharma should set an example for others by being poised in their etiquette, be compassionate, make affinities with others, emphasize both understanding and practice, and be self-awakened etc.

“Practical Exercises” were scheduled in ten countries in America, Asia, Europe, and Oceania on July 9-10, including written and oral tests at fourteen test sites in branch temples with a total of 107 participants; the tests included contents based on “Humanistic Buddhism Holding True to the Original Intents of Buddha,” “Fo Guang Essential Guides to Buddhism, Vol. 1-3,” and “Buddhism Pure and Simple.”

位學員報名。

The first stage of Preparatory Lay Dharma Lecturer Seminar on June 11, 2022 had close to 150 members registering.

Training Humanistic Buddhism Speakers

In actualizing Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s direction for BLIA: “from disciple to lecturer,” the World Headquarter held the first “Humanistic Buddhism Speakers Online Training” on May 24, 2020. Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei instructed on the “three-part speaking method” and arranged for speaking demonstrators to present articles in “The Many Matters of Life” and “Between Ignorance and Enlightenment.” Together with unique real life stories, the presentations served to spread the truth, kindness, and beauty of Humanistic Buddhism. Over 1,200 members from 51 chapters in Oceana, Europe, Africa, and Asia participated in this two-phase, foursessions online training.

Since 2014, when BLIA Chunghua started to train Humanistic Buddhism Speakers, there are now close to 600 trained speakers who would speak at subchapter monthly meetings, sharing the principles of Humanistic Buddhism by integrating their personal practice and experience. The Oceana held the “Humanistic Buddhism Speakers Online Training Program Opening Ceremony” in the years 2020 and 2021, encouraging more people with the resolve to spread the right Dharma of Humanistic Buddhism to participate in the program, close to 100 Chinese and English speaking members registered for the program. BLIA Philippines conducted the “Humanistic Buddhism Speakers Sharing Session” for six preparatory Speakers to share their presentations online with close to 100 BLIA members listening.

On June 11, 2022, BLIA Philippines responded to the World Headquarters in training Humanistic Buddhism Speakers by conducting the “Humanistic Buddhism Preparatory Speakers Sharing Session” twice a month with almost 100 people participated in six sessions.

Propagate the Dharma Through Technology

Cloud-based Membership and Financial Systems

In response to the General Conference theme, “Wisdom and Innovation,” BLIA's membership and financial systems have been cloud-based, allowing chapters worldwide to process their membership and financial work in real time, regardless of time zones and space. The systems have achieved zero time difference, zero distance, and real time integration to enhance organizational effectiveness.

On January 24 and 31, February 7 and 27, 2021, four “Online Financial System Workshops” were held for over 1,000 participants from 85 chapters in 39 countries on the five continents. World Headquarters Treasurer C. Jim Chen, with his expertise and rich experience, provided guidance and answers to the questions raised by the chapters, and director of the Secretarial Office America, Venerable Chueh Chung provided explanation and demonstration of the system operation.

June 12, 2021, BLIA New Zealand North Island Lay Dharma Lecturer Lin

gave a presentation on the membership system operation.

On June 12, 2021, two sessions of “Global Membership System Online Explanation” were hosted by Secretary General Venerable Chueh Pei. The system explanation was commissioned by BLIA New Zealand North Island Lay Dharma Lecturer Lin Tao Yu, the system developer, who explained the system interface and related operation notes.

With the platform of the online systems and the cooperation of the chapters, the six significant accomplishments of the systems, “global claudication, internationalization of language, institutionalization of management, efficiency of the process, integration of organization, and expansion of the organization,” can be achieved to further promote the development of local chapter affairs.

On February 3, 2021, the award ceremony of the “2nd Three Acts of Goodness International Microfilm Contest” was held during BLIA Chunghua 30th anniversary celebration. BLIA World Headquarters Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung presented the “BLIA Collaboration Award" to Saito Chong, director of “Blowing the Wind” from Hong Kong.

Three Acts of Goodness International Microfilm Contest

The “Three Acts of Goodness International Microfilm Contest,” known as the Oscar of microfilm in the world is conducted by BLIA in response to the Three Acts of Goodness Campaign advocated by BLIA Founder President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun to spread the truth, kindness, and beauty of Humanistic Buddhism. A total of 88 films participated in the first contest starting in 2019, the awards for which were presented at the UNESCO in France in October, creating an overwhelming response. 155 entries were submitted for the 2020 theme “My Beautiful Time” and 163 entries for the 2021 theme “Yes or No.”

This year (2022) is the fourth contest with the theme “Half - Half.” The influence of word-of-mouth and the power of the community has been very enthusiastic in entry submission, demonstrating how lives are turned around and promoting love and peace in the world with video-audio. A total of 2,703 entries were submitted from 103 countries and regions, including Ukraine, Russia, China, the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Iran, Turkey, Brazil, Italy, Korea, Malaysia, and Japan.

BLIA World Headquarters also organizes “Film Master Workshop” and “Film Festival Sharing Session” to introduce the directors of the microfilm to Fo Guang Shan and the BLIA, by understanding the concept of Humanistic Buddhism, they will be willing to give back to society and create a pure land on earth.

On March 28, 2021, the “Three Acts of Goodness Film Festival” was held at the Eslite Cinema in Taipei, and veteran film critic Joey Lan was invited to give a critique. Director Rafen Hsu of the film “Let Go,” director Nai-Yung Chang of the film “Happiness is a Butterfly,” and director Jian-Hui Lian of the film “Goodbye Son” participated in the session.

September 26, 2021, the “Film Master Workshop” was held simultaneously on the 6th floor of Fo Guang Shan Taipei Vihara and in ZOOM Conference.

Sao Paulo Governor Rodrigo Garcia, Cotia Deputy Mayor Angela Maluf, and Safety Bureau of Cotia Director Amir were led by Brazil Zu Lai Temple Abbess Venerable Miao You to appreciate the dynamic exhibition of photos from “Beauty of Buddha’s Light – Faith and Legacy.”

of “Beauty

Light

Temple

Contest”

October

Winner

of Buddha’s Light Photo Contest & AR Dynamic Exhibition

In response to BLIA General Conference theme, “Faith and Legacy,” BLIA World Headquarters organized the “Beauty of Buddha’s Light Photo Contest” to uphold the concept of purifying people’s mind through the beauty of photos, speaking the Dharma without words, and demonstrating the invaluable faith and legacy as well as the truth, kindness, and beauty in the world through the camera lens. The contest received 800 camera and cellphone entries from November 1, 2019 to May 30, 2021. A total of 99 entries, including 56 camera and 43 cellphone entries, were selected through first, second, and final assessments. The finalists were recognized at the General Conference held on October 2, 2021.

The “Faith and Legacy - Beauty of Buddha’s Light Photo Contest” reproduced 70 winning entries with dynamic images through the Artivive software APP led by the IT team at Fo Guang Shan Dharma Hall. Through wisdom and innovation, the still photography images were reproduced to reflect the original phenomenon. The “Beauty of Buddha's Light AR photography Dynamic Exhibition” was exhibited at FGS Dharma Hall in February and then moved in May to thirty branch temples such as Nan Tian Temple, Bukkōsan Housui-ji Temple, Chung Mei Temple, and

Temple Zu Lai etc. By August 31, more than 35,000 people had visited the exhibitions, they were much appreciated by devotees, teachers, and students. In particular, the winning entries were brought by BLIA Dallas Monastic Advisor Venerable Man Guang to Coffield Unit Men’s Prison in Dallas to the inmates, through the AR images, they could plant Bodhi seeds for taking refuge in the Triple Gem.

On May 18, 2022, BLIA Melbourne exhibited the “Beauty of Buddha’s Light” at the Buddha’s Birthday celebration. The artistic expressions through square illuminated lanterns demonstrated wisdom and innovation.

August 14, FGS Toronto Temple held the “Beauty of Buddha’s Light AR Dynamic Exhibition.” Many young people and local residents came to admire the artistic expressions and wished to learn more about Fo Guang Shan and BLIA.

On May 22, 2022, BLIA Miami selected

distinguished

for the “Beauty of Buddha’s Light” exhibition for the Buddha’s Birthday celebration with more than 300 people visiting.

The COVID-19 pandemic first impacted the world at the beginning of 2020, due to the isolation, people’s anxiety and insecurity spread to every corner of society. Hence, BLIA North America initiated the Online Sounds of the Human World Concert, with hopes of bringing harmony to society with the lyrics composed by Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun. For two consecutive years in 2020 and 2021, the “North America Sounds of the Human World Concert” was performed on YouTube with 27 BLIA North America chapters participating in the production.

BLIA World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau indicated that music is without borders, similar to sports and culture, it is a skillful means to spread the Dharma. Through songs and lyrics, more people can come into contact with the Dharma, reflect on its essence, and propagate Humanistic Buddhism.

BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General America East, Venerable Yung Ku and BLIA New York Vice President Jenny Chen provided critique for the 2020 North America Sounds of the Human World.

In 2020, BLIA Los Angeles, New York, Vancouver, and Florida were the hosting organizers of the event. From more than 300 entries submitted, the top twelve were selected and eight special awards were presented. In 2021, BLIA Los Angeles, Vancouver, Toronto, and Dallas were the hosting organizers. In the Children Category, Susanna Lee won the first prize; in the Youth Category, BLIA YAD Houston was the winner; in the Family Category, Elita Gibbons and Christina Yu from BLIA Toronto came out on top; Qiu-Ping Lee was first in Individual Category, and BLIA Irvine Subchapter in Los Angeles won first place for the Group Category.

from

2021 Sounds of the Human World Concert.” Toronto Buddha’s Light Choir conductor Yi-Tong Lee provided commentary on the unique characteristics of each piece.

September 17, 2022, BLIA World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau taught that Sounds of the Human World can make

mind more kind, beautiful,

purified, elevating the body and

On September 17, 2022, BLIA World Headquarters Acting President, Venerable Tzu Jung affirmed that Founding President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun had guided young people to learn Buddhism through music, indicating that music easily influence people’s spirituality.

Sounds of the Human World Global Songwriting Contest

BLIA World Headquarters 2022 Sounds of the Human World Global Songwriting was hosted by BLIA Malaysia, with the objective to spread the international and popular Dharma propagation music, which should be easy to learn, remember, and to sing along. The contents of the competition are lyrics based on the Dharma words and verses by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. By creating songs for the Sounds of the Human World Songwriting Contest, we convey the goodness and beauty of Buddhism through the sound of music.

A total of 197 entries from five continents were submitted to the “Sounds of the Human World Songwriting Contest,” with 21 judges selecting 63 entries from around the world for the final round. In August, 18 entries were selected as finalists, including “Triple Gem” from Oceania, “Life” from Africa, “Enlightenment” from the Americas, and “Mind” from Asia. The Grand Final was held on September 17 at Encore Melaka, Malaysia. The winner was Kristian Jason Cablao from the Philippines, winning the championship with his English Buddhist song “Namo Amitabha Buddha,” as well as the Best Performance Award and the Best Popularity Award voted by the

Geetha Kumari

Buddha

“Respecting Buddha” by S. Geetha Kumari Society, India, won the first runner-up prize.

Namo Amitabha Buddha

Jason Cablao's

Kristian Jason Cablao's “Namo Amitabha Buddha” from the Philippines won the championship.

audience. The first runner-up was “Respecting Buddha” by S. Geetha Kumari, BLIA Chennai President in India, and in third place was “Toward Success” by Hong Siang Chet from Malaysia. In addition, in encouraging monastics to devote themselves to music creation, the Bodhi Award was presented to Venerable Zhi Zhong of Fo Guang Shan Paris for her, “Humanistic Buddhist Practitioner.”

Malaysia's “Toward Success” by Hong Siang Chet won the third prize.

April 22, 2021, BLIA joined forces with Fo Guang Shan and Pure Green Foundation for the “BLIA T-Earth Treeplanting Project.” World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau led a hundred monastics to plant trees at Fo Guang Shan Forest Restoration Zone.

T-Earth 4/22 Tree-planting for Environmental Preservation and Love for the Earth

On Earth Day, April 22, 2022, BLIA, Fo Guang Shan, and the Pure Green Foundation joined forces in sustaining the BLIA T-Earth Tree-planting Project with a tree-planting event at Fo Guang Shan Forest Restoration Zone. By initiating the “T-Earth Tree-planting Project – Grow the Trees Back” is to remind people that: “we only have one Earth,” and to add a new green power to protect the Earth by “green life,” planting trees as an investment in the Earth.

World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau led over a hundred monastics to plant a total of 500 trees of twelve species, including Taiwan native camellia, jacaranda, and cinnamon etc. The gathering of people then lined to form the word ZERO, symbolic of zero carbon in the hope of attracting more people to get involved with the T-Earth project.

Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun advocated “Environmental and Spiritual Preservation” at the 2010 General Conference, calling on all BLIA members to pay serious attention to environmental preservation. According to the United Nations statistics, from 2009 to 2019, climate change has seriously aggravated natural disasters. Therefore, it is of great urgency to mitigate the climate crisis with forest rehabilitation. In support of the United Nations 11 SDGs, BLIA is leading in the advocacy of Zero Carbon 2030 with the T-Earth Forest Program for reforestation. So the Earth and humanity can coexist in harmony for generations to be sustained, creating a prosperous economy appropriate for humanity and the environment.

World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau indicated that the tree-planting project initiated by BLIA and Fo Guang Shan not only preserve the environment but also improve air quality, motivating the whole world to take environmental preservation with seriousness. BLIA members responding to the concept, “plant a tree, save the Earth” connects with “Environmental and Spiritual Preservation” as advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the influence of which is profound. BLIA members worldwide have responded enthusiastically to T-Earth tree-planting project globally, also holding climate change forum, beach cleaning, and other activities, it is hoped that by joining forces to preserve the environment we can save the Earth!

植樹 Tree-Planting

Preservation ~ Beach Cleaning

蔬食

February 20, 2022, BLIA Berlin in Germany organized a “Vegetarian Dish of the Month” cooking event to attract more people to join “Vege Plan A” and promote vegetarian food.

to promote “Veggie Plan A” with BLIA members presenting delicious vegetarian dishes.

October 18 to 25, 2020, BLIA Thailand launched ten "Vege Plan A" events, distributing 1,500 vegetarian lunch boxes to disadvantaged groups to encourage eating vegetarian food and loving the earth.

Vege Plan A

Under the leadership of BLIA Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Fo Guang members worldwide have been practicing the concept of “Environmental and Spiritual Preservation” to love the Earth. In addition to promoting vegetarianism for carbon reduction, planting trees, and saving energy, we also hold seminars and forums on environmental protection. The “Vege Plan A,” in particular, promotes vegetarianism to reduce carbon emissions. According to statistics, one person can save 1,100 gallons of water and forty-five pounds of food in one day by going vegetarian, saving thirty square feet of forest from deforestation, reducing carbon dioxide emissions by ten pounds, and saving the life of at least one animal.

The “Vege Plan A” project is a far-reaching initiative, the “A" stands for “Ace,” meaning it is the best strategy to slow down global warming and solve the food crisis. Second, it is “Action,” which includes five specific environmental steps: zero hunger, combat climate change, halt & reverse land degradation & biodiversity loss, zustainable consumption and production, and ethical treatment of animals to achieve the specific actions of saving hunger, saving a life, saving the environment, saving ecology, and saving the earth. Fo Guang members worldwide are actively promoting “Vege Plan A” on the five continents, hoping to save the Earth through the response a million people to the “Vege Plan A” project in creating a better world. As of August 31, 2022, a total of 339,629 people in 142 countries and regions have responded to the “Vege Plan A” campaign.

On April 15 2021, BLIA Sydney, Australia promoted "Vege Plan A" and the UN’s SDGs 17 on the Buddha's Birthday. Mini veggie burgers were given as rewards through the “SDGs Carousel” game to attract response from the locals.

response to Earth Day on April 16, 2022, FGS Hsing Ma Temple and BLIA Southern Malaysia organized the first “Meatless Night Market” to promote vegetarianism and environmental protection.

March 13, 2022, BLIA Oslo in Norway held a “Vegetarian Cooking Contest” to raise awareness for vegetarian food.

eVege Revival ~ All Come Support

Since the pandemic outbreak, all sectors in Taiwan have been severely impacted and the restaurant industry was the first to bear the brunt; many vegetarian operators were plunged into operational difficulties. At the end of July 2021, BLIA Chunghua launched the “eVege Revival ~ All Come Support” charity project, helping vegetarian businesses to fully “e-upgrade” and enhance their visibility on the internet. Subchapters across Taiwan were mobilized to actively respond and support vegetarian restaurants so they can tide over the difficult times through actual consumption.

The “eVege Revival ~ All Come Support” project is based on the Vegetarian Map constructed by the Merit Times of Fo Guang Shan. Over the years, the Merit Times has been compiling and building the Vegetarian Map through door-to-door contact, photo-taking, article writing, and menu collection to become the base for the “eVege Revival ~ All Come Support” charity project. More than 4,800 businesses have been included on the map, and nearly 2,000 of them have seen their orders increased through the internet platform.

Through the Vegetarian Map website, the project uses three major functions: Support the Restaurant, Donate a Meal, and Reserve a Loving Meal to help the vegetarian industry to recover and provide the public the opportunity to enjoy healthy and delicious vegetarian meals. BLIA Chunghua has gathered the efforts of more than 500 subchapters in Taiwan to implement the “eVege Revival ~ All Come Support” project and also invite the public to make reservations. As of August 31, 2022, there have been 334,183 vegetarian meals donated to help the vegetarian industry recover and also provide vegetarian food to those in need.

VegRun ~ Global Veg-Revival Virtual Community Run

In response to the “eVege Revival ~ All Come Support” campaign, BLIA and Pure Green Foundation organized the “VegRun Online Charity Run.” Based on the principle, “You Run, I Donate,” for every kilometer run, BLIA will donate NT$10 on behalf of the participant for a “Veg-Revival Meal” for those in need and love to flow. “VegRun” not only allows participants to donate vegetarian meals through running, also slows global warming for environmental preservation.

The “VegRun ~ Global Veg-Revival Virtual Community Run” was launched on November 25, 2021 by BLIA Chunghua on International Vegetarian Day to promote the “eVege Revival ~ All Come Support” to raise awareness of climate change and environmental preservation among BLIA members.

The “2022 VegRun ~ Global Veg-Revival Virtual Community Run” started on April 22, 2022 in South America, followed by North America, Europe, Oceana, and Africa, finishing in Asia and Chunghua region on May 16, 2023. As of August 31, 2022, thirty countries in South America, North America, and Europe have responded to the community run, with a total of 12,688 runners and 112,806.5 kilometers completed in 44 events.

The “VegRun ~ Global Veg-Revival Virtual Community Run” received support and recognition from all walks of life, in particular from Prime Minister of Canada, Justin Trudeau who sent a letter of recognition for the event; Canadian MP Paul Chiang, Markham City Mayor Frank Scarpitti and Councilor Lee Si-Wun, as well as New York City Mayor Eric Adams presented congratulatory messages and declared the day as VegRun Day to recognize the event’s contributions to the local community. Funds raised from the events were donated to the Mayor's Community Chest, food banks, tree-planting organizations, city government seeds of hope, children’s hospitals, and food donations to charitable organizations, etc. Through the “VegRun ~ Global Veg-Revival Virtual Community Run,” love have flowed.

Assistant

Mayor

On May 1,

~ Global Veg-Revival

On May

Community

in South America by BLIA Brazil with Cotia Deputy Mayor Angela was happily participating.

to demonstrate

the theme of

June 20, 2022, BLIA New

with

Ambassador, New

State Senator John Liu, Mayor's Assistant Winnie Zheng, and

Deputy Borough President,

drop of the Bodhisattva’s sweet dew, spreading over the ten directions; may all defilements and misconducts be eradicated, may the shrine be completely purified.” Most Venerable Hsin Bau led the purification ceremony for the shrine to be pure and auspicious.

Chan and Pure Land Virtual Light-offering

On March 5-6, the “2022 Fo Guang Shan Chan and Pure Land Virtual Light-offering Dharma Service,” hosted by Fo Guang Shan Monastery and organized by Buddha's Light International Association, was held at the Path to Buddhahood of Fo Guang Shan Main Shrine. BLIA World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau was invited to preside over the Dharma service. Twelve presiding monks and 200 monastics led 20,000 BLIA members from close to 100 chapters in forty countries and regions on the five continents joining in the practice. A record of fourteen languages was used in the Dharma service proclamation, and more than 100,000 people participated online, setting the highest record. The Most Venerable Hsin Bau used the gong’an, “The Buddha Picked up a Flower and Kasyapa Smiled,” to illustrate the practice of Chan Buddhism. By not thinking about the wholesome, not thinking about the unwholesome in eradicating the defilements of duality, understanding the Dharma of arising and ceasing, impermanence and illusion, so the mind will not be tainted by external dust, no longer give rise to delusive thoughts, realize that there is neither gain nor loss in the world, and return to the pure and untainted Buddha nature with the original face of the wondrous mind of nirvana. “Bodhi is our intrinsic nature, and is inherently pure; one needs only use this mind to attain Buddhahood.” Amitabha Buddha gave rise to Forty-eight Great Vow to liberate sentient beings, if we give rise to the Bodhi mind and practice the bodhisattva path, by responding with a mind of joy, then we can be reborn into the Pure Land.

the Chan and Pure Land Virtual Light-offering Dharma Service, BLIA executives joined their palms and chanted with devotion, praying for prosperity of the nation, goodwill of its citizens, and world peace.

2022 Fo Guang Shan Chan and Pure Land Virtual Light-offering Dharma Service was held at the Path to Buddhahood of Fo Guang Shan Main Shrine, with BLIA World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau presiding over the Dharma service.

Buddha’s Birthday Celebration – Purify People’s Mind

The Buddha's Birthday is also known as the Buddha Bathing Festival. According to sutras, more than 2,600 years ago, Queen Maya of Kapilavastu, India gave birth to Prince Siddhartha on the 8th day of the fourth month. At that time, the Four Heavenly Kings and nine nagas bathed the prince with fragrant spring, and later, Buddhists celebrated the birth of the great teacher Buddha by conducting a bathing ceremony on the eighth day of the fourth lunar month. The purpose of bathing Buddha is to cleanse our body and mind, purifying the inner mind through external bathing to elevate each person’s spirituality. Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun teaches, “The Buddha is the compassionate and wise Enlightened One, like the loving mother of sentient beings, serving all unselfishly with no-self, and blessing all beings with good fortune and happiness. Therefore, the true ‘bathing the Buddha’ is to purify our body and mind through the sacred virtues of the Buddha so that we can bathe in the light of the Buddha’s compassion for our life to be constantly renewed.”

The Buddha's Birthday is an important festival for Buddhists, to celebrate this special day, BLIA members held various events to commemorate the Buddha’s Birthday. The actual meaning of Buddha's birthday is conveyed through Buddha bathing mobiles, float parades, blessing ceremonies, Buddha's Birthday cultural exhibitions, vegetarian fairs, etc. With the concerted efforts of BLIA members worldwide, the Buddha's Birthday Festival has gradually gained the recognition of local people and governments. With the government’s support and the public’s enthusiastic response, the Buddha's Birthday Festival has become one of the important local celebrations and a positive force in the community, bringing harmony and goodness to society.

On April 17, 2021, BLIA Western Australia held a Buddha's Birthday Celebration on the banks of Supreme Court Gardens in Perth. Many distinguished guests gathered to celebrate the Buddha's Birthday as members of the public participated in various activities.

May 8, 2022, Hsi Lai Temple and BLIA Los Angeles celebrated the Buddha's birthday, young people gathered to learn about life of the Buddha in front of the “Eight stages of Buddha's Enlightenment.”

the “2022

Tien Temple

Birthday Multicultural Celebration” at Nan Tien Temple, attracting locals coming with their

to participate in

On May 2, 2022, BLIA South Malaysia went to Pekan Nanas nursing home to conduct “Mobile Buddha Bathing,” with the youth holding the young Prince

residents bathing accordingly.

On May 14, 2022, the “Selangor Wesak Festival Celebration” in Malaysia was launched at the Dong Zen Temple with BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General Southeast Asia Venerable Chueh Cheng and Chief Minister of Selangor YAB Dato Seri Amirudin Bin Shari officiating the opening ceremony.

April 8, 2022, FGS Bukkōsan Housui-Ji Temple and BLIA Yamato conducted the Buddha's Birthday Festival, and Deputy Representative Li Shih-Bing of Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in Japan came to bathe the Buddha.

May

give

through the bathing of

the opportunity

Buddha Bathing

about

Winter Relief

School

On May 8, 2022, BLIA Toronto held a Buddha's Birthday Celebration with the Buddha’s Light Children performing a dance to “Buddha’s Light Children Love the Ten Practices."

May 15, 2022, BLIA Singapore held a “Vesak Festival Offering and Blessing Service,” and Liang Eng Hwa, MP for Bukit Panjang, attended the ceremony in celebration.

May 15, 2022, BLIA Oslo Chapter, Norway held a Buddha bathing event at the Dharma Center where children happily bathed the Buddha.

FGS 2022 Triple Gem Refuge and Five Precepts Ceremony was held at the FGS Monastery Main Shrine on May 8, 2022. The ceremony was held simultaneously online with overseas branch temples in North America, South America, Oceania, and Asia. Over 3,000 people took refuge and received precepts to become Buddhist disciples.

Triple Gem Refuge and Five Precepts –Planting Roots for Faith

FGS 2022 Triple Gem Refuge and Five Precepts Ceremony

Taking refuge in the Triple Gem is the start for learning Buddhism and taking the five precepts is the actualization of faith. The essence of precepts is non-violation, and from the practice of non-violation, we accomplish the purification of the three karmas of action, speech, and thoughts. Hence, precepts are the root of all wholesome teachings, taking the five precepts is to cultivate confidence, wisdom, and merits. The Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun has taught us that the five precepts are: first, no killing, respecting others’ freedom for life; second, no stealing, respecting others’ freedom of property; third, no sexual misconduct, respecting others’ freedom of their bodies and integrity; fourth, no lying, respect others’ freedom of reputation; and fifth, no intoxicants, respecting self and others’ freedom of good health. Conclusively, the five precepts are essentially just one precept, “non-violation.” By not violating and respecting others instead, one experiences freedom. In prisons are people who have violated the five precepts and lost their freedom, so in receiving precepts is being law-abiding. Those who have taken the five precepts can rid their body and mind of fear and afflictions to enjoy true freedom, security, and happiness.

On October 19, 2021, World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau, accompanied by World Headquarters Vice Secretary General Southeast Asia, Venerable Chueh Cheng embarked on the 14-day “Refuge, Purification, and Blessing” journey to India, as well as Dharma propagation and exchanges. Five Refuge Taking ceremonies were held at Nalanda Sakya Village, Kolkata, Darjeeling, Gujarat, and Ladakh for 2,400 people to become Buddhist followers of the right faith, writing a new page in the history of spreading Humanistic Buddhism in India. Due to the COVD-19 pandemic, the 2022 Fo Guang Shan Triple Gem Refuge and Five Precepts Ceremony was held at the FGS Monastery Main Shrine on May 8, 2022. The ceremony was held simultaneously online with overseas branch temples in North America, South America, Oceania, and Asia. BLIA World Headquarters President Most Venerable Hsin Bau was invited to preside over the ceremony for more than 3,000 people in Taiwan and overseas to become Buddhist followers; through the power of technology, the seeds of Humanistic Buddhism are spread across the five continents.

Headquarters

Most Venerable Hsin

witnessed and offer blessings to the couples at the Buddhist Wedding and Bodhi Couples Blessing Ceremony.

Buddhist Wedding and Bodhi Couples

Buddhism values the family’s joyous harmony. Hence, the Buddhist perspective of family not only considers it as necessary to sustain life but more so for the legacy of compassion, morals, and faith. Right views and right thoughts are the foundation for a Bodhi couple to establish a blessed and happy family. As the saying goes, “It takes ten years of cultivation to merit sharing a boat; it takes a hundred years to merit sharing a bed.” The relationship between husband and wife is the result of a hundred years of cultivation, a truly rare occurrence. BLIA World Headquarters

Humanistic

Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun often encourages newlyweds and Bodhi couples to learn the way of marriage, which must be nurtured through mutual respect. A happy family can only be built with mutual respect and love. While young and dating, one should look closely at the other with both eyes wide open. When the couple is about to marry, it is time to use just one eye, similar to carpenters using one eye to make precise measurements. However, after getting married, couples should no longer use their eyes to see but their hearts and their love to view their relationship.

At the “2022 One Hundred Years of Harmony Buddhist Wedding and Bodhi Couples Blessing Ceremony,” close to 40 newlywed couple chanted sincerely.

Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun encourages the building of a Buddhist family with the hope that the Dharma can be integrated into family life and elevate the quality of a marriage. He ranked married couples in three tiers and hoped that Bodhi couples can become the highest quality husband and wife. The top rank husband will be able to take up household responsibilities and care for his other half, so that his wife will not feel neglected but honored. The finest wife will be gentle, thoughtful, trustworthy, staunchly loyal, often complimenting and wholeheartedly assisting in her husband’s career. A love like this will only win more love. BLIA members around the world, including the Americas, Europe, Australia, Asia, and Africa hold Buddhist Wedding Ceremonies or a Bodhi Couple Blessing Ceremony, so that their families will be blessed with happiness.

On January 1, 2022, Bodhi couples recited their vows in front of the Buddha at “2022 One Hundred Years of Harmony Buddhist Wedding and Bodhi Couples Blessing Ceremony”

On July 24, 2022, BLIA YAD Paris Vice President and White Elephant Executive Alexandre Zheng and his French bride Yeibilys Rivier Despaigne tied the knot at a Buddhist wedding held at FGS Fa Hua Temple, France with 150 BLIA members joyfully offering their blessings.

On January 8, 2022, BLIA Fontainebleau Vice President Huang Ding-chen and Taiwanese Hsu Chen-ling tied the knot at FGS Nan Hua Temple with BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General Africa, Venerable Hui Fang presiding over the ceremony.

On February 22, 2020, FGS Chung Mei Temple, U.S.A. conducted its first “Bodhi Couples Blessing Ceremony” with thirty-one Bodhi couples of different ethnicities from Houston, Austin, and Dallas joyfully participating in the ceremony.

Hua Temple Abbott Most Venerable Hsin Ting presided over the ceremony.

April 17, 2021, FGS South Island New Zealand held the “Buddha's Light Baby Blessing Ceremony" at the Buddha's Birthday Bathing Celebration, where more than 70 children were blessed by Abbess Venerable Man Hsin.

April 18, 2021, Western Australia's Buddha's Birthday and multicultural celebration held the “Buddha's Light Baby and Mothers-to-be Blessing Ceremony” at the Supreme Court Gardens in Perth. Nearly 120 babies and mothers-to-be

Buddha’s Light Baby Blessing Ceremony

The Chinese character, “yu,” means to nurture and educate; and “ lin” is the abbreviation for “qilin,” a Chinese mythical creature that symbolizes a baby. Since ancient times, all parents hope that their children will grow up healthily, and through the blessings of buddhas and bodhisattvas, their children will grow up safely. Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun once said that a new life is the heart’s desire of parents. Once the baby is born, nurturing and educating the young ones is a new experience and lesson for the parents. There are many ways to help parents nurture their bodhi saplings to maturity. Within Buddhist rituals, there is a “Yulin Ceremony” or “Baby Blessing Ceremony” which provides advice on parenting as well as prenatal care. In allowing faith to take root at a young age, FGS branch temples and BLIA members worldwide host “Buddha’s Light Baby Blessing Ceremonies.” The blessings of buddhas and bodhisattvas help Buddha’s Light babies to learn from a young age to be compassionate and loving.

Temple, Philippines held

online

Light Baby Blessing Ceremony” for

old during the Medicine Buddha Dharma Service.

Buddha's Light Scouts International Exchange

Global Culture Jamboree in Sri Lanka

In 2021, COVID-19 ravaged the world, resulting in many activities being interrupted or cancelled. In order to keep the pulse of scouting alive, the Sri Lanka Scout Association held a virtual “Global Cultural Jamboree” on July 16-18 with the Buddha's Light Scouts participating. During the three-day camping, more than 20,000 Rover Scouts and Scout Leaders conducted exchanges, sharing the culture of their countries and new concepts, opening up new horizons for scouts and setting a new milestone.

Sri Lankan President Gotabhaya Rajapaksa welcomed scouts from all over the world coming together online for the event. Participants then joined various activities through Zoom meetings, YouTube channels, Kahoot fun contests, and videos. Daily activities included a campfire, forums, and online seminars to learn about traditional cultures, food, costumes, and music, as well as historical buildings, religious activities, history, and more, building up friendships of scouts with synchronizing messages online and experiencing multiculturalism.

Buddha’s Light Scouts shared Taiwanese delicacies through a pre-recorded video.

Chunghua Buddha's Light Scouts shared Taiwanese delicacies through a pre-recorded video and scout member Ding De Huang played “She is Our Treasure” on violin, which was well received by scouts in many countries, letting the world to see Taiwan. Buddha's Light Scouts Executive Director, Lee Yao-chun was delighted to see that Buddha's Light Scouts were once again connected to the world online. He also praised Sri Lanka for connecting with 20,000 people online simultaneously to participate in the wonderful and rich scout camp for two consecutive years, hoping that through learning, Buddha’s Light Scouts will develop their vision of the internet without borders.

Buddha’s Light Scout International Troop Affairs Exchange

On March 13, 2022, Australia Buddha’s Light Scouts held the “Chunghua and Australia Buddha’s Light Scout Online Troop Affairs Exchange,” sharing wisdom and passing on experience. BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General Oceania, Venerable Man Ko; Buddha’s Light Scouts Headquarters Monastic Advisor, Venerable Jue Duo; Buddha's Light Scouts Executive Director, Lee Yao-chun; and Buddha’s Light Scout Australia Monastic Advisor, Venerable Ru Yi participated in the event together with 60 people, including Buddha’s Light Scout Leaders in various regions of Australia for exchanges and mutual learning.

Executive Director Lee Yao-chun was pleased to see that the online troop affairs exchange has opened up cross-border wisdom sharing and interaction to share the experience of Buddha’s Light Scouts, actualizing the concepts of Humanistic Buddhism advocated by Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Vice Secretary General, Venerable Man Ko provided encouragements that Buddhism relies on Fo Guang Youth and Buddha’s Light Scouts to carry on the work of Dharma propagation. She hoped that through the interaction online, everyone can share their experience and wisdom to attain consensus for sustainable development. Venerable Jue Duo thanked Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun for establishing the Buddha’s Light Scout, helping children grow up well and hoping for everyone to have no fear for difficulties and collaborate with each other.

Chunghua Buddha’s Light Scout shared their ideas, courses, strategies, games, etc., including “How to Integrate Concepts of Humanistic Buddhism into Scouting,” “Application of Humanistic Buddhism 345,” “Cultivation and Scouting Activities,” “Scouting Chan Games,” “Humanistic Buddhism and Scouting,” etc., enthusiastically asking questions during troop affairs exchanges. Executive Director Lee Yao-chun replied the questions in detail and hoped to further interaction between Buddha’s Light Scouts in Australia and Taiwan, and expanding to connect with Buddha’s Light Scouts worldwide. So that Humanistic Buddhism flows on the five continents and benefit children around the world.

Buddha’s Light Scout Yonghe Leader Lu Hsiang-yang presented “How to integrate the concept of Humanistic Buddhism into Scouting.”

BLIA Young Adults Looking to the Future

BLIA Young Adult International Exchange

The BLIA Young Adult 25th Anniversary “2022 International Buddha's Light Young Adult Conference.” was held online and inperson on July 16, with simultaneous opening on all five continents. Nearly 1,000 BLIA YAD members from 28 countries and regions met on the cloud to discuss the theme, “Wisdom and Innovation” in conjunction with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), conducting workshops on technology, life and death, and the legacy of faith. During the opening ceremony, newly established Subdivisions, different levels of White Elephant Executives, and Lecturers were certified. A total of 69 YAD members and nine new Subdivisions worldwide were given certifications, Chennai YAD Subdivision in India is the first YAD Subdivision in South Asia, setting a new milestone for propagating Buddhism in India.

World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau gave a speech on the theme, “Wisdom and Innovation.”

BLIA World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau spoke on the theme, “Wisdom and Innovation.” He encouraged YAD members that in seeking for an ocean of wisdom, you must be willing to accept the test of worries, learn to observe and practice Buddhism in daily life before defilement arise. “Wisdom and Innovation” does not lose the concept of wisdom through innovation but creates causes and conditions for actualization in our daily life. Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung provided encouragements, “Buddhism needs youth, and youth needs Buddhism!” She also described how Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun had transformed Buddhism through wisdom and innovation. BLIA YAD Executive Director Venerable Hui Chuan shared that from the original 23 YAD Subdivisions, there are now 236 YAD Subdivisions, emphasizing the importance of executives to YAD.

In addition to the keynote speech, the conference also featured five workshops: “Touring Fo Guang Shan in the Cloud,” "Learning the Wisdom of Facing Life and Death,” “Technology to Promote the Dharma,” "The 53 Lessons of Sudhana,” and “Senior YAD Seminar,” as well as reports from the various continents, Night of Buddha’s Light, group discussions, workshops, and comprehensive reports. At the closing ceremony, a physical conference was scheduled to be held in 2023 at Fo Guang Shan.

“2022 International Buddha's Light Young Adult Conference” led the young members in exploring the way of “Wisdom and Innovation.”

Fo Guang Shan Youth Summit

The first “Fo Guang Shan Youth Summit” was co-hosted by Fo Guang Shan Tsung Lin University, BLIA YAD, and BLIA Scouts. June 26-27, 2021, nearly 1,000 young members from twenty-four countries and regions on five continents gathered online to discuss the theme, “Faith and Legacy” in four languages with twenty-three White Elephant Executives certified in the cloud for the first time.

BLIA World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau encouraged the young members to cherish the Dharma treasure and to spread the teachings through digital technology. Acting President Venerable Tzu Jung said that during the pandemic, young people should develop their lives and enhance their energy, serving more and make connections to enrich their lives. BLIA YAD Headquarters Executive Director Venerable Hui Chuan said, “The further the distance, the closer our hearts, hand-in-hand in collaboration, Buddhism depends on me to participate, and the legacy of faith depends on you and me.” He encouraged the young members with the importance of "Faith and Legacy."

The courses focused on the relationship between digitalization and youth, “Inheritance and Development – A New Century of Digital Dharma Propagation at Fo Guang Shan,” to let youth understand the prospective technological propagation of Dharma at Fo Guang Shan. "How Youth Can Settle Their Mind and Body in the Digital Age" encourage youth to make good use of technology to grow in wisdom, and ultimately it is the Dharma, not technology, that can lead to Buddhahood. The course "Relationship between Global Issues and Youth" explored the global crisis and the changing nature of new media and climate change, and "Digital Marketing - Buddhist Culture and Organizational Activities" explored the growing importance of the human press in spreading truth and beauty. The course is a profoundly enriching experience, inspiring young people to reflect between technology and Buddhism.

June 26, 2021, 23 White Elephant executives were certified at "Fo Guang Shan Youth Summit. "

July 2, 2022, at the “Australia and New Zealand Buddhist Youth Conference” opening ceremony, BLIA World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau provided encouragements to the young members to base all their activities and innovations on the Dharma.

BLIA World Headquarters Vice President, Chao-Ming Liu attended the conference, praising the Queensland YAD Subdivision for their innovation and perseverance.

2022 Australia & New Zealand Buddhist Youth Conference

The 24th “2022 Australia New Zealand Buddhist Youth Conference” with the theme, “Wisdom and Innovation” was held online July 3-4, hosted by the Queensland YAD Subdivision in Australia with nearly 130 participants from six YAD Subdivisions in Oceania. At the opening ceremony, BLIA World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau advised the young members that the foundation of innovation is wisdom; any activity and innovation should be based on the Dharma, offering causes and conditions for different sentient beings to enter the gates of Buddhism. BLIA YAD Headquarters Executive Director, Venerable Hui Chuan encouraged the young participants to continue to be “an uninvited helper,” actively adjusting ourselves in practicing the six perfections and actualizing the wisdom of Humanistic Buddhism in life.

The conference was conducted for the first time on Kumospace online virtual platform in four functional flat conference rooms. The program included “Buddhism and Wisdom,” “How to Develop Wisdom,” “How to Face Challenges of YAD Affairs and Activities with Wisdom Forum,” and “How to Use Wisdom to Overcome Challenges in Life Forum,” guiding the young adults to use the Dharma to inspire wisdom and face challenges in creating a joyful and carefree life. The “Key Principles of Innovation Forum” and the “Actualization of Innovation Forum” encouraged the young members to make their lives more meaningful and powerful through innovation.

At the closing ceremony, the ANZBYC flag was handed over by 2022 ANZBYC Executive Director Winston Boon to Sydney YAD Subdivision Daimi Zhang and William Wang for the “2023 ANZBYC Youth Conference” to be hosted by Sydney YAD Subdivision. The conference was successfully concluded with a group photo.

The Pandemic is Devastating ~ Buddha’s Light has Love

In 2019, the Covid-19 pandemic ravaged the world, on January 20, 2020, the National Health Commission of China officially announced the launch of “Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases” on January 23. On January 25, 1.64 million masks were collected from Malaysia, Hong Kong, the United States, Brazil, Japan, and Taiwan, donating to Hubei Provincial Charity Federation, Fo Guang Ancestral Monastery Da Jue Temple, Venerable Master Hsing Yun Cultural and Educational Foundation, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Phoenix, Wuhan, and Liaoning in China. In addition, 100,000 masks were donated by Malaysia to the Ministry of Health and Welfare in Taiwan; BLIA Chunghua distributed 400,000 masks to various Fo Guang Shan branch temples in Taiwan. On April 1, 2020, as the Covid-19 pandemic spread rapidly in America, BLIA World Headquarters immediately distributed 100,000 masks to America East (50,000) and America West (50,000). Venerable Master Hsing Yun Cultural and Educational Foundation donated 420,000 masks to the Americas and 20,000 to Japan. BLIA Malaysian and Sin Chew Foundation donated 560,000 masks to local medical institutions. BLIA Chapters worldwide further donated masks to help curb the spread of COVID. The first wave of mask donation by BLIA worldwide was over 3,350,205 as of May 31, 2020.

Launch of “Buddha’s Light Pandemic Prevention and Rescue Project”

On May 6, 2021, given the seriousness of the pandemic in South Asia and India, BLIA World Headquarters launched the “Buddha’s Light Protective Relief Project,” coordinating donations from 36 chapters in 21 countries worldwide to purchase 1,320 oxygen machines and other supplies for the relief of South Asia. With the assistance of World Headquarters Vice Secretary General Southeast Asia, Venerable Chueh Cheng; FGS Hong Kong and Macau Chief Abbess, Venerable Yong Fu; Hong Kong Airlines; Datuk Lim Siow Jin; and various BLIA chapters, 820 oxygen machines, 49,165 protective suits, 7,525 goggles and face shields, and 16,656 cloth masks were delivered to India for donation to 24 counties and cities, benefiting more than 123 hospitals. On July 1, 2021, BLIA World Headquarters donated 100 oxygen machines to Nepal, benefiting 20 hospitals and health care centers. On August 13, 2021, 400 oxygen machines were donated to Thailand, with 350 oxygen units presented to the city government by BLIA World Headquarters Director and FGS Thaihua Temple Abbot, Most Venerable Hsin Ting and BLIA Elder Porchai Uvimolchai. Mayor Asawin Kwanmung and various officials came to Thaihua Temple to accept the donation and express their gratitude.

Global Pandemic Relief

On August 10, 2021, Eye Ojo Corporation of Los Angeles donated a total of 492,800 protective face shields in ten containers to Hsi Lai Temple. Under the arrangement of BLIA World Headquarters, eight containers were donated to India, Malaysia, Japan, Myanmar, Thailand, and Philippines. On March 14, 2022, BLIA World Headquarters, BLIA Chunghua, and FGS New Zealand donated 15,000 units of Antigen Rapid Test kits to assist 97 schools in the North and South Islands of New Zealand. This was a great help to New Zealand's pandemic prevention. BLIA World Headquarters and BLIA chapters on the five continents joined hands in fighting against the pandemic, the total pandemic prevention supplies donated globally: 1,770 units of oxygen and respiratory equipment, 61 units of prevention doors, 25 units of airborne sterilizers, 2,240 pieces of various medical equipment and devices, 7,035,850 masks, 72,445 medical gloves and shoe covers, 123,546 pieces of protective suits, 567,932 protective goggles and face shields. In total, more than 8,363,144 items were donated, valued at more than $14,610.926, including 32,287 bottles of liquid disinfectant and alcohol, 65,399 hand sanitizers, 100,644 doses of Antigen Rapid Test kits, 268,054 vegetarian meals of “eVege Revival ~ All Come Support,” 144,865 lunch boxes and food baskets, and 13,128 prevention kits and herb pouches. More than 8,363,144 items worth more than US$14,610,926, equivalent to over NT$400 million, benefiting more than 10 million people. (As of August 31, 2022)

On March 14, 2022, BLIA World Headquarters, BLIA Chunghua, and FGS New Zealand donated 15,000 units of Antigen Rapid Test kits to assist 97 schools in the North and South Islands of New Zealand. This is a great help to New Zealand's pandemic prevention.

On July 16, 2021, BLIA Cape Town, Africa visited Trinity Children's Center for a winter relief and pandemic prevention distribution, accepted by the school president and founder, Renier Coetzee.

that frontline workers can receive the best protection.

August 15, 2022, BLIA Chennai, India distributed food to 113 low-income families in the slums to help them overcome the hardships during the pandemic.

March 30, 2020, BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General America West, Venerable Hui Dong and BLIA Los Angeles President Alex Wu donated masks and protective suits to the Methodist Hospital, accepted the hospital vice president Cliff

On April 14, 2020, BLIA Florida, USA donated masks from BLIA World Headquarters and Venerable Master Hsing Yun Cultural and Educational Foundation to frontline workers, the police and firefighters.

On May 21, 2021, BLIA Thailand donated supplies and household medicine to the Ministry of Social Development to benefit the community.

August 1, 2022, BLIA Macau donated Antigen Rapid Test kits and food to senior homes in caring for underprivileged

On April 9, 2020, BLIA Sabah, Malaysia delivered protective suits, masks, and other supplies to Queen Elizabeth Hospital to support the medical staff in their prevent and fight against the pandemic.

May 19, 2020, BLIA Darjeeling, India distributed fresh vegetables to needy families in caring for the underprivileged.

September 9, 2021, BLIA Osaka donated 1,600 masks to Hyogo Prefecture Takarazuka City Hall, received by Takarazuka City Crisis Management Inspector Yutaka Ishibashi.

April 27,

Fukuoka, Japan

May 29, 2021, BLIA Kolkata, India and the United Traffic Police distributed supplies to 200

International Disaster Relief

Ukrainian War Rescue

On March 16, 2022, Russia and Ukraine were caught in a relentless war. Men were forced to go to war to defend the country as millions of Ukrainian women and children were displaced and fled their homes. BLIA World Headquarters immediately allocated US$100,000 in cooperation with UNICEF to carry out rescue projects in five categories: education, materials, health education, Blue Dot Safe Spaces along the route of escape, and child protection. Its contents included: providing clean water, sanitary supplies, and other materials for refugee shelters; providing relief funds to vulnerable families with children; at Blue Dot Safe Spaces set up on the escape route; providing children and families with secure resting and recreational space; supplementing children’s nutritional needs and routine immunizations to prevent outbreaks of infectious diseases; conducting training and teaching to prevent COVID-19; providing recreational activities and extracurricular education for children, providing teaching kits, etc., so that women and children can be protected and assisted in their escape.

As the war spreads, people in Ukraine are facing difficulties in survival. BLIA spared no effort to provide humanitarian aid and collected supplies for Ukraine. BLIA Chunghua, BLIA Cao Zhong Zhi Foundation, BLIA Paris, BLIA Madrid, BLIA Barcelona, BLIA Berlin, BLIA Frankfurt, BLIA Vienna, BLIA Stockholm, and BLIA Lisbon collected blankets, clothing, staple food, wheelchairs, etc. More than 2,000 boxes, close to ten tons of goods were sent to help Ukraine, praying for the Ukrainian people to overcome the difficulties early.

help the Ukrainian refugees.

Maryna Laupus

On March 11, 2022, Fo Guang Shan and BLIA Frankfurt in Germany, handed over the first batch of 60 cartons of supplies to Ms. Maryna Laupus, head of the Ukrainian civil society.

On March 13, 2022, BLIA Berlin gathered 38 boxes of relief

and donated them to the Nathanael Church, the

materials were

for distribution to Ukrainian refugees and also shipped to the battlefield.

On August 10, 2022, Venerable BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General Southeast Asia, Venerable Chueh Cheng and Sin Chew Foundation Deputy Chairman, NC Siew handed the supplies on behalf of the donating organizations to Sri Lanka High Commissioner, H.E. Air Chief Marshal Sumangala Dias.

Sri Lanka National Economic Crisis Relief

On April 11, 2022, Sri Lanka was faced with bankruptcy, inflation, shortage of medicine, food, and other phenomena due to poor policy management and the pandemic, making the lives of the needy even worse. Upon receiving news, BLIA World Headquarters immediately allocated US$50,000 for relief; led by monastic advisor Venerable Chueh Men, BLIA Sri Lanka bought 35,000 kg of white rice, beans, spices, coconuts, and other materials to help the needy, benefiting 2,300 families in total. On August 2, they went to Sisuviru High School to provide 400 students with a nutritious lunch, so that they could stay in school to make up for lessons and their studies.

Fo Guang Shan Malaysia, Sing Chew Foundation, Buddha’s Light International Association, Best Wishes Foundation, and Chi Hui Tang Association jointly launched the “Operation Support Sri Lanka.” On May 27, two tons of 4,000 bags of baby milk powder sponsored by Promex were airlifted to Colombo through Malaysia Airlines, and distributed by BLIA Sri Lanka and monastics of Theravada Buddhist Temple to 4,000 families with young children. On June 14, medical supplies worth 250,000 Ringgits (US $57,000) for surgical operations were donated. On August 10, the second batch of 2.5 tons of 5,040 bags of baby milk powder were delivered to Colombo for free by Sri Lanka Airlines. The supplies were handed over by BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General Southeast Asia, Venerable Chueh Cheng and Sin Chew Foundation Deputy Chairman, NC Siew on behalf of the five organizations to Sri Lanka High Commissioner, H.E. Air Chief Marshal Sumangala Dias, who received the supplies and expressed thanks for the donations.

BLIA Sri Lanka visited Sisuviru High School on August 2, 2022 to provide a nutritious lunch to 400 students.

Lanka

General Hospital on April 26, 2022 to deliver materials to

August 11, 2022, cute and innocent children were happy to receive milk powder

On May 28, 2022, Fo Guang Shan Malaysia, Sing Chew Daily Foundation, Buddha’s Light International Association, Best Wishes Foundation, and Chi Hui Tang Association jointly launched the “Operation Support Sri Lanka,” with the first batch of baby milk powder airlifted by Malaysia Airlines.

Afghanistan Winter Charity

On February 22, 2022, BLIA Headquarter Vice Secretary General Southeast Asia, Venerable Chueh Cheng and nonprofit-organizations launched a humanitarian aid in the spirit of compassion. The Afghanistan humanitarian aid group was jointly established by Global Peace Malaysia, Jin Ma Investment Bank, and BLIA in coordination with the Malaysian Foreign Affair Department. A group of fourteen members flew to Afghanistan on a chartered plane, donating a total of 4,415 Kms of relief supplies: winter coats, baby formula, female thermal wear, stationery items etc. The supplies were handed over to four local nongovernment organizations at the donation ceremony on February 23, 2022 for distributing to women, children, and the elderly for the harsh winter. Abdul Qahar Balkhi, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, expressed gratitude and blessings on behalf of the Afghan people to the loving-kindness of Malaysia, especially the Malaysian non-governmental organizations. World Headquarter Vice Secretary General, Venerable Chueh Cheng indicated that the humanitarian aid is the first of its kind, demonstrating the strength and resources of non-government organizations, it is a major step forward for interfaith exchanges and harmony, from which we can witness the hope for world peace.

World Headquarters Vice Secretary General Southeast Asia, Venerable Chueh Cheng exchanged prayer beads with Afghanistan representative, wishing for Afghanistan to be free of war and sickness.

February,

high

conference at Kuala Lumpur International Airport prior to the

to

on

Afghanistan Charitable Aid

On December 4, 2021, BLIA United Nations Office donated US$10,000 as directed by World Headquarter Secretary General, Venerable Chueh Pei to the special project fund of National Federation of Business and Professional Women’s Clubs (NFBPWC) in support of women and their families in Afghanistan for winter clothing, employment, and schooling. In addition, BLIA United Nations Office director, Venerable You Wang and BLIA New York President Cindy Lin collected about 1,000 pieces of winter clothing, fifteen cartons of jackets, and fifteen cartons of sweaters to Dar Al Tagwa Islamic Center.

On June 23, 2022, a 6.1 scale earthquake shook eastern Afghanistan, causing thousands of casualties. FGS Malaysia and BLIA immediately made a donation of 100,000 Ringgits to Afghanistan. The donation of 50,000 Ringgits was made by BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General Southeast Asia, Venerable Chueh Cheng on behalf of FGS Malaysia and another 50,000 Ringgits on behalf of BLIA World Headquarters. Through Global Peace Malaysia, the donations provided earthquake victims food and medical aid, demonstrating that religious compassion has no borders.

Police Brigadier General Regional Director PBGen Crizaldo Obispo Nieves presented a certificate of appreciation for the relief work in Cagayan province in northeastern Luzon, which was swept by strong typhoons Rolly and Vamco on November 29, 2020.

On November 30, 2020, Venerable Chueh Lin led BLIA members to a small village in San Pablo, Isabela province to distribute

Philippines Typhoon Relief

On November 9, 2020 during the pandemic, super typhoons Rolly and Vamco swept through the Bicol area in the south of Luzon Island and Cagayan Province northeastern Philippines, leaving tens of thousands people homeless. BLIA Philippines immediately launched a fund-raising for disaster relief. On the evening of the 17th, BLIA Philippines members arrived in the disaster area of Polangui, Albay Province after a 12-hour drive, and distributed 2,200 relief items. On the 28th, they traveled 14 hours to Tuguegarao, Cagayan Province and distributed 2,000 relief items to four communities.

On December 16, 2021, severe typhoon Odette ravaged the central islands of the Philippines, impacting nearly 4 million people. BLIA World Headquarters Acting President, Venerable Tzu Jung called on behalf of Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and instructed FGS Philippines Chief Abbess Venerable Yung Guang to initiate emergency relief. BLIA World Headquarters further donated US$50,000 to the Philippines for disaster relief. Immediately after the disaster, BLIA members went to the heavily affected districts and mountain areas to distribute relief supplies, comfort the families of the deceased, and help the victims rebuild their homes. On June 26, FGS Chu Un Temple in Cebu held a prayer service for blessing and dedicated the merits for the victims of the typhoon. On the 27th, BLIA members took a rubber boat to the sea to conduct a purification ceremony, prayed for blessings for the Philippines and held a memorial for the dead. On January 5, 2022, BLIA members went to Pangan-an and Caohagan islands for disaster relief, bringing blessings to the islanders. On January 12, BLIA members went across the sea to help 500 families in Bais rebuild their homes. At the same time, they sponsored the Philippine Department of Education to organize the “Three Acts of Goodness School Emergency Relief Mission” to distribute building materials and daily necessities to the affected schools for rebuilding their homes.

BLIA Philippines President, Erwin Chua introduced Venerable Master Hsing Yun to the victims of severe typhoon Rolly and Vamco, which hit Bicol province in southern Luzon on November 19, 2020.

December 27, 2021, Abbess Venerable Miao Jing and BLIA members went to the sea in a rubber boat to conduct the purification ceremony.

City School District and its Three Acts of Goodness Campus Ambassadors joined in the relief effort for Typhoon Rey, which ravaged the central Philippines on December 27, 2021.

September

under

Pakistan Flood Relief

On August 28, 2022, Pakistan was hit by the worst floods in ten years, which claimed more than 1,200 lives and destroyed countless homes, causing 30 million people to be displaced. At the request of the Pakistani High Commission in Malaysia, Fo Guang Shan Malaysia, Buddha's Light International Association, and Malaysia Sin Chew Daily Foundation joined again forces to launch a multinational relief effort. At the same time, the effort received the support of BLIA World Headquarters President, Most Venerable Hsin Bau and Acting President, Venerable Tzu Jung. BLIA World Headquarters allocated US$50,000 to provide relief. In addition, in order to help people trapped in the disaster area, BLIA Vice Secretary General, Venerable Chueh Cheng donated US$30,000 on behalf of BLIA World Headquarters and Fo Guang Shan, commissioning Malaysia High Commissioner to Pakistan, HE Mr. Deddy and Mr. Imran to help buy rice and flatbread for the hungry victims to tide over their difficulties.

On September 15, Fo Guang Shan Malaysia, BLIA, and Malaysia Sin Chew Daily Foundation collected 15 metric tons of relief supplies for Pakistan, including tents, tarpaulins, blankets, sleeping bags, disaster region water filter machines, baby milk powder, etc., totaling around US$176,400 (RM800,000).

Under the witnessing of Minister of Transport Datuk Seri Dr. Wee Ka Siong, the supplies were handed over to Pakistan National Airways for delivering to Pakistan capital, Islamabad for distribution to the victims by the national disaster committee.

of

of Minister of Transport

On March 14-15, 2022, BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General Southeast Asia, Venerable Chueh Cheng led the first delegation to Islamabad, Pakistan to attend the First International Buddhist Congress and Arts Festival, with the theme: “Buddhism in Pakistan: History, Archaeology, Art and Architecture.” She discussed the role of religion in social integration with Pakistani Prime Minister's Special Envoy for Religious Harmony, Alam Dahir, writing a new page in the history of Buddhist exchanges in Islamic countries and planting good and beautiful causes and conditions for friendship with Pakistan.

Assam Flood Relief

On July 6, 2022, Assam in northeastern India experienced the worst flooding on record in 33 districts during the rainy season, impacting an estimated 5.5 million people. In the spirit of compassionate relief, BLIA World Headquarter allocated US$50,000 for the relief effort. FGS Buddhist Center New Delhi director Venerable Hui Xian led two novices and BLIA members to work with local non-profit organizations, forming a relief team to distribute supplies in the remote villages of Tarani and Geruwa where no assistance had been provided. Supplies included rice, beans, biscuits, milk, bean cakes, sugar, tea, salt, oil, nutritional drinks, and other necessities, as well as soap, shampoo, laundry soap, pens, notebooks, pencils, and pencil erasers. Some of the victims in the remote villages had their houses washed away by the river and were left homeless, making their lives even more difficult. Representatives of the victims expressed their gratitude in tears to Fo Guang Shan and BLIA for their willingness to go to remote villages to provide care and relief, giving warmth in the midst of the disaster.

victims were grateful to Fo Guang Shan and BLIA for their

come

rescue in the remote villages.

Buddhist Center New Delhi director, Venerable Hui Xian distributed relief goods to the victims

On February 23, 2022, Queensland was flooded with over 20,000 houses submerged. BLIA World Headquarters allocated US$2,000 for the relief effort. On March 17, BLIA Queensland’s Charity Team donated AU$50,000 to the Givit government unit in charge of relief in Brisbane.

On June 26, 2022, BLIA Pretoria, South Africa visited the SK Moseneke Primary School and held a winter relief to help 60 needy

with

Social Care Charity Relief

Charitable Donation ~ Giving Timely Support

When

BLIA Founding President, Venerable Master Hsing Yun established the organization in Los Angeles, U.S.A. on May 16, 1992, he wrote the guiding principles: “Advocate the practice of Buddhism in daily life, establishing a Buddha's Light pure land; actualize the teachings in the world, providing compassionate relief for the world.” It is hoped that BLIA will establish the Buddha's Light pure land and provide relief to suffering sentient beings with the spirit of compassion. When people are in suffering, we need to reach out with a helping hand to provide support, bringing brightness and hope to them. Regarding the philosophy of charity, BLIA focuses on “rescue emergency rather than poverty” with the spirit of unconditional compassion and loving-kindness for all. In face of natural disasters such as floods and fires, BLIA members are the first to collect supplies and donations to provide care and distribute relief material. For the needy and underprivileged in rural regions facing cold winters and living in hardship, BLIA members reach out to them, delivering blankets and other supplies to provide them with warmth.

On March 17, 2021, BLIA Western Australia donated $6,700 to the forest fire relief effort, accepted by Mayor of Perth, Basil Zempilas.

Aurora A. Quezon Elementary School

On March 13, 2021, BLIA Philippines went to Aurora A. Quezon Elementary School, a temporary shelter for the fire victims in the Barangay 719 slum area near FGS Mabuhay Temple.

December 25, 2021, World Headquarters Vice Secretary General, Venerable Chueh Cheng and Sin Chew Daily Foundation Vice Chair, N.C. Siew; went to Bentong County to distribute 210 Three Acts of Goodness food baskets and other supplies to the flood victims.

On May 19, 2022, BLIA Cape Town, South Africa held a charity distribution in Blikkiesdorp and other places, with children happily carrying the supplies home.

On July 22, 2021, BLIA Northern Sumatera, Indonesia donated 1,000 packs of rice, masks, and other supplies to underprivileged people in four poor areas, including Permata to help them overcome hardships during the Covid-19 pandemic.

April 20, 2021,

to the South Plainfield

On November 17, 2021, when the worst flooding in 50 years occurred on the East Coast of Malaysia, the International Fo Guang Response Team immediately went to rescue and send relief supplies to the stranded victims.

Educational Support –Gift of Dharma Treasure

BLIA prioritizes by “rescue emergency rather than poverty.” Hence, in providing care for needy regions and offering charity to society, support for education is even more important. It is said, “It takes ten years to grow trees, a hundred years to nurture people.” Education is a long-term undertaking, but only education can transform a person’s life. BLIA has been upholding the concepts of Founding President Venerable Master Hsing Yun with regards to charity and education, providing support in education for different regions in the world. Besides supporting the Seeds of Hope program, scholarships for needy students, school supplies such as book bags, textbooks, and stationery items are also distributed to help students so they will not lack resources in the course of learning. In addition, we also organize educational activities in remote villages to bring health education and the concept of “Three Acts of Goodness” to children and parents in the countryside so that the concept can take root from childhood.

May 15, 2022, the Perayaan Hari Wesak Selangor was held at FGS Dong Zen Temple in Malaysia, recognizing 72 students from primary and secondary schools in Selangor with the “Three Acts of Goodness Award” for their excellent character.

June 16, 2022, BLIA Southern Malaysia presented the “Complete Works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun” to Muar Chung Hwa High School in Johor, bringing the kindness and beauty of Humanistic Buddhism into campus.

February 12, 2021, Alison and Lars Nordberg completed translating and proofreading “Buddha-Dharma” in Swede and printed 500 copies, adding Humanistic Buddhism to the Swedish language.

February 22,

after a year of preparation, the Spanish edition of “365 Days for Travelers” was finally published in 3,000 copies by

company manager, Juan Carlos was happy to be involved in this significant publication.

November 10, 2021, BLIA South Island New Zealand donated “366 Days of Wisdom” to Manukau Sebel Hotel. A total of 20,000 copies has been donated to the benefit of 700 hotels and hospitals.

Dr. Wilhelm Guggenberger

On January 17, 2022, BLIA Vienna went to Innsbruck University to donate “The Complete Works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun” and the “Encyclopedia of Buddhist Arts,” accepted by Dr. Wilhelm Guggenberger, Dean of the Faculty of Theology and other representatives.

March 12, 2022, BLIA Seoul, South Korea donated more than 300 copies of the Korean edition of “365 Days for Travelers” to the Chogye Order Gurongsa Temple, accepted by Head Monk Venerable Jungwoo of Gurongsa Temple, and Abbot Venerable Gyeonsung of Gurongsa Temple.

On April 5, 2022, Vivian Wang, owner of Best Western Plus in Rowland Heights and General Manager Jane Yueh-Mei accepted the donation of “365 Days for Travelers” from BLIA World Headquarters Vice Secretary General America West, Venerable Hui Dong.

June 3, 2022, BLIA Southern Malaysia donated

copies of “365 Days for Travelers” to St. Giles Hotel in Midtown, New Valley. Michelle Goh, Director of Sales and Marketing accepted the donation.

Social Care Spreading Warmth

BLIA upholds the spirit of bodhisattva volunteer to provide care and sympathy to the community and spread the seeds of compassion to every corner of the world. BLIA members worldwide have shown compassion in different places, caring for the widowed, orphaned, and lonely; comforting the elderly; providing compassionate relief; supporting the disadvantaged; responding to social charity activities; donating wheelchairs for the physicallychallenged; holding blood drives for blood banks. It is hoped that through the spirit of the bodhisattva path of Humanistic Buddhism, many people in need of help will receive spiritual and physical support, filling the world with love, warmth, and harmony.

January 18, 2020, BLIA Singapore held a “Sending Fortune to Your Home” campaign to send 570 “Three Acts of Goodness Fortune Bags” filled with NTUC gift cards, oranges, and “Every Journey is a Path to Happiness” Chinese New Year scroll, Spring Festival cakes and candy to low-income families.

October 20, 2021, BLIA Toronto responded to Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie's “Thanksgiving Food Drive” by collecting 1,553 pounds of food for the Food Bank and a donation of CAN$5,022.

捐血廣結善緣。

Mayor Isko Moreno蒞臨受贈。

December 12, 2021, BLIA Philippines donated 850 wheelchairs from the Cao Zhongzhi Foundation to the Manila City Government and other groups, and Manila Mayor Isko Moreno was present to receive the gift.

January 9, 2022, BLIA Stockholm, Sweden distributed 500 bowls of congee on

of

Day.

the public would have a

through this event.

Hong Kong brought 150 bowls of congee to China Airlines on Dharma Day to share in the joy of the Buddha's enlightenment.

January