Albert Lin, The Merit Times staff writer
June 20, 2023

On June 11th, the I.B.P.S. of Montreal and B.L.I.A. of Montreal jointly organized the "2023 BLIA Montreal Vegetarian Cuisine Fair," with over 1200 citizens from various ethnicities participating.

Venerable Jue Fan, Abbess of I.B.P.S. of Montreal, delivered a Dharma talk, emphasizing the concept of "Environmental and Spiritual Preservation" put forth by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan. 

Venerable Jue Fan delivered a Dharma talk. photo／The Life News Agency

She added that this event aimed to cleanse the mind through the act of bathing the Buddha, and promote vegetarianism as a means of supporting environmental protection. Venerable Jue Fan also blessed everyone, wishing them a "Five-Harmonies" life. Venerable Jue Fan led the participants to chant sutras, offered prayers for world peace, and guided the attendees to bath the Buddha.

Councilor Josué Corvil of Saint-Michel delivered a speech, expressing gratitude to the Fo Guang members for organizing this successful and meaningful event, which has enriched the lives of the community residents and contributed to Canada's multiculturalism.

The organizers held a vegetarian foods charity sale event to promote vegetarianism for the sake of the Earth. Fo Guang members offered over 60 types of food to develop affinities with the public, aiming to provide them with a fresh experience. Each booth attracted a lot of people.

The Buddha's Light International Association(BLIA) YAD performed dragon and lion dances, as well as the 24 festive drums, while the audience touched the lion to pray for the elimination of disasters, the removal of illnesses, and good health. 

The BLIA YAD performed dragon and lion dances. photo／The Life News Agency

Fo Guang members sang songs from "Sounds of the Human World" to express their nostalgia for Venerable Master Hsing Yun. The crowd joined in singing "Singing Praises to the Master," bringing the event to a perfect conclusion.