Albert Lin, The Merit Times staff writer
October 3, 2023

On September 26th, the Minister of Defense of Guatemala, Gral. de Div. Reyes, visited Fo Guang Shan Monastery. He was welcomed by Venerable Hui Chuan, the Executive Vice Abbot of Fo Guang Shan, at the Dharma Transmission Center. During the visit, the principles of propagating Buddhism, as well as the spirit of "Three Acts of Goodness" and "Four Givings," were introduced. Gral. de Div. Reyes pledged to be an advocate for Fo Guang Shan and promised to spread the teachings of Fo Guang Shan founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun in Guatemala.

Venerable Hui Chuan explained that Venerable Master Hsing Yun established a Buddhist college in 1967. As the number of followers grew, Fo Guang Shan Monastery and viharas were constructed. Currently, there are over 300 temples and meditation centers established worldwide, including in Central and South America. Venerable Master Hsing Yun also emphasized activities involving Lay Buddhists and founded the "Buddha's Light International Association, BLIA," which has become a member of the United Nations NGO organizations.

Venerable Hui Chuan introduced the spirit of "Three Acts of Goodness" and "Four Givings." photo／The Life News Agency

Venerable Hui Chuan mentioned that Venerable Master Hsing Yun's philosophy revolves around promoting the goodness and kindness of humanity. Humanistic Buddhism is devoted to the principles of "Three Acts of Goodness" and "Four Givings" in how people treat others. Venerable Master Hsing Yun spent his life promoting Humanistic Buddhism and authored 395 volumes titled "The Complete Works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun." Even though Venerable Master Hsing Yun has passed away, people have not ceased to remember him. This is because his thoughts and beliefs continue to be profoundly helpful for humanity.

Gral. de Div. Reyes expressed his gratitude for the hospitality extended by Fo Guang Shan. He mentioned that he experienced the exceptional qualities and inspiring philosophy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, as well as the stability and strength that Venerable Master Hsing Yun brought to society and people's hearts. Gral. de Div. Reyes stated, "Upon returning to Guatemala, I am willing to become a spokesperson for Fo Guang Shan and share the experiences of Fo Guang Shan's heritage with the people of Guatemala."

Venerable Hui Chuan, representing Fo Guang Shan, presented gifts including the Dharma Verse for the New Year written by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, "May Benevolence and Harmony Bring Peaceful Wellbeing; Let Abundance and Joy Yield Auspiciousness in Our Lives," as well as the Spanish version of "65 Days for Travelers: Wisdom from Chinese Literary and Buddhist Classics." Gral. de Div. Reyes reciprocated with a commemorative coin and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to visit Fo Guang Shan and learn from the exemplary religious practices.

Gral. de Div. Reyes visited the Main Shrine to pay respects to the Buddha. photo／The Life News Agency

Gral. de Div. Reyes and his delegation also visited the Main Shrine to pay their respects to the Buddha. He reiterated his commitment to bring back the spirit of "Three Acts of Goodness" and "Four Givings" from Fo Guang Shan to Guatemala and promote the Humanistic Buddhism principles of Venerable Master Hsing Yun.