The Life News Agency
October 12, 2023

The East Asian Pastoral Institute (EAPI) Community, in its continued pursuit of pastoral renewal for discipleship and sabbatical renewal experiences, has organized a temple tour to the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Mabuhay Temple on October 11, 2023. This annual program, which runs from August to November, aims to provide spiritual enrichment to participants hailing from diverse backgrounds.

The East Asian Pastoral Institute (EAPI) Community, in its continued pursuit of pastoral renewal for discipleship and sabbatical renewal experiences, has organized a temple tour to the Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Mabuhay Temple on October 11, 2023. photo／The Life News Agency

The Mabuhay Temple welcomed a diverse group of 54 participants from five continents, representing 28 countries across the globe. The contingent comprises 27 pastoral renewal participants and five on sabbatical renewal experiences. They come from America, Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania, highlighting the program's international appeal.

Father Aristotle C. Dy, a prominent figure in the community and a close friend of the Mabuhay Temple, leads a group of 32 participants on this enlightening journey. photo／The Life News Agency

Father Aristotle C. Dy, a prominent figure in the community and a close friend of the Mabuhay Temple, leads a group of 32 participants on this enlightening journey. In addition to guiding the participants on the temple tour, Father Ari. is also conducting a five-day course to introduce Mahayana Buddhism, especially  Humanistic Buddhism to an international group of Catholic priests and sisters. The course is being held at the EAPI, situated within the University of Ateneo. The temple visit is a vital component of this course, providing a tangible and immersive experience of contemporary Buddhist practices and teachings.

The temple visit is a vital component of this course, providing a tangible and immersive experience of contemporary Buddhist practices and teachings. photo／The Life News Agency

Father Ari, as he is affectionately known, is not only an advocate for interfaith understanding but also plays a pivotal role in encouraging his students, including Xavier graduates, to pursue the one of Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Consortium University, Guang Ming College (GMC) scholarship program. This year, one freshman is among the beneficiaries of this initiative. FGS, in its mission to transform the lives of the youth, aligns with the vision of "Let the world see the talents and beauty of our Filipino."

Venerable Zhiyi, a respected figure at the Mabuhay Temple, emphasized the importance of breaking common misconceptions about Chan Buddhism. She highlighted that Chan is not confined to a futon but extends to everyday life, including activities such as walking, standing, sitting, sleeping and eating. Habits formed since childhood may be challenging to change, but with perseverance, transformation is possible.

This temple tour exemplifies both FGS and EAPI Community's commitment to spiritual growth, interfaith harmony, and fostering understanding among diverse communities. By uniting individuals from different backgrounds and promoting cultural exchange, this initiative contributes to the building of a harmonious society rooted in shared spiritual practices and goals.