Li Li, The Life News Agency
November 10, 2023

On October 22, amid the beautiful Fall in Canada, the Toronto Humanistic Buddhism Reading Association, consisting of 24 reading groups, gathered at the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto. All participants studied the Dharma Words of Venerable Master Hsing Yun from 'The Complete Works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun together. They also conveyed their appreciation and paid tribute to the Master, drawing from his wisdom and establishing a profound connection with him.

24 reading groups, 56 participants studied the 'Dharma Words of Venerable Master Hsing Yun' from 'The Complete Works of Venerable Master Hsing Yun.' photo／William Wong

Venerable Chueh Fan, the Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, delivered the opening speech, acknowledging the efforts and success of the reading club, including its significant number of participants. She praised everyone for their diligence in the pursuit of the Buddha's path. The Abbess presented "The Teachings and Actions of Venerable Master Hsing Yun" to 56 attendees, with the hope that they would, in addition to reading, never forget the Master's words in "An Honest Revelation": "I hope the teachings of Humanistic Buddhism can reach every household and be embraced by everyone." She urged all to embody the Master's teachings and promote the Dharma.

56 participants were divided into six groups for discussion. photo／William Wong

This was the third reading group event for this year. Venerable Zhi Guan, the Superintendent of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto and the Guiding Venerable of the reading association. Initiated the event by presenting a captivating animated video, serving as a catalyst for starting a discussion that ignited enthusiastic responses from the participants.

Venerable Zhi Guan, the Superintendent of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto and the Guiding Venerable of the reading club demonstrate the “three-part” speaking format. photo／William Wong

Following the video, attendees were divided into six groups to study articles from "The Dharma Words of Venerable Master Hsing Yun" on the topics of patience, interaction with others, self-reliance, harmony, success, and the ordinary way. Subsequently, every group designated a spokesperson to deliver a brief 5-minute presentation summarizing their insights.

Participants take part in group discussions. photo／William Wong

Participants take part in group discussions. photo／William Wong

Venerable Zhi Guan advised that the presentations could follow a "three-part" speaking format:
1. What does the article talk about? Summarize the content for the audience after digesting it.
2. What is the relationship between the article and me? Express how the article has influenced me and why.
3. What is the final takeaway? Share the inspiration and insights gained from the article.

Following each presentation, Venerable Zhi Guan offered comments and words of encouragement. She emphasized that during presentations, the tone should be engaging and varying, which will leave the audience a deeper impression. The content should be logically structured, starting from a summary, leading to insights gained, and extending to future aspirations.

Group representatives give presentations after the discussions. photo／William Wong

Bi Tao Chen, leader of one of the reading groups, expressed that the "three-part" speaking format is extremely helpful and she will be adopting it in the future. Ling Xiao, Vice President of Da Ci Subchapter 2, highlighted the significance of this valuable opportunity to gain insights into the thoughts and experiences of everyone through group discussions. Additionally, she emphasized that the presentation exercise had a dual benefit, fostering courage and enhancing public speaking ability.

After the event, everyone was eagerly looking forward to the guidance and training planned by Humanistic Buddhism Reading Groups Headquarters in the upcoming years.

Venerable Zhi Guan presenting the participants with “The Teachings and Actions of Venerable Master Hsing Yun." photo／William Wong