Albert Lin, The Merit Times staff writer
November 13, 2023

On November 8th, Professor David Jensen from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary led a group of 16 students to visit Fo Guang Shan Xiang Yun Temple.

Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary was established in 1902 with the aim of cultivating pastoral talents. Clergy members not only seek to understand their own faith but also aspire to comprehend other religions. Therefore, students from the theological seminary often visit Xiang Yun Temple to gain insights into Buddhism.

Volunteers Bob Taylor and Barbara Hewitt from Xiang Yun Temple warmly welcomed the professors and students from Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary on the "Path to Buddhahood." They guided them to the Main Shrine to watch the video "Biography Of Sakyamuni Buddha." Following this, Bob Taylor and Barbara Hewitt introduced the guests to the Triple Gem Buddhas, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva, the wood carvings of "Diamond Sutra," Merit Hall, Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s One-Stroke Calligraphy, Meditation Hall, the outdoor Meditation Garden, and the Pavilion of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva.

Visitors to experience the Tea Ceremony at the Water Drop Teahouse. photo／The Life News Agency

Bob then led the visitors to experience the Tea Ceremony at the Water Drop Teahouse. Venerable Yong Jia expressed that the Tea Ceremony involves a tranquil mind and a grateful attitude, allowing participants to appreciate the entire process of tea cultivation, roasting, production, and brewing. Through smelling and tasting, individuals become aware of the changes in their own hearts. Venerable Yong Jia's explanation helped the visitors understand the significance of the Tea Ceremony in Buddhist practice.

Venerable Yong Jia answered visitors' questions. photo／The Life News Agency

The visitors showed a keen interest in Buddhism and raised many questions, such as whether Nirvana is merely a subjective feeling and how to deal with the ups and downs of various emotions. Venerable Yong Jia's answers were well-received, and the guests expressed gratitude to the venerable for providing them with a deeper understanding of Buddhism, which they believed would be beneficial for their future missionary work.