FGS Yuan Tong Temple
January 15, 2024

A total of 190 high school students and teachers from the second and third grades of University of Negros Occidental- Recoletos Intergrated School visited the Fo Guang Shan Yuan Tong Temple in Bacolod, Philippines on January 13. The purpose of this visit was to deepen students' understanding and tolerance of religion through the activities.

During the visit, Venerable Zhi Rong led the students in a meditation experience. In the meditation session, Venerable Zhi Rong guided the students to calm down and experience a state of tranquility, considering that most students are currently facing the dilemma of choosing a university. He hoped that the students could gain clarity about what they need, what their strengths are, recognize themselves, and choose the ideal university.

Venerable Zhi Rong also explained to the students the collaborative projects between Fo Guang Shan and the Philippine Department of Education. At the same time, he elaborated on the "Three Acts of Goods" advocated by the founder of Fo Guang Shan, Venerable Master Hsing Yun: do good deeds, speak good words, and think good heart, which can lead to becoming a truly good person.

In addition, volunteer Gil introduced the students to Guanyin Bodhisattva and shared the story of Guanyin Bodhisattva. He explained why, as a Catholic, he chose to volunteer in the temple, emphasizing that the concept of practicing the Three of Act Goodness is not in conflict with religious beliefs.

Volunteer Gil introduced the students to Guanyin Bodhisattva and shared the story of Guanyin Bodhisattva. photo／The Life News Agency

During the event, teacher Joy expressed that she learned a lot of valuable things. She particularly emphasized the importance of the lotus hand gesture and the hand gesture representing the Three Acts of Goodness. These gestures make it easier for people to understand and practice the principles of the Three Acts of Goodness.

This visit not only provided students with the opportunity to experience Zen meditation up close but also allowed them to gain a deeper understanding of the values of Fo Guang Shan and its collaborative projects with the Department of Education. Meanwhile, the volunteer's sharing and the teacher's feedback highlighted the practical application of the "Three Goods" philosophy in daily life, providing participants with an inspiring journey of the mind.

This visit provided students with the opportunity to experience Zen meditation up close and allowed them to gain a deeper understanding of the values of Fo Guang Shan and its collaborative projects with the Department of Education. photo／The Life News Agency

In the end, the temple presented lotus DIY cards and Venerable Master Hsing Yun's 2024 Spring  couplet ink masterpiece, "May you be Freed like Clouds and Water, Auspicious and Joyful" to the teachers and students present. The teachers and students were delighted to receive this Lunar New Year gift, wishing for a year full of ease and joy.