Led by their teacher Megan Williams, 40 students of Papanui High School Adult and Community Education Class paid a visit to Fo Guang Shan (FGS) South Island on 15th October 2019. They were welcomed on arrival by Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) South Island Vice President Lih-son Ding, BLIA South Island Committee member Jack Liu, and Fo Guang Yuan (FGY) Art Gallery Christchurch coordinator Juin Mei Chang.
Ding first introduced the visitors to the external architecture of the Temple building. The visitors were awe-struck by the statues of the 4 Bodhisattvas located at the external frontal wall, and remarked that the Temple has indeed been built with great artistic tastes. Ding then took the opportunity to introduce to the visitors the concept of Humanistic Buddhism propagated by FGS, and the many activities organised by FGS for the local community, for which the visitors expressed their praises.
Afterwards, Juin Mei introduced the Art Gallery to the visitors. She informed that FGS has been propagating Buddhism via Arts, and has managed to merge Arts with Buddhism, and in so doing, brought joy to the people. The visitors then toured the ‘Transience’ Exhibition which was currently being held at the Art Gallery. They were intrigued by the delicate artworks on display, and derived enormous pleasure from the beauty emanated by them. Later, Jack Liu introduced the ‘Buddha Hall’ to the visitors. He also narrated the life story of Buddha, and explained Buddha’s teachings. At the Buddha Hall, the visitors were very much taken in by its tranquil and peaceful ambience, and they also expressed their great admiration and respect for Buddha.
The students came from different countries, including China, Taiwan, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, and Columbia. Though not very conversant with English language, nevertheless they were very attentive during the briefings, displaying a positive attitude, and actively asking questions. At the end of the visit, the students remarked that they have benefitted greatly from the visit. They now have a better understanding of Buddhism, and discovered that Buddhism is not merely about praying to Buddha, but also involves a host of other multi-facet and innovative activities.