The 2025 Fo Guang English Buddhist Class Christchurch NZ commenced on 2nd March and is led by FGS NZ Abbess Manshin. The lesson was based on Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s book Humanistic Buddhism: Holding True to the Original Intents of Buddha, focusing on the chapter My Understanding about Humanistic Buddhism. A total of 15 students participated in the session.
Abbess highlighted the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism as self-improvement and self-affirmation, referencing the Agamas: Rely on oneself, rely on the Dharma, do not rely on anything else. One can experience greater happiness, peace and liberation by taking control of one’s own life. Buddhism advocates for the equality of all beings, through self-adjustment and a responsible attitude toward life, one can appreciate the preciousness of all causes and conditions. Abbess encouraged everyone to refine our intrinsic nature and be our mentor by maintaining the right understanding and right views in daily life.
Abbess further explained that love is the foundation of all things, but only love guided by wisdom can positively impact life. The formula for compassion is love plus wisdom. For example, in 2011, FGS Christchurch provided hot meals for 40 consecutive days to support the community during the earthquake relief efforts, demonstrating compassion through action.
During the Q&A session, Abbess addressed how to show care for distant family and friends. Feelings of missing loved ones should be transformed with wisdom, expressing adequate concern while learning to let go of attachment. Abbess emphasized that life is short and encouraged everyone to start learning the Dharma early to understand the Truths of the universe and actively do good, becoming an uninvited helper, thereby expanding the meaning of life.
To promote Buddhism, the English Buddhist Class curriculum includes Buddha-Dharma: Pure and Simple Study Group, Dharma service, meditation sessions, and more. These activities allow participants to develop a deeper understanding of Humanistic Buddhism. The participants come from various professions, including early childhood teachers, accountants, educators and writers.
The participants expressed gratitude to the Temple for organizing the program, which enables them to learn Buddhism in a structured and fulfilling way. Deirdre Johns appreciated the well-structured curriculum and deeply valued Abbess’s dedication to teaching despite her busy schedule. Ola Lyckholm aspired to delve deeper into Buddhist teachings and apply them daily. Sue Anne shared that Abbess’s insightful explanations and rich life experiences were genuinely enlightening and she eagerly anticipates the upcoming lessons.