Union Theological Seminary Visits Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple to Foster Interfaith Understanding

Manila, Philippines – September 30, 2026

A group of 27 participants, comprising 26 students and one professor from Union Theological Seminary (UTS), visited Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple on September 30, 2026, for an educational temple tour aimed at deepening their understanding of Buddhism, the history of Fo Guang Shan, and the principles of Humanistic Buddhism.

The visit was part of the seminary's Ecumenism and Interfaith course, which provides students with opportunities to explore different religious traditions, practices, and communities. Through firsthand experiences and meaningful encounters, the program seeks to cultivate mutual respect, religious understanding, and appreciation for diverse faith traditions.

During the visit, Venerable Jue Ci guided the participants in a traditional Buddhist lamp-offering ceremony and explained its spiritual significance. In Buddhism, light symbolizes wisdom, compassion, and the dispelling of ignorance. The offering of light represents sincere prayers and blessings while encouraging individuals to illuminate their minds with wisdom and extend kindness and compassion to others.

Following the ceremony, May assisted in guiding the visitors through the temple's facilities, including the dining hall, Water Drop Teahouse, and Guanyin Bodhisattva statue on the first floor; the Main Shrine on the second floor; the Founder's Memorial Hall on the fifth floor; and the Art Gallery on the seventh floor.

Throughout the tour, the participants were introduced to the fundamental teachings and history of Buddhism, as well as the temple's role in promoting Buddhist culture, education, and community service.

At the Founder's Memorial Hall, the visitors learned about the life and contributions of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan, and his lifelong dedication to spreading Humanistic Buddhism worldwide.

The presentation highlighted how Venerable Master Hsing Yun brought Buddhist teachings into everyday life through education, cultural activities, charitable initiatives, community engagement, and the establishment of temples and educational institutions around the world.

Particular emphasis was placed on the Three Acts of Goodness — Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, and Think Good Thoughts — a guiding principle promoted by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Through this teaching, the students gained insight into how Humanistic Buddhism encourages individuals to practice compassion, kindness, and mindfulness in their daily lives while contributing positively to society.

The tour concluded at the Art Gallery on the seventh floor, where participants had the opportunity to appreciate various artworks and cultural displays. The visit demonstrated how Fo Guang Shan integrates art and culture into its mission of sharing Buddhist teachings and enriching the spiritual lives of people from different backgrounds.

The educational visit provided the seminary students with a broader perspective on Buddhist philosophy and practices, while also highlighting the importance of dialogue and understanding among different religious communities.

Although religious traditions may differ in their beliefs and practices, shared values such as compassion, peace, respect, and service to humanity provide meaningful opportunities for cooperation and mutual learning.

The visit reflected the importance of interfaith engagement in building bridges of understanding and friendship among people of different faiths.

Through cultural, educational, and interfaith initiatives, Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple continues to uphold Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vision of Humanistic Buddhism, promoting wisdom, compassion, harmony, and peace in society.