Tai Chi Master Wu Wenbo Promotes Chinese Culture at Mabuhay Temple's English Life Chan Program

By BLIA Humanistic Buddhism News | Manila, Philippines

Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple in the Philippines held its English Life Chan Community of Practice (CoPM) program on July 26, integrating Tai Chi, vegetarian culture, and the spirit of filial piety. The event attracted 60 participants from diverse backgrounds, including non-Buddhists and non-Chinese speakers, demonstrating the inclusiveness and practical approach of Humanistic Buddhism.

The program began with a welcome address by Ms. Pan Hsiu-Chiung, President of the Manila Second Subchapter of the Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) Philippines, who also introduced veteran Tai Chi master Mr. Wu Wenbo. Ms. Betty Go, a youth member of Yang Tak Tong, explained that Tai Chi is an art of balancing the inner and outer self, emphasizing that the smooth flow of qi contributes to better health.

Master Wu Wenbo, together with his student Mr. Wu Pei-chi, then demonstrated the graceful movements of Tai Chi. Their calm, fluid performance reflected harmony between body and mind, allowing participants to experience the profound cultural heritage and meditative essence of this traditional Chinese martial art.

Another highlight of the program was a demonstration by temple kitchen volunteer Ms. Ko Ching-Chiung, who showed participants how to make pickled cabbage using seasonal ingredients. The presentation offered an economical and healthy recipe while encouraging a simple, wholesome lifestyle. A vegetarian market was also featured, promoting Humanistic Buddhism's principle of compassion and respect for life through food culture, while fostering cross-cultural exchange.

During the gathering, participants recited Venerable Master Hsing Yun's "Prayer for Parents and Loved Ones" in English. The assembly also offered blessings for the month's birthday celebrants and prayed for peace and well-being on the anniversaries of their mothers' childbirth.

Abbess Venerable Miao Jing shared a Dharma talk on the three levels of Buddhist filial piety and explained the significance of the Lunar Seventh Month as the Buddhist "Month of Filial Piety." She encouraged everyone to express gratitude by repaying the kindness and sacrifices of their parents with sincere appreciation and compassionate actions.

Following the program, Master Wu Wenbo and his group toured the "Passing on the Light for Sixty Years: A Centennial Tribute to Venerable Master Hsing Yun" commemorative exhibition. Deeply inspired, Master Wu expressed admiration for Venerable Master Hsing Yun's lifelong dedication to making Humanistic Buddhism accessible to society and for his emphasis on youth moral education. After learning more about Fo Guang Shan's commitment to cultural, educational, and charitable initiatives, Master Wu made a generous donation on the spot as a heartfelt expression of respect for the Master's vision and legacy.

The Mabuhay Temple CoPM program is held regularly, offering a dynamic blend of movement, meditation, culture, and daily-life practice. Through these diverse experiences, the program brings Buddhism into everyday life while sharing Humanistic Buddhism with the international community, serving as an important platform for non-Chinese speakers in the Manila area to learn about its teachings.