佛 光 山 南 華 寺
Fo Guang Shan - Nan Hua Temple
December 2023
BLIA Cape Town promotes the Three Acts of Goodnessand spreads warmth.
December 9, 2023
On December 8, the BLIA Cape Town Chapter visited Children’s Centre in Mitchell’s Plain to promote the “Three Acts of Goodness” and “Four Gives” advocated by Fo Guang Shan’s founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. Led by President Liu Zhi-Min, the team distributed 135 stationery gift sets to students and shared engaging moral and life education stories. They also gifted chocolates to 17 teachers to show appreciation. The Centre warmly welcomed the gesture, and the values shared were well-received by both students and staff.
BLIA Johannesburg Chapter Show Love by Donating Supplies to Students
December 8, 2023
On December 7, the BLIA Johannesburg Chapter donated 1,250 kg of maize meal, snacks, and school supplies to Goza Primary School in Soweto, benefiting 100 underprivileged students. The donation aimed to support students during the long Christmas break when school meals are unavailable and to encourage continued learning. Led by Venerable Jue Di, the team was warmly welcomed by students, parents, and school staff. The event featured touching moments, including recognition of a local caregiver’s selfless love. The chapter also introduced Fo Guang Shan’s educational initiatives, expressing hope for future collaboration to improve students’ educational opportunities.
BLIA SA YAD Share Joy at a Fun Camp with Neighboring Children Centres
December 6, 2023
On December 4–5, BLIA SA YAD and local volunteers, led by Venerable Jue Kai, held a joyful half-day camp at the Rethabiseng and Zithobeni Kids Care Centre. Despite past challenges due to the pandemic and staff strikes, Nan Hua Temple has consistently provided after-school tutoring at these Centres. This year-end event celebrated students’ progress and offered them a memorable experience. The camp featured icebreaker games, colouring activities, tug-of-war, and ball games that fostered creativity and teamwork. A diabolo (Chinese yo-yo) performance by youth member added excitement to the event. Awards for the top two most improved students in each grade were presented—grades 1–4 received stationery sets, and grades 5–7 were awarded tablets to support their learning. The camp concluded with volunteers handing out maize meal, juice, and snacks. This meaningful event left lasting warmth and joy for both the children and volunteers involved.
BLIA South Africa Spread Love through Wheelchair Donations in the Eastern Cape Province.
December 2, 2023
On November 29, Venerable Hui Liao, along with Nan Hua Temple's charity group and lay practitioners, travelled over 800 kilometres to the Eastern Cape Province to distribute wheelchairs. They were warmly welcomed by Mbhashe Municipality's Mayor Samkelo and Councillor Janda. The mayor expressed deep gratitude for Nan Hua Temple’s efforts in shipping wheelchairs from overseas to South Africa and highlighted the significant need for mobility aids among disabled and elderly citizens in the area. The donation event took place in the village of Dutywa, where 30 wheelchairs, 15 walkers, and 9 canes were distributed to 130 attendees, including families and friends. A group of local elementary school students performed a dance, bringing joy and cheer to the event. In his speech, Venerable Hui Liao introduced the mission of Fo Guang Shan and emphasized the importance of charity and the Three Acts of Goodness and Four Gives in everyday life. The following day, the group visited the Inkcubeko Yase Cambridge Senior Center, where they donated two more wheelchairs. The centre’s director, Nontsikelelo, shared that caring for the elderly gives life meaning, and expressed the centre’s need for more wheelchairs and mobility aids. She hopes to help more elderly individuals receive the support they need in the future. The donation not only provided physical assistance but also fostered compassion, as BLIA members continue to spread the teachings of Humanistic Buddhism by helping those in need.
November 2023
South African BLIA members donate wheelchairs, making vows to learn from Medicine Buddha.
November 11, 2023
On November 10, BLIA Durban Chapter held its third wheelchair donation event, offering 14 wheelchairs to elderly recipients in need. Around 50 attendees, including recipients, their families, volunteers, and social workers, joined the event at the company plaza of Chapter Supervisor Lin Zhengsheng. Vice President Wang Huimei explained that the donation, held on Medicine Buddha's birthday, aimed to promote Humanistic Buddhism by addressing others' needs and bringing happiness. After transportation issues during a previous event, a bus with a wheelchair lift was arranged to ensure smooth delivery. Recipients expressed gratitude with smiles, and their families sang "Happy Birthday" in thanks. The event concluded with a recitation of the "Medicine Buddha's Mantra," followed by the distribution of blankets, cookies, and water, all in a warm and joyful atmosphere.
September 2023
South Africa's Heritage Day: Seeking Inner Light and Peace
September 25, 2023
On September 24, Nan Hua Temple held the 2023 Light and Peace Festival in celebration of South Africa’s Heritage Day. Nearly 300 participants gathered to meditate and celebrate the diverse cultures of the nation, aiming to find inner peace and light. The event featured a guided meditation by volunteer Trudi, followed by Tai Chi to promote relaxation. Participants also chanted the Six-Syllable Mantra of Avalokiteshvara and offered candles to the Buddha, praying for clarity and wisdom in their lives. Abbot Hui Fang led a meditation session focusing on breath awareness, helping attendees relax and observe their thoughts. The crowd also recited the "Prayer for World Peace" by Ven. Master Hsing Yun, wishing for peace to spread globally. After the meditation, attendees enjoyed vegetarian food and performances by the South African Fo Guang youth group, raising funds for next year’s event. Many, including Kim, Ashley, and Gaelan, expressed gratitude for the peace and enlightenment they experienced. Tsepang enjoyed the candle-lighting ceremony, describing it as bringing light to life's darkness.
Fo Guang University Language Education Center's Immersive Language Learning Program in South Africa Yields Rich Results
September 12, 2023
Fo Guang University Language Education Center, in collaboration with South Africa's Ambassador Language School and Nan Hua Temple, hosted the "2023 South Africa Immersive Language Learning Program" from August 1 to September 2. Seven students participated in a month-long English immersion, improving their language skills through interaction with native speakers and lessons focusing on listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The program included 85 hours of instruction, with students assessed and placed in appropriate levels. Outside class, Nan Hua Temple arranged cultural activities and opportunities to practice English with local youth. The students also helped with English services at the temple. In addition to language lessons, students explored South African culture by visiting historical sites like the Cradle of Humankind and Apartheid Museum. They also experienced African music through drumming and marimba classes. The program concluded with a visit to Kruger National Park, where students observed wildlife. The students' progress was showcased in an English performance, marking the success of this first immersive language program at Fo Guang University.
August 2023
BLIA Durban Chapter Wheelchair Donation: Learning the Bodhisattva's Spirit of Responding to Suffering
August 7, 2023
On August 5, the International Buddha Light Association Durban Chapter held its second wheelchair donation event of the year at Phoenix City High School, donating 75 wheelchairs to those in need. The ceremony was attended by recipients, their families, volunteers, and community staff. BLIA Durban Chapter President Ji Lian explained that the event was held on Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva’s enlightenment day to reflect compassion. She emphasized the Association's 14 years of charitable work in Durban, focusing on helping others and supporting those in need. One recipient, Manyoni, was deeply moved and thanked the Association. In gratitude, attendees sang traditional African songs. The ceremony concluded with chanting and blessings by Master Huixing. Recipients also received blankets, cereal, biscuits, and water, expressing their heartfelt thanks.
July 2023
Rare Snowfall in South Africa's Winter: BLIA Members Donate Warmth
July 18, 2023
Johannesburg experienced rare snowfall last week, marking the first since 2012, with temperatures dropping below freezing. This harsh weather added to the struggles of the local poor. In response, the Johannesburg chapter of the International Buddha Light Association launched a winter donation campaign to help those in need. On July 15, they donated 170 pairs of winter shoes to the impoverished residents of Vosloorus at a ceremony at Nanhua Temple, with support from the Novensi charity group. The next day, they also donated 300 pairs of winter shoes, 1,750 kg of maize flour, reading glasses, and razors to the residents of Diepsloot at Pujue Buddha Hall. The donations, supported by the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, provided much-needed aid and warmth to the community during this rare cold spell.
BLIA SA YAD Members Walk into Fo Guang Shan, Experiencing the Master’s Footsteps and Wisdom
July 16, 2023
In July 2023, 12 South African youth participated in the International Fo Guang Youth Conference at Fo Guang Shan. They visited several Taiwanese temples before the conference, including Dàocháng in Taipei, Fùshān Temple in Changhua, and the Nántái Branch in Tainan, learning about Fo Guang Shan’s history and culture. During the conference, the youth were inspired by Master Hsing Yun's compassion and dedication to spreading Humanistic Buddhism. They visited key sites at Fo Guang Shan, including the Tripitaka Building and Veggie Market, and participated in activities with youth from around the world. The youth received teachings on the "Three Immortal Virtues" and the Four Giveings, emphasizing selfless service. Two South African youth also earned their Level 1 White Elephant Leadership Certification. The conference highlighted the Master’s journey, his commitment to ensuring no one in Fo Guang Shan would go hungry, and his legacy of wisdom and generosity. The youth sang "Open Your Heart" at the "Master Hsing Yun Praise Meeting" and discussed proposals to implement Humanistic Buddhism worldwide. Energized by the theme "Wisdom and Innovation," South African youth are eager to share the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism at next year’s overseas youth conference.
Nan Hua Temple Hosts Talent Camp, Providing a Stage for Youth Growth
July 8, 2023
From June 30 to July 7, the Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple hosted an 8-day Youth and Children's Talent Camp, aimed at imparting Buddhist teachings, enriching their lives, and learning traditional arts. A total of 100 youth and children participated. Venerable Yongxun taught Buddhist etiquette and the essence of Buddhist teachings, explaining that understanding these practices is crucial for grasping the true spirit of Buddhism. The camp offered participants the opportunity to dive deep into Buddhist values in a fun and educational environment. Venerable Huixing conducted an interactive session on leadership qualities, where the youth actively engaged, learning valuable leadership skills. The camp also featured various talent classes, including folk sports, creative arts, and dance. Under the guidance of teacher Wang Renlou, youth learned intricate movement details, while dance lessons led by Zhang Tianyu improved physical endurance, coordination, and imitation skills. Teacher Chen Yuanyuan’s handicraft sessions encouraged creativity and imagination. Through a video program, "Little Monks See the World," the children learned about the love and kindness present in the world, while Venerable Huixing led a "Three Good Children" storytelling session, promoting positive values through skits. The camp not only helped children develop healthy habits but also deepened their understanding of Buddhism. After the camp, participants looked forward to reuniting for a growth camp at Nan Hua Temple later in the year.
BLIA Johannesburg Chapter Brings Warmth in Winter, Caring for Elderly Vision and Mobility Needs
July 1, 2023
In June, the BLIA Johannesburg Chapter held two donation events in Vosloorus, Gauteng, in collaboration with the Lions Club International and Novensi Charity Group. The first event saw 660 elderly people receive 1,000 pairs of reading glasses, with volunteers ensuring each person got the right prescription. Novensi’s volunteers also delivered glasses to those unable to attend. Following this, Venerable Juedi presented a copy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s "365 Days for Travelers" to Novensi’s board members. On June 30, another event provided winter relief supplies, including maize meal, cooking oil, baked beans, and blankets, benefiting the local community. Over 100 people attended, and David Matlak expressed gratitude for BLIA’s ongoing support. Venerable Juedi encouraged community cooperation, children’s education, and the fight against drugs to improve poverty-stricken conditions. The events showcased BLIA's commitment to supporting the South African community.
June 2023
BLIA Pretoria Chapter Cares for Refugees with Donation of Essential Supplies
June 15, 2023
In mid-April, over 100 refugees in South Africa were evicted by the UNHCR and relocated to an abandoned school in Bronkhorstspruit, lacking electricity and basic facilities. In response, BLIA Pretoria Chapter, led by Venerable Hui Xing, delivered winter aid on June 14, including maize meal, rice, sugar, oil, noodles, cereal, and 100 blankets. Social welfare director Sophia thanked BLIA, calling the gesture deeply moving, especially for children who had suffered. Venerable Hui Xing suggested renaming the shelter “Fo Guang Village,” symbolizing warmth and unity beyond race or faith. Refugee Omari, separated from his family, expressed gratitude and hope for reunion. Afterward, members visited a small classroom where children, undeterred by hardship, studied diligently—an inspiring moment for all.
BLIA Durban Chapter Donates Wheelchairs: Compassion Knows No Distance
June, 10, 2023
On June 8, BLIA Durban Chapter led by Venerable Hui Xing, traveled over 900 km to Eastern Cape to donate 20 wheelchairs to those in need. Held at Matatiele City Hall, the event welcomed 50 recipients, local officials, and media. Mayor Mngenel praised the donation as a meaningful gesture of compassion beyond race or religion and expressed hope for future collaboration. Venerable Hui Xing shared BLIA’s charitable mission and the lotus symbol’s message of joy despite adversity. Recipient Madolwana expressed deep gratitude, saying the wheelchair greatly improved his life. The event ended with a book gift to the mayor and BLIA members guiding recipients on wheelchair use.
BLIA Johannesburg Chapter Winter Relief Distribution Brings Love and Warmth
June 3, 2023
On June 1, BLIA Johannesburg Chapter brought warmth to those in need during South Africa’s early winter by delivering relief supplies to Lehlabiles Secondary School in Gamaria Village, traveling over two hours with a full truck of goods. Police officer and orphanage director Stella shared the school’s humble origins and encouraged students to value education. Cheng and Feng introduced Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s “Four Givings” and donated razors and hygiene products to 302 students. Dharma advisor Venerable Juedi led a moving prayer for families. Later, 100 elders in Gamaria received blankets, maize meal, oil, and canned goods. The event ended with warmth, gratitude, and a spirit of compassion.
May 2023
BLIA South Africa Celebrates Buddha's Birthday with Buddha Bathing and Blessings at Oriental City China Mall
May 29, 2023
On May 27, the BLIA Johannesburg Chapter held its Buddha Bathing Ceremony at the Oriental City China Mall attended by nearly 300 people from diverse backgrounds. Despite the early winter chill, attendees participated in the event, which featured four main areas: the Buddha Bathing space, a "Life of the Buddha" exhibition, a cultural zone, and a "Three Goods" Children’s Zone. Under the guidance of Ven. Jue Di, participants bathed the Buddha statue, symbolizing spiritual cleansing and blessings. Children in the "Three Goods" zone prayed and drew images of the Buddha, while many local attendees engaged with the "Life of the Buddha" exhibition and read Buddhist literature. The event celebrated Buddhist cultural exchange, bringing together people of different races and beliefs in unity, spreading the seeds of "Humanistic Buddhism" in South Africa.
Buddha Bathing Ceremony Purifies Hearts in Durban, South Africa and Over 1,000 Beneficiaries of Winter Relief Distribution.
May 22, 2023
On May 20, the BLIA Durban Chapter held its annual Buddha Bathing Ceremony and Winter Relief Distribution at the Phoenix Industrial School Hall, drawing over 1,000 attendees. Despite being the warmest city in South Africa during winter, it still faces challenges like power outages and social issues. The event provided relief through the distribution of 1,000 essential items, including blankets, clothing, rice, oil, and water. President Ji Lian emphasized that the event honored Venerable Master Hsing Yun's vision of Humanistic Buddhism, highlighting his teachings on gratitude and cherishing what we have. The ceremony aimed to promote peace and support the community. Many participants, who follow indigenous or other religions, joyfully took part in the ceremony, singing a birthday song for the Buddha. The ceremony, led by Ven. Hui Xing, included the recitation of the Heart Sutra and the Buddha Bathing ritual. Young Sebo and elderly Nkosi shared their gratitude, and the event provided both material relief and spiritual comfort to all. For over ten years, the Durban Chapter has consistently upheld the principles of charity and compassion through its community service and humanitarian efforts.
BLIA Africa members remember Venerable Master Hsing Yun and participate in the global sutra copying practice simultaneously.
May 16, 2023
On May 16, over 400 participants from South Africa, Lesotho, and Congo joined the Global Sutra Copying event to mark Fo Guang Shan’s 57th anniversary. The livestreamed event, led by Venerable Hui Fang at Nan Hua Temple, was attended by members from six temples. Tsepang, a regular participant, expressed gratitude for Master Hsing Yun’s teachings on Humanistic Buddhism. At the BLIA Durban Chapter, 84-year-old Zeng Xinghui persevered in sutra copying, inspired by the Master’s teachings. BLIA Newcastle Chapter, Vice President Li Jiafeng emphasized family involvement, while the BLIA Bloemfontein Chapter held a solemn practice despite the weather. The BLIA Cape Town Chapter, led by Liu Zhiming, and the Lesotho Association also participated, focusing on the Master’s legacy. In Congo, 50 people joined at Fo Guang Yuan, continuing the practice and spreading the Master’s teachings of Humanistic Buddhism.
Sutra Transcribing and bathing the Buddha to purify the heart, Nan Hua Temple celebrated a unique Mother's Day with the Adult Blessing Ceremony.
May 15, 2023
On May 14, Nan Hua Temple held the "Adult Blessing Ceremony" with nearly 100 locals celebrating Mother's Day. The ceremony, led by Ven. Hui Fang, included chanting the Heart Sutra, focused meditation, and learning how to write the sutra. Ven. Hui Fang explained that adulthood brings various life pressures, and the Heart Sutra teaches how to manage them. The event also featured 18 images depicting Ven. Master Hsing Yun's teachings, encouraging participants to reflect on how he transformed challenges into wisdom. The ceremony included a Bathing Buddha ritual, symbolizing the cleansing of negative energy and the cultivation of positivity. Lesley and her daughter Bronya from Pretoria, found the event meaningful, feeling peace and wisdom through the sutra writing. Cindy from Johannesburg shared that she hoped her children would one day find direction and faith through Buddhism.
South Africa Cloud and Water Bathing Buddha: BLIA Cape Town Chapter Members Forge Good Relationships in Chinatown
May 8, 2023
On May 7, the International Buddhist Association of Cape Town hosted a "Cloud and Water Bathing Buddha" event at Ottery Chinatown, attracting nearly 300 people. The event, organized to honor Buddha's birthday and promote unity and cultural harmony, featured a simple yet solemn ceremony led by Venerable Hui Xing, with attendees offering flowers to the Buddha. Among the participants were locals from various walks of life, including a grandmother and granddaughter, chefs, and even police officers. Collette, a non-Buddhist who had been influenced by Buddhist teachings, and Sume, who enjoyed cultural activities at Nan Hua Temple, both participated happily. Brandon, intrigued by the ceremony, found it peaceful and invited others to join.
April 2023
Tribute to Venerable Master Hsing Yun: South African Devotees Inherit Compassion and Wisdom
April 10, 2023
On April 9, nearly 200 devotees gathered at Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple for the "Fo Guang Shan Founding Master Venerable Hsing Yun Tribute Ceremony" to honor the Master's life and teachings. The event highlighted his contributions to modern Buddhism, with speeches from various Buddhist leaders. Abbot Hui Fang shared how the Master's teachings profoundly influenced practitioners, while Master Hui Yi and others shared personal experiences of transformation and enlightenment through the Master’s guidance. Performances by the temple's youth and local groups added to the atmosphere of remembrance. The event concluded with cards bearing the Master's "Dharma Body" given to all attendees, symbolizing his ongoing wisdom and compassion.
February 2023
South African BLIA Members Continue Their Compassionate Efforts: Johannesburg Chapter Donates Supplies to Impoverished Area
February 19, 2023
On February 17, BLIA Johannesburg Chapter, in collaboration with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SSVP), donated essential supplies to the impoverished Diepsloot area. Led by Venerable Juedi and other BLIA members, they delivered one ton of maize flour, bread, cornflakes, slippers, and educational materials for children. Despite the heat, volunteers worked together with smiles, creating a heartwarming scene. SSVP leaders expressed gratitude, and Venerable Juedi shared Master Hsing Yun's teachings of compassion and unity, emphasizing the importance of helping one another regardless of differences.
January 2023
Welcoming the Year of the Rabbit: Nan Hua Temple Holds Chinese Culture Carnival Again
January 23, 2023
To celebrate the Year of the Rabbit, Nan Hua Temple in South Africa hosted the Chinese Culture Carnival on January 22, attracting around 20,000 visitors. The event featured a giant rabbit mascot, a wishing tree where visitors made wishes, and performances like dragon and lion dances, traditional Chinese martial arts, and multicultural acts such as Spanish and Scottish dances. The BLIA SA YAD organized cultural booths with activities like making Peking Opera masks and Chinese New Year crafts. Visitors enjoyed vegetarian foods, bubble tea, and handmade crafts. First-time attendee Thindwa from Johannesburg was impressed by the lively atmosphere and the significance of the dragon and lion dance performances, eager to share the experience with others.
South Africa BLIA Members Share Laba Porridge — Sending Auspicious Blessings and Well-Wishes for Peace and Health
January 8, 2023
On January 7, the BLIA Johannesburg Chapter held a Laba Festival event to commemorate the Buddha’s enlightenment by cooking and distributing over 2,500 servings of Laba porridge. Nearly 50 volunteers, including BLIA SA YAD, local Chinese people, and South African locals, joyfully participated. Despite the cold, the atmosphere was warm and spirited, with singing, teamwork, and sincere dedication. The porridge was blessed with chanting and delivered alongside spring couplets to shops, Chinatown, and an elderly care center. After a three-year pause due to the pandemic, the event was warmly welcomed and filled with gratitude and hope.
BLIA SA YAD Enthusiastically Take On New Year’s Eve Event — Volunteers Among Volunteers
January 4, 2023
From December 30, 2022, to January 1, 2023, 88 Fo Guang Youth volunteers gathered at Nan Hua Temple in South Africa to assist with New Year’s events. Over four days, they supported various tasks such as meal preparation, cleaning, and ceremony coordination, while also participating in spiritual activities like a Three-Step-One-Bow pilgrimage and New Year prayers. Despite the hard work, the youth formed strong bonds, deepened their connection with the temple, and celebrated the new year with joy through a gift exchange and karaoke night. Their dedication added meaning to the festivities and reflected the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism.
On the first day of the New Year 2023, Nan Hua Temple held a Triple Gem and Five Precepts Ceremony as well as a Blessing Ceremony
January 2, 2023
On January 1, 2023, Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple in South Africa held two significant ceremonies to mark the beginning of the new year: the Triple Gem Refuge and Five Precepts Ceremony, and the Baby Blessing Ceremony. Nearly 30 individuals, ranging in age from 13 to 63, participated in the Triple Refuge and Five Precepts Ceremony, a spiritual milestone intended to deepen faith and encourage ethical living. Participants arrived the day before to attend preparatory classes on Buddhist etiquette, robe-wearing, and precept teachings. The ceremony was officiated by Venerable Hui Fang, who emphasized the importance of self-reliance and understanding in the Buddhist path, referencing teachings from the Platform Sutra. A notable moment was the participation of the Wagner family. The father, Jacques, retook the Five Precepts to support his two sons, aged 13 and 14. Deeply moved by the principles of Humanistic Buddhism, Jacques emphasized teaching his children compassion and moral awareness. The event was also a symbol of inclusivity, as attendees from diverse ethnic and language backgrounds helped each other through language barriers, showcasing the unity fostered by Buddhism. At the same time, the Baby Blessing Ceremony was held in the Main Buddha Hall, led by Venerable Hui Xing. Around 60 children, aged 0 to 8, received blessings accompanied by their families. The ceremony included chanting, prayers for newborns, the sprinkling of purification water, and the gifting of prayer beads. The children came from a variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds, including three sets of twins, some of whom had participated in past blessing events. One family of Indian Hindu heritage expressed their appreciation for the temple’s peaceful environment and participated in hopes of giving their babies a positive start to the year. Other parents, like devotee Tian Yuan, brought their children in gratitude for the temple’s programs and blessings for their children's well-being and growth. Both ceremonies were filled with joy, devotion, and warmth. Participants left with a sense of spiritual fulfilment, having planted the seeds of enlightenment. The events reflected the heart of Humanistic Buddhism—embracing people of all backgrounds, fostering compassion, and creating a harmonious community. The temple expressed hope that more families and individuals would join the Fo Guang Shan community and help spread these teachings throughout Africa.