佛光山南華寺
Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple
September 2025
Light and Peace Ceremony Shines at
Nan Hua Temple, Spreading Wisdom and Compassion
September 28, 2025
In celebration of the Light and Peace Ceremony and South Africa’s Heritage Day, Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple held a series of activities on 28 September 2025, combining meditation, chanting, and cultural performances to promote harmony between religion and culture. Over 300 participants joined the event, which began with standing meditation and Tai Chi, followed by candle offerings and chanting of Om Mani Padme Hum to invoke blessings of peace. Venerable Huifang, abbot of Nan Hua Temple, led the sitting meditation and shared the essence of Buddhist practice—calming the mind through sound, and illuminating wisdom through insight into the Heart Sutra. Participants then enjoyed vegetarian lunch and performances by the BLIA Young Adults of South Africa, showcasing the nation’s rich cultural diversity while raising funds for the youth organization. Participants expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to reconnect with inner peace and to celebrate unity through diverse cultural expressions. The ceremony concluded in an atmosphere of serenity and joy, with the light of wisdom and compassion shining in everyone’s hearts, inspiring peace and harmony in daily life.
BLIA SA YAD on the Run – VEGRUN
September 9, 2025
To support the "Vege Plan A" campaign and promote a healthy vegetarian lifestyle, BLIA SA YAD held the "VEGRUN" event on September 7. Nearly 40 local youths and their parents enthusiastically participated. For the first time, the event welcomed both youths and their parents, encouraging family bonding through games, challenges, and vegetarian food sharing — all aimed at raising awareness about healthy eating and environmental protection. The event began at dawn with warm-up exercises, followed by a fun run around the temple. Along the route, participants faced challenges like push-ups, yoga poses, hopscotch, and word games, promoting teamwork and interaction. After the run, participants enjoyed a much-anticipated vegetarian BBQ, grilling ingredients like corn, mushrooms, tofu, sweet potatoes, and bell peppers. The temple also provided a variety of delicious plant-based dishes, showcasing the nutrition and flavor of vegetarian cuisine. First-time attendees shared how the event helped them rediscover the joy of exercise and changed their perception of vegetarian food. Parents also expressed appreciation for the opportunity to bond with their children while promoting health and sustainability. This event not only encouraged fitness and wellness but also actively promoted the vegetarian lifestyle. It inspired youths and families to care for the Earth and practice sustainability—one meal and one step at a time.
Fo Guang Youth Carry the Torch: Celebrating Friendship at the South Africa Graduation Ceremony
September 6, 2025
Wu Sih-Han, former president of the BLIA South Africa YAD Subchapter, returned from Taiwan to attend the University of Pretoria’s Engineering graduation ceremony on September 4, having completed his Master’s in Engineering Project Management. His return marked a meaningful reunion with the BLIA community after eight years. Wu met his wife, Lin Han-Jung, a fellow former YAD leader of the Xinzhuang Subchapter, during the 2015 International Buddha’s Light Youth Conference. Together, they represent the ongoing legacy of BLIA YAD, with their family members also continuing in leadership roles. The ceremony was attended by BLIA members, Venerables Huifang and Juekai, and Prof. Chan Kai-Ying, highlighting strong intergenerational ties.
August 2026
Gauteng Chinese Association and BLIA Johannesburg Join Hands to Promote Chinese Tea Culture
August 10, 2026
On August 23, from 10 AM to 2 PM, Gauteng Chinese Association officials Walter Pon, Shirleen, Paulette, and Erin led 80 members to join 16 members of the International Buddha’s Light Association Johannesburg Chapter at Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple for the “Journey into Chinese Tea Culture.” Abbot Venerable Huifang welcomed guests, expressing hope that the event would deepen understanding of Chinese culture and Buddhism, especially for second- and third-generation overseas Chinese. Supervisor Takman Fung introduced the history and spirit of tea culture, highlighting its connection to Chinese values and Buddhist principles like purity and harmony. Member Chien-Yao Cheng demonstrated the art of brewing "gongfu tea," followed by a hands-on tea tasting in seven groups. The fragrant and lively setting offered attendees a chance to experience tea culture firsthand. Participants also toured Nan Hua Temple and learned about Fo Guang Shan’s cultural and spiritual outreach in South Africa. The event strengthened ties between the two associations and inspired many to call for more cultural exchanges to promote Chinese heritage and community unity.
2026 Global Buddhist Examination: Intergenerational Learning Across Africa
August 9, 2026
The 2026 Global Buddhist Examination was held across Africa on August 8, with 335 BLIA members from eight associations in South Africa, Lesotho, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo taking part—the largest participation in the African region to date. Exams were offered in Chinese, English, French, and a children’s category, bringing together members of different ages and backgrounds to deepen their understanding of Humanistic Buddhism. Ahead of the examination, online lectures, study groups, and review sessions helped participants prepare and learn together. On exam day, the atmosphere was peaceful and focused, with some families having three or even four generations participate together. Participants shared that the examination not only strengthened their Buddhist knowledge but also brought families closer. Despite busy work and family responsibilities, some participants made time to study, while others valued the opportunity for multiple generations of their families to learn and take the examination together. Youth division members also participated actively, gaining a deeper understanding of Humanistic Buddhism and strengthening their commitment to encouraging more young people to learn and practice Buddhism. More than a test of knowledge, the Global Buddhist Examination is a way to reflect on one’s Buddhist learning and practice. Through continued study, reflection, and application in daily life, African BLIA members are passing the Dharma from one generation to the next.
BLIA YAD Enter South African Campuses – The Three Acts of Goodness Spirit Takes Root and Blossoms
August 3, 2026
Nine BLIA youths from Taiwan traveled to South Africa for a charitable exchange, led by Venerable Jue Kai of the South African BLIA Youth division. They visited Rethabiseng Kids Care Centre, Zithobeni Kids Care Centre, and Muthuhadini Primary School, engaging children through tutoring, games, crafts, and singing. Through these activities, they shared the Three Acts of Goodness—doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts—sowing seeds of kindness in young hearts. Despite language barriers, children responded warmly, showing focus, cooperation, and joy. A touching moment came when a child saved his meal for his mother, reminding the team of love, gratitude, and the importance of giving back. The youths adapted their lessons to suit local cultures and age groups, making learning more relatable. Special classes included calligraphy with blessings, a fashion design and runway show, and red envelope folding to share Chinese New Year traditions. Children also sang the Three Acts of Goodness Song, joined by Principal Mudau NN, who plans to adopt it as the school anthem. This journey brought not only learning and companionship to local children but also personal growth for the youths, who truly embodied the spirit of compassion and cultural exchange.
July 2026
BLIA Lesotho Warms Hearts with Donated Supplies
July 13, 2026
On July 26, the International Buddha’s Light Association Lesotho Chapter held its annual winter relief event in Maseru, distributing 200 packages containing essential items like flour, maize meal, oil, blankets, soap, and red beans to underprivileged families. Guided by Venerable Huiliao and supported by chapter leaders and volunteers, the event embodied the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism, promoting kindness and community support. Before the distribution, prayers and blessings were offered to wish the residents well. Local chief Ntate Taelo Matsoso attended and praised the group's charitable efforts. The event not only provided material support but also brought warmth and hope to the community.
Nan Hua Temple Hosts Youth and Children's Talent Camp to Foster Character and Creativity
July 6, 2026
To nurture character development, teamwork, and a wide range of talents among young people and children, Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple held its 2026 Fo Guang Youth and Children's Talent Camp from 28 June to 5 July 2026. The eight-day camp attracted 120 youth and children, offering a diverse programme that combined traditional folk sports, folk arts, life education, and Buddhist teachings. Through engaging and interactive activities, participants experienced the beauty of Chinese culture while putting Fo Guang Shan's Humanistic Buddhist values of the Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings into practice. The eight-day camp concluded successfully with laughter, friendship, and lasting memories. Through a rich variety of educational activities and teamwork experiences, participants developed practical skills, strengthened their character, and embraced the values of the Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings, reflecting Fo Guang Shan's commitment to cultivating people through education and promoting Humanistic Buddhism through culture.
June 2026
BLIA YAD SA Visit Durban to Promote Culture, Education, and Environmental Initiatives
July 11, 2025
From July 7 to 8, the South Africa BLIA Youth Division traveled over 600 kilometers to the Fo Guang Shan Durban Chan Pure Land Center for a two-day trip focused on cultural exchange and environmental action. Through folk art activities and a beach cleanup, the youth promoted the values of the “Three Acts of Goodness,” bringing energy and compassion to the local community. At the “Durban Children’s Day Camp,” the youth led games, dances, and crafts, teaching children the meaning of doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts. The next day, they joined a beach cleanup to promote environmental awareness, embodying the “Four Givings” spirit: giving hope, joy, confidence, and convenience. They also visited uShaka Marine World to learn about marine life and environmental conservation. The trip showcased the youth’s dedication to spreading Humanistic Buddhism through action, inspiring positive change in the community.
BLIA YAD SA Visit Durban to Promote Culture, Education, and Environmental Initiatives
July 11, 2025
From July 7 to 8, the South Africa BLIA Youth Division traveled over 600 kilometers to the Fo Guang Shan Durban Chan Pure Land Center for a two-day trip focused on cultural exchange and environmental action. Through folk art activities and a beach cleanup, the youth promoted the values of the “Three Acts of Goodness,” bringing energy and compassion to the local community. At the “Durban Children’s Day Camp,” the youth led games, dances, and crafts, teaching children the meaning of doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts. The next day, they joined a beach cleanup to promote environmental awareness, embodying the “Four Givings” spirit: giving hope, joy, confidence, and convenience. They also visited uShaka Marine World to learn about marine life and environmental conservation. The trip showcased the youth’s dedication to spreading Humanistic Buddhism through action, inspiring positive change in the community.
Youth and Children's Talent Camp: Cultivating Arts and Practicing the Three Acts of Goodness
July 6, 2025
From June 28 to July 5, an 8-day “Youth and Children’s Talent Camp” was held at Nan HUa Temple, attracting around 150 participants from across the country. The camp combined arts, culture, and spiritual education to promote Humanistic Buddhism's core values—the “Three Acts of Goodness” and the “Four Givings.” Divided into Youth and Children’s sessions, the camp featured folk dance, art, mindfulness, science experiments, and emotional education. Instructors from Taiwan taught traditional fan and indigenous dances, sachet making, and paper cutting, helping participants connect with cultural heritage through creativity and movement. Youth developed teamwork and self-awareness through dance, team challenges, and mindfulness sessions. They also helped lead the children’s program, showing leadership and dedication. The Children’s Camp included hands-on science, emotional learning, and baking, encouraging teamwork, creativity, and positive communication. The camp concluded with participants gaining inspiration from both cultural and life education, while actively practicing “doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts.” The event served as a meaningful bridge for spreading Humanistic Buddhism and planting seeds of hope in young hearts across Africa.
Youth and Children's Talent Camp: Cultivating Arts and Practicing the Three Acts of Goodness
July 6, 2025
From June 28 to July 5, an 8-day “Youth and Children’s Talent Camp” was held at Nan HUa Temple, attracting around 150 participants from across the country. The camp combined arts, culture, and spiritual education to promote Humanistic Buddhism's core values—the “Three Acts of Goodness” and the “Four Givings.” Divided into Youth and Children’s sessions, the camp featured folk dance, art, mindfulness, science experiments, and emotional education. Instructors from Taiwan taught traditional fan and indigenous dances, sachet making, and paper cutting, helping participants connect with cultural heritage through creativity and movement. Youth developed teamwork and self-awareness through dance, team challenges, and mindfulness sessions. They also helped lead the children’s program, showing leadership and dedication. The Children’s Camp included hands-on science, emotional learning, and baking, encouraging teamwork, creativity, and positive communication. The camp concluded with participants gaining inspiration from both cultural and life education, while actively practicing “doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts.” The event served as a meaningful bridge for spreading Humanistic Buddhism and planting seeds of hope in young hearts across Africa.
BLIA Johannesburg Chapter Spreads Warmth in Winter – Donates Supplies to Support Disadvantaged Schoolchildren's Families
June 4, 2026
To promote social welfare through charity, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Johannesburg Chapter held a winter donation event on June 19 at Goza Primary School in Soweto. The association distributed blankets, sweaters, food items, and other essentials to 100 underprivileged families to help them through the cold season. Led by Venerable Jue Di, the event was attended by 13 BLIA members. School staff, including Principal Wendy Sunfani, Deputy Principal Matodzi, and 80 parents, also participated. Acting Principal Matodzi thanked BLIA for its ongoing support, saying the donations ease the burden on struggling families. Vice President Chen emphasized the importance of education in breaking the poverty cycle and expressed gratitude to volunteers and donors. A recipient’s mother shared that her family had gone a day without food and expressed heartfelt thanks for the much-needed supplies. For years, BLIA Johannesburg has supported the community through education and charity, embodying the spirit of “giving confidence, joy, hope, and convenience.” The association pledges to continue serving families in need.
BLIA Johannesburg Chapter Spreads Warmth in Winter – Donates Supplies to Support Disadvantaged Schoolchildren's Families
June 4, 2026
To promote social welfare through charity, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Johannesburg Chapter held a winter donation event on June 19 at Goza Primary School in Soweto. The association distributed blankets, sweaters, food items, and other essentials to 100 underprivileged families to help them through the cold season. Led by Venerable Jue Di, the event was attended by 13 BLIA members. School staff, including Principal Wendy Sunfani, Deputy Principal Matodzi, and 80 parents, also participated. Acting Principal Matodzi thanked BLIA for its ongoing support, saying the donations ease the burden on struggling families. Vice President Chen emphasized the importance of education in breaking the poverty cycle and expressed gratitude to volunteers and donors. A recipient’s mother shared that her family had gone a day without food and expressed heartfelt thanks for the much-needed supplies. For years, BLIA Johannesburg has supported the community through education and charity, embodying the spirit of “giving confidence, joy, hope, and convenience.” The association pledges to continue serving families in need.
BLIA Johannesburg Chapter Spreads Warmth in Winter – Donates Supplies to Support Disadvantaged Schoolchildren's Families
June 4, 2026
To promote social welfare through charity, the Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) Johannesburg Chapter held a winter donation event on June 19 at Goza Primary School in Soweto. The association distributed blankets, sweaters, food items, and other essentials to 100 underprivileged families to help them through the cold season. Led by Venerable Jue Di, the event was attended by 13 BLIA members. School staff, including Principal Wendy Sunfani, Deputy Principal Matodzi, and 80 parents, also participated. Acting Principal Matodzi thanked BLIA for its ongoing support, saying the donations ease the burden on struggling families. Vice President Chen emphasized the importance of education in breaking the poverty cycle and expressed gratitude to volunteers and donors. A recipient’s mother shared that her family had gone a day without food and expressed heartfelt thanks for the much-needed supplies. For years, BLIA Johannesburg has supported the community through education and charity, embodying the spirit of “giving confidence, joy, hope, and convenience.” The association pledges to continue serving families in need.
May 2026
South Africa’s Proteas Bloom with Hope: Fo Guang Shan Celebrates Buddha’s Birthday
May 25, 2026
As South Africa’s national flower, the Protea symbolizes resilience, hope, and renewal. On May 23–24, BLIA Durban Chapter celebrated Buddha’s Birthday and Fo Guang Shan’s 60th anniversary through Buddha Bathing ceremonies, winter relief, and family activities. More than 1,000 people attended the Buddha Bathing and winter relief event in Phoenix, where volunteers distributed 1,000 packages containing blankets, clothing, rice, cooking oil, and maize meal to families in need. The event promoted Master Hsing Yun’s Three Acts of Goodness—doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts—as well as the “Four Givings” of confidence, hope, joy, and convenience. One touching moment came when 11-year-old Resnika, who had overcome family hardships, prayed not for himself but for his father to stop drinking. His simple wish reflected the compassion and hope at the heart of the celebration. The festivities continued with family games, birthday celebrations, and Buddha Bathing at the FGS Durban Meditation Centre Together, the two-day events brought families and communities closer while spreading compassion, hope, and warmth across cultural boundaries.
60th Anniversary of Fo Guang Shan: African Devotees Unite Through Sutra Transcription
May 17, 2026
To celebrate the 60th anniversary of Fo Guang Shan, devotees across Africa gathered on May 16 for a simultaneous global sutra-transcription practice. Nearly 400 participants from six centers across South Africa, Lesotho, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo took part. At Nan Hua Temple, people of different ethnic and cultural backgrounds practiced Chinese calligraphy while copying the Heart Sutra. For many local participants, the practice offered a unique introduction to Eastern mindfulness and meditation. Participants shared that carefully writing each character helped calm the mind, reduce stress, and stay present. Children also joined their families, with one eight-year-old participant copying the sutra while praying for her mother’s health. The event demonstrated how Buddhist practice can transcend language, culture, and borders. Through the quiet rhythm of writing, devotees found inner peace and offered their practice for greater harmony, wisdom, and blessings throughout Africa.
Buddha’s Compassion Brings Warmth to South African Seniors
May 12, 2026
To celebrate Buddha’s Birthday and put Master Hsing Yun’s vision of “serving society through charity” into action, Fo Guang Shan’s Bloemfontein Chapter held a Buddha Bathing Ceremony and winter relief event on May 10, benefiting nearly 60 elderly residents in need. With support from local community members and more than 30 volunteers, essential supplies—including maize meal, flour, sugar, salt, cooking oil, blankets, bread, and drinking water—were distributed to seniors in the Phase and Heidedal communities ahead of the winter season. Many participants also experienced the Buddha Bathing Ceremony for the first time. Volunteers introduced them to the meaning of the ritual and the Three Acts of Goodness: doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts. The event provided more than material assistance. Through kindness, respect, and care, volunteers shared the warmth of Buddhist compassion and demonstrated the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism in South Africa.
Nan Hua Temple’s Mother’s Day and Buddha’s Birthday Blessing Ceremony
May 10, 2026
On May 10, coinciding with Buddha’s Birthday and Mother’s Day, Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple held an Adult Blessing Ceremony, attracting around 250 participants. Through meditation, Dharma teachings, prayers, and a Buddha-bathing ceremony, participants found peace and renewed inner strength while praying for world peace and family harmony. Abbot Venerable Huei-Fang shared insights from the Heart Sutra on navigating today’s uncertain and rapidly changing “BANI [Brittle, Anxious, Non-linear, Incomprehensible]” world. She encouraged participants to face life with courage, compassion, and a calm mind, emphasizing that true maturity means remaining grounded through life’s challenges and becoming a source of strength for others. Participants Luciana and Jennifer shared how the ceremony brought them peace and helped them reconnect with their inner selves. For Jennifer, who was expecting to give birth the following day, the experience offered particular comfort as she prepared to enter a new stage of life. More than a religious ritual, the ceremony provided a moment for reflection, gratitude, and renewal, while extending Mother’s Day blessings to mothers everywhere for health, happiness, and loving families.
South Africa’s “Cloud Water Bathing Buddha Ceremony” Celebrates Buddha’s Birthday Across Cultures
May 4, 2026
To celebrate Buddha’s Birthday, Fo Guang Shan Buddhist groups in South Africa held “Cloud and Water Bathing the Buddha” ceremonies in Pretoria, Cape Town, and other locations on May 2–3, attracting nearly 400 people from diverse cultural backgrounds. At the Taiwan Festival in Pretoria, the bathing-the-Buddha altar drew considerable attention, with Taipei Liaison Office Representative Mr Liao, participating alongside the public. A highlight was the performance by Nan Hua Performing Arts Group, which combined traditional Chinese drums with energetic African rhythms, symbolizing the blending of cultures and the universal reach of Buddhist teachings. Participants from different faiths also shared meaningful experiences. Victor, who attended out of curiosity, said the ceremony encouraged him to step outside his comfort zone and reflect inwardly. Rashni connected strongly with Master Hsing Yun’s “Three Acts of Goodness”—doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts—seeing kindness and compassion as universal values. In Cape Town, the ceremony was held at the Cape Grand China, where families, friends, local residents, and community members joined during their shopping breaks. Taipei Liaison Office Director Chen also attended in support of cultural and religious exchange. The events reflected Master Hsing Yun’s vision of Humanistic Buddhism: bringing Buddhism into the community and building connections among people. Through the “Three Acts of Goodness” and the spirit of “giving people confidence, joy, hope, and convenience,” the ceremonies demonstrated how faith can transcend cultural and ethnic boundaries and bring people together in South Africa’s Rainbow Nation.
April 2026
Pretoria BLIA Hosts Farm Day to Practice the “Three Acts of Goodness”
April 12, 2026
On April 11, the International Buddha’s Light Association (BLIA) Pretoria Association held its annual outdoor fellowship at the scenic Irene Farm in South Africa. Nearly 50 members and family members gathered for a day of friendship, nature, and spiritual growth centered on Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s “Three Acts of Goodness”—doing good deeds, speaking good words, and thinking good thoughts. Association President Zhan Kaiying reminded participants that “the mind is like a field” and must be cultivated through goodness and awareness. Activities included Buddhist-themed riddles, group games, singing, and creative challenges, encouraging participants to build wisdom, teamwork, and stronger bonds across generations. The vegetarian lunch highlighted compassion and healthy living, while the afternoon farm walk provided an opportunity for mindful reflection and connection with nature. The event strengthened fellowship among members and families while encouraging everyone to bring the spirit of the Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings into their daily lives and communities.
2026 Africa Fellowship Concludes with a Commitment to Continue the Light of Buddhism
April 05, 2026
The two-day 2026 International Buddha’s Light Association (BLIA) Africa Fellowship concluded on April 5 at Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple in South Africa. The gathering brought together members from eight associations across three African countries to strengthen fellowship, share Buddhist teachings, and renew their commitment to spreading Humanistic Buddhism. The theme of this year’s event reflected the spirit of “passing on the light.” Participants were encouraged to uphold Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s vision of respect, inclusiveness, and the “Four Givings”—giving others confidence, joy, hope, and convenience. The second day featured sessions on personal awareness, cultivating wholesome relationships, and the role of lay Buddhists in Humanistic Buddhism. Speakers encouraged participants to transform from followers into active Dharma propagators through education, community service, and social engagement. Venerable Hui-Fang, Deputy Secretary-General for Africa, reminded participants to remain calm and flexible in facing life’s challenges, practice compassion, take responsibility for their lives, and approach difficulties with wisdom and acceptance. She encouraged everyone to share the values of Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings and actively contribute to society. The closing ceremony also marked the handover of the next fellowship to the Newcastle Association, which warmly invited everyone to reunite in Newcastle in two years and continue writing a new chapter for Humanistic Buddhism in Africa.
2026 Africa Fellowship Opens at Nan Hua Temple
April 05, 2026
The biennial 2026 International Buddha’s Light Association (BLIA) Africa Fellowship opened on April 4 at Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple in South Africa. More than 200 BLIA members and youth from South Africa, Lesotho, and other regions gathered for the event, joined by Buddhist monastics and lecturers. The opening ceremony emphasized the theme of “connecting hearts and sharing aspirations.” Participants were encouraged to bring the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism into daily life and spread its warmth throughout Africa. The Johannesburg Association received an Education Promotion Award, while the Pretoria and Durban Associations received Charity Service Awards for their contributions to local communities. Venerable Huilun delivered the opening lecture on “The Spirit of Humanistic Buddhism,” highlighting the importance of education, culture, charity, and passing Buddhist values from one generation to the next. A forum titled “Making the Master’s Mind Our Own” explored how Venerable Master Hsing Yun modernized and globalized Buddhism while keeping it relevant to everyday life. Afternoon activities combined flower arranging with mindfulness, encouraging participants to discover inner peace and self-awareness through ordinary activities. The first day concluded with participants feeling inspired and encouraged, gaining a deeper understanding that Buddhism is closely connected to everyday life and reaffirming their commitment to bringing its positive values to communities across Africa.