St. Michael’s Preparatory School Visits Xiangyun Temple

Reported by Yi-Ping Austin, The Life News Agency

On November 14, 2025, thirteen students and two teachers from St. Michael’s Preparatory School visited Xiangyun Temple under the guidance of teacher Xuling Jiang. All of the students are enrolled in Chinese language courses and showed great interest in Buddhism and Chinese culture. Volunteers Bob, Landry, Ezra, and Tuy warmly hosted the group throughout the visit.

Fo Guang volunteers welcomed the visitors at the Mountain Gate and provided an introduction to the temple’s layout and architectural features. After watching a film on the life of the Buddha in the main hall, Bob led a discussion on the meaning of Buddhist teachings and practice, using the Diamond Sutra to explain core principles of the Dharma.

Under the instruction of Coach Guadalupe, the students had the opportunity to experience kung fu. Afterwards, they entered the dining hall, where they recited the “Four-line Verse of Fo Guang” in both Chinese and English before enjoying a vegetarian lunch.

In the afternoon, Landry guided the group in walking meditation and sitting meditation in the Chan Hall. The students responded enthusiastically and asked many thoughtful questions. Following this, Maritza, Ezra, and Landry introduced the tea ceremony at the Dripping Water Pavilion, explaining the cultural significance of tea in Buddhism. The students were deeply moved, remarking that “time felt as though it did not exist here.”

To conclude the visit, Venerable Yongjia presented the guests with small badges printed with Chinese wisdom phrases, offering them an opportunity to practice their Chinese. The group took a commemorative photo in front of the Mountain Gate, marking a fulfilling end to their cultural journey.

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