iACT Holds Successful 41st Interfaith Thanksgiving Celebration Austin Buddha's Light International Association Joins in Support

Reported by Ben Yu, Austin

On November 23, 2025, the 41st iACT "Interfaith Thanksgiving Service and Celebration" was held at St. Michael's Church under the theme "Praising Grace." Through prayer and music, the event conveyed messages of gratitude and peace. Venerables Jue Ji, Yong Jia, and Yi Song from Hsiang Yun Temple led more than twenty BLIA members to participate, joining various religious and cultural communities. iACT Executive Director Simone Flowers also attended for fellowship and conversation.

The program opened with a trumpet fanfare as leaders from different faiths entered solemnly. The Grammy Award–winning Conspirare Choir delivered a moving performance with its pure, resonant voices. Representatives from Christianity, Buddhism, Judaism, Islam, Sikhism, and Hinduism then offered prayers in their respective traditions. Venerable Jue Ji delivered a blessing invoking the compassionate vows of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, embodying interfaith respect and harmony.

Approximately 300 people attended, creating an atmosphere of warmth and serenity. A display area outside the church featured English Buddhist booklets provided by Hsiang Yun Temple and BLIA, which were well received by guests. During the potluck after the ceremony, various groups shared their dishes, with Hsiang Yun Temple's spring rolls and seaweed rolls drawing particular attention.

Centered on compassion and remembrance, the event allowed participants to experience the connection and hope that arise when diverse faiths gather under a shared vision through prayer, music, and fellowship.

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