Fo Guang Shan Xiang Yun Temple in Austin Hosts Dharma Lecture by Venerable Lay Dharma Lecturer Chao Ku Huai-Chen

Fo Guang Shan, The Life News Agency, Su Bi-Shan, Austin Report

Following the weekly Dharma service on July 12, Fo Guang Shan Xiang Yun Temple hosted the seventh lecture in the “Passing on the Lamp for Sixty Years: Looking Toward the Centennial” Buddhist Lecture Series. The temple invited Chao Ku Huai-Chen, a board member of the Fo Guang International Association, a lay Dharma lecturer, supervisor, and the chief representative of devotees at Fo Guang Patriarchal Monastery Dajue Temple, to deliver a lecture titled “The Heart of the World, the Compassion of Humanity.” The event attracted nearly 60 participants.

Drawing upon her more than three decades of following Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Chao shared her reflections on the Master’s life journey, characterized by “being born amid hardship, growing through difficulties, and living a life of joy.” She explained how adversity can be transformed into a source of strength for propagating the Dharma and benefiting all beings. She also introduced the Humanistic Buddhism principles of the “Three Acts of Goodness,” the “Four Givings,” and the teaching that “with the Dharma, there is always a way,” encouraging participants to practice Buddhism through compassion, acceptance, and equality.

Chao also recommended reading Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s works, including Having Something to Say: A Buddhist Monk’s Journey, I Am Not a Monk Who Merely Eats Religion, and A Sincere Confession, allowing readers to gain deeper insight into the Master’s lifelong vow and dedication to spreading the Dharma.

After the lecture, participants gathered at the Drop of Water Teahouse for an engaging discussion on topics including making vows, Pure Land faith, and the transmission of Buddhist teachings. The temple also held a Fo Guang Baby Blessing Ceremony for two expectant mothers and three new mothers. Venerable Jue Ji, the temple’s supervisor, offered blessings for the babies’ safety, growth, and future development as sincere Fo Guang practitioners who uphold and support the Triple Gem.

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