Fo Guang University Students Visit iACT to Learn About the Power of Interfaith Service

Reported by Li Shao-Cheng, Humanistic Buddhism News Agency, Austin

On July 16, Venerable Jue Ji, superintendent of Fo Guang Shan Xiang Yun Temple, led four Fo Guang University interns on a visit to iACT (Interfaith Action of Central Texas). Through an introduction to the organization, a tour of its facilities, and classroom observation, the group learned about iACT’s achievements in promoting interfaith dialogue, cultural integration, and community service.

Simone Flowers, executive director of iACT, explained that the organization helps refugees, immigrants, and underprivileged families integrate into the local community through education, community services, and interfaith collaboration. The visiting group also observed an English-language class and learned how instructors design course materials according to students’ proficiency levels and use interactive teaching methods to strengthen their language skills and help them adapt to their new environment. Students from different cultural backgrounds encouraged and learned from one another, demonstrating a spirit of inclusion and mutual support.

Promotional materials featuring messages such as “Hope” and “I Belong” were displayed at the site, conveying the values of hope, belonging, and community unity. At the conclusion of the visit, the group took a commemorative photo in front of the iACT banner.

The exchange gave the participants a deeper understanding of how interfaith cooperation not only promotes mutual understanding but also brings people together to care for the community and put the values of respect, diversity, and inclusion into practice.

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