佛 光 山 南 華 寺
Fo Guang Shan - Nan Hua Temple

News Board
"Humanistic Buddhism is Buddhism in daily life." - FGS Founding Master Hsing Yun
February 2025




First "Three Acts of Goodness" School Established in Africa: Promoting Moral Education and the Spirit of Goodness
14-02-2025
The first "Three Acts of Goodness" school in Africa was launched at Naturena Primary School in Johannesburg, South Africa, on February 13th. The event, attended by BLIA representatives, school staff, and 1,300 students, promoted the principles of "Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, Think Good Thoughts." Through interactive performances, sign language lessons, and African drumming, students learned about the initiative's core values. The event also included a group sing-along and a Q&A session, leaving a lasting impression on the students. The BLIA aims to expand this program across Africa, fostering moral education and positive values for a better society.




"You Are the One" Philanthropic Journey: Experiencing Festive Traditions in Another Country
04-02-2025
The BLIA Chunghwa YAD members from Taiwan participated in the annual Spring Festival celebrations at Nan Hua Temple in South Africa, engaging in cultural performances and volunteer work. They experienced the unique Chinese New Year traditions of South Africa, performed dances at the Reunion Dinner, and assisted at the carnival's cultural booths. The youth reflected on the importance of sincerity and cultural exchange, embodying the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism and the vision of Venerable Master Hsing Yun. This journey not only expanded their global outlook but also highlighted the compassion and vitality of the BLIA YAD community.




2025 Nan Hua Temple Spring Festival Carnival: Embracing a Bright Future
03-02-2025
The 2025 Spring Festival Carnival at Nan Hua Temple in South Africa celebrated the Lunar New Year with a vibrant blend of traditional and modern cultural elements. Over 25,000 attendees enjoyed activities such as lion dances, drum performances, tea ceremonies, and multicultural shows. The event highlighted themes of hope, transformation, and unity, while promoting Humanistic Buddhism and community engagement. Visitors have expressed their appreciation for the inclusive and festive atmosphere, making the carnival a cherished annual tradition.
January 2025




"You Are the One: South Africa Philanthropic Journey" – BLIA Chunghwa Youth Combines Education with Games
31-01-2025
The BLIA Chunghwa YAD members conducted educational and interactive activities at local Kids Care Centres and a primary school. Through creative lesson plans, songs, and games, they taught children the Three Acts of Goodness and good hygiene habits while fostering teamwork and focus. Over 1,600 children benefited from the program. The youth also engaged in reflective discussions to improve their teaching methods, showcasing their adaptability and commitment. Participants shared heartfelt experiences of connecting with the children, proving that education and kindness can transcend language and cultural barriers.




BLIA Youth Philanthropic Journey: South Africa Campus VEGRUN
28-01-2025
On January 27, 2025, a "VEGRUN Campus Charity Run" at Dikgabje Primary School in South Africa, as part of the philanthropic journey of the BLIA Chunghwa YAD. Over 700 students participated, led by youth dressed in vegetable and fruit costumes. The event promoted plant-based eating and environmental awareness while spreading love and kindness. School principal Mr. Thipane expressed deep gratitude for the initiative, and students shared their excitement and appreciation. The event left a lasting impact, inspiring both the children and the community, and highlighted the BLIA community's commitment to making a positive difference in the world.




2025 "You Are the One: South Africa Philanthropic Journey"
23-01-2025
The 2025 "You Are the One: South Africa Philanthropic Journey" brought 10 BLIA Chunghwa YAD Youth members to Nan Hua Temple in South Africa, led by Venerable You Du. The journey, organized by Venerable Jue Kai, included cultural and natural explorations, such as riding the Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway and visiting the Lesedi Cultural Village, where participants experienced South Africa's diverse heritage. The trip also featured a Spring Festival Carnival, offering a unique New Year experience. Participants expressed deep appreciation for the opportunity to connect with South Africa's culture and nature, reflecting on the teachings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun and the importance of respect and unity among all people.




Celebrating Buddha's Enlightenment Day: BLIA Johannesburg Members Spread Warmth and Care
12-01-2025
On January 11th, members of BLIA Johannesburg Chapter celebrated Buddha's Enlightenment Day by preparing and distributing 2,100 bowls of Laba Congee to the local Chinese community and elderly residents at a nursing home. The event involved 30 BLIA members and 18 youth volunteers, who worked together under the guidance of Venerable Hui Xing。 The Laba Congee, symbolizing gratitude and fulfillment, was delivered to locations such as the African Trade Center, China Trade Center, and Chinatown, spreading warmth and the spirit of Buddhist compassion. Volunteers also visited the Kangning Nursing Home, where elderly residents expressed deep appreciation for the care and kindness shown. The event not only celebrated Buddha's enlightenment but also reinforced the values of compassion and community, leaving a lasting impact on both participants and recipients.




Buddhist Wedding: Couple Ties the Knot in Front of the Buddha
06-01-2025
On January 5th, a heartfelt Buddhist wedding was held at Nan Hua Temple, where the groom and bride exchanged vows under the guidance of the Buddha, wishing them eternal protection under the Buddha's light and a lifetime of happiness together. Presided over by Venerable Hui Fang, the ceremony was filled with warmth, joy, and symbolic rituals, including the presentation of prayer beads, which symbolized unity and harmony. The bride's parents, active members of the BLIA (Buddha's Light International Association), expressed their hope that the couple would share a common faith and belief, using the Dharma as their guiding light to support and uplift each other throughout their lives. The groom shared his deep appreciation for the meaningful ceremony, which emphasized the values of compassion, wisdom, and gratitude. The event concluded with a beautiful choir performance and a vegetarian banquet, leaving guests inspired and filled with blessings for the couple's future. The wedding not only celebrated the union of two individuals but also highlighted the profound teachings of Buddhism, creating a memorable and spiritually enriching experience for all in attendance.




BLIA SA Young Adult Division Welcome the New Year, Showcasing Dedication and Vitality for 2025
04-01-2025
From December 30, 2024, to January 2, 2025, Nan Hua Temple hosted a series of New Year events that brought together 50 BLIA SA YAD members from across the country. The youth actively participated in and supported the temple’s activities, demonstrating their dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment to Buddhist values. Among the key events was the traditional Pilgrimage Ceremony, where participants knelt and bowed every three steps from the Guanyin Hall to the Main Shrine, promoting inner peace and reflection. On December 31, the temple hosted an Offering to the Buddhas and Devas Ceremony, with youth members making offerings and serving as attendants. The evening concluded with a spectacular iron-flower performance and a midnight sparkler event, creating a joyful and hopeful atmosphere. On January 1, 2025, the youth assisted with the temple’s first-ever Pet Blessing Ceremony and prepared nearly a thousand lunch boxes for devotees and visitors, highlighting their compassion and community spirit. Later, the youth gathered for a year-end celebration featuring team games, a vegetarian barbecue, and karaoke, which fostered stronger friendships and marked the start of the New Year in a harmonious setting. A youth member reflected on the experience, noting that the events provided an opportunity to practice the principles of the "Three Acts of Goodness and Four Givings," fostering personal growth and spreading positivity. The New Year activities not only deepened the youth's connection to Buddhism but also showcased their ability to serve the community and inspire others. In summary, the BLIA SA youth embraced 2025 with dedication, compassion, and unity, embodying Buddhist values and creating a meaningful start to the year. Their efforts left a lasting impact, demonstrating the power of collective action and the spirit of service.




Buddha's Light Illuminates All Living Beings: Nanhua Temple Holds Its First Pet Blessing Ceremony
03-01-2025
On January 1st, Nan Hua Temple held its first Pet Blessing Ceremony, a heartwarming event attended by nearly 100 pet owners and their beloved animals, including cats, dogs, turtles, and hedgehogs. The ceremony, led by Venerable Hui Xing, featured sutra chanting and blessings, creating a joyful and peaceful atmosphere. Pet owners prayed for the health and happiness of their animals, deeply moved by the connection between all living beings. The event embodied Fo Guang Shan Founding Master - Venerable Master Hsing Yun's philosophy of "protecting life," promoting respect and harmony between humans and animals. It also encouraged vegetarianism, adoption, and reducing harm to animals, inspiring participants to practice compassion in daily life. Attendees expressed gratitude for the unique opportunity to share the Dharma's warmth with their pets, calling it a memorable and transformative experience.




Three Refuges and Five Precepts: Embracing the Precepts as a Teacher to Begin a New Chapter in Life
02-01-2025
On January 1st 2025, Nan Hua Temple held its biennial Three Refuges and Five Precepts Ceremony, attended by 58 devotees. Twenty-two participants arrived a day early to learn about monastic robes, etiquette, and the significance of the precepts from Venerable Hui Fang, the abbot. He emphasized that the precepts are not restrictions but guidance, serving as the foundation for spiritual growth. The formal ceremony took place in the Pu Hsien Shrine, marked by the resonant sounds of bells and drums. Venerable Hui Fang led the devotees in reflecting on the essence of taking refuge and repenting past misdeeds. The new precept holders made solemn vows to uphold the precepts, creating a deeply moving and sacred atmosphere. After the ceremony, one participant shared how taking refuge in 2023 transformed her life, bringing peace and composure. Another attendee, an online Buddhist studies student, expressed how Buddhism provided a spiritual space free from rigid rules, with monastics always ready to answer his questions. The ceremony marked a significant milestone in the devotees' spiritual journeys, guiding them toward a life of fulfillment, purity, and wisdom through upholding the precepts and practicing the Dharma.




Nan Hua Temple's New Year's Eve iron flower show wows global audience.
02-01-2025
The iron flower performance at Fo Guang Shan - Nan Hua Temple on New Year's Eve 2024 captivated nearly 1,500 attendees, marking the first overseas showcase of this ancient Chinese folk art. The event highlighted the craft's unique charm and cultural significance, offering an unforgettable experience for international audiences. Despite its beauty, the art faces preservation challenges due to a dwindling number of skilled artisans. The performance began with a dramatic "fire pot" act, followed by the mesmerizing iron flower display, where molten iron was flung into the sky, creating a dazzling shower of sparks. The climax coincided with the New Year countdown, symbolizing blessings for peace and prosperity in 2025. Nan Hua Temple aims to promote and preserve this cultural treasure, ensuring its legacy for future generations.