Scholars of Global Philosophy of Religion Visit Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple

Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple
December 16, 2025

On December 2, 2025, a delegation of scholars visited Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple as part of an international project exploring diverse religious and philosophical traditions. The group was led by Mr. Martin Pickup, Director of the Global Philosophy of Religion (GPR) project at the Birmingham Centre for Philosophy of Religion, University of Birmingham. The GPR project aims to broaden the study of the philosophy of religion by engaging with cultures, faiths, and spiritual practices from around the world.

The visit followed the “Philosophy, Spirituality & the Meaning of Life Conference,” co-organized by JJ Joaquin and Hazel T. Biana, professors from the Philosophy Department of De La Salle University. The conference gathered 80 participants from nine countries, including 25 speakers. As part of their program, the presenters made a special trip to Fo Guang Shan Mabuhay Temple to gain firsthand experience of Humanistic Buddhism as practiced in the Philippines.

During the visit, Head Abbess Venerable Miao Jing and Dharma Sister Marlene Lao introduced the guests to One-Stroke Calligraphy, created by Fo Guang Shan founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun. They explained how this art form supports the construction and scholarship programs of Guang Ming College. The group also learned about the Buddhist community’s promotion of the Three Acts of Goodness and its cultural initiatives, including Siddhartha the Musical.

Venerable Jue Ci and Venerable Zhi Qin guided the attendees in a light-offering ceremony, a prayer for peace, hope, and collective well-being. They also tasted vegetarian Chinese gua-bao as one of the initiative for environmental and spiritual conservation.