Master Sheng Yen Gives Public Lecture in Vancouver

1/5/2004

Vancouver, Canada. Chan Master Sheng Yen made a rare visit to Vancouver on December 19-21, 2003. His last visit was eight years ago in 1995 and this was a joyous event for the local Buddhist community. The master gave a public talk entitled "True Peace Stems from a Peaceful Mind" at Canada Place on December 20 to an audience of about 2200 people. The 2-hour lecture focused on the use of the concepts and methods of Chan practice as guides for people to cultivate compassion, and how to embrace uncertainty during difficult times. By practicing the protection of one's spiritual environment, taking care of one's self and family, and being responsible for one's career and environment, the master underlined, would eventually bring about peace and stability to the society and the world.

The master's candid and simple explanation of the profound teachings of the Buddhadharma was well received by the audience, and, as the lecture concluded, about 250 people took refuge with Master Sheng Yen.

Master Sheng Yen also presided over the purification ceremony on the new site of the Dharma Drum Vancouver Affiliate Center on December 21 before returning to Taipei.