The 2025 BLIA North America Buddha’s Light Writing Examination was held simultaneously online on December 13 and 14. Nearly 2,200 participants from 27 chapters across North America took part, with ages ranging from 3 to 91. The number of examinees in both Chinese and English categories increased, with the English Adult group doubling since last year, demonstrating the successful growth of Humanistic Buddhism in North America.
More than 800 participants registered for the English group, and nearly 100 joined the French Children’s group, mostly from FGS Scouts, FGS Chinese Schools, Three Acts of Goodness (TAG) schools, and Young Adult Divisions (YAD). For the first time, the English Adult group utilized the interactive platform Kahoot for the exam, which enhanced engagement and received positive feedback. A total of 27 members from Fo Guang Shan Chicago registered, with 13 attending in person and 14 participating online. Despite the severe cold, members remained enthusiastic about the challenge.
The Chicago YAD demonstrated a strong spirit of collective learning. Chapter President Karen Wang noted that this year’s exam content was rigorous, centered on the writings of Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and that the members’ consistent preparation yielded great results. White Elephant Executive Celine Wang shared her pride in all the members who accepted the challenge, stating that every step—from registration and organizing study groups to taking the actual exam—reflected their diligence and thirst for the Dharma.
David Wang, a youth member who took the exam online from New York, expressed that the examination is a vital annual event that allows YAD members to connect through their Dharma studies. Stephanie Sun, taking the exam for the second time, particularly thanked the temple for organizing pre-exam study sessions, which helped her review fundamental Buddhist concepts more systematically.
Lu-Yan Li, a Director of the BLIA Chicago Chapter, quoted a traditional Buddhist proverb during her reflection: “To cultivate blessings without wisdom is like an elephant wearing a necklace of jewels,” emphasizing that delving into the sutras is essential for developing wisdom. She remarked that she makes time for the exam every year to remind herself not to become complacent in a comfortable life. She expressed a commitment to growing her right understanding and practicing the dual cultivation of blessings and wisdom for the sake of her spiritual life across all lifetimes.
Samantha Boie, a member of the English Subchapter, also shared her experience. She admitted to feeling nervous initially due to the timed questions, but being at the temple with the community helped her mind become calm and settled. She believes the exam is not only a test of knowledge but also a moment for self-reflection on one’s spiritual practice.