The BLIA Chicago English Subchapter hosted an “Autumn Harvest Festival,” bringing together over 60 members of Fo Guang families and friends. The event was filled with a warm and creative atmosphere, drawing participants of all ages.
The festivities began with Venerable Miao Wei leading the assembly in reciting the Heart Sutra and “A Prayer for a Dharma Service” by the FGS founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. She provided an opening talk, encouraging everyone to welcome the autumn season with a heart of gratitude and a spirit of forming positive connections. Following the prayer, outdoor activities commenced with great enthusiasm. Participants joined in a DIY pizza-making session—kneading dough, spreading toppings, and baking their own creations. The air was filled with the aroma of fresh pizza and laughter. Young participant Kevin Chen happily shared, “I love French fries and pizza the most!” A variety of delicious snacks allowed everyone to share the joy of the harvest amidst the autumn breeze.
A notable guest at the event was Tom Lee, the lead architect for the temple’s expansion project, who attended with his six-year-old and three-year-old children. They spent the autumn afternoon with Fo Guang families, experiencing a festive atmosphere rich in community spirit and Dharma joy.
The pumpkin carving and decorating session brought the event to its climax. Participants unleashed their imagination, creating a wide array of designs ranging from cute and whimsical to colorful and bold. Young artist Lian Chen excitedly exclaimed, “I’m going to paint my pumpkin red, white, and blue!” White Elephant Executive Bin-Xin Wang carved a design representing “Dharma Joy and Dharma Benefit,” inspired by the temple’s expansion plan, hoping to remind everyone to stay true to their initial aspirations and plant seeds of goodness together. Youth member Stephanie Sun noted that by focusing on the carving, her mind shifted from restlessness to tranquility, realizing the value of “seeking gratitude over perfection.” Yolanda Jin, who participated in a group cultivation for the first time, expressed her touched feelings, noting that focusing on the sutra chanting with the group brought her a sense of inner peace.
The event concluded successfully amidst laughter and Dharma joy. While experiencing American autumn traditions, participants felt the care and warmth of the Fo Guang family, adding a sense of spiritual happiness and celebration to the late autumn in Chicago.