TORONTO, September 21, 2026 – The Chinese Consulate General in Toronto held a reception on September 18 to celebrate the 77th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. Venerable Dayi, president of the Buddhist Association of Canada, abbot of Cham Shan Temple and abbot of the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden in Canada, attended the event by invitation. Representatives from government, consular corps, Chinese community groups, Chinese-funded institutions and academic circles also took part. According to information released by the Chinese Consulate General in Toronto, more than 500 people attended that evening.
Chinese Consul General in Toronto Luo Weidong delivered remarks at the reception, introducing China’s economic and social development and speaking about China-Canada relations and exchanges between the two countries. The event also featured a photo exhibition, displays of traditional Chinese culture and technological achievements, and cultural performances.
During the event, Venerable Dayi said he has long lived and promoted Buddhism in Canada while continuing to follow China’s development. He said he hopes more local residents can learn about traditional Chinese culture through cultural, educational and religious exchanges.
Venerable Dayi currently serves as president of the Buddhist Association of Canada, abbot of Toronto’s Cham Shan Temple and abbot of the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden in Canada. According to information from Cham Shan Temple, he came to Toronto in 2003 and has since been involved in Buddhist cultural outreach and community activities.
In recent years, the Buddhist Association of Canada has continued to advance the construction of the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden in Canada, bringing elements of traditional Chinese Buddhist architecture, gardens and religious culture to Canada. Venerable Dayi said that, in addition to its religious function, the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden also aims to provide local residents with a place to learn about Chinese architecture and Buddhist culture.
The Buddhist Association of Canada has long participated in community service, including visits to seniors, charitable initiatives and volunteer activities. Venerable Dayi has also helped promote exchanges between Buddhist culture and Canadian educational and academic institutions, maintaining ties with local society through lectures and cultural events.
Venerable Dayi said he will continue to support the development of the Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden in Canada and take part in work related to seniors’ care, community service and charitable initiatives.
（LJI by Yuanyuan）
