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The "2024 National Buddhist-Christian Dialogue," held on May 29, 2024, at the University of the West, centered around the theme "Learning from Each Other: Intergenerational Conversations." This interfaith and intergenerational forum drew approximately 40 participants.
Co-organized by Hsi Lai Temple, the University of the West, the National Council of Churches (NCC) representing millions of members, and The Guibord Center, the event featured Venerable Hui Ze from Hsi Lai Temple, alongside Dr. Victor Gabriel and Dr. Jane Iwamura from the University of the West, as hosts.
The dialogue opened with NCC Deputy General Secretary Dr. Lois Sprague inviting attendees to introduce themselves and share compelling aspects of their respective religions. Venerable Hui Ze expressed admiration for Western religious music and hymns during church services. Dr. Lois and several Christian representatives highlighted their warm welcomes at Hsi Lai Temple, noting the kindness of monks and volunteers as reflections of Buddhist warmth.
Dr. Jeffrey Kuan, a Christian representative, discussed elder-youth dialogue, drawing inspiration from British theologian John Wesley's principles: "Do no harm, do good, and stay in love with God." He emphasized that doing good is a shared principle across religions. Younger Christians, focused on issues like gender equality, racial justice, and climate change, are driving inclusivity within the global United Methodist Church.
Buddhist representative Bhante Walpola Piyananda observed that many now grow up in nuclear families, often disconnected from traditional cultural teachings imparted by grandparents.
Local youth Vincent Liu shared his transformative experience volunteering at Hsi Lai Temple and learning from Abbot Venerable Hui Dong's teachings, which emphasized self-belief and the inherent Buddha nature in everyone, deepening his engagement in temple activities.
Cassandra Garcia recounted how her family misunderstood her initial interest in Buddhism and vegetarianism but ultimately led to positive changes in their perspectives and renewed faith practices.
Christian youth Ryland Fernandez, from a Christian family, felt a guiding calling in his life, affirmed by his pastor as indicative of a future in ministry. He is currently undergoing assessment for ordination.
William Morris, a theology student, is actively engaged in climate change initiatives within the church, advocating for environmental stewardship grounded in theological principles that extend compassion to all living beings.
Dr. Lewis R. Lancaster, Professor Emeritus at UC Berkeley, stressed the importance for religious organizations to listen to and engage younger generations to ensure their sustainability, noting their ambition and vision as hopeful signs for the future.
Rev. Michael Woolf, a Baptist minister, initially believed in elders teaching the youth but was inspired by the energy and determination of younger participants, now seeing reciprocal learning as crucial.
Participants represented various Christian denominations and Buddhist groups across the U.S., including the National Council of Churches, The Guibord Center, Claremont School of Theology, American Baptist Churches USA, Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, Orthodox Church in America, Azusa Pacific University, Los Angeles Buddhist Union, and Jodo Shinshu Buddhism of Japan.
(Photos by Chin-Chuan Yen)
