The International Buddhist Temple (also 觀音寺 in Chinese; Guan Yin Sì in pinyin; Guan Yin Temple) is located in Richmond, British Columbia, Canada. It is a Chinese Buddhist temple run by the International Buddhist Society.
While the Society officially practices Mahayana Buddhism, the temple is open to Theravada Buddhist affiliates and visitors, as well as visitors of all religious and cultural backgrounds.
The International Buddhist Temple delivers the philosophies of Buddhism to the Western world through meditation, traditional ceremonies, charitable giving, and the impeccable art of Chinese craftsmanship.
History
In 1979, two Buddhists from Hong Kong donated land and funds to the cause of building an authentic Chinese Buddhist temple in North America. The International Buddhist Society was established in 1981 for this cause by the Venerable Guan Cheng and five other individuals. The International Buddhist Temple officially opened to the public after two years, when its Main Hall was completed.
Thousands of people, including Richmond’s mayor and Member of Parliament, attended the inauguration ceremony in 1986.
International Buddhist Society
The International Buddhist Society is a non-profit organization and a registered Canadian charity. It sponsors charitable programs both in Canada and abroad. Some of the Society’s efforts include:
- Donations to the Food Bank
- Rescuing and releasing sealife and other creatures
- Support for the poor and disadvantaged in rural China
- Aid for students and the elderly
The Society also hosts free events for the community, such as Senior’s Day celebrations with free vegetarian lunches for seniors at the temple.
International Buddhist Society
Richmond, B.C., Canada
V7A 1M5
