Tian-jin Temple actively participated in the “Hello, Burnaby! Seniors Activity Fair” online event organized by the Burnaby community. The event, launched on April 1, 2021, aimed to address the lack of social interactions among seniors due to the pandemic. The platform provided educational resources, information consultations, and interactive lectures on various topics, as well as fitness activities. Tian-Jin Temple upholds a commitment to cultural heritage and caring for the community through the organization of affordable community classes, such as Tai-Chi, Chinese calligraphy, floral arrangement, and yoga, along with a free Saturday afternoon “happy hour” activity for seniors. During the height of the pandemic, Tian-jin Temple participated in this online event to engage the seniors in the community.

Tian-jin Temple’s Master Chen Mingna in particular took the time in her busy schedule to prepare a simple and easy-to-learn handicraft activity for the elderly. She taught everyone how to create their dream fairy tale garden using natural plant materials from their own gardens and repurposed items. Master Chen hopes that through DIY activities like this, everyone can find inner peace and tranquility. She believes it’s especially important to promote both physical and mental wellbeing during this unprecedented period.

The temple volunteer representative, Claire Chiu, patiently interacted with attendees and walked through the materials and instructions of the project on the video platform. The “Mini Fairy Garden” activity received enthusiastic responses and positive feedback from the elderly guests, who expressed their gratitude and admiration.

Master Chen said, “The busyness of life often robs us of our childhood innocence. Let’s strive to maintain our childlike hearts and keep our minds pure. Today, we hope to have an opportunity to rediscover our childhood dreams.” Please join us in appreciating Teacher Chen’s creation, the “Mini Fairy Garden.”