Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto — Attraction in Mississauga

This place is a wonderful destination for both spiritual and culinary experiences. They offer weekly prayer services, warmly welcoming individuals from all backgrounds to participate. However, it is important to note that mask mandates are in place to ensure the safety of all attendees.

In addition to the spiritual services, they boast a remarkable tea house that serves exceptional vegetarian noodles and tea. The tea house maintains impeccable hygiene standards, enhancing the overall dining experience. It is worth mentioning that membership is required to dine in the tea house, offering an exclusive atmosphere to its patrons.

Moreover, the establishment offers various classes, including yoga sessions. These classes are exclusively available to members, requiring registration through the membership program. The dedicated and compassionate venerables in the temple are readily available to assist visitors, and some of them are proficient in English.

Additionally, even if you are not a member, there is no need to worry as you can conveniently register for membership directly at the counter. This makes it accessible for everyone to enjoy the privileges and offerings of the tea house and participate in the various classes and activities available.

Overall, this visit proved to be a highly enriching and rewarding...

Volunteering is really about giving your time and energy to help others, and usually it comes with patience, respect, and kindness. That’s what makes the experience feel special for the community.

I went to the vegetarian lunch on September 6, 2025, at the basement of Fo Guang Shan Mississauga. The food was, as always, really good — fresh, tasty, and clearly made with care. But honestly, the atmosphere this time didn’t feel as positive as I expected.

While waiting in line, one volunteer spoke and gestured in a way that felt a bit dismissive. Another criticized her fellow server right in front of everyone, which was uncomfortable to see. A lot of the volunteers also looked unhappy, and there weren’t many smiles, which made the whole experience feel less welcoming.

This was only my second visit to the temple, and I came hoping to enjoy both the food and the peaceful environment. Instead, the tension between volunteers and the lack of warmth during lunch really stood out.

I just want to share this respectfully: a smile, a friendly word, or a little patience goes a long way. It would make visitors like me — especially newcomers — feel more welcome...

Volunteering is a kind of dedication, a donation of love and time. Volunteers are serving the public and the society. No matter when they are doing voluntary work, they should never bring any impetuous attitude towards others. However, when I had a vegetarian lunch yesterday at the basement of Fo Guang Shan in Mississauga, I encountered two opposite behaviors. The vegetarian food here is always delicious, but volunteers who serve people should try their best to treat people with respect!When I was queuing for food I met two middle-aged Asian Fo Guang volunteers in a row, which made me a little surprised. I don't know if they have the heart to help others? The first one showed her lack of respect for people who line up for good in her gestures and tone, which made the person who was served feel incredible and innocent. The other one criticized the volunteer who was also distributing food with her in a very disrespectful tone. I could have sat down and enjoyed the delicious vegetarian food, but my mood was a little affected by what I had saw. I thought: "Buddhism is a pure place, but it is a pity that it is stained by dust by these...