On September 14, 2025, the President of the Buddhist Association of Canada and Abbot of Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden, Venerable Dayi, led the monastic community and lay disciples in the Tenth Annual “Three Steps, One Bow” Pilgrimage Dharma Assembly.
As one of the most significant annual Buddhist events in Canada, the assembly drew hundreds of participants from across the country and overseas. From children to seniors, all joined in solemn devotion, filling the Garden with dignity, compassion, and Dharma joy.
Venerable Master Dayi leads the assembly at the Manjushri Plaza by Lingquan Lake
The Venerable Master leads the benefactors in offering incense
Pilgrimage in Devotion
Under the guidance of Venerable Dayi, participants dressed in plain robes and chanted “Namo Manjushri Bodhisattva.” With each cycle of three steps followed by a full prostration, they demonstrated reverence to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, praying for world peace, family well-being, and social harmony. The pilgrimage route passed through Lingquan Lake, the Triple Jewel Path, Dizang Square, and the Great Buddha Hall, before concluding at Manjushri Square.
Worship along the mountain path, vows solemn and majestic
Three steps, one bow — moving forward with devotion
By Lingquan Lake, devotees worship with sincere devotion
Teachings and Dedication of Merits
At key stops along the route, Venerable Dayi offered Dharma teachings, reminding practitioners that “Three Steps, One Bow” is not merely a ritual but a path of letting go, purifying the mind, and dedicating merits to all beings. The assembly concluded with incense offerings, collective dedication of merits, and a commemorative group photo. As Venerable Dayi declared the pilgrimage complete, the day’s effort and devotion were transformed into peace and Dharma joy.
A Legacy of Perseverance
Over the past decade, “Three Steps, One Bow” has become a spiritual legacy of Wutai Shan Buddhist Garden, inspiring courage, endurance, and compassion. From its humble beginnings to today’s flourishing tradition, the practice continues to guide devotees on a path of faith and perseverance, for the benefit of all beings.
Report and Photography by Easycan Inc. Journalists Shengji Lin & Haoyang