Ten Religious Traditions Gather at the Museum of World Religions on Earth Day to Pray for Light and Pledge to Protect the Planet
On April 22, in observance of Earth Day, the Museum of World Religions (MWR) in New Taipei City’s Yonghe District brought together representatives from ten different faith traditions to offer prayers for the planet. United in spirit, they jointly issued a declaration to safeguard the Earth’s ecology—lighting the way with faith, embracing nature with spirituality, and pledging to serve as guardians of the environment. The gathering also marked the opening of the special exhibition 'Light A Life X Live A Light' exhibitio which invites visitors to awaken a deeper awareness of the profound truth of interdependence and the shared flourishing of all living beings.
Since its founding in 2001, the Museum of World Religions (MWR) has upheld the core values of “Respect for all Faiths, Tolerance for all Cultures, Love for all Life,” as envisioned by its founder, Dharma Master Hsin Tao. Over the past 24 years, it has become a key platform in Taiwan for fostering peaceful interreligious dialogue and understanding. Amidst the escalating threats of climate change and ecological crisis, a question arises: can the light of faith still illuminate human hearts and guide us toward harmony with the Earth? In response, the MWR marked this year’s Earth Day with a special event featuring a joint interfaith prayer and the opening of the 'Light A Life X Live A Light' exhibition, inviting reflection on the sacred interconnectedness of life
Mourning the Loss of a Saint: Silent Prayers for the Late Pope Francis
Foundation, shared that Dharma Master Hsin Tao has in recent years been actively promoting the concept of spiritual ecology. To pray for peace on Earth, he is currently leading the Fourfold Assembly in a 21-day retreat at Ling Jiou Mountain, devoted to the chanting of the Great Compassion Mantra. In the Master’s absence, the MWR took up the mantle of his vision, inviting representatives of various faiths to come together in prayer for ecological healing. With diverse forms of spiritual expression, the hope is to awaken hearts and minds—to respect the intrinsic value of all life forms, to embrace the shared space we all inhabit, and to co-create a world of mutual flourishing, achieving harmony with all beings.
Amid this gathering, silent prayers were also offered for the passing of Pope Francis—a towering figure of compassion and conscience whose legacy continues to inspire. His absence was deeply felt, and his memory honored with reverence and sorrow.
Pope Francis, a devoted protector of the Earth’s ecology, was called by God on April 21. Upon learning of his passing, Dharma Master Hsin Tao, who had met the Pope personally at the Vatican, immediately instructed that a candle be lit in tribute. He spoke of the late Pope’s lifelong compassion and profound love for humanity, his unwavering concern for all nations, societies, and religions, describing his legacy as one of complete benevolence. Deeply saddened by the departure of such a saintly figure, Dharma Master Hsin Tao vowed to carry forward this mission of loving the Earth and fostering peace, working hand in hand with other religions to safeguard our planet’s ecology. Before the April 22 event began, all attendees also joined in a minute of silent prayer to honor the beloved religious leader.
Faith Representatives Unite to Voice Their Support for the Earth, Moving from Praise to Action
The interfaith prayer ceremony was not merely a formal gathering, but also a sacred prelude to the opening of the MWR's special exhibition 'Light A Life X Live A Light' exhibitio. The first to speak was Lin Ching-Chi, Director of the Division of Religion and Ritual at the Ministry of the Interior. Lin praised Dharma Master Hsin Tao’s profound compassion for the suffering of all beings and his dedication to praying for the Earth’s safety. He also acknowledged the MWR’s tireless efforts in connecting world religions and fostering dialogue.
Following the opening remarks, representatives from various religious traditions stepped forward one by one to offer blessings and words of praise for the Earth. The speakers included Elder Chao Hsi-Lin of the Taipei Grand Mosque; Venerable Ta Kang representing the Ling Jiou Mountain Buddhist Society; Mr. Chien Ching-Hwa, Chairman of the ROC I-Kuan Tao Association; retired Catholic Bishop Liu Dan-Kuei; Arch Envoy Tsai Guang-Ssu of The Lord of Universe Church; Panay Mulu, priest of the Indigenous Amis tribe; Elder Yang Shih-Ning of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Taiwan; Secretary-General Chang Chao-Heng of the Chinese Taoist Association; Reverend Lin Li-Feng of the Episcopal Diocese of Taiwan; and Fr. Jonah of the Orthodox Church in Taiwan. A number of Sikh participants were also present. Despite their diverse languages and faiths, their voices united in a shared concern for the Earth’s future. As hearts resonated, the gathering echoed a collective hope – a spiritual frequency in harmony with Heaven and Earth.
One of the event’s highlights was the declaration of the “Joint Communique on Safeguarding the Ecology, in which faith representatives called on society at large to join in the collective endeavor of loving and protecting the Earth through concrete action. This interfaith and intercultural initiative not only gave voice to ecological concerns but also reaffirmed a shared spiritual commitment to sustainability. In addition, Tourism Administration director-general Chou Yung-hui and Venerable Xian Yue jointly signed a memorandum of understanding to promote collaborative efforts in tourism, with the goal of integrating resources to develop a model of spiritual tourism.
Light A Life X Live A Light: An Exhibition and a Metaphor of Faith
Held in parallel with the interfaith prayer ceremony, the Light A Life X Live A Light special exhibition follows in the thematic footsteps of the Museum’s previous showcases—Bright as night, dark as day, A walk with the death (2022) and Mountains, Ocean and Sky, NATURE IN ME (2023). Centered once again on the concept of “light,” this year’s exhibition guides visitors from the perception of visible light in science to deeper cosmic metaphors, ultimately returning to a spiritual insight of oneness: that all beings are interconnected and part of a greater whole.
For the first time, the ‘Light A Life X Live A Light’ exhibition breaks away from the Museum’s traditional use of its special exhibition area, merging the two main galleries into a single, fluid space divided into six uniquely styled zones. Through an immersive experience that blends sensory perception with emotional resonance, the exhibition offers a dynamic journey of discovery. In addition to viewing four treasured artifacts from the Museum’s collection, visitors are invited to engage with interactive installations that trace the flow of light—revealing the subtle harmony between self and Nature.
‘Light A Life X Live A Light’ Takes Visitors on a Journey Through the Spiritual Cycles of the Cosmos
The exhibition integrates four prized artifacts from the MWR collection across six uniquely themed zones. The journey begins in the Cocoon of Light, a space shaped by the exhibition’s central visual motif. It symbolizes the quiet origins of existence, inviting visitors to settle inwardly before metaphorically breaking free from the cocoon and entering into a dialogue with light itself.
In the Light of Awakening zone, the Portrait of St. Francis—a cherished piece from the collection—evokes simplicity, peace, and coexistence with nature. It aims to awaken the light within and rekindle an awareness of our intrinsic bond with the universe.
The Light of Genesis zone centers on the Stone Statue of Brahma, which personifies truth and illumination. This space guides visitors back to the primordial beginnings of the cosmos, offering a glimpse into the profound truth that all life emerges from a singular, formless source of energy.
The ‘Light of Selflessness’ zone invites visitors to follow the geometric structure and color order of the MWR's Heruka Chakrasamvara Mandala to transcend the superficial self and connect with the pure, non-attached inner consciousness. The ‘Light of All’ zone features the MWR's Stone Statue of Vishnu, which symbolizes merciful protection and illustrates the flow of energy and interdependence between all life. This concept is represented by the “Light of Non-Light,” which transcends physical form. The ‘Light of Salvation’ zone uses interactive installations to help visitors understand the truth of the unity and interdependence of all things, encouraging a more humble and connected attitude towards oneself, others, and the entire universe.
MWR Director Ma You-Juan shared the core philosophy and curatorial process behind the exhibition, inviting visitors to do more than just observe. She encouraged them to use light to transcend surface appearances and sensory instincts, to delve into the essence of existence and recognize their connection with the universe. Ma expressed her hope that visitors would immerse themselves in the natural, cyclical flow of life, seeking, experiencing, and ultimately becoming one with the light.
Faith is not a thing of the past, but a path leading to the future
Dharma Master Hsin Tao’s calligraphy, "The Eternal Light Resides in All," serves as a fitting commentary, illustrating that this event is not just a religious blessing or an art exhibition. It also features a performance by body artist Chou Chang-Ning, transforming the occasion into a live demonstration of contemporary faith culture. Religion, rather than being a relic of the past, actively engages with modern issues, offering living responses to them. The collaboration of the Tourism Administration, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the Ministry of Interior, and the Ministry of Culture underscore the event as a model of how cultural tourism, religious education, and environmental sustainability can converge.
Since its founding in 2001, the Museum of World Religions (MWR) has upheld the core values of “Respect for all Faiths, Tolerance for all Cultures, Love for all Life,” as envisioned by its founder, Dharma Master Hsin Tao. Over the past 24 years, it has become a key platform in Taiwan for fostering peaceful interreligious dialogue and understanding. Amidst the escalating threats of climate change and ecological crisis, a question arises: can the light of faith still illuminate human hearts and guide us toward harmony with the Earth? In response, the MWR marked this year’s Earth Day with a special event featuring a joint interfaith prayer and the opening of the 'Light A Life X Live A Light' exhibition, inviting reflection on the sacred interconnectedness of life
Mourning the Loss of a Saint: Silent Prayers for the Late Pope Francis
Foundation, shared that Dharma Master Hsin Tao has in recent years been actively promoting the concept of spiritual ecology. To pray for peace on Earth, he is currently leading the Fourfold Assembly in a 21-day retreat at Ling Jiou Mountain, devoted to the chanting of the Great Compassion Mantra. In the Master’s absence, the MWR took up the mantle of his vision, inviting representatives of various faiths to come together in prayer for ecological healing. With diverse forms of spiritual expression, the hope is to awaken hearts and minds—to respect the intrinsic value of all life forms, to embrace the shared space we all inhabit, and to co-create a world of mutual flourishing, achieving harmony with all beings.
Amid this gathering, silent prayers were also offered for the passing of Pope Francis—a towering figure of compassion and conscience whose legacy continues to inspire. His absence was deeply felt, and his memory honored with reverence and sorrow.
Pope Francis, a devoted protector of the Earth’s ecology, was called by God on April 21. Upon learning of his passing, Dharma Master Hsin Tao, who had met the Pope personally at the Vatican, immediately instructed that a candle be lit in tribute. He spoke of the late Pope’s lifelong compassion and profound love for humanity, his unwavering concern for all nations, societies, and religions, describing his legacy as one of complete benevolence. Deeply saddened by the departure of such a saintly figure, Dharma Master Hsin Tao vowed to carry forward this mission of loving the Earth and fostering peace, working hand in hand with other religions to safeguard our planet’s ecology. Before the April 22 event began, all attendees also joined in a minute of silent prayer to honor the beloved religious leader.
Faith Representatives Unite to Voice Their Support for the Earth, Moving from Praise to Action
The interfaith prayer ceremony was not merely a formal gathering, but also a sacred prelude to the opening of the MWR's special exhibition 'Light A Life X Live A Light' exhibitio. The first to speak was Lin Ching-Chi, Director of the Division of Religion and Ritual at the Ministry of the Interior. Lin praised Dharma Master Hsin Tao’s profound compassion for the suffering of all beings and his dedication to praying for the Earth’s safety. He also acknowledged the MWR’s tireless efforts in connecting world religions and fostering dialogue.
Following the opening remarks, representatives from various religious traditions stepped forward one by one to offer blessings and words of praise for the Earth. The speakers included Elder Chao Hsi-Lin of the Taipei Grand Mosque; Venerable Ta Kang representing the Ling Jiou Mountain Buddhist Society; Mr. Chien Ching-Hwa, Chairman of the ROC I-Kuan Tao Association; retired Catholic Bishop Liu Dan-Kuei; Arch Envoy Tsai Guang-Ssu of The Lord of Universe Church; Panay Mulu, priest of the Indigenous Amis tribe; Elder Yang Shih-Ning of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Taiwan; Secretary-General Chang Chao-Heng of the Chinese Taoist Association; Reverend Lin Li-Feng of the Episcopal Diocese of Taiwan; and Fr. Jonah of the Orthodox Church in Taiwan. A number of Sikh participants were also present. Despite their diverse languages and faiths, their voices united in a shared concern for the Earth’s future. As hearts resonated, the gathering echoed a collective hope – a spiritual frequency in harmony with Heaven and Earth.
One of the event’s highlights was the declaration of the “Joint Communique on Safeguarding the Ecology, in which faith representatives called on society at large to join in the collective endeavor of loving and protecting the Earth through concrete action. This interfaith and intercultural initiative not only gave voice to ecological concerns but also reaffirmed a shared spiritual commitment to sustainability. In addition, Tourism Administration director-general Chou Yung-hui and Venerable Xian Yue jointly signed a memorandum of understanding to promote collaborative efforts in tourism, with the goal of integrating resources to develop a model of spiritual tourism.
Light A Life X Live A Light: An Exhibition and a Metaphor of Faith
Held in parallel with the interfaith prayer ceremony, the Light A Life X Live A Light special exhibition follows in the thematic footsteps of the Museum’s previous showcases—Bright as night, dark as day, A walk with the death (2022) and Mountains, Ocean and Sky, NATURE IN ME (2023). Centered once again on the concept of “light,” this year’s exhibition guides visitors from the perception of visible light in science to deeper cosmic metaphors, ultimately returning to a spiritual insight of oneness: that all beings are interconnected and part of a greater whole.
For the first time, the ‘Light A Life X Live A Light’ exhibition breaks away from the Museum’s traditional use of its special exhibition area, merging the two main galleries into a single, fluid space divided into six uniquely styled zones. Through an immersive experience that blends sensory perception with emotional resonance, the exhibition offers a dynamic journey of discovery. In addition to viewing four treasured artifacts from the Museum’s collection, visitors are invited to engage with interactive installations that trace the flow of light—revealing the subtle harmony between self and Nature.
‘Light A Life X Live A Light’ Takes Visitors on a Journey Through the Spiritual Cycles of the Cosmos
The exhibition integrates four prized artifacts from the MWR collection across six uniquely themed zones. The journey begins in the Cocoon of Light, a space shaped by the exhibition’s central visual motif. It symbolizes the quiet origins of existence, inviting visitors to settle inwardly before metaphorically breaking free from the cocoon and entering into a dialogue with light itself.
In the Light of Awakening zone, the Portrait of St. Francis—a cherished piece from the collection—evokes simplicity, peace, and coexistence with nature. It aims to awaken the light within and rekindle an awareness of our intrinsic bond with the universe.
The Light of Genesis zone centers on the Stone Statue of Brahma, which personifies truth and illumination. This space guides visitors back to the primordial beginnings of the cosmos, offering a glimpse into the profound truth that all life emerges from a singular, formless source of energy.
The ‘Light of Selflessness’ zone invites visitors to follow the geometric structure and color order of the MWR's Heruka Chakrasamvara Mandala to transcend the superficial self and connect with the pure, non-attached inner consciousness. The ‘Light of All’ zone features the MWR's Stone Statue of Vishnu, which symbolizes merciful protection and illustrates the flow of energy and interdependence between all life. This concept is represented by the “Light of Non-Light,” which transcends physical form. The ‘Light of Salvation’ zone uses interactive installations to help visitors understand the truth of the unity and interdependence of all things, encouraging a more humble and connected attitude towards oneself, others, and the entire universe.
MWR Director Ma You-Juan shared the core philosophy and curatorial process behind the exhibition, inviting visitors to do more than just observe. She encouraged them to use light to transcend surface appearances and sensory instincts, to delve into the essence of existence and recognize their connection with the universe. Ma expressed her hope that visitors would immerse themselves in the natural, cyclical flow of life, seeking, experiencing, and ultimately becoming one with the light.
Faith is not a thing of the past, but a path leading to the future
Dharma Master Hsin Tao’s calligraphy, "The Eternal Light Resides in All," serves as a fitting commentary, illustrating that this event is not just a religious blessing or an art exhibition. It also features a performance by body artist Chou Chang-Ning, transforming the occasion into a live demonstration of contemporary faith culture. Religion, rather than being a relic of the past, actively engages with modern issues, offering living responses to them. The collaboration of the Tourism Administration, Ministry of Transportation and Communications, the Ministry of Interior, and the Ministry of Culture underscore the event as a model of how cultural tourism, religious education, and environmental sustainability can converge.