As the main idea and practice model of contemporary Buddhism, Humanistic Buddhism emphasizes the use of transcendent ideas to engage in worldly endeavors. Through institutional norms and team consensus, it enters communities and serves society with diverse cultural, educational, spiritual and charitable care. Hong Kong Fo Guang Vihara, a branch of Fo Guang Shan in Hong Kong, adheres to the Humanistic Buddhism philosophy of Venerable Master Hsing Yun and has been serving the local community for over 30 years in areas such as education, poverty alleviation, disaster relief and more. This paper combines the social situation in Hong Kong from the beginning of 2020 to May 2022 to discuss how Hong Kong Fo Guang Vihara responded during the pandemic by offering online Buddhist courses, sharing insights on enlightenment, facilitating remote participation in Buddhist ceremonies, guiding practitioners to cultivate their mind, and cooperating with government agencies to provide charitable services such as distributing epidemic prevention care packages and setting up a hotline for mental health support. Through this case study, we explore the ethical and compassionate social functions of Humanistic Buddhism.
