1. The Origin of Potalaka Temple (DabeDaoChang)

In April 1998, Bilingual Buddhist Association was established in Vancouver, Canada, arising from many Buddhist disciples’ sincere longing.

In 2005, the Association moved to Agassiz, a tranquil retreat on the banks of the Fraser River, embraced by mountains and waters, away from the hustle and bustle. In the same year, Potalaka Temple (DaBeDaoChang) was officially established.

In 2006, the sacred statue of the Thousand-Handed Thousand-Eyed Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva was welcomed from Taiwan. Intricately carved from Taiwan Red Cypress with a diameter of 300 cm (approximately 9.84 feet). The height of the statue is 315 cm (including the lotus pedestal, about 10.35 feet).

Bilingual Buddhist Association (Potalaka Temple) in British Columbia has been propagating Dharma in Canada since 1998. It is dedicated to promoting the Pure Land teachings, guiding devotees to the practice of upholding precepts and mindful recitation of the Amitabha Buddha’s name, with the ultimate goal of attaining rebirth in the Western Pure Land.

It has also been committed to expounding the Tripiṭaka: the Sutras, Vinaya and Abhidharma while nurturing monastic talents and educating congregation.