Guatemalan First Lady Visits Museum of World Religions, Experiencing Convergence of Light and Faith

(中央社訊息服務20250609 11:35:10)On June 6, 2025, Excma. Sra. Dra. Lucrecia Peinado, First Lady of Guatemala, along with Liao Wan-ju, spouse of Taiwan’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, visited the Museum of World Religions (MWR). They were welcomed by Venerable Xian Yue, CEO of the MWR Development Foundation, and guided by Museum Director Ma Yu-Chuan. The visit fostered a profound exchange of culture, faith, and spiritual resonance.

The guests began with a symbolic cleansing at misting water curtain walls, then entered the Pathway of Pilgrimage. This contemplative corridor, with its natural light and hand imprints, represents a spiritual journey, conveying themes of striving and inner transformation. Both guests paused for quiet reflection, immersed in the convergence of faith and life’s vital energy.

A ceremonial exchange of gifts followed in the Golden Hall. Venerable Xian Yue presented a ceramic replica of a Northern Qi-era Buddha head from the museum’s collection. She also conveyed gifts from founder Dharma Master Hsin Tao: a calligraphy scroll inscribed with "Break free and be at ease, let everything flourish together," and a jade pendant, symbolizing joy. Madame Liao recalled assisting Dharma Master Hsin Tao's speech at Yale three decades prior, expressing joy at witnessing his vision for the MWR realized.

Touring the LIGHT A LIFE X LIVE A LIGHT special exhibition, both honored guests praised its interactivity and profound content. Centered on "light," the exhibition guides visitors through immersive spaces like the Tunnel of Light and Passage of Hope. These environments prompt contemplation on life's nature and universal interconnectedness, fostering inner awakening and respect for ecology.

First Lady Peinado expressed her delight, commending the museum's innovative, inclusive, and interactive design. She found the exhibition deeply thought-provoking, raising universal questions, and described it as a truly inspiring space for all. Liao Wan-ju was particularly moved by the exhibition’s interpretation of “light,” reflecting: “When you dim your own light, you begin to see the light in all things,” a reminder to appreciate the worth in others.

Venerable Xian Yue noted that the MWR, a "Gift to the New Millennium," still remains unfamiliar to many. She hoped the First Lady’s visit would raise awareness of the museum's mission to promote loving the Earth and cherishing peace, and that First Lady Peinado would share Taiwan's warmth and spiritual strength globally.

The visit was a heartfelt dialogue, bringing renewed international perspective to the MWR and affirming its role as a cultural bridge. Inspired by light, the journey concluded gracefully and fulfilling.