A Beautiful Moment of Cross-Cultural Exchange｜Dharma Realm Buddhist University Visits the Jeffrey D. Schwartz Jewish Community Center

🕊️A Beautiful Moment of Cross-Cultural Exchange｜Dharma Realm Buddhist University Visits the Jeffrey D. Schwartz Jewish Community Center🌿

Last week, we had the great honor of welcoming students from Dharma Realm Buddhist University, led by Vice President Dr. Shih-You Wu, who traveled all the way from the United States to visit the Jeffrey D. Schwartz Jewish Community Center.

During this meaningful cultural exchange, our guests gained deeper insight into Jewish life and traditions, and experienced firsthand how cultural values are expressed through community, architecture, and food.

As part of the visit, Chairman Ching-Yi Wu of Lung Tsai Architecture—the design firm behind our JCC—gave a guided tour of the center’s unique architectural features. From the thoughtful spatial layout to the way natural light flows through the building, every detail reflects core values of culture and religion, education, and holistic well-being. Much like how Jewish culture emphasizes legacy and spatial continuity, this building itself serves as a "modern Mishkan"—a sanctuary that tells a living story.

One of the most unexpected highlights was the lunch served at our Kosher Culinary Lab, specially prepared to accommodate ovo-vegetarian and vegan diets. Guests were amazed by the depth and flavor of each dish. The meal redefined expectations of vegetarian cuisine, showcasing how Jewish kosher principles can beautifully harmonize with creativity and plant-based eating.

When people of different faiths, cultures, and languages come together, sharing a meal becomes a sincere act of connection.

We are truly grateful for Dharma Realm Buddhist University's visit, and look forward to more heart-to-heart exchanges in the future.

🤝 Shalom & walking in compassion, together.