Faculty, students, and clinic interns from the Won Institute of Graduate Studies and Won Institute Clinics joined fellow acupuncture professionals from across Pennsylvania for Acupuncture Day at the Capitol in Harrisburg in June
also welcomed State Senator Frank Farry, who expressed his support for acupuncture and integrative healthcare Acupuncture Day at the Capitol remains an important opportunity to advocate for the profession and expand public awareness across Pennsylvania
Reflecting on the event, Dr Ben Griffith, Chai
“This annual event is one of my favorites advocacy for our Acupuncture and Herbal Me
It gives them the opportunity to engage dire
DR GRIFFITH WITH ACUPUNCTURE STUDENTS
INSTITUTE CLINICS TEAM
AT THE CAPITOL WITH STATE SENATOR FRANK FARRY
Student Reflections
A Journey into Traditional Korean Medicine: Reflections
from Korea
by Ellie Canny
The Traditional Korean Medicine program offered an excellent oppor y g, exploring the deep history, culture and wholesome cuisine of South Korea. The student hostel was well-situated within close proximity to Wonkwang University hospital, and the rooms were clean and spacious
The transportation and event planning were superb, our agenda was designed to facilitate student learning and teamwork Every morning started with meditation walk followed by homemade breakfast and a variety of delicious meals
The kindness of Wonkwang University professors and staff was deeply appreciated and heartfelt Each lecture was meticulously prepared and presented The intersection between Eastern medicine and innovative Western medical technology was deeply fascinating and engaging
R were kind and supportive; they always accompanied s offered their knowledge of the city and cultural tips
T nguage barriers so they could fully enjoy their trip
T l opportunities to enrich their learning, bond with o h Korea
The 6th Annual International MAUM Seminar
Exploring the Heart and Mind Across Religious Traditions
Graduate Studies and Youngsan University of Seon Studies, brought together scholars, religious leaders, students, and community members to explore the theme, "MAUM: How Religions Understand and Cultivate the Mind." Through a keynote address by Rev. Dr. Grace Song and presentations from Muslim, Christian, Jewish, and Won Buddhist perspectives, participants examined how different faith traditions cultivate the heart and mind through practices of meditation, prayer, gratitude, remembrance, and ethical living The seminar concluded with an engaging interfaith dialogue that highlighted the shared conviction that inner transformation is essential for compassion, wisdom, and building more peaceful communities
REV. EDWARD LIVINGSTON OFFERS WORDS OF CONGRATULATIONS
RABBANIT DASI FRUCHTER
IMAM DR. QUAISER ABDULLAH
Student Reflections
Reflections in Ink: Amy Li Illustrates Her Won Buddhist Retreat in Korea Experience
The Won Buddhist Retreat in Korea elective offers students a transformative 10-day experience of intensive meditation, visits to sacred Won Buddhist pilgrimage sites, and immersion in Korea's rich culture and history In the following, student Amy Li reflects on the journey through a collection of sketches and illustrations that beautifully capture its people, places, and meaningful moments
Arrive at Incheon Airport
Visiting Founding Master Sotaesan's birthplace
Founding Master Sotaesan and Ven Daesans Stupa in Iksan
Youngsan University of Seon Studies chef preparing a delicious meal
Healthy meals every day!
Offering a prayer at Sambat Pass
Taking a walk together, enjoying nature and Dharma friendship
Visiting Bulgapsa, the first Korean Buddhist Templee Yellow corvina, a local specialty of Yeonggwang
Spiritual Life at Won Inst
Special 21-Day Deliverance Service (Cheondo-jae)
From July 15–August 4, the Won Institute Temple held a Special 21-Day Deliverance Service, bringing the community together for daily prayer and spiritual practice dedicated to guiding deceased spirits toward peace The service also
Won Institute Participates in 2026 Liberty Medal Ceremony
On July 3, Dharma Chaplain, Rev Hojin Park, attended the 2026 Liberty Medal Ceremony at the National Constitution Center Commemorating the 250th anniversary of religious freedom, the event featured Pope Leo XIV accepting the Liberty Medal via live video and celebrated religious liberty and interfaith cooperation.
Dharma Circle Welcomes New Members
The July Dharma Circle (Kyowha-dan) welcomed 11 participants, including several new members of the Won Institute Temple community. Together, they reflected on a passage from the Doctrine on Cause and Effect, shared insights from their mind practice, and received Mind Practice Journals to support continued reflection in daily life
Community Outreach
Moving Meditation at Veterans Multi-Service Center
Rev. Daesung Song's new Moving Meditation and Tai Chi program at the Veterans Multi-Service Center has been warmly received, helping veterans improve mobility, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being Growing interest in the classes reflects the increasing demand for holistic approaches to physical and mental wellness
Southampton Fair Family Nights
Clinic Director Dr Doreen Lafferty and Student Ambassador Jessica Sanfilippo represented the Won Institute Clinics at Southampton Township's Family Nights, connecting with local families and sharing information about the Institute's clinics, community classes, and educational programs The event helped raise awareness of the Institute's holistic healthcare services and lifelong learning opportunities
Won Institute at Shared Wellness Expo
On May 31, Clinic Director Dr. Doreen Lafferty and Student Ambassadors represented the Won Institute at the inaugural Shared Wellness Expo in Warrington, connecting with community members and sharing information about the Institute's clinics and educational programs The event highlighted the Institute's commitment to holistic health and wellness education
Nourishing the Brave
Dr. Sangok Ma offered a special lecture for women veterans on the connection between nutrition, stress, and overall well-being She shared practical strategies for reducing inflammation, supporting gut health, practicing mindful eating, and making simple lifestyle changes that promote healing, resilience, and long-term wellness
Participants also explored the powerful connection between emotional and physical health, learning how everyday choices can support both body and mind
Institute Highlights
Phillies Night Brings the Won Institute Community Together
Strengthening Global Partnerships in Won Buddhist Studies
Won Institute's 2nd Annual Phillies Game brought the community together for an evening of fellowship at Citizens Bank Park, where the Phillies defeated the Chicago White Sox 9–5 The annual
Won Buddhist Administrative Leaders Visit the Won Institute
Won Buddhist administrative leaders from Won Buddhist Headquarters in Korea visited the Won Institute as part of a tour of North American temples and institutions The visit provided an opportunity to learn about the Institute's academic programs and community outreach while strengthening relationships and exploring future collaboration
The Won Buddhist Studies Departments at Wonkwang University and the Won Institute of Graduate Studies recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen ion in education, research, and ademic initiatives, advancing development of Won S di
Cultivating the Next Generation of Won Buddhist Leaders
Won Buddhist Pre-ministers from Wonkwang University and Youngsan University of Seon Studies in Korea visited the Won Institute to learn about its academic programs and the growth of Won Buddhism in North America They expressed appreciation for the Institute's vibrant community and dedication to advancing Won Buddhist education and practice
Perilla Leaf Salt
The Won Institute Herbal Dispensary has introduced a house-made Perilla Leaf Salt crafted from perilla grown in the Institute's garden. This flavorful seasoning for fish, poultry, and soups is made by blending dried perilla leaves with salt. Known as Zi Su Ye in East Asian medicine, perilla supports digestion, eases nausea, and promotes respiratory health.
From Garden to Dispensary
The Herbal Dispensary is also developing several small-batch products using herbs grown and carefully dried in the Institute's garden, including dried mugwort and other home-grown botanicals.
