By Rev. Ken Yamada
The smell of incense pervades our temples. What does it mean?
Burning incense is a universal ritual throughout Buddhism. Knowing its meaning helps us appreciate its purpose. Continue reading “Meaning of Incense”
The Shinran You Never Knew
By Rev. Ken Yamada
Who’d think Shinran Shonin, founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, could stir controversy 750 years after he lived? With much speculation, today’s scholars are exploring new angles of his life, which may prove a different Shinran than the one we know. Continue reading “The Shinran You Never Knew”
Conducting a Memorial—Online
By Rev. Patti Nakai
I’d like to describe my first experience conducting an online memorial service.
During this time of pandemic and social distancing, I’m writing about this so people know their temples and ministers will do what they can to ensure a proper service for loved ones who pass away or have important memorial date services. Continue reading “Conducting a Memorial—Online”
Death by Pandemic or Something Else
By Rev. Ken Yamada
A joke goes, “This person is dying! Is there a doctor here?” Someone steps forward and says: “I’m a doctor of philosophy. We’re all dying.”
Yes, the Covid-19 pandemic is bad, wreaking death and destruction to the world’s economies, creating urgent health care and human services challenges, for which, we’ve yet to find answers. This isn’t what I’m talking about. Continue reading “Death by Pandemic or Something Else”
Buddhists and Christians: Dialogue of Fraternity
James Fredericks is professor emeritus of Loyola Marymount University and a Roman Catholic priest in Northern California, who has been active promoting dialogue and cross-religious studies between Buddhists and Christians for many years. We recently asked him about his activities and thoughts. Continue reading “Buddhists and Christians: Dialogue of Fraternity”
April 8: the Buddha’s Birthday
Today, April 8, is when we commemorate the Buddha’s birth. Typically we hold a special service called Hanamatsuri on this day, or a Sunday closest to this date. It’s usually our most festive service of the year. Unfortunately because of the Covid-19 pandemic, services have been cancelled or limited to online participation only. Continue reading “April 8: the Buddha’s Birthday”