By Rev. Ken Yamada
“Jodo Shinshu is for slackers,” I suddenly thought. Surrounding me were monks, nuns and some very devout laypeople. Unlike me, they looked like real “Buddhists.” Continue reading “Buddhism for Slackers”
Report: Why Shinshu Will Disappear
By Joanie Martinez
The topic was jarring: “Why I Think Jodo Shinshu Will Disappear.” Already, numbers tell the story, according to Rev. Mas Kodani, who spoke to our sangha. Continue reading “Report: Why Shinshu Will Disappear”
Kiyozawa: Deathbed Confession
Despite a superior intellect, determination and iron will, Manshi Kiyozawa found his efforts to understand Buddhism completely futile. That’s when he grasped the meaning of life. Continue reading “Kiyozawa: Deathbed Confession”
Akegarasu: Buddhist poet
His life could come from today’s headlines—controversial, charismatic and polarizing, with a life filled with tabloid worthy scandals. Rev. Haya Akegarasu (1877-1954) became a renowned Buddhist whose teachings were strongly influenced by Manshi Kiyozawa, whose own experiential approach modernized Jodo Shinshu. Akegarasu eventually held the top administrative post in the Higashi Honganji denomination. Continue reading “Akegarasu: Buddhist poet”
Up Next: Hoonko, Shinran’s Memorial
This Fall our Higashi Honganji temples will commemorate the life of Shinran Shonin, the founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, with a special service called Hoonko. This is our most important service of the year. Continue reading “Up Next: Hoonko, Shinran’s Memorial”
Celebration of Death
By Rev. Ken Yamada
It seemed surreal: disco music, balloons, dinner buffet and cocktails aplenty. It was a “Celebration of Life” for a recently departed friend. Continue reading “Celebration of Death”