Jodo Shinshu Buddhism for everyone
By Rev. Ken Yamada
Buddhists leaders in Northern California have banded together to help tackle some of the world’s most pressing problems. They’ve adopted goals set by the United Nations and plan to urge their members to take action. Continue reading “SDGs: Buddhist Leaders Tackle World Problems”
This month typically many of our temples make “mochi,” traditional Japanese rice cakes. They hold “mochitsuki,” a special day for making mochi. Unfortunately because of the pandemic, we’ve put this activity on hold. Nevertheless, please enjoy this description of a timeless tradition. Continue reading “Mochi Time”
by Rev. Ken Yamada
In these tough times, giving to others is more important than ever. Buddhism teaches “dana” or charity—helping others. Today, wearing a mask to prevent the Covid-19 virus from spreading may be considered “dana,” because we’re helping to protect others. Yet, people don’t wear masks, thinking first about themselves and personal freedom. Continue reading “Dana: Meaning of Giving”
Beginning this month, sitting meditation sessions begin via Zoom. Everyone is welcome to join and there is no charge. Continue reading “Starting December: Online meditation”
Buddhists officially don’t celebrate Christmas, but many of them decorate trees that suspiciously look like the holiday tree. The running joke is that they’re really “Bodhi” trees. Continue reading “Up Next: Bodhi Day”
By Rev. Ken Yamada
Somebody once told me she learned Buddhism from books and alone tried to practice its ideals. She also tried to teach her kids Buddhism. It was all quite difficult and trying. She said, “It’s hard to be a Buddhist by yourself.” Continue reading “New Book: Handbook for Shinshu Followers”