This is a compilation of all announcements made on the Ekoji website from 1999 to 2009. Announcements were added to this page as they were removed from the top home page, so it’s a walk down memory lane. Hyperlinks listed below may or may not still be active.
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News Archive (Note: All the links below worked at the time they were posted. However, since the Web can change quickly, we can't guarantee each link listed is current). Note: You will need the free Adobe Acrobat Reader to view the PDF file
Posted 3 Apr: Dear Ekoji Friends and Sangha,
You are welcome to attend the 2009 Buddha Day (Hanamatsuri) service on Sunday, April 5 from 10:30-noon (please note the early start time!). This service, which will celebrate the birth of Siddartha, is a joint service with both the Children's Dharma School and the adult sangha, and will feature a play performed by our Dharma School students. Please also join us for lunch in the Sangha Hall following the service - the Ekoji Buddhist Temple will provide the main and side dishes, but sangha members are invited to bring desserts. Please contact information(AT)ekoji.org or ekojidharmaschoo(AT)gmail.com if you have any questions.
Posted 17 Apr: To help you find the best gas prices in your area: AAA Fuel Price Finder.
Posted 12 Aug: Buddhism 101 with Mark LaWall begins on 7 Sep. See the Google calendar for more details.
Posted 10 Apr: DharmaNet and Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai present this Video Series: The Buddhist Way of Life
Posted 18 May: Portraits: Bubbly Buddhist - Devotion and humor easily coexist for Bhante Madawala Seelawimala
Ekoji has featured Bhante has as a Seminar leader. Thanks to Joan King for finding this article!
Annual Obon Summer Festival: This Saturday, 12 July 2008. Open to the public and our community. Please come join us for food sales beginning at 5:30pm and Japanese Folk dancing beginning at 7pm. Everyone is welcome to participate in temple tours, candle illumination ceremony, children games, and listen to taiko drumming. Admission is Free.
Posted 22 Jun: During the main service, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, 22 Jun, hear Rev. Castro from the Seattle Buddhist
Temple share the Dharma. Following the service everyone is welcome to bring food for a potluck lunch.
Also on Sunday the 22nd, Susan Kasa is guiding us through Obon dance
steps starting from 12:30 - 1:30 (please wear comfortable clothes).
Before the service on the 22nd from 10:00am-11:00am, please feel free to attend Mark Lawall's Buddhism 101 class in the Sangha Hall.
2007 BCA Theme: World Peace Begins with Gassho
Posted 22 May: Due to scheduling conflicts, Children's Dharma School activities have been canceled for Sunday, 25 May and Sunday, 1 Jun.
Posted 18 Apr: NAIKAN is a method of Self-Reflection
NAIKAN can help us better understand ourselves, our relationships, and even
the fundamental nature of our existence Learn how to practice NAIKAN with Mark LaWall Saturday May 17, 2008, 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm
Lunch will be provided
Posted 3 Apr Ekoji Spring Seminar, Saturday, 10 May, with Dr. Gordon Bermant, 1 to 5 p.m. Open the event on the Google calendar for additional information.
Posted 19 Mar [Note: Not an Ekoji sponsored event] The Washington DC International Buddhist Society
Presents A Spiritual Evening
of Buddhism: Building Towards Hindu-Buddhist Unity
APRIL 26, 2008
Durga Temple
8400 Durga Place
Fairfax Station, VA 22039 Download flyer
Posted 26 Apr: Pre-K Dharma School class is canceled this Sunday, 27 Apr. The service and other classes will be conducted as usual.
Posted 27 Mar The DharmaRealm podcast presents a series of discussions between the Rev. Harry Bridge of the Lodi Buddhist Church and Dr. Scott Mitchell of the Institute of Buddhist Studies on Buddhism and Jodo Shinshu: http://www.dharmarealm.com
Posted 16 Jan: Thursday Night Activities - Weather Announcement. Ekoji will follow the decisions of Fairfax County Schools - if school activities are canceled for the evening, Ekoji activities will also be canceled. See http://www.fcps.edu
Posted 13 Mar: Children's Dharma School Classes and Service are *canceled* for 16 March.
Posted 13 Dec: A beginner's Tai Chi Class will start on Jan 7, 2008, and will run for 10 sessions on Mondays at 7:00 pm. The cost is $60 for Temple members and $80 for others, and is payable at the first class. Please e-mail KrisBrinker(AT)cox.net to register.
Posted 9 Mar: Pre-K and Elementary School Dharma School Classes are *canceled* for 9 March. Other classes and the service will be held as normal.
Posted 19 Jan: Special Notice: *Children's* Dharma School activities have been canceled for tomorrow, Sunday, 20 Jan.
Posted 19 Jan: Tomorrow, 20 Jan, we will observe Hoonko with a special service (The memorial service for Shinran Shonin) with a potluck! Please bring your favorite dish to share as we mark this special occasion.
Posted 12 Dec: Ekoji Seminar Series Presents: Perfect Makes Practice - Living a Life of Awakening
Presented by
The Rev. Ronald Ken (Shaku GenGu) Kobata, Executive Assistant,Office of the Bishop, Buddhist Churches of America
Date: January 5 - 6, 2008
Saturday: 5 Jan, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. (continental breakfast and lunch provided at no charge)
Sunday: 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. (Dharma Talk)
Cost: No Charge
Seminar: “To study the way of the Buddha is to study your self. To study your self is to forget your self. To forget yourself is to have the objective world prevail in you. To have the objective world prevail in you is to let go of your own body and mind as well as the body and mind of others. The enlightenment thus attained may seem to come to an end, but though it appears to have stopped, this momentary enlightenment should be prolonged and prolonged.”
~ Dogen Zenji (1200-1253, founder of Soto Zen)
Happy New Year!
New Year's Day Service at 11 a.m.
From the Washington Post, 1 Jan 2008: Celebrating in Earnest: Buddhists Mark the Start of a New Year With Joy and a Strong Sense of Purpose [Note: There are some inaccuracies in this article, but Ekoji is mentioned toward the end]
Posted 15 Dec: Lasting Support for UCLA Buddhist Studies, UCLA International Institute, Dec 13, 2007
Berkeley, CA (USA) -- Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai America establishes the Yehan Numata Endowment at the UCLA Center for Buddhist Studies and pledges 10 years of additional support. The new funds will bring distinguished visitors and enhance graduate education. Full story (Thanks to Joan King forwarding this information)
This Sunday, 9 December - Bodhi Day
Posted Saturday, 8 Dec: At 11:00 a.m., Ekoji will celebrate Bodhi Day, the day of Shakyamuni Buddha's enlightment. We will be having a joint service with the Dharma school as well as a potluck following service. Please bring a favorite dish to share with everyone!
The Children's Dharma School will hold classes at 10 a.m.
Here's a Bodhi Day Dharma Message by Buddhist Chaplain and Ekoji alumnus, LT Jeannette Shin, CHC, USN: Happy Bodhi Day!
Posted Monday, 5 Nov: Buddhism 101: An Introduction to Buddhism, a series of five one-hour classes for adults who are interested in learning about the basic teachings of Buddhism. The series will begin on Sunday, November 11th, 2007 and end on December 9th at 10 a.m. at the Ekoji Buddhist Temple, 6500 Lake Haven Lane, Fairfax Station, Virginia. The classes are free, and all are welcome. For more information, call 703-239-0500
Posted Tues, 28 Aug: A beginner's Tai Chi class began on Monday, September, 10, 2007, at 7:00-8:00pm in the Ekoji education center. .
The 12 week course costs $60.00 for Ekoji members and $84.00 for all others. Payment should be made at the first class. Send any questions to information@ekoji.org. Classes will be taught by Kris Brinker, a member of Peaceable Dragon, with an emphasis on relaxation and increasing flexibility.
Posted Wed, 14 Nov: This message is meant to be a reminder that the Ekoji annual meeting will be held this coming Sunday, November 18th in the Tsuji Education Hall after lunch provided by the Board of Directors. There will be a full agenda with many items to be discussed and votes to be taken by the regular membership, so we need your participation and guidance at this very important meeting. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact any one of the board members whose names appear below and we will do our best to make sure you get an answer.
Thank you for your support of Ekoji throughout 2007. We are excited about the future and look forward to your participation and comments on Sunday.
In Gassho,
Ekoji Buddhist Temple Board of Directors:
Dr. Erick Ishii, President
Mr. Greg Nakamura, Vice President
Mr. Richard Wolford, Treasurer
Ms. Joan H. King, Secretary
Mr. Mark LaWall, Director
Ms. Anna Tecson, Director
Posted Tues, 18 Sep: Flamingos in Training is an eight-week, functional exercise program designed to improve your balance and keep you on your feet. Consisting of eight, one-hour classes, it will be held on Tuesday evenings from Sept. 25 to Nov. 13 from 7 to 8 p.m. at Ekoji Buddhist Temple 6500 Lake Haven Lane Fairfax Station. Cost: $12/class (Ekoji members $10/class) Pre-registration is required as class size is limited. Contact Sonia Gow at 703-378-7221 or sonia(AT)soniagow.com
Posted Friday, 5 Oct: BCA Bishop Koshin Ogui and President Gordon Bermant have issued a statement on the situation in Burma. Scroll down to under "Jodo Shinshu Buddhism Snapshot" to read the statement..
Posted Sat, 10 Nov: Children's Dharma School activities are canceled this Sunday, 11 Nov. All other Temple activities will be held as scheduled.
Posted Sunday, 7 Oct: Learn how to practice NAIKAN with Mark LaWall, Ekoji Director of Buddhist Education, Saturday November 3, 2007, 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm. NAIKAN is a method of Self-reflection. NAIKAN can help us better understand ourselves, our relationships, and even the fundamental nature of existence. Lunch will be provided
Posted Thursday, 25 Oct: This Sunday, 28 Oct, 10 a.m. - Shosanshiki - First Visit/Presentation Ceremony for all Ekoji children. Although typically held for the new born children born to the Sangha the past year, Ekoji invites children of all ages to participate in this special introduction to the Sangha. It is a day to present the child to Buddha and to the Sangha, and to celebrate their first step upon the Dharma path. Please contact the Temple office for details.
Posted Sun, 19 Aug: "Buddhism 101," a series of five free Dharma School classes for adults, begins on Sunday, September 16th at 10 a.m. through Sunday, October 14th, at Ekoji Buddhist Temple Tsuji Education Center. The first classes will cover Buddhism basics; subsequent classes, Jodo Shinshu (Shin Buddhism) in particular Posted Sun, 19 Aug: Buddhism 101: Both beginners to and long-time practitioners of Buddhism and meditation are invited to learn how Buddhist philosophy can help them cope with today's stressful times.
Free, no registration required. Call 703-239-0500 and leave a message for Mark LaWall or visit www.Ekoji.org for more information.
Posted Monday, 1 Oct: Ekoji is having an Ice Cream Party, and You're invited.
When: Sunday, October 7, 2007, immediately following service.
There will be ice cream and cake, and you can make your own sundaes. And, cover it with nuts, sprinkles, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream. Or, make root beer or coke floats. Or, decorate a cookie.
There will be regular ice cream and non-dairy or lactose free ice cream.
Hope to see you at the Ice Cream Party
Posted Monday, 1 Oct: Children's Dharma School Classes and Service are CANCELED for Sunday, 7 Oct
8 1/2 by 11 inch flyer: Download (691 KB PDF file)
GET READY FOR EKOJI’S OPEN HOUSE This Saturday, OCTOBER 6TH!
The Ekoji Membership Committee has begun planning for Ekoji’s fall open house to be held Saturday, October 6th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Posted Sun, 19 Aug: Open House. We want to make this event a truly fun-filled experience for not only our Sangha, but for the neighboring community who may not know about us but is interested in hearing the Buddha-dharma. Please save a few hours on this day to support the temple by responding positively to the committee’s call for volunteers. We will be placing ads and flyers around the facilities and in the local newspapers next month and calling on members to participate. In the meantime, if you have questions, please contact Joan King, Wes Fleming, John Grimes, Norman Kondo, John Grimes, or Mark LaWall.
Posted Wed, 4 Sep: September 23 Schedule:
Higan-e (Autumn-season-other-shore-gathering). Higan, which means the "other shore" of Nirvana or enlightenment as opposed to "this shore" of Samsara or delusion, is observed by Japanese Buddhists during the spring and autumn equinox when the days and nights are equal in length. It is a time for Buddhists to meditate on the harmony of nature which pervades the universe and devote themselves to the act of this harmony in their own inner lives. A pot luck lunch will follow the service. All are welcome---bring your favorite dish!
Also on on the 23rd: Ekoji will once again be welcoming new members into the Sangha.Although some of you are already members of Ekoji, it’s possible you have not yet been “officially” welcomed into the Sangha by participating in a new member ceremony. The Membership Committee and Honda Sensei would very much like the opportunity to welcome you into the Ekoji Sangha at this time and cordially invite you to participate in this short, special ceremony at the 11:00 am service.If you would like to become a member and participate in the ceremony, please respond to Joan King, or any other member of the Membership Committee by September 15 and we will forward your name on to Honda Sensei.
Posted Thurs, 13 Sep: Dharma School Parent's Meeting, Sunday, 16 Sep, 10 - 11 a.m.
We'll be having a Parent's meeting this Sunday. If you are not on any Ekoji email list and are interested in attending, please send an email to information(AT)ekoji.org (replace the (AT) with @). We will not be having Dharma School classes. Also, there won't be a Dharma School service.
Thanks to all the attendees and organizers for making the 2007 Eastern Buddhist League Conference a great success!
Posted 11 Aug: Links to two blogs have been posted, including one by LT Jeanette Shin, CHC, USN, Buddhist Chaplain and Ekoji alumnus. See below under "Online Forums: Discussion/Message Boards & Blogs."
Hosted by Ekoji
2007 Eastern Buddhist League Conference - 31 August to 2 September 2007
Updated: 28 Aug 2007
Please note the hotel website changed since the brochures were distributed - the new website is http://cwp.marriott.com/waspt/easternbuddhistleague/. You can reserve your hotel room and find some of the conference materials on that site. You can also call and reserve your room at 1-800-331-3131 - please tell them you are with the "Eastern Buddhist League (EBL) Conference", and you should be able to reserve a studio suite at the $99/night rate. Please note that the larger rooms are a little more expensive and that the studio suites are going very fast!
Free airport shuttle service to Ronald Reagan National Airport upon request. Other transportation information can be found here: http://marriott.com/hotels/maps/travel/waspt-residence-inn-arlington-pentagon-city/
Secure payments accepted via PayPal. See Online Registration
NO SERVICE AT THE TEMPLE THIS SUNDAY
Special Sunday Service to be held on Sunday, September 2, 2007, at the EBL venue
8:30 - 9:30 a.m.
Marriott Residence Inn at Pentagon City/Pentagon Ballroom
550 Army Navy Drive
Arlington VA 22202
As part of the conference, Ekoji will hold a special Sunday service at the Residence Inn. As a result, we *will not* be having our regular 11 a.m. Sunday service at the temple. Instead, all are invited to attend this special EBL service.
Posted Tuesday, 23 Jan: News Report: Buddhist center actualized 40 years after contemplation Man's architectural baby born decades after conception; multipurpose facility housed in former Berkeley car dealership
Posted 27 Jul: A new guide to Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temple Etiquette is now posted.
Posted 24 Jul: Ekoji Obon featured in The Connection Newspapers: Those Who Came Before
Posted Saturday, 19 May: A ten series session of Beginning Tai Chi will start at Ekoji on Monday, June 18, at 7:00pm. The cost is $50.00 for Ekoji members and $70.00 for non-members. The fee is payable at the first class.
Posted Sunday, 18 Mar: Jodo Shinshu Book Announcement
Kanaya Usuki, Patricia. Currents of Change: American Buddhist Women Speak Out on Jodo Shinshu, Berkeley. Institute of Buddhist Studies Mongraph Series, 2007. ($10.00). In this bold and timely study, the author allows the voices of American Buddhist women to be heard and their views on Jodo Shinshu to be clearluy known....The challenge facing Jodo Shinshu in America, she offers, to face the dynamics of change already taking place within it and embrace the 'opportunity to reinterpret the Shin Buddhist doctrine in new ways that speak to contemporary people everywhere. Patricial Kanaya Usuki is a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist priest who currently serves as minister to the San Fernando Valley Hongwanji Buddhist Temple.
Yamaoka, Seigen H. The Transmission of Shin Buddhism in the West: Jodo Shinshu Religious Educational Process, San Francisco: Federation of Dharma School Teachers League, 2005. ($20.00). Rev. Yamaoka is a former Bishop of the Buddhist Churches of America.
Both books are available at the Buddhist Bookstore, 2140 Durant Ave., Berkeley, CA 94704
TODAY - Saturday, 4 August - Posted, Wed, 11 Jun: Naikan: Gratitude in Action - Saturday, August 4, 2007, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Naikan is a method of self-reflection that can help us understand ourselves, our relationships, and the fundamental nature of our existence.
The workshop will be facilitated by Mark LaWall, Director of Ekoji Adult Buddhist Education.
This event is free and all are welcome. Lunch will be provided.
Moved from the front page: Jodo Shinshu Buddhism from Moreover Technologies
THIS WEEKEND - 26th Annual Obon Festival, 14 - 15 July 2007
Posted Tues, 26 Jun: Ekoji will hold its 26th annual Obon Festival Saturday, July 14 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Obon is a Buddhist observance that honors one's ancestors and typically includes activities such as music, Bon-odori dancing, games and crafts, silent auction, traditional Japanese food dishes and Japanese Taiko drumming. Tours of the temple and Japanese meditation garden, and short lectures on Buddhism will also be held during the festival as well. Food and drinks (non-alcoholic) will be sold throughout the evening. All are welcome. Free admission.
You can download the Obon food order form and flyer (857K PDF download):
Link to photos from past Ekoji Obon Festivals.
Posted Sunday, 15 Apr: Buddhism 101, a series of five Dharma School classes for adults, started on Sunday, May 13 at 10 a.m. The first classes cover Buddhist basics; later sessions are about Jodo Shinshu in particular. Free, and no registration is required. Contact Mark LaWall for more information.
Densho: The Japanese American Legacy Project, June 26, 2007, 12 noon (Note: this event is not sponsored by Ekoji)
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Capital Gallery, Suite 7001
600 Maryland Avenue, SW
Washington DC 20024
Metro stop: L'Enfant Plaza (take the 7th St & Smithsonian exit), Capital Gallery will be right in front of you, as you get off the escalator. Take the elevator to the 7 floor and you will see the conference room.
Tom Ikeda, executive director of Densho: The Japanese American Legacy Project, based in Seattle, will demonstrate an innovative online archive and educational resource allowing researchers to view 5,000 historical photographs documenting a century of Japanese American history, read over 4,000 newspaper editions written during World War II by the inmates of the ten War Relocation Authority camps, and watch 500 hours of videotaped interviews of people who were incarcerated in the camps. The free Densho digital archive (www.densho.org) is supported by curricula, online exhibitions, and contextual articles. Ikeda will discuss the origins of Densho and the benefits of historical organizations digitally preserving and making their collections available through the Internet.
Densho is a Japanese term meaning "to pass on to the next generation," or to leave a legacy. Densho's mission is to preserve the testimonies of Japanese Americans who were unjustly incarcerated during World War II. Using digital technology, Densho provides access to personal accounts, historical documents and photographs, and teacher resources to explore principles of democracy and promote justice. Densho presents a thorough accounting of a massive violation of constitutional rights in wartime and in so doing contributes to the current debate about civil liberties during a national emergency.
Light refreshment will be served. Please RSVP to Noriko Sanefuji at sanefujin@si.edu or (202)633-3595.
Posted Tuesday, 30 Jan. A beginner’s Tai Chi Class began on Monday, Mar 12 at 7:00 PM. There will be 12 classes in the session. The cost is $60.00 for Ekoji members and $84.00 for non-members. The fee is payable at the first session
Posted Wednesday, 4 Apr: THIS WEEKEND - Ekoji Buddhist Temple presents
Naikan: Hidden Gifts Revealed a Workshop with Mark LaWall
Saturday, May 5, 2007, 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Naikan is a practice with roots in Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. Simple enough that the basics can be learned in one session, Naikan helps us understand ourselves, our relationships, and the fundamental nature of existence.The workshop is free, and all are welcome.Coffee, tea, and brunchies will be served.
Sincerest condolences to the family of
Mrs. Geraldine Cantwell
Passed away on April 6, 2007
Memorial Service on Saturday, 21 April, 2 p.m., at Ekoji
2006 BCA Theme: Live A Life of Awakening
This Sunday, 8 Apr - Hanamatsuri (Buddha Day) Service. 11 a.m.
Joint Children and Adult Service (No Children's Dharma School classes)
Free Seminar – This Saturday, March 24, 2007, 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
"Born Again Buddhism: Putting Pure Land on the American Religious Map"
with Clark Strand
Lunch will be served.
Posted Saturday, 20 Jan: Our free Seminar Series presents Born Again Buddhism: Putting Pure Land on the American Religious Map with Clark Strand, teacher, author and former Zen Buddhist monk
Clark Strand is a former Zen Buddhist monk and the author of Seeds From A Birch: Writing Haiku and the Spiritual Journey; Meditation Without Gurus: A Guide to the Heart of Practice; The Wooden Bowl: Simple Meditation for Everyday Life; How to Believe in God; From the East Bearing Gifts; and The Buddhist Manifesto: Faith Practice and the Coming Revolution. In 1995 he founded the New York Haiku Society. In 1996 he left his position as Senior Editor of Tricycle: The Buddhist Review, to write and teach full time. He has taught in a wide variety of spiritual and secular settings, from Buddhist monasteries and retreat centers to the Smithsonian Institution. He currently resides in Woodstock, NY where he leads the “Koans of the Bible” study group.
Download the flyer (126 KB PDF)
Posted Wednesday, 3 Jan: Buddhism 101 will start again on Sunday January 14, 2007 at 10 a.m. and continue for five weeks.
Posted Saturday, 5 Mar: You and your friends are cordially invited to attend a free workshop on "Fall Prevention" hosted by Ekoji members, Gabrielle H. and Nora N. It will be an interactive program. Senior Fitness Consultant, Sonia Gow, will give tips and exercises to prevent falls. The workshop will be held at Ekoji Buddhist Temple, Tsuji Education Center, Wednesday, March 7, 7:00 - 8:00 pm.
Posted Saturday, 11 Feb: Connection Newspapers Faith Notes (8 Feb 2007)
Update: The 11 a.m. Service and *Children's* Dharma School for today, 25 Feb, are CANCELLED due to the weather conditions.
7 and 8 p.m.: Tai Chi with John Allen of Peaceable Dragon
The Temple is closed on Sunday, February 18, 2007 due to icing of the parking lot and walkways. All services and activities have been cancelled.
In Gassho,
Erick K. Ishii, Temple President
Posted Saturday, 14 Feb: There is *no* Children's Dharma School this Sunday because of the President's Day holiday.
Sunday, 11 Feb - Nehanye (Nirvana Day) Service. Dharma Message by Rev. Shojo Honda
Posted Thur, 24 Sep. Children's Dharma School Schedule Change. Now held every Sunday. The schedule for the rest of the calendar year (canx means there is no Dharma School that day). 10 a.m. service, 11 a.m. classes.
Non-Ekoji Event: For Information Only. Thanks to Joan King for this posting...
Posted Thur, 15 Jan. The Japan Information and Culture Center, Embassy of Japan Presents:
New Years Calligraphy and Art, Created by American Students of Japanese, December 20, 2006- January 24, 2007, In the JICC Gallery More
Posted Friday, 12 Jan: Children's Dharma School has been *cancelled* this Sunday, 14 January.
Join us for New Year's Eve and New Year's Day Services
New Year's Eve at 8 p.m. Soba noodles will be served after the service.
New Year's Day Joint (Children and Adults) Service at 11 a.m. followed immediately by a pot luck lunch.
2007
Posted Sat, 21 Oct. Buddhism 101, a series of five one-hour Dharma School classes for adults, will begin on Sunday, November 12 at 10 a.m. Students will learn about the basic teachings of Buddhism in general and Jodo-Shinshu in particular. The classes are free, and all are welcome.
Posted Sat, 9 Dec. Please join us at the Temple on Saturday, December 9th at 7:00 pm, when we welcome back monks from area Cambodian, Laotian and Thai temples for an International Buddhist Service.
The religious spirit of northern India at the time of the historical Buddha is brought back with the International Buddhist Service, when monks travelled from their monasteries to speak before laymen in the surrounding areas. We are honored by their presence and generosity.
Once again Professor Balaji Hebbar from George Washington University will render the lay Dharma message. The full agenda appears below.
Agenda:
Invoking Lord Buddha
Bathing of Lord Buddha
Flower-offering ceremony
Glorification ceremony with lamps and gongs
Chanting
Sermon by monks
Lay sermon
Meditation
Honoring of the Sangha
Water, Flower and String Blessings
Conclusion
All are welcome. We hope you will join us and listen to the beautiful chanting and Dharma messages.
Non Ekoji-sponsored event for information only
Posted Sun, 5 Nov. From the Collection of Kawasaki Isago no Sato Museum - UKIYO-E: Depicting Scenes of Kanagawa, The 25th Anniversary of the Sister State Relationship between Maryland and Kanagawa
Phase I (featuring Hokusai’s Great Wave): Nov. 16 – Nov. 24, 2006 / Phase II (featuring Hokusai’s Red Fuji ): Nov. 25 –Dec. 3, 2006, 9:00am – 5:00pm., Exhibit Closes Dec. 3 at 4:00pm
Memorial Lecture, November 17, 2006/12:00 noon to 1:00pm
Mr. Fumio Saito, Director, Kawasaki Isago no Sato Museum
Posted Sat 12 Aug. A new Tai Chi Level I (Beginner's) Class will start at Ekoji on Monday, August 21, 2006, at 7:00 PM and will continue for eleven weeks. More
Posted Saturday, 18 Nov. Please join us for this Sunday's Service on 19 November 2006. We will be having distinguished guest form BDK. Also, Rev. Ken Tanaka, author of Ocean (see Ekoji Online Bookstore for a link) and other Buddhist textbooks, will be at the Adult Dharma Class (10:00a) to answer questions and Sunday joint service (11:00a) to give a dharma message. The joint service will be followed by a pot luck lunch.
Posted Sat 12 Aug. A new Tai Chi Level I (Beginner's) Class will start at Ekoji on Monday, August 21, 2006, at 7:00 PM and will continue for eleven weekThe cost of the 12 session series is $60.00 for members of Ekoji and $84.00 for non-members. The fee is due only with check or cash at the first session.
Dates are Aug 21, 28, Sep 4, 11, 18, 25, Oct 2, 9, 16, 23, 30, Nov 6.
Posted Thur, 14 Sep. Annual General Sangha Meeting
On Sunday, November 12, 2006 Ekoji Buddhist Temple will hold its annual meeting following the service. This is a very important meeting where temple members will review activities and budgets for 2006, elect new Board members and approve the temple budget for 2007. We need and appreciate input, and guidance from the Sangha as to the future direction of the Ekoji Buddhist Temple. The Board of Directors hopes as many temple members as possible can attend. Lunch will be provided.
Posted Sun, 8 Oct. Naikan: Hidden Gifts Revealed, THIS Saturday, November 4, 2006, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon, with Mark LaWall. Posted 9 Oct. NAIKAN
With Mark LaWall, CSAC, NCAC II, Director of Adult Buddhist Education, Ekoji Buddhist Temple
Naikan is a Japanese art of self-reflection. Simple enough that the basics can be learned in an hour or two, Naikan practice can deepen our understanding of our lives, our relationships, and the fundamental nature of existence.
This Workshop is Free and all are welcome.Coffee, tea, and other light refreshments will be served.
- Posted, Sun 6 Aug. The Ekoji Buddhist Temple will offer *Buddhism 101*, a series of five weekly classes for adults who are interested in learning about the basic teachings of Buddhism.
- Posted, Sun 6 Aug. *Buddhism 101* The classes will begin on Sunday, September 10 at 10 a.m. at the Temple. The classes are offered free of charge. Dates: Sep 10, 17, 24, Oct 1, 8.
- Posted Wed, 4 Oct. Garden Cleanup, This Saturday, 7 Oct, 9:30 a.m,
This is another call for help with Garden clean-up this Saturday, October 7, 2006 at 9:30am, in preparation for the Anniversary celebration next weekend. There is still lots to do, since we did not get any turn out at all (except for Norman) at the last request for garden help. I hope a lot of you will find time to come help out. Please bring gloves and garden tools (weed diggers, rakes,...) if you have any. - Posted Fri 1 Sep. Honolulu Advertiser: Buddhists Seek Younger Members. A story featuring Lady Noriko Ohtani, wife of the Monshu Koshin Ohtani, head of the Jodo Shinshu Nishi Hongwanji sect.
- Posted Tuesday, 19 Sep. Dharma School Kickoff Continental Breakfast, Sunday, 24 Sep, 10 a.m. We plan to start the Dharma School year with a breakfast this Sunday. The teachers will provide the breakfast items, so no need to bring anything.We won't have a service, but will have classes at 11 a.m. As a trial for the rest of the calendar year, we plan to have a more robust schedule which we'll discuss on Sunday.
- Posted Sun, 18 Jun. A special photo gallery by Seth Moherman (Note for dial-in users - this page contains about 1.3 MB in images). Posted permanently under "Permanent Content: Video and Photos"
- Posted Sun, 11 Jun. Join Sensei TK Nakagaki on a Spiritual Tour to India, November 24 – December 10, 2006. Rev. T. Kenjitsu Nakagaki is the head resident minister of New York Buddhist Church, former president of the Buddhist Council of New York, and UCM Buddhist Chaplain at Columbia University. He is an author of New York Bozu Indo o Aruku, or "NY monk walking India" (Gendai-shokan Publisher in Japan, 2003). For further information please contact (212) 678-0305 or visit this website: http://www.newyorkbuddhistchurch.org
Posted Sat, 21 Oct. For information only - not an Ekoji event. Into a blue sky: The Art of Takahiko Ii is an exhibit currently at the Japan Information and Culture Center, through October 31. Thanks to Joan King for the information. More
Posted Sat, 21 Oct. Into a blue sky: The Art of Takahiko Ii - September 11- October 31
The Japan Information and Culture Center presents the art of Takahiko Ii in the JICC gallery. The exhibit will be open Monday though Friday 9:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. Mr. Ii has had several exhibitions of his work throughout Japan, and has been sponsored by the Japanese Professional baseball league. Mr. Ii has done official advertising artwork for the Japanese professional baseball league. His works have also been released in two compilation books: "Catch Ball" and "Everyone Played Little League". This is his first exhibition outside of Japan.
The Japan Information and Culture Center, Embassy of Japan 1155 21st Street, NW Washington, DC 20036: http://www.us.emb-japan.go.jp/jicc.htm
This exhibition is made possible by All Nippon Airways (ANA).
Posted Fri, 6 Oct. Celebrate Ekoji’s 25th Anniversary! Here is a brief outline of the events.
Saturday, October 14th
2:00 – 4:00 Ekoji Lecture – “Sharing the Message of Jodo Shinshu in an American Context” – Rev. Jeanette Shin
2:00 – 2:30 Lecture
2:30 – 2:45 Break
2:45 – 4:00 Discussion Session
6:30 – 9:00 Celebratory Dinner in Reston, VA. Event is sold out.
Sunday, October 15th
10:30 – 12:00 Joint Service
13th Year Service for Mr. Yehan Numata
3rd Year Service for Rev. Kenryu Tsuji
25th Year Anniversary Service for the Founding of the Ekoji Buddhist Service
12:00 – 12:20 Group Photo (Garden of the Three Treasures)
12:30 – 1:00 Coffee and Anniversary Cake (Social Hall)
Posted Tuesday 3 Oct. No Children's Dharma School this Sunday, due to the Columbus Day Holiday weekend.
Posted Tuesday, 19 Sep. Garden Clean-up, Saturday, 23 Sep, 9 a.m. Not only do we once again need to get the garden ready for fall, this time we also need to get the garden tip top shape for the 25th anniversary celebration.
We will need to have some strong arms to help:
1) Transplant the thundercloud Japanese black pine that is blocking the view of the lantern; 2) Planting mums (?)in place of the moved black pine, and may be also plant some mums out front where the small lantern and the weeping atlas cedar are; 3) Weed; 4) Prune the wisteria some more; 5) Blow leaves and debris in meditation and inner court yard gardens; 6) Rake the gravel in the inner courtyard garden
So please bring your gardening gears (gloves, weed digger, shovel, rake, etc...)and come out in force to help next Sunday 9/24, starting around 9am. Hopefully, we'll be able to get lots done by service time. I will buy some mums for the planting. If any one would like to donate for this purchase, please let me know. Many thanks!
In gassho, ~Gabrielle
We Want to Publish Your Favorite Recipes!
Posted Sun, 23 Jul. We are collecting favorite recipes from members of our Sangha to be published in a beautiful spiral bound cookbook in commemoration of our Temple’s 25th Anniversary.
Submission Form (136 KB PDF download)
Please send us three or four of your favorite recipes as soon as possible. Just print or type your favorite recipe on the submission form (136 KB PDF download) Please return your recipes to our cookbook committee by August 27th so the book can be prepared for publication in time for our 25th Anniversary in October. Drop it off in our Cookbook Committee box in the hondo or email it to bmfuji(AT)aol.com
These personalized cookbooks make great gifts! …since they’ll have your own recipes published in it. Your friends and family will especially enjoy it…it’ll be a treasured keepsake for years to come.
Updated 20 May 2006
"A Sangha In Transition"
2006 Eastern Buddhist League Retreat Website
23-25 June 2006 at Ekoji
Food for Thought Papers
Rev Shojo Honda's Dharma Talk on Ritual Manner (124 KB PDF)
Gordon Bermant, American Jodo Shinshu Practice: A Fork in the Road (396 KB PDF)
Maya Nakamura, May 6, 2006 Dharma Message (217 KB PDF)
Posted 9 Jul. Here's a video of Rev Honda's Obon Service Dharma Message. 24 mins, 38 secs, Quicktime format.
THIS SATURDAY, 22 July
Bhante, Buddhist Practice from A to Z
9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Flyer (Note: 553 KB PDF. No additional textual information content). Dharma Talk - Sunday, July 23, 2006, 11:00 am Service. For more information, see below under More News
- Posted Fri, 7 Jul. Madawala Seelawimala Mathathera “Bhante” was born in Sri Lanka and ordained as a novice monk at the age of ten.Ten years later he received his full ordination as a monk in the Theravadan tradition.
In 1976, at the invitation of the late Rev. Kenryu Takashi Tsuji, Bishop of the Buddhist Churches of America, the largest Buddhist organization in America, Bhante came to the United States to teach Theravada Buddhism at the Institute of Buddhist Studies (IBS) in Berkeley, California, where he continues to teach today. He is also a teacher at the Graduate Theological Union affiliated with UC at Berkeley .
Bhante is currently the president of resident the American Buddhist Seminary Temple in Sacramento and Buddhist Vihara in Vancouver, Canada. He works closely with Cambodian, Laotian, Thai and Sri Lankan Communities in California and neighboring states .
Seminars at Ekoji Buddhist Temple are free and open to everyone, regardless of belief or practice. Lunch and refreshments will be served at the Saturday seminar. - Posted Wed, 21 Jun. Because of scheduling conflicts and other pressing duties, Thursday, June 22, will be our last weekly yoga class at Ekoji until further notice.
- The Japan-American Society of Washington is holding its Natsu Atsu Summer Picnic on Saturday, July 22 from 3:00-7:30 pm at Fort Ward Park in Alexandria, VA. Click here for a PDF file with more information (thanks to Joan King for the alert)
Posted 7 Jul. Bhante, Buddhist Practice from A to Z
Seminar - Saturday, July 22, 2006, 9:00 am – 3:30 pm
TODAY!
Ekoji's Annual Obon Festival - Saturday, 8 July
An Evening of Culture, Dance & Food
5:30-9:00 p.m.
Food Sales: 5:30pm
Dancing: 7:00 - 9:00 pm
Featuring NEN DAIKO Japanese Drummers
Flyer (303 KB PDF)
Food Pre-Order Form (231 KB PDF)
- Food sales will begin at 5:30 pm, with pre-orders available. Food choices will range from obento dinners to gyoza, spam, musubi, somen, as well as assorted desserts. The Obon Odori, or traditional Japanese folk dancing, will begin at 7:00 pm. In addition to dancing, two activities that we started last year will be continued for this year as well: the silent auction, and the sales of the Obon Memorial Candles. Ekoji's own Nen Daiko will also perform at intermission. If you have suitable items you would like to donate for this year's silent auction or if you are interested in volunteering for this year's Obon, please contact Greg Nakamura or Evan Cantwell.
Memorial Candlelight Ceremony for Your Loved Ones: Ekoji’s Garden of the Three Treasures will be bright with candlelights in memory of your loved ones on the Saturday evening of July 8th. The candles go together with the names of the persons whom you cherish. The memorial candles will be available to purchase for $5.00 on the evening at Ekoji before placing them in the garden. The evening will end with a short sutra-chanting in front of the lit candles by Rev. Honda. If you need information, please send an email to information(AT)ekoji.org (replace "(AT)" with the @ sign).
- Posted Wed, 21 Jun. Because of scheduling conflicts and other pressing duties, Thursday, June 22, will be our last weekly yoga class at Ekoji until further notice.
- Posted Sun, 18 Jun. A special photo gallery by Seth Moherman (Note for dial-in users - this page contains about 1.3 MB in images). Posted permanently under "Permanent Content: Video and Photos"
- Posted Mon, May 29. A video on the Meaning of Nembutsu, Rev. Honda, 14 May 2006 (11 min, 33 sec). To view it, you need Apple's free, cross-platform Quicktime. Posted under "Permanent Content: Videos and Photos"
- Posted Sat, May 20. Ekoji Buddhist Temple will offer Buddhism 101, a series of five classes for adults who would like to learn about Buddhism in general and Jodo-Shinshu in particular. The classes will meet at the Temple for one hour on Sunday mornings at 10 a.m. and are offered free of charge. The first session met on June 11.
- Posted Fri, Feb 24. A video about How to Oshoko (Burn Incense), Rev. Honda, 19 Feb 2006 (2 min, 46 sec). To view it, you need Apple's free, cross-platform Quicktime. Posted under Permanent Content: Videos.
- Posted Fri, Apr 14. Naikan: Hidden Gifts Revealed
A workshop with Mark LaWall, CSAC, NCAC II
Saturday, May 13, 2006, 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon, at Ekoji
Naikan is a Japanese art of self-reflection. Simple enough that the basics can be learned in an hour or two, Naikan practice can deepen our understanding of our lives, our relationships, and the fundamental nature of existence. This Workshop is Free and all are welcome. - Posted Sunday, May 7. Sunday, May 14 Schedule
Children's Dharma School classes will be held at 10 a.m., and then students will attend the main 11 a.m. service.
Ekoji Buddhist Temple's Annual Mother's Day Breakfast
9:30 Men of the Ekoji Buddhist Temple meet and start preparing breakfast. (Bring your large skillet, or favorite snacks/pastries)
10:00 Serve breakfast to Mothers
11:00 Sunday Service*
* Coffee/Tea and Snack/Pastries will be served following the Sunday Service
- Posted Wednesday, Jan 11 (revised on 6 Feb 06). Yoga classes with Anna Tecson will be held on Thursdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in 8-10 week sessions. The current session began on February 2 and will continue through March 30.
- Posted Tuesday, Dec 27 (revised on 6 Feb 06). A new beginner's Tai Chi class with John Allen of Peaceable Dragon began on Monday, February 6, 2006, at 7:00 p.m. and will continue for 12 weeks. Further information is available below under "Events, Schedule, News, and Website Additions." Dates are Feb 6, 13, 20, 27, Mar 5, 12, 19, 26, Apr 2, 9, 16, 23. The cost is $60.00 for Ekoji members and $84.00 for non-members payable at the first class. Classes will be held in the Tsuji Education Building at the Temple. Please send an e-mail to information(AT)ekoji.org to register or to ask for additional information. The advanced class will continue to meet at 8:00pm every Monday.
Children's Dharma School has been postponed one week until Sunday, 30 April.
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- Posted Sun, Apr 2. Sunday, April 9, is the annual Buddha Day (Hanamatsuri) Service at 11 a.m. Pot Luck Luncheon immediately follows.
- Posted Tue, 4 Apr. Kenny Endo in Concert. Saturday, April 8, 2006, 1 pm, Meyer Auditorium
A true innovator of musical fusion, Kenny Endo blends traditional Japanese music with influences from around the world. He opened for The Who in 2004, appeared with Bobby McFerrin in 2003, and has performed in Cairo, Paris, Brussels, London, and Hong Kong. He is joined by an ensemble of musicians on koto, shakuhachi, vibraphone, euphonium (brass), and taiko. Kenny Endo has conducted workshops for Ekoji' Taiko group, Nen Daiko. For more information, see http://www.asia.si.edu/events/performances.asp
Congratulations to George Mason University for advancing to the NCAA Final Four!
Posted Wed, Mar 1. Textbook discussion on the "The Heart Sutra," translated and commented on by Red Pine. The discussion will be on March 25, Saturday, at 7:30 p.m. at the home of Anna Tecson. It will be facilitated by Dr. Gordon Bermant. Please note the date has been changed from the 18th to the 25th. The book is for sale at the temple for $18.00. For directions, please send an email to information(AT)ekoji.org.
Please join us for the first International Buddhist Worship Service at Ekoji Buddhist Temple, Saturday evening, 25 Feb, from 7-9 p.m.
We will be honored by the presence of eight monks from the nations of Laos, Cambodia and Sri Lanka who will participate in the ceremony. Professor Hebbar of American University will preside over the service.
All are welcome.
Due to the weather, all Ekoji activities have been cancelled for Sunday, 12 Feb
Posted Wednesday, Dec 14. Adult Dharma School Beginner's Class "Introduction to Buddhism" began on Sunday, January 8, 2006 at 10 a.m. The class will consist of five one-hour sessions, and all are welcome to attend. Dates are Jan 8, 15, 22, 29 and Feb 5.
Best Wishes for a Happy New Year!
Posted Monday, Dec 26. The Book Discussion Group will meet on Sat, Jan 7, 2006, at 8:00 p.m. and will be led by Dr Gordon Bermant. The books to be discussed are Coffinman : The Journal of a Buddhist Mortician
New Year's Eve Service, Saturday, 31 Dec, 8 p.m. Please join the Sangha and bring in 2006 with the Ringing of the Bell (108 times). Light refreshments will be served immediately following the service.
Tai Chi classes will resume at Ekoji (Posted 18 Sep 2005) began Monday, September 12, 2005, at 8;00 PM. John Allen, an experienced instructor from the Peaceable Dragon organization, has volunteered to teach the classes which will be conducted in ten week sessions on Monday evenings. A contribution of $5:00 per lesson is suggested. No experience is necessary and anyone may join and benefit from learning Tai Chi's meditative form.
Share a Greeting with the Ekoji Sangha for 2006 (Posted 6 Dec 2005)
The January issue of the Kalavinka will dedicate a page to those of you who want to share a greeting for the New Year.
The page will feature short greetings, for example, "Happy New Year, Rev. Honda," or "Best wishes for 2006 from Rev. Honda."
Purchase your greeting for only a $5 donation to Ekoji. Please forward your brief greeting to information(AT)ekoji.org or leave it with a board member at the temple marked for the Kalavinka. Checks should be made payable to Ekoji Buddhist Temple. The deadline has been extended to Sunday, December 18.
Bodhi Day (Buddha's Enlightenment) Celebration and Potluck, Sunday, 11 Dec 2005, 11 a.m.
Gabrielle H. is coordinating the pot luck luncheon which will immediately follow the 11 a.m. service. We will need main dishes, side dishes and desserts. If you could bring any dish to share, please email Gabrielle via information(AT)ekoji.org
Adult Dharma Class began Sunday, November 20, 2005 at 10:00 a.m.
The topic will be "On Becoming a Shin Buddhist" and will cover the history, teachings and rituals of Jodo Shinshu. The class will meet for one hour a week for 4 weeks. Free of charge and all are welcome.
This Saturday, 19 Nov
* Ekoji Buddhist Temple presents
Naikan - Gratitude in Action
9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Free. Light refreshments and lunch will be provided.
* Ekoji Buddhist Temple presentsNaikan - Gratitude in Action (Posted 18 Sep 2005)
Saturday, November 19, 2005 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 noon. Free. Light refreshments and lunch will be provided.*Naikan* is a method of self-reflection. Participants will learn the fundamentals of *Naikan* practice. The workshop will be facilitated by Mark LaWall, Director of Adult Buddhist Education at Ekoji Buddhist Temple.
Children's Dharma School is cancelled this Sunday, 13 Nov
Announcement: Annual General Sangha Meeting
On Sunday, November 13, 2005 Ekoji Buddhist Temple will hold its annual meeting following the service. This is a very important meeting where temple members will review activities and budgets for 2005, elect new Board members and approve the temple budget for 2006. We need and appreciate input and guidance from the Sangha and hope as many temple members as possible can attend. As often is the case with many Ekoji events, a great pot luck lunch will be served.
The next Adult Dharma Class at Ekoji will begin on Sunday September 18, 2005, 10 a.m. (Posted 8 Sep 2005). It will meet for one hour each week for 5 weeks. The topic is an introduction to Buddhism and subjects that will be covered include:
- The Life of the Buddha
- The Four Noble Truths
- Underlying Philosophy
- The Shin Buddhist tradition
The class is free and all are welcome. Feel free to pass this notice onto a friend, neighbor or colleague who may be interested.
- October Guest Speakers. These events are free and open to all.
We're honored to have two leading Buddhist scholars giving talks at Ekoji in the month of October. The specifics are listed below:
Guest Lecturer: Professor Duncan Williams UC-Irvine (Biography link) will give a two-part lecture, this Saturday, October 15, 2005:3:00 p.m. - Topic: Buddhism and Japanese-Americans During WWII
7:30 p.m. - Topic: Soto Zen Practice
Prof. Williams will also present the Dharma Talk at our Sunday, October 16th service at 11:00 a.m. - Sunday, 9 Oct, 9:45 - 10:45 a.m. Children's Dharma School Organizational Meeting
- All Dana collected at our next service, Sunday September 25, 2005, will be donated to aid the victims of Hurricane Katrina. Please plan on coming to service this Sunday if you are able, and join the Sangha in helping the people of the Gulf Coast region.
- Special Adult Dharma Class: Saturday, September 10, at 7 p.m. at Gordon Bermant's home. A discussion of Stephen Batchelor's book Living With the Devil: A Meditation on Good and Evil led by Dr. Gordon Bermant, President, Buddhist Churches of America. You can order the book directly from Amazon - please use one of these links and Ekoji will receive a higher percentage of the purchase price than usual (Hardcover | Paperback). Also, Gordon wrote a review of the book which is published at his ABSC blog: http://www.americanbuddhist.org/articles/gordonbermant/
- Come Join Us! Ekoji Fall Social Brunch
Sun., Sept. 11 immediately after service.
Everything will be provided by Ekoji.
Please RSVP by Sept. 8, 2005 to Ruth Vines: taiko(AT)ekoji(DOT)org or leave a message at the Temple: 703-239-0500. - The next Adult Dharma Class (Posted 14 Jun 05) will begin on Sunday July 17, 2005, 10 a.m. It will meet for one hour each week for 5 weeks. The topic is an introduction to Buddhism and subjects that will be covered include:
- The Life of the Buddha
- The Four Noble Truths
- Underlying Philosophy
- The Shin Buddhist tradition - Saturday, 20 August: 9 a.m. - Noon Cleanup (Indoor and Outdoor). Lunch included.
There will be *no* Children's Dharma School this Sunday to allow maximum participation with Rev Kobata.
Rev. Ronald Kobata, Executive Assistant to BCA Bishop Socho Ogui, will be giving a talk on Jodo Shinshu Buddhism at 10:00 a.m. this Sunday October 23rd and the Dharma Talk during the 11:00 a.m. service.
- A link to an on-going essay series, Living in the Dharma - Confusedly, from Ekoji's monthly newsletter, the Kalavinka, has been added under "Permanent Content."
- Ekoji's Obon was featured in the Fairfax Connection Newspaper. See Festival of Remembrance
THIS WEEKEND - ANNUAL OBON FESTIVAL
Free of charge and open to all!
- This year’s Obon Festival will be Saturday, July 9 through Sunday, July 10*. The festival is 5:30 to 9 p.m. on Saturday. The Obon Service on Sunday at 11 a.m. Obon is a memorial service for Buddhists.It is an opportunity to remember our parents, grandparents, and all those who have passed on ahead of us. At this time of remembrance, we can also express our gratitude for all they have done for us and for the interconnectedness of our lives.
Obon Festival (Posted 6 Jun 05)
At this year’s Obon Festival - Saturday, July 9 through
Sunday, July 10 - Ekoji will be offering Memorial Candles for sale.
These candles will be a memorial to loved ones who have passed way and will have their names inscribed on the candles. On the Saturday evening, the “memorial glows” will be placed in the Garden of the Three Treasures for viewing and reflection.
Candles can be purchased in advance for $5. For more information, please contact Erick Ishii via e-mail at erickishii(AT)att(DOT)net.
Also this year, Ekoji will be sponsoring a silent auction with proceeds going to help support the various temple activities. To help make this successful, Ekoji needs the Sangha’s help! We are looking for goods and/or services that you are willing to donate for the auction. Articles in good condition and services will be greatly appreciated!
To donate items for the auction, please contact Greg Nakamura at geuphonium(AT)yahoo(DOT)com for more details.
Slides from the 12 Jun Dharma Message (1.5 MB PDF): Jodo Shinshu Resources on the Web
Ekoji Adult Dharma Class will begin on Sunday May 22 (Posted 15 May 05)
The class will meet from 10 am – 11 am. The topic for this set of classes is On Becoming a Shin Buddhist, Classes are free and all are welcome.
Headlines
- Newly added to the page Links to Buddhism Sites: Rev Taitetsu Unno's Northampton (MA) Shin Buddhist Sangha
- Read this San Francisco Chronicle article about the Jodo Shinshu Center: From auto showroom to Buddhist Center
Ekoji Adult Dharma Class will begin on Sunday April 17th (Posted 4 April 05)
The class will meet from 10 am – 11 am each Sunday for 5 weeks. The topic of the class is An Introduction to Buddhism. It is designed for those people exploring or just starting out on the Buddhist path. Areas covered in the class include:
- The life of the Buddha
- The Four Noble Truths
- Underlying philosophies
- How Buddhism spread and developed over time
- The Shin Buddhist Sect
This class will be immediately followed by the next session, On Becoming a Shin Buddhist, starting on Sunday May 22nd at 10 am. Classes are free and all are welcome.
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- Join us and celebrate Buddha Day ("Hanamatsuri"), the observance of Buddha's birth, this Sunday, 10 April, 11 a.m.
- The next Adult Dharma class will begin on Sunday April 17th at 10:00am. The topic is An Introduction to Buddhism.*
- Ekoji will be participating in Sakura Matsuri Arts and Crafts, 9 April 2005
- Nen Daiko (Taiko Drums) will be participating in Sakura Matsuri Performing Arts, 9 April 2005
- ASIAN READING ROOM OF THE LIBRARY OF CONGRESS TO OPEN ON SATURDAYS (Posted 9 Mar 05)
Six Month Pilot Program Begins April 9
The Asian Reading Room of the Library of Congress will open on Saturdays for a trial period of six months. Beginning on April 9 and ending Oct. 8, the hours of the Asian Reading Room will be Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:00 p.m.
The Asian Division houses more than 2.7 million items in more than 200 Asian languages. The collection covers topics ranging from art to zoology. For many Asian languages, it holds the largest collection of material outside of Asia.
The Asian Division offers reference services pertaining to all countries in South, Southeast and East Asia, as well as the Pacific Islands. The Asian Division also provides patrons with access to a wide variety of electronic resources that are only available within subscribing libraries. Books can be requested upon arrival in the reading room. However, patrons using the collections on Saturdays are encouraged to request materials in advance. Requests can be faxed to (202) 252-3336 or sent by email to asianrequest@loc.gov. All requests should include the title, language and call number of the materials requested; the name of the patron and the patron's reader registration ID number.
The Asian Reading Room is located in Room 150 of the Library's Thomas Jefferson Building, 10 First St. S.E., Washington, D.C., one block north of the Capitol South Metro station. The Library's 21 reading rooms are open to members of the public over the age of 18.
Those wishing to enter the reading rooms must first obtain a reader registration card in Room 140 of the James Madison Building, 101 Independence Ave. S.E., Washington, D.C.
Thaddeus Yoneji Ohta
Coordinator, Japanese Team, Asian Division
Library of Congress Wash., D.C. 20540
e-mail: toht@loc.gov fax:202.707.1724
voice mail: 202.707.3558 - Ekoji Buddhist Temple is offering a free seminar entitled The Buddha Here & Now as part of its ongoing Spring Seminar Series.The seminar will be held Saturday, March 26, 2005 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Lunch will be provided by the temple. The featured speaker will be Reverend Kodo Umezu, from the Headquarters of the Buddhist Churches of America (BCA) in San Francisco, CA. The BCA is the national organization that represents over 60 Shin Buddhist temples in the United States. Topics covered in the seminar include:
- The basic teachings of the Buddha
- Applying those teachings in a modern world
The seminar is free and all are welcome. - * The next session of the Adult Dharma class began on Sunday, March 6th at 10 a.m.
- The next session of the Adult Dharma class will begin on Sunday, March 6th at 10 a.m. (Posted 28 Feb 2005)
The topic will be “On becoming a Jodo Shinshu Buddhist.” The classes will focus on the underlying Sutras, teachings and ritual of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. The class will meet each Sunday during the month of March. It is ideal for both the newcomer and current temple members.
In Memoriam*
|
IN MEMORIAM: First Year Memorial Service for Ekoji's Founding Minister (Posted 21 Feb 2005)
Sunday, March 6, 2005
11:00 a.m., at the Ekoji Buddhist Temple
Officiating Minister: Rev. Shojo Honda
On February 26, 2004, Ekoji’s Founding Minister, Rev. Kenryu T. Tsuji, passed away. He was a pioneer in the Buddhist Churches of America, first as the Director of Buddhist Education and then as the first North American-born Bishop of BCA. During his time in BCA leadership roles, Buddhist Education in English took shape, the BCA bookstore was started, the Institute of Buddhist Studies was founded, the District Conferences began where sanghas could come together and share their ideas and experiences, and much more.
However, we have an even more direct tie with Rev. Tsuji than through the BCA. Rev. Tsuji had started other temples, but Ekoji was the first temple he started that was influenced from his experiences in national and international leadership positions. He envisioned Ekoji as a place where Jodo Shinshu Buddhism could be taught and experienced. It would be a temple where the doors would be truly open for all, and where Jodo Shinshu would move from a basically ethnic religion to a truly American religion available to all. Working with Rev. Yehan Numata of the Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai, the temple we see today started with their dreams and was shaped under Rev. Tsuji’s stewardship as he served as Ekoji’s first minister for 18 years.
Please join us on Sunday, March 6, at 11:00 a.m., as we remember the teacher Rev. Tsuji was and the influence he continues to have on our lives.
Namu Amida Butsu
Adult Dharma class (Posted 23 Dec 2004)
The next Adult Dharma class will begin on Sunday, January 16, 2005 at 10:00 am. The class will be led by Mark LaWall, Director of Buddhist Education at Ekoji and meet for one hour each week for 5 weeks. The topic is An Introduction to Buddhism and will cover:
- The Life of the Buddha
- The Four Noble Truths
- Underlying Philosophy
- The Shin Buddhist Tradition
The class is free and all are welcome. Following the end of this class, the next class will start and its topic will be On Becoming a Shin Buddhist. Information about that class will be posted early next year.
Blogger (Posted 26 Oct 2004)
Ekoji member and BCA President-Elect Gordon Bermant is now a blogger at the American Buddhist Study Center [Posted permanently under Online Forums: Discussion/Message Boards & Weblogs ("Blogs")].
(n.) Short for Web log, a blog is a Web page that serves as a publicly accessible personal journal for an individual. Typically updated daily, blogs often reflect the personality of the author. (from Webopedia)
Special Memorial Service for Tsunami Victims, This Sunday, 6 February
- The Ekoji Buddhist Temple will conduct a special memorial service for the South Asian and African tsunami victims, on Sunday, February 6, 2005 at 11:00 a.m. The service will be led by Ekoji's resident minister Reverend Shojo Honda and will be conducted in English. The service is open to all members of the public who wish to express their grief and sympathy for those who perished and hope for the well being of the survivors. Light refreshments follow the service.
ALL 23 JANUARY ACTIVITIES ARE POSTPONED UNTIL 30 JANUARY
- Due to the weather, the Memorial Service for the Tsunami Victims of South Asia and Africa scheduled for the 23rd of January is postponed to January 30th, 11 a.m. with reception to follow. All other activities, including the Children's Dharma School, are postponed as well.
NEW YEAR'S CELEBRATIONS
Hello to the Ekoji Sangha,
Please join the Sangha and bring in 2005 at the New Year's Eve Service, December 31st, at 8 p.m. with the 108 Ringing of the Bell. There will be light refreshment following.
On New Year's Day----Saturday-----Happy New Year Service, 11 a.m. and a special Sangha Speaks time during Service! A New Year's Potluck will follow and promises to be another fabulous Ekoji Feast!
Regular service is also scheduled for January 2nd, Sunday (new Board meeting).
We have much to be thankful for as 2004 comes to an end and the New Year begins! Let's celebrate together.
On Becoming a Shin Buddhist:A Class for Those Who Are Starting Out On the Jodo Shinshu Path (Posted 6 Nov 2004)
Sundays at 10 a.m. Ekoji Buddhist Temple, Tsuji Education Building.
-The class will consist of four one-hour sessions, beginning November 14th (no class on November 28th).
Participants will learn about:
- The history of Buddhism and the development of the Mahayana schools
- The Pure Land Sutras
- The teachings of Shinran Shonin and how the Jodo Shinshu school began
- How Shin Buddhists practice
- What happens at a Jodo Shinshu service
Call to Ekoji Sangha! Come to Service on Sunday, 14 Nov, and to Ekoji's General Membership Meeting following (Posted 13 Nov 2004)
Lunch will be provided as the Board and the Sangha review 2005's budget and blueprint for action! New board members (3) will also be elected, as well as one trustee. This all starts at 11 a.m. for service and 12 -12:30 p.m. for the meeting. See you then!!
Gassho,
Gerri Cantwell, Board president
Winthrop Faulkner Dies at 73; Architect (Posted 21 Oct 2004)
Source (registration required): http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/articles/A50158-2004Oct20.html
By Joe Holley
Washington Post Staff Writer
Thursday, October 21, 2004; Page B07
Winthrop W. Faulkner, 73, an architect best known for houses he designed in the contemporary style in Cleveland Park and elsewhere, died of cancer Oct. 19 at his home in Northwest Washington.
...
Although Mr. Faulkner preferred designing private residences, he also designed an office building for Brewood Engravers on 20th Street; the Great Ape House and crocodile pavilion at the National Zoo; the renovation of the Federal Reserve Board building in Washington; an addition to Christ Episcopal Church in Kensington; and the Ekoji Buddhist Temple in Fairfax County...
Nen Daiko, Ekoji's Taiko drum group, will be playing this Friday evening, 5 Nov, at the grand opening of Todai Restaurant, Fair Oaks Mall, Fairfax, VA.
Ekoji Adult Dharma Class to Began Sep 19th (Posted 20 Sep 2004)
The next class in our ongoing Adult Dharma program will begin on Sunday Sep 19th at 10:00 am in the Sangha Hall. The topic will be an introduction to Buddhism in general and Shin Buddhism in particular and will be led by Mark LaWall, Director of Education.
The class will meet from 10:00 - 11:00 am each Sunday for six weeks. All are welcome, from those who are new to Buddhism to those who need a refresher course. Please use this opportunity to help spread the Buddha Dharma and invite a friend, neighbor or colleague who may be interested.
Free seminar on The Fundamentals of Shin Buddhism. Part of Ekoji's ongoing Fall Seminar Series (Posted 27 Sep 2004)
The seminar will be held Saturday, October 23, 2004 from 9:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Temple.The featured speaker will be Dr. Nobuo Haneda, Director of the Maida Center of Buddhism in Berkeley, CA. The Maida Center is a not for profit organization dedicated to enhancing the study and practice of Shin Buddhism in the United States. Topics covered Dr. Haneda in the seminar include:
- The basic principles of Shin Buddhism
- Discussion of the three Pure Land Sutras that are at the heart of Shin Buddhist teachings
The seminar is free and lunch and refreshments will be served. All are welcome.
The Jodo Ring banner has been reinstated at the bottom of this page. Ekoji has been restored as a member site. (20 Sep 2004)
Children's Dharma School Organizational meeting Sep 19th, 9:45 a.m. (Posted 13 Sep 2004)
Purpose of this meeting is to organize the Dharma School for this year. Contact webmaster(AT)ekoji-dot-org if you'd like to participate or have any questions.
Annual EBL Conference (Posted 11 Jul 2004)
Interesting and intriguing seminar sessions are planned, including plenty of hands-on learning activitiesfor Dharma School students.For more information, visit the conference website at: http://www.eblconference2004.com
This Saturday, 10 July: Ekoji's 23rd Annual Obon Festival
Open to the Public / Admission is Free
Food sales start at 5:30 p.m.
Obon Dancing at 7 p.m.
Obon Service, Sunday, 11 a.m.
For information about the significance of Obon, recommend the following articles by Rev. Dr. Alfred Bloom, Emeritus Professor, University of Hawaii:
These articles are from Dr. Bloom's website The Shin DharmaNet
Ekoji to hold 23rd Annual Obon Festival (Posted 20 Jun 2004)
The Ekoji Buddhist Temple will hold its 23rd annual Obon Festival Saturday, July 10, 2004 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Obon is a Buddhist observance that honors one’s ancestors. Festival activities include music, Bon-odori dancing, games and crafts, and traditional Japanese food dishes. Temple tours and short lectures on Buddhism will be held during the festival as well. Food and drinks will be sold throughout the evening.
The Elementary Level Adult Dharma School Series (Posted 16 May 2004)
is gonna happen again, starting on Sunday morning, May 23 at 10 a.m. Six weekly, one-hour sessions again, but this time we're gonna use a book that is easy to buy: Buddhism : A Concise Introduction* by Huston Smith and Philip Novak. We'll have copies available, hopefully by the 23rd, but I bought mine at Borders and it is orderable from Amazon.com from the links provided. Please come, and tell anybody who's interested that all are welcome.
- Mark LaWall
* Buy from Amazon specifically at this link and Ekoji gets a higher than normal percentage of the purchase price
Adult Dharma Class: May 17, 2004 (Posted 16 May 2004)
Monday Evening 7:45 - 8:45 p.m.
Topic: Shinran Shonin, founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism
Gordon Bermant will be conducting a class on the life and teachings of Shinran Shonin. Shinran was a monk who lived in Japan during the 12th century who founded Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. The class will meet each Monday for 5 weeks. To prepare for the class, please begin by checking back here and websites with information about Shinran: Search Google for Shinran Shonin
SMITHSONIAN ASIAN PACIFIC AMERICAN PROGRAM (Posted 14 May)
PRESENTS
RITUALS IN BUDDHIST PRACTICE
SPEAKER: REVEREND MASAO KODANI
WHEN: Saturday, June 19, 2004
TIME: 2 PM
WHEN: Meyer Auditorium, FREER GALLERY
Using the funeral as an example of Buddhist ritual, Reverend Masao Kodani, a minister of the Jodo Shinshu or "Pureland" sect of Buddhism, will explain the Buddhist funeral, and the significance of the ritual to the Buddhist religion. Reverend Kodani will present an overview of the historical development of rituals in Buddhist practice, and the relevance of such rituals to day-to-day life in both a cultural as well as a religious context. The rituals comparative distinction from the Judeo-Christian-Muslim practices will be presented as well. A question and answer period will follow.
Reverend Kodani is a much sought after speaker in the Southern California area. Come and enjoy his presentation and take in a docent led tour of the Sackler Gallery as well.
For more information: See www.apa.si.edu
Yahoo Groups: Shin Buddhist Forum (Posted on 29 May 2004)
Jodo Shinshu Honganji-ha message board on MSN (Posted on 29 May 2004)
For an unknown reason, Ekoji is no longer listed as a Jodo Ring Member Site. The moderator has been contacted, but until the situation is resolved, the banner has been removed from the home page (30 May 2004)
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Asian Pacific-Islander Month Activities in Maryland (Posted 23 May 2004)
Tuesday, May 25, 11 am-1 pm
Oriental Tea Tasting
Enjoy sampling a variety of tastes from the Orient. Noodles and other light foods will be served. Reservations required by May 24.
Ages 60 & up; FREE
Bladensburg Community Center
4500 57th Avenue, Bladensburg
Information: 301-277-2124; TTY 301-445-4512
Wednesday, May 26, 4 pm
Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Celebration
Teens, make Japanese crafts and enjoy refreshments.
Ages 13-17; FREE
Columbia Park Community Center
1901 Kent Village Drive, Landover
Information: 301-341-3749; TTY 301-445-4512
Friday, May 28, 3-4 pm
A Taste of Hawaii
Experience a little bit of Hawaii. Enjoy sampling tropical fruits and make beautiful leis. Reservations required by May 21.
Ages 6-17; FREE
College Park Youth Services Center
4912 Nantucket Road, College Park
Information: 301-345-4425; TTY 301-445-4512
http://www.pgparks.com/things/calendar.html#asianpacific
Gassho to Amida webpage (Posted 9 May)
Created Gassho to Amida Webpage "Gassho to Amida" is an English-language gatha for Dharma School students. Link is posted in "Permanent Content" under "Sutra Chants."
New chant webpage (Posted 25 April)
Shoshinge Webpage The Shoshinge is chanted at Sunday services. This webpage includes an MP3 audio file of the entire chant. Link is posted in "Permanent Content" under "Sutra Chants."
Adult Dharma Class
An Introduction to Buddhism
Began Monday, April 5, 2004, 7:30 PM
Meets for one hour each week for six weeks
Resource Book: Ocean by Rev. Ken Tanaka
Classes are FREE and all are WELCOME
Upcoming Nen Daiko Performances (Posted 13 March)
Saturday, March 27 - "Freedom Walk" 11am
Sunday, March 27 - "Tidal Basin" 1:30-2pm
Saturday, April 3 - "Sakura Matsuri" noon-12:30pm
Sunday, May 2 - "Lantern Dedication Ceremony" 11am
All Invited to Memorial Service, Lantern Dedication (Posted 7 March)
On Sunday, May 2, Ekoji will sponsor a special memorial service in memory of the late Yehan Numata and his son, the late Yoshiteru Numata, both of whom passed away in the month of May. In addition, as our beautiful garden honors Mr. Yehan Numata, we will dedicate an ancient Japanese stone lantern in memory of Mr. Yoshiteru Numata.
Following the service and lantern dedication, which will begin at 10 a.m., we will have a luncheon in the Sangha Hall. All are cordially invited to the memorial service, the lantern dedication, and the luncheon.
The Numata family has played, and continues to play, an integral part in the life of Ekoji and the propagation of Buddhism around the world. Mr. Yehan Numata, an industrialist and founder of Japan’s Mitutoyo (MTI) Corporation, together with Rev. Kenryu T. Tsuji, founded Ekoji and developed a vision for our temple, which continues to guide us as we serve as a home temple for our local Jodo Shinshu Buddhists, and as we work to share the teachings of the Buddha- Dharma with all. Mr. Yoshiteru Numata, vice chairman of the Board of Mitutoyo, also worked to disseminate the book, the Teachings of the Buddha, and generously supported our temple throughout the years.
It is in their memory and in deep gratitude for all they have done for our temple that we are conducting this memorial service and the lantern dedication. We hope you will be able to join us for this important observance. Members of the Numata family, officials of the MTI/USA, and the Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai, as well as friends of the Numata family will be joining us.
All are welcome to join us for the service, the lantern dedication, and the luncheon on May 2.
Adult Dharma Class (Posted 10 Feb)
Ekoji will be offering a course on Buddhist Ethics as part of its ongoing Adult Dharma Education Program. The classes will meet for one hour each Sunday from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. for 4weeks beginning March 7, 2004. The course will be led by Dr. Gordon Bermant, President-Elect of the Buddhist Churches of America. Topics covered in the class include:
- Are all ethical issues necessarily religious issues?
- Do Shin Buddhist teachings give clear guidance on how to behave in respect to contemporary social issues?
- Are Shin Buddhist ethical teachings different from those of other Buddhist traditions?
- Will the steadfast cultivation of gratitude in everyday life make progress on the path of "doing right" and "avoiding wrong" clearer and easier than it would otherwise be?
The course is free and all are welcome.
Added a new "Featured Link" (Posted 31 Jan)
nembutsu.info an on-line journal of Shin Buddhism (formerly Mugeko). nembutsu.info seeks to convey the great breadth and depth, which the Pure Land teaching offers to those who are looking for an accessible spiritual path in the modern world.
Frequently Asked Questions about Ekoji and Jodo Shinshu Buddhism (Posted 23 Jan)
Reprinted from a new, monthly Kalavinka newsletter feature. Posted under "General Inquiries."
Frequently Asked Questions about Ekoji and Jodo Shinshu Buddhism
New Ekoji page created: Juseige (Posted 1 Jan)
This page contains a description of the Juseige, the chant in Japanese (Romaji), and an English translation. Also includes an MP3 audio file of the chant for downloading or listening on the web. Link has been placed under a new feature within Permanent Content called "Sutra Chants." Click here: Juseige.
Adult Dharma School (Posted 11 Dec)
Class will begin again, in the same 10 a.m. slot, on Sunday, January 25, 2004.
This will be an introductory level class on Buddhism in general, and Jodo Shinshu in particular. The class will be taught by Mark Lawall, and the text will be Ocean : An Introduction to Jodo-Shinshu Buddhism in America, by Rev. Kenneth Tanaka. This series will be six sessions long.
Portland Taiko at the Kennedy Center (Posted 21 Jan)
Portland Taiko group performs on Sat., Jan. 24, Millennium Stage, 6:00 PM, at the Kennedy Center. No tickets required--first come, first serve for seating.
Link: http://www.kennedy-center.org/programs/millennium/artist_detail.cfm?artist_id=PORTLTAIKO
Ekoji Buddhist Temple Presents
Other Power: Shin Buddhism and the Twelve Steps
with
Mark LaWall CSAC, NCAC II
THIS SATURDAY, January 17, 2004 - 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Free and Open to Everyone
Ekoji Buddhist Temple presents: Other Power: Shin Buddhism and the Twelve Steps with Mark LaWall CSAC, NCAC II, Saturday, January 17, 2004 - 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm (Posted 24 Dec 03)
A Workshop for people in recovery, counselors, and concerned persons. Learn how Buddhist principles can enhance involvement in Twelve Step Fellowships. This Workshop is FREE and ALL ARE WELCOME. For questions, please send an email to information(AT)ekoji-dot-org.
Congratulations to Ekoji member
Dr. Gordon Bermant
who recently became the President-elect of the Buddhist Churches of America
Buddha-Nature
Buddha-nature is the innate capacity to look upon all beings with great compassion. Every human being possesses this potentiality. Buddha-nature is the very basis of human dignity and the spiritual foundation of enlightened human relationships. The spirituality of man is greater than his physical or intellectual being and it is the spirituality, his Buddha-nature, which, when cultivated to its highest state, makes man a Buddha -- perfect in Wisdom and perfect in Compassion. The ultimate message of the Buddha was, “Awaken the Buddha-nature in yourself.” It is this message that we must clearly hear.
Buddha-nature is not restricted solely to human beings. The fundamental Dharma teaches us that even “the mountains, rivers, trees, grass and all possess Buddha-nature.” This means not only human beings but all sentient beings, all things in the universe, possess the capacity to become a Buddha. Once a scientist asked me, “How can a rock become a Buddha?” I replied, “When you have become a Buddha.”
An excerpt from Heart of the Buddha Dharma: following the Jodo Shinshu path. The book consists entirely of writings found in Rev. Tsuji’s files:
The Heart of the Buddha Dharma:
Following the Jodo Shinshu Path
Rev Kenryu T. Tsuji
Photography by Evan Cantwell
(Posted 26 Oct) Copies are available for $6.00 at the Temple, or you can send a check made out to "Ekoji Buddhist Temple" for $8.00 ($6.00 for the book + $2.00 for shipping) to:
Ekoji Buddhist Temple
P.O. Box 2337
Springfield, VA 22152-0337
Sunday, Dec 14: Due to the snow, all Temple activities have been cancelled for today.
Sensei Ogui to Discuss Six Paramitas, Meditation at Ekoji’s Annual Fall Seminar (Posted 28 Oct)
Rev. Koshin Ogui, head minister of the Midwest Buddhist Temple in Chicago, is this year’s featured guest at Ekoji’s annual fall seminar on Saturday, Nov. 22. Sensei Ogui will discuss the Six Paramitas as Expressions of Gratitude, and will give instruction on Nembutsu meditation.
An 18th generation Buddhist priest who has lived in America for more than 35 years, Sensei Ogui now serves as a trustee of the Parliament of World Religions based in Chicago. A contemporary and friend of Zen Masters Shunryu Suzuki Roshi and Eido Shimano Roshi, he founded the Zen Shin Sangha in 1978 to introduce both Zen and Pure Land Buddhist teachings to Americans. His first book on Buddhism is entitled Zen Shin Talks.
Sensei Ogui teaches a down-to-earth form of Zen and Shin Buddhism and expresses with exceptional insight the Buddhist perspective on everyday life.
The seminar will take place in the Tsuji Education Building at the temple, starting at 9 a.m. with a welcome and light refreshments. The event will wrap-up around 3:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided.
The seminar is free and all are welcome. Please plan to come, and bring a friend!
THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE EKOJI SANGHA WILL BE HELD SUNDAY, NOV. 16 IN THE SANGHA HALL BEGINNING AT 12:15 P.M. (Posted 21 Sep)
The meeting will include elections for Directors of the Temple Board and one of the two Trustees. The Board will also propose amendments to the By-Laws regarding categorization of different relationships to the temple.
A budget for CY 04 will also be proposed for Sangha consideration and action. Reports will be provided as well as a request for input as to the direction of the Temple, and programs you would like to see instituted.
All members of the Sangha are requested to attend. The Temple will provide lunch.
Adult Fall Dharma Class: An Introduction to Buddhism (Posted on 7 Sep)
Beginning Sunday, 10 AM, Sept 21, 2003
Meets for one hour each week for 6 weeks
Topics covered include:
- The life of Buddha
- The Four Noble Truths
- Underlying Philosophy
Classes are FREE and all are WELCOME
Meditation Garden to be Dedicated on Sunday, Oct 19 (Posted on 21 Sep)
On Sunday, Oct. 19, we will be dedicating Ekoji’s Meditation Garden. Present at this dedication will be our beloved Mrs. Sakaye Tsuji and other guests.
To celebrate the event, we are having a catered luncheon in the Sangha Hall. Hence, we need to get a head count of those attending the luncheon. The cost is $10 per adult and $5 for children 12 and younger. We are also graciously accepting donations to defrayother expenses. The deadline for sending in RSVPs is Sunday, 5 Oct. To RSVP, please send an email to information(AT)ekoji-dot-org.
Eastern Buddhist League Convention 2003 (Posted on 15 Jul)
AUGUST 29 - 31, 2003
Official website: 57th EASTERN BUDDHIST LEAGUE CONVENTION 2003 hosted by New York Buddhist Church (Shin Buddhist Temple)
Theme: "Beyond Boundaries: Buddhism in a World of Conflict"
This annual conference will be held in New York City at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Downtown Manhattan.
Early registration fee (by July 24, 2003), includes seminars, breaks, lunch, banquet, and Sunday Service is $130.
Most of the religious and educational activities will be held on Saturday, August 30. They include the following:
Keynote speech by Bhante Seelawimala, Theravada monk from Berkeley, California. He is a faculty member at the Institute of Buddhist Studies.
Seminars planned are:
1. Inter-Buddhist Explorations (morning)
2. Conflict, Personal Choices, and the Buddhist Way (afternoon)
3. Meditation Workshop (afternoon)
In addition there are Dharma School seminars and Adult Japanese seminars.
On Sunday, August 31, a World Trade Center Three Year Memorial Service will be held at Ground Zero for victims of 9/11 attack, followed by walking meditation.
The Embassy Suites rates are as follows: 1-2 people ($169/night), 3-4 people ($189/night), 5 people ($209/night), and 6 people ($229/night). Reservations must be made by August 8. Reservations may be made by calling 1-800-EMBASSY;
in New York City: (212) 945-0100. Booking title is Eastern Buddhist League.
This conference is open to ANYONE interested in meeting, listening, participating, and sharing with others concerned with Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha
Eastern Buddhist League Convention Registration Deadline Extension (Posted on 20 Jul)
Please be advised that the deadline for early registration for the convention has been extended to August 3, 2003 (registration forms must be postmarked August 3). Additionally, an updated program for the convention (in English and Japanese) and registration material are available for download from the website at http://www.newyorkbuddhistchurch.org/events/eblconvention.html.
Sunday Service Schedule (Posted on 19 Jul)
The temple is now on a reduced summer schedule. The temple will be open every Sunday at 11 AM but there won't be a formal service. Normal services will resume the first Sunday after the Labor Day weekend.
-
THIS WEEKEND!
Annual Buddhist Obon Festival
Open to All, Free Admission
Saturday, July 12, 6:00-9:30 p.m.
Washington Post Religion Notes: 3 Jul 03Further details below under "Events..."
Obon Festival (Posted on 29 Jun)
OBON FESTIVAL TO CELEBRATE LIFE, REMEMBER ANCESTORS
Members of Ekoji Buddhist Temple will remember their ancestors and celebrate life at the annual Buddhist Obon Festival on Saturday, July 12, from 6:00-9:30 p.m. The Buddhist and Japanese family festival will feature traditional Japanese Odori dancing, a performance by Nen Daiko Drum Ensemble, traditional Japanese foods dishes, and refreshments. Admission is free and all are welcome. It is a cultural experience for the whole family and a time to express joy and gratitude for the gifts of life and heritage we may have taken for granted or forgotten.Obon Setup (Posted on 11 Jul)
Setup will be at 9:30 AM on Saturday, 12 Jul.Garden Cleanup (Posted on 22 Jun)
Please join us for a garden cleanup on Saturday, 28 Jun, at 9 AM.Ekoji Spring Seminar (Posted on 29 May)
Palo Alto Buddhist Temple in Palo Alto, CA. The seminar is entitled "The Practice of Trust in Buddhism." Entrusting one's self to the boundless compassion that surrounds us is fundamental to the practice of Shin Buddhism. Rev. Masuda will discuss this underlying principle of Shin Buddhism and help participants understand how to follow it in everyday life. Admission is free. Lunch will be provided.
The Ekoji Buddhist Temple invites the community to join its members in attending its Spring Seminar on Saturday, June 14, 2003 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The featured speaker will be Reverend William Masuda from the
Information Only: HHS ADDS ONLINE HEALTH INFO FOR ASIAN AMERICANS, NATIVE HAWAIIANS, PACIFIC ISLANDERS (Posted on 18 May)
www.healthfinder.gov/justforyou, brings together multi-lingual information in Cambodian, Chinese, Hmong, Korean, Laotian, Samoan, Thai, Tongan and Vietnamese.
In recognition of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, the Department of Health and Human Services has launched two new online health resources of special interest to Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and other Pacific Islanders.
The new websites expand on HHS's Steps to a Healthier US initiative, which underscores the President's call to action for healthy lifestyles through public awareness of disease prevention efforts.
Starting today, the department's consumer oriented healthfinder(r) website will include a new section devoted to Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander populations.
The site,
Complementing the new healthfinder(r) section is "Asian American Health," a companion site, http://asianamericanhealth.nlm.nih.gov. This site features census data on major Asian American populations, background on cultural traditions and heritage, links to health policy offices, online medical databases, publications and other organizations.
According to the 2000 census, more than 12 million Americans identify themselves as Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians or other Pacific Islanders. In addition, Asian Americans are exceedingly diverse, coming from nearly 50 countries and ethnic groups, each with distinct cultures, traditions and histories.
Healthfinder(r) is spearheaded by HHS' Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion and is guided by a departmental steering committee that includes representatives from agencies across HHS, including the National Library of Medicine and other federal partners.
Launching the new web resources in tandem is part of a coordinated effort by HHS to maximize the reach of information to Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders.
Information Only (not an Ekoji-sponsored activity): Taiko at the Smithsonian (Posted on 5 May)
Kenny Endo from Hawaii will be at Carmichael Auditorium, National Museum of American History (14th & Constitution, NW - Smithsonian or Federal Triangle Metro) on Saturday, May 24 at 2 PM.
Adult Dharma Class on Break (Posted on 14 Apr)
Adult Dharma Class will not meet on April 20 or April 27. We will start again on May 4, to begin our discussion of Taitesu Unno's book Shin Buddhism: Bits of Rubble Turn into Gold
Online Forums and Discussion Boards
Provided for information only. Ekoji has no management responsibility or control of any kind over these resources. The quality and accuracy of discussions vary:
* Pure Land Buddhism on Buddhistboards.com - an active forum
* Pure Land Buddhism on Beliefnet.com - also an active forum.
* American Buddhist Study Center Forum - Primarily features book discussions, including occasional visits by authors. Highly recommended.
* tnn.religion.buddhism.shinshu
* shinlist · For those interested in the Mahayana Pureland Buddhist tradition of Shinran Shonin
* shindoforum · Shin Do Forum - Note: Discussions are often in German
* Note: The Pure Land Forum on Tricycle.com has been discontinued.Ekoji to Participate in the Cherry Blossom Festival (Posted on 29Mar)
Ekoji will join the Cherry Blossom Festival and have a tent and table at the Sakura Matsuri Street Festival immediately following the end of the Cherry Blossom Parade.
This is one of the largest Japanese-American street festivals in the United States, which celebrates its 42nd year in the District.
The festival offers martial arts demonstrations, traditional Japanese food, a shopping arcade modeled after Tokyo's Ginza shopping district, a children's corner with storytelling, origami and calligraphy, Japanese performances, arts and crafts displays and workshops. Adults can enjoy the strategic game of "go" or relax with a cup of tea or shiatsu massage.
Ekoji will be sharing the tent with an Origami craft table hosted by Marcia Mau and the Japanese American Veterans Association. We will be handing out our brochures and fliers for upcoming events at the temple as well as selling special crafts (TBD) and books.
Invite a friend and enjoy the day’s events while supporting the temple.
Event information:
Date: April 5, 2003 (rain or shine)
Time: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Location: Washington, DC on 12th street between Constitution and Pennsylvania Avenues
For more information please go to: http://www.nationalcherryblossomfestival.org/
Recipe for Tostitos Kakimochi, submitted by Marcia Mau, has been added to Pot Luck Recipes
(Posted on 16 Mar)
Adult Dharma School Reconvenes on 9 Feb (Posted on 8 Jan)
The Adult Dharma class, Buddhism in Time, will re-convene on February 9. The subject will be the emergence of Mahayana Buddhism. The topics emphasized will be the Bodhisattva Ideal, Sunyata ("emptiness" or interdependence, emphasizing the importance of dependent origination), One Buddha - Many Buddhas, and Buddha Nature.
The two books we will use beginning February 9 are
Luk, Charles, Ordinary Enlightenment: A Translation of the Vimalakirti Nirdesa Sutra. Shambhala Publications (October 2002) (paper)
Inagaki, Hisao, The Three Pure Land Sutras. Numata Center for Buddhist Translation & Research (November 26, 1995)
Other materials will be distributed as needed.
These topics will occupy us for 8 or 9 weeks, at which time we will take a short break.
We will subsequently convene again to direct our attention to the development of Jodo Shinshu by Shinran Shonin. Our primary text will be
Unno, Taitetsu, Shin Buddhism: Bits of Rubble Turn into Gold. Doubleday, 2002 (paper)
Other materials will be distributed as needed.
There will be events at Ekoji during the 10 weeks or so of this class that should enhance our understanding, including our Spring seminar in May.
The class meets in the Tsuji Education Center adjacent to the Ekoji hondo, at 10AM each Sunday. The class ends shortly before 11AM, in time for class members to attend our regular Sunday service.
All are welcome.
In gassho, Gordon Bermant, Director of Buddhist EducationNEN DAIKO WORKSHOP
SUNDAY, MARCH 9, 12:30 - 2:00
SANGHA HALL
Come experience a session of Japanese drumming.
Dress comfortably, bring water to drink and prepare for a workout!
Contact: Ruth Vines via webmaster(AT)ekoji-dot-org28 FEB UPDATE: The Open House will take place as scheduled.
download the flyer (a 76 KB PDF file)
Please see the announcement about our special OPEN HOUSE on 1 Mar 03. Scroll down to "Events, Schedule..." or
Ekoji Buddhist Temple Open House (Posted on 23 Jan)
Saturday, March 1, 2003 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
All are welcome. Come see our temple and learn about our programs that support the practice of Buddhism for people throughout the national capital area. Open House activities include:
- Temple Tours
- Overview of Ekoji's adult and children's programs
- Origami and Onenju (thought beads) crafts
- Taiko performances (Japanese drum playing)
- RefreshmentsThe January Kalavinka email notification was sent on 31 Dec. If you haven't received it, please send an email to webmaster(AT)ekoji-dot
-org. (Posted on 1 Jan 2003)Book recommendations by Tom Enns (Posted on 24 Nov 2002)
Online Bookstore.
Tom has added new books and descriptions to his recommendation list. See the
Bodhi Day Service (Posted on 17 Nov 2002)
Please join us for the Joint Service on Sunday, 8 Dec 2002
Children's Dharma School Annual Food Drive (Posted on 31 Oct 2002)
The Dharma School has initiated its annual food drive to collect non-perishable food items for ECHO Inc., Ecumenical Community Helping Others. ECHO is a Springfield-based community organization serving those in need who live in the Springfield and Burke communities. Every year, the Dharma School collects food items in November and delivers the donated items to ECHO before the Thanksgiving holidays. This year's food drive will commence on Sunday, November 3 and will continue through Sunday, November 17. As you come to Temple, please remember to bring food items for the food drive. A collection box will be set up in the Honda foyer. Thank you in advance for your dana.
TEMPLE ANNUAL MEETING (Posted on 29 Oct 2002)
WHEN: SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17, 2002
TIME: 12:30 P.M. AFTER THE ADULT SERVICE
WHERE: TEMPLE SANGHA HALL
PURPOSE: Elect four Board Members; Elect a Temple Trustee; Adopt a temple budget for CY 2003; Receive reports on the status of the temple and its programs; Share your ideas on where you think the temple should be going; and, Any other matters you would like to discuss with the Sangha.
PLEASE PLAN TO ATTEND THE ANNUAL MEETING OF THE SANGHA
In Gassho,
Your 2002 Ekoji Temple Board of Directors
29 Sep 2002
Fall Seminar To Feature Rev. Masao Kodani, Oct. 26
FREE OF CHARGE and OPEN TO ALL
Ekoji’s Fall Seminar (on Saturday, Oct. 26 beginning at 9 a.m.) will feature Rev. Masao Kodani, the minister at Senshin Buddhist Temple in Los Angeles. Speaking on “The Historical Buddha and the Cosmic Buddha,” Rev. Kodani will discuss the distinction between the Buddha in history and the Buddha as Infinite Light and Life, Wisdom and Compassion. He is the author of Dharma Chatter.
In his book he says:
... the Buddhist admonition to "listen" is an important concept. For minister and layman alike, "listening" means to set aside for a moment the desire to hear what one wants to hear. It is to listen to what is being said by the scriptures with an "empty" mind, "empty" meaning open-minded, free of ulterior motivations. Since the minister is essentially the transmitter and/or interpreter of the written scriptures, it is his duty to read the scriptures with an "empty", "listening" mind. It is for the minister, a narrow and tricky path between talking about Buddhism and talking about "Kodani-isms." Likewise for a layman. A non-swimmer who falls into the water never thinks to relax and thereby float. Instead he acts on what he thinks is right and thrashes his arms wildly – and drowns.
"Listening" is to relax one's defenses, to set aside one's preconceptions, to lower one's hand of critical comment, and to quietly relax and float. Gassho!
Rev. Kodani also will lead the service on Sunday, Oct. 27 at 11 a.m.
13 Sep 2002
Gordon Bermant has announced that the text for the upcoming Adult Dharma School Class starting on 6 October will be “What the Buddha Taught.” The Temple will have some copies available, or you can order ahead of time from Amazon.com by clicking on the link below:
What the Buddha Taught by Walpola Sri Rahula
24 Aug 2002
Another article from West Covina Buddhist Temple: www.livingdharma.org, recommended by Ekoji Temple President Ken Nakamura. The article contains a succinct description of the Dharma today.
About The Living Dharma Website
22 Aug 2002
An article from West Covina Buddhist Temple: www.livingdharma.org, recommended by Ekoji Temple President Ken Nakamura
"Buddhism and Music" Class at Orange County Buddhist Church
20 Aug 2002
The Adult Dharma School, led by Ekoji's Director of Buddhist Education, Dr. Gordon Bermant, will begin on Sunday, 6 October, 10 AM. Topic for the 10 week course is "Buddhism in Time." Free of charge and open to everyone!
9 Aug 2002
A recipe for Raspberry Squares Submitted by Joy Aso. See Pot Luck Recipes
9 Aug 2002
A recipe for Jell-O Cream Cake From: Mrs. Frances Ushiro (Ekoji Temple member) via John Malcolm and Joy Aso See Pot Luck Recipes
7 Aug 2002
Ekoji's Obon Featured in The Sentinel Newspaper (Montgomery County, MD)
Back from the dead: Japanese ancestral festival celebrates community’s lost traditions
22 Jun 2002
FESTIVAL TO CELEBRATE LIFE, REMEMBER ANCESTORS
Fairfax Station, Va. (June 24, 2002) Members of Ekoji Buddhist Temple will remember their ancestors and celebrate life at the annual Buddhist Obon Festival on Saturday, July 13, from 6:00-9:30 p.m. The Buddhist and Japanese family festival will feature traditional Japanese Odori dancing, a performance by Nen Daiko Drum Ensemble and games for children. Admission is free and the public is invited. It is a cultural experience for the whole family and a time to express joy and gratitude for the gifts of life and heritage we may have taken for granted or forgotten.
Bon Service will be held on Sunday, July 14, at 11:00 a.m. with Rev. Shojo Honda officiating
11 Jun 2002
A recipe for Basic Vegetarian Stir Fry has been submitted by Dave Walls. See Pot Luck Recipes
24 Mar 2002
A recipe for Rainbow Jello has been submitted by Marcia Mau. See Pot Luck Recipes
Annual Obon Festival
Open to the Public
Free Admission
5:30 PM Food Sales
7:00 PM Bon Dance
Sunday, 14 Jul
11 AM Joint Service/Rev Shojo Honda- Officiating
12:00 Noon Sangha Lunch
Special Announcement
Spring Seminar, 18 - 19 May 2002
We are pleased to announce that
Rev Koyo S. Kubose
from Kubose Dharma Legacy in Chicago, will be our guest minister.
Free and Open to the Public
Koyo S. Kubose was born in Los Angeles, California. He went with his family to World War II camps in Heart Mountain, Wyoming and Poston, Arizona. When his family relocated to Chicago, he attended Ray Elementary School and Hyde Park High School. After attending the University of Illinois at Navy Pier, he went on to earn a B.A. degree from the University of California at Berkeley; M.A. from San Francisco State University; and Ph.D. in psychology from the University of Iowa.
He has been on the psychology faculties at the University of North Carolina (Greensboro), University of Hawaii, and University of Wisconsin Center System (Janesville). He studied Buddhism in Kyoto, Japan for three years-- combining studies in Shin Buddhism through the Eastern Buddhist Society at Otani University with meditation practice under Zen masters of both Soto and Rinzai traditions.
Rev. Koyo joined his father, Rev. Gyomay M. Kubose, on the ministerial staff of the Buddhist Temple of Chicago from 1983 to 1995 to help further his father's vision of developing Buddhism in America. Rev. Koyo Kubose served as the Executive Director of the Japanese American Service Committee in Chicago from 1995 to 1996.
From 1997, he began full time towards establishing the Kubose Dharma Legacy as a religious organization dedicated to carrying on his father's lifework.
New recipes for Black Forest Bars and Sweet Potatoes & Apples Caramel have been submitted by Joy Aso and John Malcolm. See Pot Luck Recipes
11 Feb 2002 - The Nishi Hongwanji now has an English Language website. Click here to see it.
16 Jan 2002
A new recipe for Pumpkin-Orange Cake has been submitted by Joy Aso and John Malcolm. See Pot Luck Recipes
ADULT DHARMA CLASSES WILL BEGIN AGAIN ON FEBRUARY 17 - OPEN TO EVERYONE
The first adult Dharma classes for 2002 will begin on Sunday February 17 at 10 AM and continue for about 10 sessions. Our reading will come from the The Collected Works of Shinran that was published by the Hongwanji in 1997. Copies of this wonderful two-volume set are available at the temple.
We will start with the relatively brief work Passages on the Pure Land Way (Volume I, pages 295-317. The teaching aid for this text is in Volume II pages 75-91.) [May also be read online at www.shinranworks.com: Page 1 | Page 2 | Page 3 ] The Passages are divided into an exposition, a hymn, and a set of questions and answers, showing the breadth of Shinran's styles as well as introducing us to the fundamentals of Jodo Shinshu. It is a particularly nice place for us to begin for a couple of reasons. First, it introduces briefly the pillars of Jodo Shinshu (teaching, practice, and realization) that Shinran expands at much greater length in other writings. Second, it includes the idea of eko, (turning and re-directing), which is so important for Mahayana Buddhism in general, for Jodo Shinshu, and for us at Eko-ji in particular.
We will pace our reading to accommodate the preferences of the participants. All are welcome to attend the classes to study and discuss these wonderful teachings.
Saturday, 9 Mar
Special Seminar with Dr. Taitetsu Unno
"The Process of Awakening in Shin Buddhism"
Free and Open to the Public
Often described as the foremost authority in the United States on Shin Buddhism, Dr. Unno has published many articles and books on the subject. River of Fire, River of Water, published by Doubleday, has undergone several reprintings. He is professor emeritus of religious studies at Smith College in Northampton, Mass., where he taught Buddhism and Japanese aesthetics from 1971 to 1998.
8:30 AM Registration/Continental Breakfast
9 AM Seminar Starts
3:45 PM Seminar Ends
6 Feb 2002 - SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT - PRESS RELEASE EXCERPT
BUDDHIST AUTHOR TO LEAD SEMINAR AT AREA TEMPLE Fairfax Station, Va. (February 4, 2002) -- Dr. Taitetsu Unno, author of River of Fire, River of Water : An Introduction to the Pure Land Tradition of Shin Buddhism., will lead a seminar on Shin Buddhism at Ekoji Buddhist Temple on Saturday, March 2.
Often described as the foremost authority in the United States on Shin Buddhism, Dr. Unno has published many articles and books on the subject. River of Fire, River of Water, published by Doubleday, has undergone several reprintings. He is professor emeritus of religious studies at Smith College in Northampton, Mass., where he taught Buddhism and Japanese aesthetics from 1971 to 1998.
The event, which runs from 9 a.m.-4 p.m., is free and open to the public.
Buddhists celebrate temple's 100-year journey. An article from the Seattle Post Intelligencer.
The session of the Adult Dharma School is scheduled to resume on Feb 17. Course focus will be on the teachings of Shinran, beginning with the Passages on the Pure Land Way. More information is also available in a two-volume hardbound book set available at the Temple. Please check back for additional details.
4 Jan 2002
Added Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Etiquette
24 Dec 2001
Added A Brief Introduction to Buddhism by Rev. Kenryu Tsuji. Placed under "Permanent Content."
22 Dec 2001
Inserted a new Jodo Shinshu Buddhism Snapshot. See below.
Thank you to all the Sangha Members who filled the Food Drive donation box with non-perishable food items. Because of your generosity, two food donations [12 grocery bags full for Thanksgiving and an additional 12 full bags for Christmas] were made to the Ecumenical Community for Helping Others [ECHO] in Springfield, Virginia.
Gassho, the Dharma School
16 Dec 2001
Check out the Pure Land forum on Tricycle.com
8 Nov 2001
The American Buddhist Study Center has an active and insightful discussion forum about books and current news. From the site's description: "The dialogues in the Forum are initially centered around the book discussions that we have been having at the center. Its here to ask questions, work out answers, make comments on what you read, in effect, to listen to another voice, or even your own. The hope is that we might come to a more direct sense of truth and understanding about our selves and those who are around us and closest to us."
28 Oct 2001
REQUEST FOR CANNED GOODS AND NON-PERISHABLES
The Ekoji Dharma School will be collecting canned goods and non-perishables at the Temple. All items collected will be donated to a local charitable group or soup kitchen for the holiday season.
Beginning on Sunday, November 4, please bring canned goods and/or non-perishable food when you come to the Temple. A collection box will be set up in the Hondo. Please give your contribution to a Dharma School student and they will take care of it.
We hope to have two donations--one for the Thanksgiving holiday and another for the Christmas holiday. Please remember to bring your food donation as we will be collecting food during the months of November and December.
Dharma School students, Alexandra Vu, Lauren Ohata, and Lauren Kondo will organize the collection and ensure that the donated items are delivered to the charity of choice.
Thank you in advance for your help.
In Gassho, the Ekoji Dharma School Students
27 Oct 2001
For a comprehensive Jodo Shinshu website, perhaps the best on the Web today, be sure to see Dr. Alfred Bloom's The Shin DharmaNet
31 Aug 2001
Created Ekoji Dharma School Page for Kalavinka articles and other information.
28 Aug 2001
Created Ekoji Adult Education Page for Kalavinka articles and other information.
26 Aug 2001
Books recommended by Temple Member Tom Enns have been added to the Ekoji On-Line Bookstore
"Hope someone else finds these books as enjoyable and interesting as I have." Tom Enns
9 Jul 2001
Posted as a public service. Ekoji has no affiliation with any of the researchers or the study itself.
Religion and Stress
Do people turn to religion in times of stress? A research team at the Department of Psychology at the Catholic University of America is trying to find out, and you can help! A website containing a series of questionnaires can be found at:
http://research.cua.edu/psy
Participation is voluntary and all responses are strictly confidential. We are looking to recruit a sample from a wide variety of religious denominations, as well as people who are not currently affiliated with a religious denomination. Feel free to let friends and family know about the study, too!
For questions, please contact the researcher, Michele Shottenbauer, MA, Schottenbaue(AT)cua-dot-edu directly.
20 Jun 2001
The new revised Buddhist Study Center catalogue is now on line. Please refer to http://www.aloha.net/~albloom/bsc/
BUDDHISM IN TIME
AN INTRODUCTORY COURSE
Every Sunday at 10 AM. Began OCTOBER 7, 2001 at Ekoji
Led by Dr. Gordon Bermant
Ekoji Director of Buddhist Education, Buddhist Churches of America (BCA) Vice President, and former President, Eastern District Council, BCA
[Note: The book links take you directly to Amazon.com and if you purchase the book, Ekoji will receive a portion of the purchase price].
Ekoji Buddhist Temple will again offer a weekly course emphasizing the fundamentals of Buddhism in historical context. The primary reading for the course will be the very accessible introduction by
Thich Nhat Hanh, “The Heart of the Buddha’s Teaching” (Parallax Press, 1998) (there are a number of copies available for purchase at the Temple).
This beautiful book guides the reader through Buddhism’s most basic teachings in language that is at once clear, accurate, and religiously moving. The four noble truths, explanations for each aspect of the eightfold path, non-duality, interdependent co-arising and “emptiness,” mindfulness, and other foundational teachings become real to the reader through the elegance of Thich Nhat Hanh’s graceful style and deep understanding.
The course will also introduce the seminal figure in Mahayana Buddhism, Nagarjuna, in particular through his famous verses on the middle way (Mulamadhyamakakarika). Two sources are recommended:
Jay L. Garfield (trans.), “The Fundamental Wisdom of the Middle Way” (Oxford Press, 1995) ,
or
Stephen Batchelor, “Verses From the Center” (Riverhead Books, 2000).
These two books differ in approach and content though each attempts to bring Nagarjuna to life for readers.
To understand just how Nagarjuna has featured in each succeeding generation of Buddhist scholarship, one might see the stimulating little book by
Tuck demonstrates using many examples that each generation interprets Nagarjuna according to its own philosophical predispositions and presumptions. [Tuck’s book is suggested here as a supplement only–we will not address it directly during the course].
The capstone of the course will be a brief introduction to the Pure Land Buddhism of Honen and Shinran as it emerged in Japan during the tumultuous 12 th and 13 th centuries in Japan– this in preparation for the next course in the Ekoji series, which will be devoted to Shinran’s Jodo Shinshu.The primary reading for this section of the course will be announced later.
The only requirement is to come to the course with a desire to learn and contribute to the learning of others. This course has been successful in the past and we are looking forward to another wonderful Fall experience.
Please join us.
Gassho,
Gordon Bermant
Ekoji Director of Adult Education
You are invited to the Annual General Meeting of the Sangha of the Ekoji Buddhist Temple to be held in the Sangha Hall of the Tsuji Education Building on Sunday, November 18, 2001 beginning at 12:30 p.m.
Among the matters for consideration by the Sangha are the reports on the various activities of the temple, a budget for fiscal year 2002, election of Directors to the Temple Board of Directors, and a Trustee of the Temple.
A light lunch will be provided by the Temple.
In Gassho,
The Directors of the Temple
Free of Charge - Open to the Public
This Weekend -- Starts at 9 AM, Saturday, 27 Oct
Fall Seminar on Buddhist Meditation: Theory and Practice
Special Guest Speaker: Bhante Seelawimala
Buddhist monk from Sri Lanka, now teaching at the Institute of Buddhist Studies in Berkeley, CA
The seminar, Buddhist Meditation: Theory and Practice, will begin Saturday, Oct. 27 at 9 a.m., with registration and brief introductions. During the day, Bhante will discuss Buddhist meditation theory and fundamentals and lead the group in focused discussion. Bhante also will guide the group in meditation. On Sunday, during the temple's regular service at 11 a.m., Bhante will deliver the Dharma message.
ALSO THIS WEEKEND
Nen Daiko will be holding a taiko (Japanese drumming) workshop for beginners on Sunday, October 28. More information posted under "News" below
Nen Daiko will be holding a taiko (Japanese drumming) workshop for beginners on Sunday, October 28. The workshop will include a brief introduction to the history of taiko, stretching, warm-ups, basic form, stance and rhythms. We will also teach a short piece. Drums and bachi (sticks) will be provided.
TIME: 3:30-6:30 pm, Sunday, October 28
PLACE: Ekoji Buddhist Temple, 6500 Lake Haven Dr Fairfax Station, VA 22039
RSVP: Before October 23 by email to Hana Yoshikawa hana(AT)gwu-dot-edu
A donation of $10 is suggested. Please come wearing loose clothing and prepared to sweat!
BUDDHIST MONK TO LEAD EKOJI'S FALL SEMINAR Bhante Seelawimala, a Buddhist monk from Sri Lanka, now teaching at the Institute of Buddhist Studies in Berkeley, Calif., is the featured speaker during this year's Fall Seminar at Ekoji Buddhist Temple on Oct. 27-28.
The seminar, Buddhist Meditation: Theory and Practice, will begin Saturday, Oct. 27 at 9 a.m., with registration and brief introductions. During the day, Bhante will discuss Buddhist meditation theory and fundamentals and lead the group in focused discussion. Bhante also will guide the group in meditation. On Sunday, during the temple's regular service at 11 a.m., Bhante will deliver the Dharma message.
September 12, 2001
To: All BCA Ministers and Temple Presidents
From: Bishop Hakubun Watanabe
Re: Terrorist Attack on the United States
Dear Reverends and Presidents:
As you are all aware, yesterday the United States was the victim of the worst attack of terrorism in its history. I am deeply saddened by the tragic events that transpired in New York, Washington, D.C., and Pennsylvania.
Through these actions, we are reminded of the fragile nature of life and truth of the human experience. May you all please take a moment this Sunday to remember those who have experienced and suffered great losses. And may the Nembutsu continue to provide us with meaning and direction at this tragic time.
Gassho,
Hakubun Watanabe
Bishop
For the rest of September, Sunday collections at Ekoji will be donated to the The Survivors' Fund of the Community Foundation of the National Capital Region which will focus on the long-term educational, health, income maintenance, and other needs of individual victims and their families of the recent terrorist attacks.
30 Sep 2001, 11 A.M.
- 3 Oct 2001 CHANTING CLASS (Sep 16, 23, and 30)
Led by Rev Shojo Honda
This class will be on three consecutive Sundays, 9/16, 9/23, and 9/30 from 12:00 noon to 12:30 following the Adult Service.
Each class will contain (1) a session on Meditation focusing on sound, (2) a discussion on the Theory and Significance of Chanting as well as the chants, and (3) drills practicing the form of chanting. - 16 Jul 2001
EASTERN BUDDHIST LEAGUE CONVENTION
THE AIRPORT MARRIOTT -- CLEVELAND, OHIO
August 31 - September 2, 2001
"Looking Inward, Looking Outward"
- 29 Jul 2001
Nen Daiko Live on TV's MHz.
Nen Daiko (Taiko Drums) will be featured live on the program MHz on WNVT , July 31 at 7:00 p.m. EDT. The performance will be replayed at various times on both WNVT and WNVC. Here's the replay information:
WNVT Tues., July 31-11:00 p.m./Wed., Aug. 1-2:00 p.m.
WNVC Wed., Aug. 1-9:00 p.m/Sat., Aug. 4-3:00 p.m.Click here for the channel listings in your area.
17 Jul 2001 Notice in today's Washington Post
CARL, MITSU Y.
On July 13, 2001 in Alexandria, VA, MITSU Y. CARL, wife of Richard Carl; sister of Kentaro Yasuda, Tetsu Yasuda and Yae Kusaba. Memorial services will be held 7 p.m., Wednesday, July 18 at Ekoji Buddhist Temple, 6500 Lake Haven Ln., Fairfax Station, VA, 22039. Interment private. Arrangements by EVERLY-WHEATLEY.17 Jul 2001
Mrs. Reiko Matsumoto has kindly agreed to coordinate the refreshments for Mitsu Carl's Memorial Service.
Please send a message to Mrs. Matsumoto via webmaster(AT)ekoji-dot-org indicating the type of dish you will be taking.Thus far, we have volunteers for::
2 somen salds
2 veg. Salads
1 pasta salad
2 Chinese dishes
1 inari zushi
1 banana bread
1 dessert16 Jul 2001
It is with deep sorrow that I must inform you of the death of one of Ekoji's founding members and long time supporter of our Sangha, Mitsu Carl.
Mitsu, who has had cancer for about 3 years, passed away on Friday, July 13, 2001 at 1:00 p.m. She had a short stay in the hospital from Tuesday, before she passed away.
Ekoji and her family will observe a memorial service for Mitsu on Wednesday, July 18, at 7:00 p.m. The service will be at the temple. Following the service, all of the participants are invited to the Sangha hall to meet the family and for light refreshments.
In terms of refreshments, if you can bring a dish, salads, side dishes, or desserts, it would be greatly appreciated. The family will provide sushi and a fruit salad.
Many remember Mitsu as the driving force behind the Kalavinka for nearly 18 years as she served as the newsletters Managing Editor. But her influence is also felt in the operation of the Temple Cleaning Team system she organized, and in the service books we use each week. Those service books, in layout and content, was a collaborative effort between Rev. Tsuji and Mitsu. But most importantly, she was always there, helping, providing concerned and wise advise, helping to identify what needed to be done and helping to do it, and actively participating in the life of the temple.
During her illness, she must have had "down" days, but when you went to see her, that was not necessarily the impression you got. She was Mitsu, and she will be missed.
We extend our deepest sympathies and Nembutsu to her husband, Dick, and to her family.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions in Mitsu's memory be made to the Ekoji Buddhist Temple.
In gassho,
Ken Nakamura - 4 Jul 2001
Provided for information only. Ekoji has no management responsibility or control of any kind over this reasonably active Jodo Shinshu oriented newsgroup: tnn.religion.buddhism.shinshu
20 Jun 2001
Provided for information only. Ekoji has no management responsibility or control of any kind over these Shin Buddhist resources available on Yahoo. As with any other open forums on the internet, the quality and accuracy of discussions may vary. Here are the links:
- shinlist · For those interested in the Mahayana Pureland Buddhist tradition of Shinran Shonin
- shindoforum · Shin Do Forum - Note: Discussions are often in German
- 19July
Saturday, July 28
A Special Summer Seminar
JODO SHINSHU FUNDAMENTALS
with
Rev Tetsuo Unno
9 AM to 3:30 PM
For any questions or comments, please contact Gordon Bermant at gbermant(AT)erols-dot-com
This seminar will feature fundamental teachings and rituals of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. The seminar will be led by Reverend Tetsuo Unno of Pasadena, California. Reverend Unno will lead the seminar group through an open discussion of questions such as the following: What are we to mean by the Pure Land? What is shinjin? Tariki? Monpo? How do the chanting of Juseige, Junirai, and Sanbutsuge, and Shoshinge relate to our faith? How should we read the three Pure Land Sutras as we deepen our understandings of Dharmakara and Amida Buddha? Finally, exactly how is the Nembutsu fundamental to our "easy practice?" Rituals including oshoko, gassho, use of the ojuzu, will also be possible discussion topics. Newcomers and experienced Jodo Shinshu practitioners will find the seminar stimulating.
The seminar will begin with a light breakfast and period of registration at 9AM, and will end at around 3:30. The seminar will be held in the hondo and the Tsuji Education Center on the temple grounds. Lunch will be served in the Education Center. - 19July
Sincerest condolences to the family of
Mrs. Mitsu Carl
Passed away on July 13, 2001
A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, July 18, at 7:00 p.m, at Ekoji
A note from Temple President Kennon Nakamura is posted below in the "News and Commentary" section of this page
- 15 July
THIS WEEKEND!
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC - NO ADMISSION CHARGE
Ekoji's Annual
OBON DANCE AND FESTIVAL
Saturday, July 14
5:30 PM to 9:30 PM
Japanese Odori Dancing
Food Sales
Buddhist Book Sales
Performance by Nen Daiko Taiko Drum Ensemble at 7:00 PM
Lectures/Seminars
A Cultural Experience for the Entire Family
The Buddhist Bon Festival is popularly known as obon, or “festival of the souls.” Family, friends and the community are invited to gather together and join in the dancing to celebrate Obon, a mid-summer Buddhist holiday dedicated to feeling joy and gratitude for the gifts of life and heritage we have taken for granted or forgotten. Obon is also called Urabon-E (Urambana Gathering), Kangi-e (Gathering of Joy) or Hatsubon if it is the first Memorial Service. The Memorial Service is held in dedication and gratitude for all the members of our Sangha who have died over the previous year(s). The Obon festival and the Obon memorial service are held in recognition of a story found in the Ulambana Sutra. One of the highlights of the Obon festival is the Obon dancing by the members of our Sangha and many others from the community.
Sunday, July 15
Obon Service
11 AM
To Learn More about the Meaning of Obon...
The first three links below are to short essays written by our recent Spring Seminar guest minister, Rev Gerald Sakamoto from the San Jose Betsuin. The fourth link is an article by noted Shin Buddhist author and scholar Dr. Alfred Bloom
Obon (1998)
A Wonderful Obon (1998)
Obon (1999)
Obon and Family Values by Dr. Alfred Bloom
-
12 Jul 2001
LIVING IN THE DHARMA - CONFUSEDLY
THE MANY VIEWS OF BON
A Personal Journey
By Ken Nakamura, Temple President
On July 14 and 15, Ekoji will be celebrating Bon. Because of the Japanese folk dances, the bright colored lanterns, and the music, that was always part of the Bon Festival of my youth in Seabrook, N.J., Bon always conjures memories of a very joyous and festive celebration. However, the religious part of Bon was a developing and changing view as I grew up. Even today, it continues to change as I grow older. The story about Bon is the same and it comes from the Ulambana Sutra. At the time of Siddhartha, one of his great disciples, Mogallana, saw with his superhuman vision that his beloved mother was suffering in the Hell of Hungry demons. His once beautiful mother had become emaciated and she cried for help, for food and water. He tried to help her by offering her food and water, but as she hungrily tried to put it to her lips, it burst into flames.
Mogallana then went to Siddhartha and asked for help. The Buddha, moved by his great compassion, told Mogallana that his mother is in this Hell and suffers because of her greed, desires and attachments. Siddhartha then advised him to make a great offering to his fellow monks who were just ending their three months of training and studies for the sake of his mother and all other parents for the past seven generations. Together, Mogallana and the monks conducted a memorial service and at the end, Mogallana gave them donations of food. They all saw his mother and all other beings saved from the agonies of Hell.
So great was their happiness that the monks got up and danced as an expression of this joy. This was the origin of the Bon Dance.
While I was growing up, there was confusion on my part about the memorial and ancestor aspects of Bon. This was because of the older Japanese ideas of returning souls of our ancestors, and images of small paper boats with lit candles on them being floated down some river in Japan to help these ìsoulsî in their journey back to the other shore. That was resolved as I was taught that our denomination does not observe Bon in this fashion because we put it in a different context. However, when I look back at Bon, what I do remember most is the changing nature of Mogallanaís mother for me. At first she did not seem a sympathetic figure. Her own greed and desire caused her sufferings, and that was that.
It was only later that I was told her greed and desire was not for herself, but rather it was her love for Mogallana and her desire to provide for him ñ the depth of this desire and attachments is something parents can easily understand. So the Sutra now tells us that even with these desires and attachments, we parents can also leave our Hell behind.
Several years ago, Rev. Tsuji, our resident minister at Ekoji at the time, closed the loop for me, by an interpretation of the Sutra. He said that as Mogallanaís mother was leaving her Hell, Mogallana saw his own face in her face, and realized that it was he, who was in suffering because of his own attachments, desires, and greed, and it was he who escaped this Hell.
So in our celebration of Bon, it provides us a time to remember with gratitude what our parents and our ancestors did for us as they took on more heartache for their children and their progeny. However, it is also a time to remember that each of us will also escape our personal Hell. The same compassion that manifested itself in Siddhartha helping Mogallana is the compassion of Amida and the 18th Vow that provides for us.
There is a Japanese song that is often sung at funerals and links the two thoughts, Mihotoke ni Idakarete. The second stanza says, “Embraced by the Buddha, youíve gone to the Land of Compassion. How reassuring that you’ve shown us the Way.”
As we come together in our celebration of Bon, I think these are important lessons to remember, and worthy of a dance of joy.
Reprinted from Ekoji’s Newsletter, The Kalavinka, July-Aug 200110 Jul 2001
The National Building Museum is hosting a panel discussion on the National Japanese American Memorial on Thursday, July 12 at 6:30 p.m. Participants include architect and memorial designer Davis Buckley, sculptor Nina Akuma, and artist Paul Matisse. The museum is located at 401 F Street, NW, Washington, D.C. To make reservations, call 202-272-2448. The cost is $12.00 for nonmembers of the Museum.
- 16 Jun 2001
TAIKO WORKSHOP JUNE 23 (SAT)
Nen Daiko Workshop
Nen Daiko will be holding a taiko (Japanese drumming) workshop for beginners
on Saturday, June 23rd. The workshop will include a brief introduction to the history of taiko, stretching, warm-ups, basic form, stance and rhythms. We will also teach a short piece. Drums and bachi (sticks) will be provided.
TIME: 12-4 pm, Saturday, June 23
PLACE: Ekoji Buddhist Temple, 6500 Lake Haven Dr Fairfax Station, VA 22039
Directions: [Map | General Directions]
RSVP: Before June 16 (Sat). By email, hana(AT)gwu-dot-edu or by phone to Ruth Vines
(703) 360-1544
A donation of $10 is suggested. Please come wearing loose clothing and
prepared to sweat!10 Jun 2001 Updates
- Mr Numata has generously provided funding for an outer garden. The Board of Directors will decide on a final plan in early July. Two plans by a professional landscape architect have been submitted and are posted in the reception area just outside the Hondo. The Board welcomes everyone to review and comment on the proposals, but if you wish to see them you'll need to stop by the Temple.
- The Summer Youth Retreat previously scheduled for this summer has been cancelled.
- There will be a special Summer Seminar with Rev Tetsuo Unno on 28 Jul. Please check back for more information.
4 Jun 2001 Posted new link for the American Buddhist Study Center, New York: http://www.americanbuddhist.org
27 Apr 2001 Posted an Introduction to the Buddha-dharma
by Rev Jundo Gregory Gibbs. Reprinted by permission.PDF Files.Page 1 (192K) | Page 2 (192K) | Page 3 (160K)
15 Apr 2001 The last session of the Adult Dharma Class discussing Professor Taitetsu Unno's River of Fire, River of Water, will be held on Sunday May 6. Our guest during that session will be Reverend Gerald Sakamoto from the San Jose Buddhist Temple. The next class will begin after we have had time to acquire and begin reading our next book. A very promising candidate book is Tariki : Embracing Despair, Discovering Peace, [Amazon.com link] by Hiroyuki Itsuki and other authors. The class will decide about this or other selections during the class of April 22 or April 29.
21 Mar 2001 This site is now listed on www.buddhism.org, within the category Lineages_and_Orders/Pure_Land_and_Shin/Temples.
- 10 June posting
Sangha Member
Rich Wolford
will talk about his recent trip to the Buddhist
Kingdom of Bhutan
|
The Sangha of Ekoji Buddhist Temple extends its deepest gratitude to His Eminence Koshin OhtaniGomonshuNishi Hongwanji Kyoto, Japan Religious leader of 12 million Jodo Shinshu Buddhists at 10,500 temples around the world for honoring us with his visit, 30 May to 1 Jun, and officiating a memorable Kikyoshiki Ceremony XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXx |
- 2 June posting
THIS WEEK
Ekoji Buddhist Temple welcomes
His Eminence Koshin Ohtani
Gomonshu
Nishi Hongwanji Kyoto, Japan
Religious leader of 12 million Jodo Shinshu Buddhists at 10,500 temples around the world
to Washington, D.C.
30 May to 1 Jun 2001
We are being honored with a visit by the Gomonshu, along with his personal attendant and 5 other attendants, Rev. Toshihide Numata (Chairman of Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai [Society for the Promotion of Buddhism] in Tokyo, Japan), Mr. Masahiro Takahashi (Director, Society for Buddhist Understanding in Los Angeles, CA), Bishop Hakubun Watanabe, Rev. Kodo Umezu (Assistant to Bishop Watanabe), Rev. Shousei Hanayama of Seabrook Buddhist Temple, and Brian Nagata (Vice President, Numata Center for Buddhist Translation and Research in Berkeley, CA, and Advisor to Ekoji).
Schedule of Key Events
Temple Points of Contact: Ron and Nora Nagatani. If you need to contact them, please send an email to webmaster(AT)ekoji-dot-org
Thursday, May 31
6:30 p.m.—Informal Crab Feast at the Temple
Friday, June 1
5:00 p.m.—Commemorative tree planting at Ekoji
5:30 p.m.—Rehearsal for Affirmation Ceremony
6:00 p.m.—Kikyoshiki (Buddhist Confirmation Ceremony)In this Shin Buddhist ceremony, performed before the altar of Amida Buddha, one takes the important step of affirming one’s reverence for the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha, and one makes the vows of determination to tread the path of Buddhahood. The vows are the Three Refuges, or Treasures of General Buddhist Tradition.
In a Dharma Talk, Rev M. Hayashi, Alberta Buddhist Church, discusses further the significance of this ceremony. Sorry, applications are no longer being accepted.
6:40 p.m.—Group pictureThe ceremony will be followed by a 7:30 p.m. dinner at the
Seasons Restaurant (Mapquest Map)
4069 Chain Bridge Rd., Fairfax, VA
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- 22 May 2001 INTERNATIONAL BUDDHIST COMMUNITY WILL GATHER TO CELEBRATE VESAK At Wat Lao Buddhavong - May 26, 2001
Hundreds of Buddhist practitioners of all denominations will gather on Saturday, May 26, 2001, for the 15th annual International Vesak Day Celebration. Vesak, which is recognized by the United Nations as an International Holy Day, commemorates the birth, enlightenment and parinibhana (passing away) of the Lord Buddha over 2500 years ago.
The event is sponsored by the D.C. International Buddhist Committee, a non-profit organization with both lay and ordained members from 60 greater Washington Buddhist centers representing the various lineages and traditions of Burma, Cambodia, China, Japan, Korea, Laos, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tibet, the United States and Vietnam.
This year, the festival will be held at:
Wat Lao Buddhavong
3043 Catlett Road
Catlett, VA 20119
Tel: (540) 788 - 4968 or 788-9201
The Religious ceremony will begin at 9:00am and will include the circumambulation and flower offerings, bestowing of precepts, recitation of the Heart Sutra of Transcendent Knowledge, short teachings and prayers from several traditions and a period of silent meditation.
After the offering of food to the ordained at 11:00am, lay participants will partake of a buffet lunch of ethnic foods offered by the participating congregations.
Performances of traditional music and dance from these different ethnic traditions will be presented from 1:00pm on - rain or shine.
There will be no charge for attendance, but your donation will be welcome
Wat Lao Buddhavong
3043 Catlett Road
Catlett, VA 20119
Tel: (540) 788 - 4968 or 788-920120 Mar 2001 Inner Garden Volunteers Needed for Saturday, 24 March
We would like to start at 9:00am.
Tools needed are:
-- Tampers to tamp down the soil.
-- Wheelbarrows to haul soil to fill the pond area.
-- Shovels to dig out the maple and also to load soil
What we will be doing this Saturday is:
-- move the existing rocks into position according to sketch
-- drain and take out the pond
-- fill the pond area
-- grade and tamp the soil so it is level with the drain before spreading gravel on.
-- spread the filter fabric for gravelled area.
-- dig out and move the maple to the other corner; and fill that hole.
Hopefully if we could recruit 4 or 5 volunteers for each shift (morning and afternoon), we will be able to complete this schedule in one day. Please contact project leaders Bien and Gabrielle Vu if you'd like to volunteer or have any questions. Their email address is bvu3(AT)cox-dot-rr-dot-com20 Mar 2001 Another great Pot Luck Recipe submitted by Reiko Matsumoto!
Heart-Healthy Pineapple Angel Cake
Always looking for more recipes. Please send yours to webmaster(AT)ekoji-dot-org
15 Mar 2001 Summer Youth Retreat (19 - 29 Jul 2001) Announcement Letter
Two years ago, the Ekoji Buddhist Temple of Fairfax Station, Virginia, hosted a summer youth retreat for six high school students from Salt Lake City, Utah, and Fowler, California. During this 10-day program, the students were given structured Buddhist enrichment studies, tours of Washington, D.C., and an opportunity to meet young Buddhists from other Temples. The feedback from the participating students was very positive and as a result we decided to offer the program again for the summer of 2001. We have asked Rev. Tetsuo Unno to act as our guest minister. Rev. Unno is presently officiating part-time at the Pasadena Buddhist Church in California. Ekoji is fortunate to have as our part-time non-resident ministers Rev. Shojo Honda and Rev. Kenneth Tanaka.
Please present this program to your students. This is a worthwhile, fun and educational experience. We would like for the members of your Junior and Senior YBA members to consider participating in the program. If you have any questions, please contact me at my home email address or by telephone [leave message at Temple phone 703-239-0500].
In gassho, Ruth Vines (Svines1287(AT)aol-dot-com)11 Mar 2001 Inner garden: next work session will be on 24 March (delayed from 17 March). Send an email to webmaster(AT)ekoji-dot-org for more information and to volunteer to participate.
05 Mar 2001 On May 5 and 6, we will be holding a Spring Seminar. The special guest minister will be Rev Gerald Sakamoto from San Jose Buddhist Temple Betsuin. Please mark your calendars and check back here for more details as they become available. All are welcome to attend.
05 Mar 2001 Thanks to those who helped work on the inner garden this past Saturday!!
Bien and Gabrielle Vu - project leaders
Ruth and Steve Vines
Norman Kondo
Erick Ishii
John Grimes
Ken NakamuraThe next session will be held on 17 March at 0900, a schedule change. If you would like to volunteer to participate, please send an email to webmaster(AT)ekoji-dot-org and I will pass it forward to the leaders.
22 Jan 2001 Added a "Permanent Content" link the Numata Center. The Numata Center is the publisher of the BDK English Tripitaka Series which is going to make available in English all of the original teachings of the Buddha which are included in the Chinese Buddhist Tripitaka Canon. The website is: www.numatacenter.com
15 Jan 2001 Added a "Permanent Content" link to Amida-Net, a comprehensive website of Pure Land Buddhism by Dr. Hisao Inagaki
- 5 May 2001
"WALKING SHINSHU"
Ekoji's First Spring Seminar to Explore Our Social Responsibility as Buddhists
On May 5, Ekoji will present its first Spring Seminar. The theme of the seminar is "Walking Shinshu: the Social Responsibility of Shin Buddhists."Rev Gerald Sakamoto from San Jose Buddhist Temple Betsuin, will lead the seminar’s discussion of Buddhist ethics and responsibility by referring to Buddhist history as current events. Reverend Sakamoto will ask us to consider questions such as the following: Why did Gautama Buddha arise from his enlightened status under the Bodhis treee and spend the next 45 years teaching? Why did Shinran Shonin labor among the citizens of Kanto after he had been exiled? How should we, as Shin Buddhists, respond to examples of poverty and injustice in our midst?
Reverend Sakamoto encourages us to contribute our own experiences and opinions to the seminar. His phrase, Walking Shinshu, arises from the saying, "You talk the talk, but can you walk the walk?" By illuminating our opportunities and responsibilities to express our religion in everyday life, Reverend Sakamoto will help all who attend to see more deeply into their faith and their questioning.
The seminar will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, May 5, with registration and continental breakfast. There is no cost for attendees, though we would appreciate donations that will defray the seminar’s costs.
Please join us for a full day of thought-provoking discussion and fellowship.
- 14 Jan 2001
Dear Friends:
We are all so deeply saddened by the passing of one of our original Ekoji members, Mrs. Evelyn Kitahara, mother to Gail and NormanKondo and grandmother to Tracy and Lauren Kondo, on Friday, January 12. A memorial service celebrating the life of Mrs. Kitahara will be held on Saturday, January 20, 2001, at 2:00 p.m. at the Ekoji Buddhist Temple.
We would like to remember and honor Mrs. Kitahara by providing the otoki -- or reception -- after the memorial service. We would appreciate all your help in contributing your favorite dishes, salads, desserts, etc., in our final farewell to our beloved Mrs. Kitahara.
Dishes that have already been promised include: Oden and nishime; 2-3 platters of sushi; ham; inari sushi; The Goop; and chichi-dango. We could probably use some help with some salads, finger sandwiches, some noodle dishes and some desserts. But whatever you would like to make and share will be greatly appreciated! Also please let other members of the Sangha know about the service and the request for help on the otoki.
Please e-mail Nori Nakamura if you will be able to help us out for the reception after the service. Thanks in advance for all your help!
Nori Nakamura - 5 Jan 2001 Cleanup Team A, mainly the Children's Dharma School families, will be cleaning up the Temple starting at 8:45 AM on Sunday, 7 Jan. If you haven't been assigned to a cleanup Team and would like to be, please send a note to webmaster(AT)ekoji-dot-org
3 Jan 2001 A reciprocal link has been established with Lotus Valley Added permanently to the Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, Buddhism, Cultural, and More page.
1 Jan 2001 Avanto Users: Click here to add this site to your Avantgo profile.
1 Jan 2001 The Adult Dharma School will resume on 18 February at 1000. Study text will be Dr. Taitetsu Unno's River of Fire, River of Water : An Introduction to the Pure Land Tradition of Shin Buddhism (Amazon.com link) . Copies are available at the Temple or via Amazon.com.
10 Dec Book by the late Rev Gyomay Kubose has been added to the Ekoji On-Line Bookstore
Center Within (Amazon.com link)
9 Dec Books by Alfred Bloom and Kenneth Tanaka have been added to the Ekoji On-Line Bookstore
by Rev Kenneth Tanaka
Ocean : An Introduction to Jodo-Shinshu Buddhism in America (Amazon.com link)
By Alfred Bloom
Shoshinge : The Heart of Shin Buddhism (Amazon.com link)
Strategies for Modern Living (Amazon.com link)
Shinran's Gospel of Pure Grace...(Amazon.com link)
Co-edited by Rev Kenneth Tanaka
The Faces of Buddhism in America (Amazon.com link)
7 Dec A Pot Luck recipe has been reprinted from the Dec 1990 edition of the Kalavinka. The late Aki Iwata's Cabbage Salad with Dry Noodles.
20 Nov A new recipe added to the Pot Luck list from Joy Aso. Apple-Pear Cobbler with Cheddar Crust.
26 Nov The Adult Dharma School is done until mid-February. Check back here for updates. Many thanks are due to Gordon Bermant for his selfless efforts on conducting the Adult Dharma School.
25 Nov Second recipe added to the Pot Luck list. Thanks to Reiko Matsumoto for sharing her Sauerkraut Salad recipe!!
24 Nov Added a link to a comprehensive list of Shin Buddhist Sites throughout the world, from Terakoya-Net/Renjo-ji
20 Nov To the Ekoji On-Line Bookstore added a link to The Monk Who Dared : A Novel About Shinran (Amazon.com link) by Ruth Tabrah
20 Nov Congratulations to Joy Aso, Erick Ishii, Norman Kondo, and Kennon Nakamura on their election to the Ekoji Board of Directors for the next 2 years! Gordon Bermant, John Sutch, and Bud Uyeda have one year left on their current terms.
11 Nov Ekoji On-Line Bookstore in association with Amazon.com
6 Nov Check out the new section featuring Pot Luck recipes.
-
Sincerest condolences to the family of
Mrs. Evelyn T. Kitahara
Passed away on 12 January 2001
Service was held at Ekoji on Saturday, 20 January 2001
- Planning Calendar for 2000-2001
- 31 Oct It is hard to believe that it has been 19 years -- 1981 --since Rev. and Mrs. Tsuji came to Washington, and started the Ekoji Buddhist Temple. Nov 5 will be a time to celebrate both our past and our future. We hope that you will be able to join in the anniversary celebration.
29 Oct If you buy any of these books from Amazon.com via the links provided, Ekoji will receive portion of the purchase price, at no cost to you.
River of Fire, River of Water : An Introduction to the Pure Land Tradition of Shin Buddhism by Dr. Taitetsu Unno, our Fall Seminar featured speaker.
D.T. Suzuki's Buddha of Infinite Light edited by Dr. Unno
Mitch Albom's Tuesdays with Morrie recommended by Dr. Unno
- 5 Jan 2001 Sunday, 7 Jan 2001
Joint (Adults and
Children) Ho-onko
Service
(Shinran's Memorial Service)
Dharma Message: Rev Shojo Honda
11 AM - 17 Dec - 16 Dec/ Saturday Evening/Children's Dharma School and Service/A change from the Routine Schedule due to the Holiday Season/6 PM Pot Luck/7 PM Service/8 PM Classes
- 18 Oct This site nominated for Best of the Web
- 18 Oct Dedication ceremonies will take place for the National Japanese American Memorial to Patriotism from Wednesday, November 8 through Saturday, November 11. The memorial is being constructed close to the Senate-side of the Capitol Building and the actual dedication ceremony will be on Thursday, November 9.
The Memorial Foundation asked if Ekoji members can help with the registration. Click here for further information.8 Oct Posted new link for Ekoji's Meditation Group that meets every Wednesday evening at the Temple
28 Sep Annual Temple General Meeting is scheduled for Sunday, November 19 at 12 noon (more information under "Events and Schedule")
12 Jul Added link to Mugeko - The Australian Journal of Shin Buddhism on the Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, Buddhism, Cultural, and More page
- Bodhi Day (Buddha's Enlightenment Day)/Special Joint Service/Rev Shojo Honda, Officiating Minister/3 Dec/10 AM Children's Dharma School/11 AM Joint Service/12 Noon Pot Luck
- EKOJI BUDDHIST TEMPLE/WELCOMES/REVEREND LAVERNE SASAKI/Saturday, December 2, 2000/1 to 4 PM/Lecture and Discussion/BODHI DAY and the NEMBUTSU/Reverend Sasaki recently retired from the Buddhist Church of San Francisco/Please join us for a stimulating lecture and discussion/Open to all
- ADULT DHARMA SCHOOL Nov 26: This class will conclude the current term. Attendees are asked to share what they've learned during this session and their thoughts on what the class should cover when it starts up again after the new year.Nov 12: The class has chosen to study the Seven Masters (formerly known as the Seven Patriarchs) identified by Shinran Shonin. Here is a link describing them, The Seven Patriarchs, that is located on Richard St Clair's excellent Welcome to Shin Buddhism siteThe Ekoji Adult Dharma School will read and discuss the Three Pure Land Sutras. The translations and commentary by Prof Hisao Inagaki (The Three Pure Land Sutras, Kyoto, Bunshodo, 1994) are highly recommended and available at the link below: Prof Hisao Inagaki's Three Pure Land Sutras (at Amida-Net). There are also additional translations available at Richard St Clair's Welcome to Shin Buddhism site. In gassho, Gordon Bermant Ekoji Director of Buddhist Education
- 19 Nov Annual Temple General Meeting Sunday, November 19 at 12 noon Written and oral reports from the President, Treasurer, Buddhist Education Director and Dharma School Superintendent will detail the year-in-review. Lunch will be provided.
- 6 Nov Sunday, 5 November, Special Service 19th Anniversary of the Founding of the Ekoji Buddhist Temple Children and Adult Dharma Schools at 10 AM Joint Children and Adult Service at 11 AM Message by Rev Shojo Honda Pot Luck Lunch follows. Instead of trying to assign dishes, we'll trust in our usual good luck that sees main dishes, side dishes, and desserts balance out.
- 29 Oct EVERYONE IS WELCOME TO ATTEND EKOJI'S ANNUAL FALL SEMINAR This year featuring Dr. Taitetsu Unno Speaking on "Nembutsu as Creative Living" Saturday, 28 Oct, 9:30 AM at the Temple Dr. Unno is the Noted Author of River of Fire, River of Water : An Introduction to the Pure Land Tradition of Shin Buddhism and Editor of D.T. Suzuki's Buddha of Infinite Light For the seminar, Dr. Unno suggests reading his book River of Fire, River of Water and Mitch Albom's Tuesdays with MorrieNote: If you purchase any of the books above via these links, Ekoji will receive portion of the purchase price directly from Amazon.com Seminar ScheduleDr. Gordon Bermant will serve as Moderator9:30 Check-in, coffee and light refreshments
10:00 Beginning of the seminar
12:00 Lunch to be provided
1:30 Seminar
4:30 Closing
Themes for Dr. Unno's other Ekoji talks are...Saturday evening Family Night service: "Where is the Buddha?"Sunday Morning Adult Service: "The Dance of Light and Darkness" - 18 August For Information: At the Kennedy Center on 24 October. The Sound of Ecstasy and Nectar of Enlightenment: The Buddhist Ritual Song & Dance from Korea. Group discounts are available.
- 9 Aug The Temple will return to its normal schedule on Sunday, 10 September. It will be a combined Adult and Children's Dharma School service at 11 AM. The ADULT DHARMA SCHOOL will resume on 24 September at 10 AM. 16 Jul Although the Temple is on a reduced schedule during the summer, we are still open at 11 AM every Sunday for anyone who would like to stop in.
- July Calendar: HTML Version | PDF Version
- 18 Aug "THE RETREAT"/11-13 AUGUST 2000/PRESENTED BY NEW YORK, EKOJI, and SEABROOK BUDDHIST TEMPLES/To Be Held at NEW YORK BUDDHIST TEMPLE -- CHANGE OF VENUE/Conducted by Rev. Shousei Hanayama, Resident Minister of Seabrook Buddhist Temple, Supervisory Minister of Ekoji Buddhist Temple/Agenda and Registration/HTML Version/PDF Version
- 26 Jun An Update from the BCA: Lady Emeritus Yoshiko Ohtani passed away on June 22, 2000 at the age of 82. Lady Ohtani is the wife of Monshu Emeritus Kosho Ohtani and the mother of Monshu Koshin Ohtani. Funeral Services will be held on July 25th.
- 7 Jul Gateway Japan has graciously posted an announcement about our Obon Festival! Note: They've been contacted about the address.
- 29 Jun Check out Seabrook Buddhist Temple's website
- 25 Jun The Children's Dharma School and the Adult Dharma School have both concluded this year's study. Will resume after Labor Day!
- 9 Jul Obon Service/Sunday, July 9/11 AM
- 8 Jul Upcoming Annual Event/OBON Summer Festival/Saturday, July 8/5:30 PM to 9 PM at Ekoji/Food, Obon Dancing, and More/Open to Everyone -- Free Admission
- 18 Jun This year's last Adult Dharma School will be held on 25 Jun. Will resume in September. Check here for announcements.
- 17 Jun This Site is now a member of the Jodo RingJune Calendar: PDF Version | HTML Version
- Adult Dharma School seminar series based on the writings and teachings of Shinran Shonin (founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism) is on-going. It is not too late to join in. Start time is 10 AM and open to everyone.
- Father's Day Service and Luncheon upcoming Jun 18
Mrs. Ellen Nakamura
The service will begin at 12:30 p.m. following the regularly-scheduled adult service
Spring has Sprung
Join in a fun afternoon of decorating eggs, egg hunt, & games on
Saturday, April 22 at 4:30 PM
(before Family Night)
Bring your smock and baskets
Eggs will be provided
Please RSVP to Beth Fujishige, email bmfuji(AT)aol-dot-com
Hanamatsuri (Buddha Day/Buddha's Birthday) Service
Sunday, 9 April, 11 AM
Special Guest Minister: Rev. Koyo S. Kubose of Kubose Dharma Legacy
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Rev. Koyo S. Kubose, after receiving a Ph.D. in psychology and teaching at various universities, went to study Buddhism in Japan. He combined studies in Shin Buddhism at the Eastern Buddhist Society of Otani University with meditation practice under Zen masters of both Soto and Rinzai traditions. Upon his return to the US in 1977, Rev. Koyo has worked with his father to further their shared vision of Buddhism in America. He served on the ministerial staff at the Buddhist Temple of Chicago 1983 to 1995. He then went on to establish the Rev. Gyomay M. Kubose Dharma Legacy as a non-profit organization dedicated to carrying on his father's lifework. On April 4, 1998, Rev. Gyomay Kubose officially transmitted his spiritual authority to Rev. Koyo Kubose.
Gordon Bermant
Director of Adult Education
- Sunday, November 21, 1999 (AT) 12 noon. Annual General Meeting.
- Saturday, October 2, 1999 (AT) 3pm. Memorial Service for Mrs. Akiko Iwata at the temple
- Posted 28 Sep/Sunday, November 21, 1999 (AT) 12 noon. Annual General Meeting.
- Posted 28 Sep/Sunday, October 24, 1999 (AT) 11:00 am. First Anniversary of Temple Dedication. Pot luck lunch to follow.
- 28 Sep/Saturday and Sunday, October 9 and 10, 1999. Fall Seminar with Dr.
Richard Payne, Dean, IBS - 25 Sep 99/The 23 Oct Dharma School Night has been cancelled due to the 1st Anniversary festivities taking place on Sunday, 24 Oct.
- Fall 1999 Class,"Buddhism in Time"
- 12 Jul 99/The OBON Festival on 10 Jul was a great success! Thanks to all who attended and to those who helped organize it. It also marked the finale of the first ever Summer Retreat at Ekoji.
- 1 Jul 99/The Youth Summer Retreat, under the direction of Ms. Ruth Vines, started today! Six students from Fresno, CA, Farr West, UT, and Ogden, UT arrived and started the 10 day retreat.
- Bento Box orders for Rev Tsuji's retirement luncheon are due! Please send an email to Bud U. at webmaster(AT)ekoji.org if you need more information.
- 1 Jul 99/Food orders from the Obon festival are due by 4 Jul. If you need more info, please send an email to Bud U. at webmaster(AT)ekoji.org.
- 26 May 99/"Team A", the Dharma School families, cleaned up the Temple on 16 May. Libby and I send our thanks to Ron N., Ramon S., and Yukari Z. for your help! All the carpets in both buildings were vacuumed, upstairs and downstairs. The alter was cleaned (did not touch the Amida statue, of course) and other general dusting was taken care of. The kitchen was cleaned. Ramon also found that the wood floor near the kitchen needed work and experimented with some of the wood treatments we found in the storeroom. Might be a good project for Team B, Nen Daiko, scheduled for June 13.
- Posted 15 May 99/Revised 26 May A Special Meeting of the Sangha is scheduled for 20 Jun 1999 at 1 PM. Formal notifications have been mailed. Also included in the June 1999 Kalavinka.
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