SERVICE SCHEDULE
Sunday Regular Service: 11 am – All are welcome to attend. Our Service is in English. Buddhist services are similar around the country. The essential parts of our Service are the chanting of sutras (stories of the Buddha) and the Dharma (teachings of the Buddha) talk. When Buddhist churches came to the United States, the singing of a gatha (Buddhist hymn) became a part of our Service.
Shotsuki Service: 11 am – First Sunday of the month – In memory of our loved ones whose date of death falls in that month. We invite family/friends to offer incense(Oshoko) during the chant “ Juseige.”
Osaji Service: 10 am – Monthly on the 16th – A monthly service honoring our founder, Shinran Shonin. We chant the “Shoshinge” offer incense, and sit in quiet reflection.
Dharma School Family Service: 10 am – First Sunday of the month. Intermediate students lead services; parents and children of all ages are welcome to attend. Buddhist holiday services conducted jointly with the adult sangha.
MEDITATION
Our Thursday meditation practice begins at 8 pm, in the Hondo (temple) building. We start the evening with a short sutra (Buddhist scripture) chant, continue with a 10-minute walking meditation session, during which we perform the ritual of Oshoko (burning of incense), which reminds us of impermanence.
A 30-minute meditation session follows, which will either be silent, guided, or possibly both. After, we end the formal meditation with another sutra chant. Please feel free during meditation to sit on a chair, floor, or stand. You are welcome to bring a mat along with you.
After the conclusion of the formal meditation session, we have a voluntary, informal social gathering that lasts about an hour in the building next door to the temple (sangha hall), where we enjoy tea and various snacks. Please feel free to bring something to share.
If you are new to meditation or Ekoji, you arrive 30 minutes early to receive direction and guidance, and what to expect during our meditation. If you have questions or need additional information, please feel free to contact the facilitator, Frank Swithers, at meditation.ekoji@gmail.com
TEMPLE TOURS/VISITS
Temple tours/visits are given on Wednesdays. While appointments are not required, please call before your visit because school tours, religious services, and meetings take precedence. Other days of the week are available by appointment only.
Most tours provide general information about Buddhism, and about our Jodo Shinshu sect (Shin Buddhism).
The temple is wheelchair-accessible.
School Tours
During the school year, high schools, colleges, and universities often schedule tours of the temple to tie in with their World Religion, Ethnic Studies, Anthropology or Philosophy classes. If you are interested in bringing your students to the temple, please contact us. Students are welcome at all services, and our minister/ assistant ministers are available after Service for a short interview.
To request a tour of the temple or to visit us, please make an appointment.
Call 703-239-0500
Email: ekoji.info@gmail.com
THREE TREASURE GARDENS
Our garden is open year-round. Please respect the garden, stay on the walkway and close the gate when you leave.
FACILITY RENTALS
Our social hall is available to rent. Space can be used by the community to celebrate life events, wedding receptions, birthday parties, receptions, and classes. The Social Hall hosts musical performances and entertainment events. The hall capacity is 80 people. You do not need to be a member to rent.
Email ekoji.info@gmail.com for a copy of the facilities guide.
Funerals/Memorials/Weddings
Please call the office at 703 239 0500 or email: ekoji.info@gmail.com
Our Minister will return your call and speak with you about arrangements.