Temple The Temple depends on the support of a number of organizations to achieve its goals. These organizations provide opportunities for people of all ages to share their time and enthusiasm for the Teachings.
Fujinkai: The Buddhist Womens Association Since 1926 this Buddhist Women's Association has organized around the needs of the temple activities, from serving refreshments at meetings to raising funds for the temple through sale of their renowned sushi. Monthly meetings include socializing and temple projects. No single organization has done more to support the Temple.
2011 BWA EXECUTIVE COUNCIL Chairs: (1) Fumiko Ohara (2) Susan Moribe (contact person) (3) Miyoko Yamanishi (4) Katsumi Kida Recording Secretary: Chieko Moriyama Corresponding Secretary: Kiyoko Omori Co-Treasurers: Betty Torio and Akie Tomiyama Religious Chairperson: Junko Kajita Advisors: Rev. Yushi and Mika Mukojima, Kikuko Takashima, Mary Yagura, Leora Hamada, Mary Suyenaga
Adult Buddhist Association (ABA) The Adult Buddhist Association (ABA) was originally formed as the Young Adult Buddhist Association in 1959. ABA undertakes many projects to support the temple and socializes at friendly dinners or breakfasts. ABA is famous for its tasty Chow Mein recipe, sold in fundraisers several times a year.
President: Motoo Tsuneyoshi Vice President: Yuki Kawamoto and Tom Yanagihara
Dharma School The purpose of the Dharma School is to help students of all ages to learn the Dharma - the teachings of the Compassionate Buddha - using stories, study, sharing, discussion, crafts, and play. Classes usually run from 11:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. following Sunday Family Services. Classes are grouped by grade level, from preschool through high school. We also have a Nursery for children who are accompanied by a parent.
Young Buddhist Association (YBA) Our college-aged adults join together in fellowship and projects to support the temple. (The organization traces its origins as far back as 1912, from before the Buddhist Temple of San Diego was established. Then, the Young Man's Buddhist Association and Young Women's Buddhist Association met to further their religion).
Junior Young Buddhist Association (Jr. YBA) The Junior YBA is organized to meet the social and religious needs of high-school aged youth. Activities include district seminars and annual conferences, many fundraisers in support of the temple, and other social activities.
Young Adult Buddhist Association (YABA) The Young Adult Buddhist Association (YABA) is organized to let our younger adults meet to socialize and deepen their understanding of the Dharma. The group includes both single adults and young couples just starting families.
Zenbu ZENBU is Japanese for "everything," and this temple group is open to any and all Sangha members and Dharma friends, but especially intended to involve those who are new to the Temple or who do not regularly participate in a Temple-affiliated organization.
Interested members will take turns coordinating periodic mixers or fun, casual events for the purpose of allowing Sangha members and friends to get to know one another better while offering welcome and fellowship to new and potential Temple members.
The temple is also a founding member of the IRC -Interreligious Council, the first community multi-faith organization in San Diego.
For more information about these groups, please call (619) 239-0896 and leave your name and contact information. Or send e-mail to info@btsd.net. Subject: Temple-Affiliated Organization.
The Sangha, our Buddhist community, is the lifeblood of the temple. It continues to grow, reflecting not only the Japanese heritage of our temple pioneers, but also our heritage as Americans from many different backgrounds.
All who wish to hear the Buddha Dharma in the company of fellow travelers are welcome here. The truth of Amida Buddha unites the San Diego Sangha with Buddhists throughout the world.