Several Canadians gathered in Kyoto, Japan for a once-in-a-lifetime experience from May 12-18, 2011.
On May 15, 2011, they joined Jodo Shinshu followers from around the world in commemorating Shinran Shonin's 750th Memorial Service at the Nishi Hongwanji in Kyoto, Japan.

The group was led by Bishop Grant Ikuta of the Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temples of Canada, Rev. Tomofumi Fujii of the Toronto Buddhist Church and Rev. Yasuhiro Miyakawa of the Kelowna Buddhist Temple.

READ MORE AND SEE PHOTOS AT THE HONGWANJI-HA INTERNATIONAL CENTRE...

Saturday's Annual General Meeting

The Toronto Buddhist Church was honoured to have hosted the 2011 Annual General Meeting of the Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temples of Canada from April 29-May 1, 2011. The weekend event provided many challenges for the delegates to address and resolve. The solutions will allow the organization to proceed with renewed and re-energized vigour in walking the path of the Dharma.

Rev. Grant Ikuta becomes the first Canadian-born Socho or Bishop (Head Minister). He follows his father, Reverend Susumu Kyojo Ikuta who became the Bishop in 1998. Socho Grant Ikuta will also continue to serve his congregation at the Steveston Buddhist Temple in Vancouver.

Newly-elected Bishop, Grant Ikuta (front row, middle)


President, David Ohori and Board of Directors for 2011


Choir for the delegation to Shinran 750th Memorial in Kyoto

Thanks to our hosts for providing a home, away from home in which you could still feel and share in the embrace of Amida. We look forward to meeting our Dharma friends again in Winnipeg next year.

World Buddhist Women’s Convention in Kyoto, Japan, 2011


2011 Canadian delegation


Flag passed from the Japan Chapter President to representatives of Canada.

GO TO THE CONVENTION WEBSITE...