LEADERSHIP

Bishop

Reverend Harada became BCA Bishop in 2020 as the world faced a remarkable moment in its history: "May we face this challenging time together and may it give us even greater resolve to dedicate ourselves to support our temples and the BCA, so that we can continue to share the Dharma in whatever medium or manner that we can."

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Prior to beginning his tenure as Bishop, Reverend Harada served as head minister of Orange County Buddhist Church for 33 years. He received degrees from the University of Oregon and Institute of Buddhist Studies before continuing his education in Japan at Chuo Bukkyo Gakuin Seminary and Ryukoku University (M.A., Shin Buddhist Studies).

Terri Omori

President

Terri Omori, a lifelong Shin Buddhist with deep ties to the San Diego and Vista temples, became the first woman BCA President – a major milestone in the Buddhist organizations over 120 year history in March of 2022. Omori comes to BCA leadership with a wealth of experience as a former member of the Jr. YBA and Sr. YBA, taiko player, temple organist at both San Diego Buddhist Temple and Vista Buddhist Temple, Jr. YBA Advisor, Dharma School teacher and Superintendent as well as past President of the Vista Buddhist temple. She began taking part in National Council meetings as the Southern District Council Chair-elect, National Board representative, BCA Director-at-Large and served as member of the Social Welfare Committee and the Membership and Propagation Committee.
 

Omori’s priority list as President includes the persistent issue of membership affecting the BCA. Aligned with Bishop Harada in growing membership, Omori wants to explore outreach in a variety of ways. This includes online and social media and ways to help temples develop a plan to grow and retain members. “I’m very humbled and honored to be given this opportunity, “she said. “When I said yes [to becoming President] it was out of gratitude. It was just the result of the deeper appreciation that I had growing up, and of all the years that I have been able to have the Dharma as part of my life. And it was also recognizing all those who have come before me. It’s an honor.”