The Young Buddhist International Cultural Study Exchange (YBICSE) program provides an opportunity for youth representatives from throughout the world to gather and explore the historical and cultural heritage of the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha tradition.
Together with members from the Hawaii, Canada and South America overseas districts, participants gather at the Hongwanji in Kyoto and participate in joint activities with Japanese youth and deepen their cultural and spiritual appreciation of the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha tradition.
The Hongwanji youth exchange includes tours of historical sites related to the history of the Hongwanji and the life of Shinran Shonin, as well as lectures on general and Jodo Shinshu Buddhism and the history of the Hongwanji. The group will also visit the Hiroshima Peace Park and museum for an overnight stay.
The YBICSE was held July 4-9 with 2 1/2 days free time in Tokyo for the BCA group. The group returned to the United States on July 12.
The Jodo Shinshu International Office (JSIO) is now in charge of the YBICSE program. The 2025 program will be held in early July.
An application form will be sent to all BCA temple ministers and presidents, who check with eligible youth in the temples to apply.
Following are articles by two members of the 2024 YBICSE group — Kate Inge of the Tacoma Buddhist Temple and Hailey La Monte of the San Mateo Buddhist Temple. The Wheel of Dharma thanks Inge and La Monte for submitting articles about their impressions and experiences.
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