In a clear sign of its intent to grow and expand Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in the United States, the BCA National Board approved a new temple for the first time in more than a decade — in Las Vegas. Following a full-throated introduction by BCA President Glenn Inanaga and a presentation by Las Vegas Buddhist Sangha (LVBS) members, the National Board endorsed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the BCA and the LVBS on June 6. Soon after the MOU was approved, the LVBS leadership began the...

The fifth annual Vesak lamp lighting ceremony at the White House was held on June 11, bringing together diverse traditions of Buddhist leaders, monastics and representatives — including BCA Bishop Rev. Marvin Harada. Rev. Harada, who attended the first Vesak at the White House in 2021, was joined by other Jodo Shinshu Buddhist representatives, including Rev. Kiyonobu Kuwahara, program director of the Jodo Shinshu International Office (JSIO) and Supervising Minister of the Berkeley Buddhist...

Project Catalyst, the BCA’s ambitious five-year initiative that calls for overhauling the dues assessment model, reversing declining membership and increasing transparency, won the support of the National Board on June 6. After a lengthy and thoughtful discussion largely centered over security and privacy issues, the delegates approved a memorandum of understanding (MOU) covering Project Catalyst’s major points. The meeting was held in-house at the BCA’s Jodo Shinshu Center in Berkeley,...