Jodo Shinshu Buddhism was founded 8,000 kilometres east of Winnipeg more than 800 years ago. Its origins involve a radical monk, a Pure Land, and, as is true of all Buddhist schools of thought, the goal of Enlightenment. The tradition’s relatively recent history in Canada is intertwined with the devastating internment, during the Second World War, of Japanese Canadians—the descendants of farmers and fishermen who brought Jodo Shinshu to B.C. and Alberta in the 1800s.

So even before you try to start unpacking the religion’s pivotal Primal Vow of Amida or attempt to memorize the Nembutsu chant, there’s a lot to learn. That's why the Manitoba Buddhist Temple is offering a Buddhism 101 class to get you started. The session is free, just bring your curiosity and an open mind. The Manitoba Buddhist Temple invites all those interested in exploring and learning what Buddhism has to offer with an introduction on Saturday, March 1, at 1pm. Admission is free and parking is available at the Health Sciences Centre parking lot across from the temple.

The session will be led by Sensei James Martin. Sensei Martin was born and raised in rural Manitoba and encountered Buddhism while travelling in various parts of Asia. He has trained and studied Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in Kyoto, Japan and Berkeley, California. Most recently, he was the resident minister of the Calgary Buddhist Temple until his retirement in 2019.

Please RSVP if you are interested:
tanismoo@gmail.com