Nearly 2500 years ago when Shakyamuni Buddha established the Sangha, the monks and nuns wore robes called kasaya. As Buddhism spread into Japan, the kasaya became known as a kesa. The kesa very quickly changed from a simple cloth to a richly embroidered brocade. Today, the kesa, which is worn by the lay people is known as a Montoshiki-sho and is made in a variety of materials and colours.

In 1933 Shonyo Shonin, the 23rd Monshu, officially declared the Montoshiki-sho as a symbol to signify that the wearer is a follower of the Jodo Shinshu Nishi Hongwanji Sect of Buddhism.

It is not uncommon for followers to have more than one Montoshiki-sho.

A distinctively Canadian Montoshiki-sho was designed and made in Japan especially for the members of the Buddhist Churches of Canada. The design is a combination of the wisteria, symbolic of the Hongwanji-ha, and the maple leaf, symbolic of Canada. It is very appropriate for all followers to wear a Montoshiki-sho to all their temple services.

Our Canadian Montoshiki-sho have now been or will soon be delivered to all BCC temples on a prorated basis. The BCC is providing a subsidy of ten dollars for each Montoshiki-sho, so the cost to your members will be $35. Non-members may purchase one for $45. Please encourage your members to purchase one or more for their family members.

In Gassho,
Office of the Bishop

Photo courtesy of Jits Oishi