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(17-July-2010) A few members of the temple have expressed an interest in getting together to sing. . .a fancy way of saying this would be "to create a choir" (Lethbridge has inspired us). Some people may find "choir" a frightening term though. If you are interested in trying out your voice. Filling the temple with joyful noise. We have someone who is willing to accompany us on piano and are tentatively looking at Wednesdays starting in September. Everyone welcome. Personally I would love to sing Japanese and English songs, so if you sing in Japanese please join!!!! If you are interested please contact info@calgary-buddhist.ab.ca and type "Singing" in the subject line and include your contact information. In Gassho, Sara
(17-July-2010) Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa's highest mountain, topping out at 19,340'. From Sept 18-25, intrepid Sangha member Trudy Gahlinger will be hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, and she wants to carry the Sangha with her. Every step you sponsor will be a donation to our Temple! Her goal for the Temple is $1,934.00 - a dime for a step at a time! Help give her the spiritual push to bring everyone to the top:
Any amount is appreciated and will help the Temple continue its own climb towards sustainability. Many thanks!
Obon 2010 - Important Notice! (17-May-2010) For a number of years the Calgary Buddhist Temple has held Obon services in August to facilitate the participation of Southern Alberta members attending services in both locations. However, due to the changing member dynamics the Calgary Obon service can now be held closer to the original traditional time frame of mid-July. Also, in the past two Senseis have been available to conduct services but, being alone, and the tight scheduling that ensues, it would be advantageous to conduct graveside services on the Saturday prior to Sunday’s main service at the Temple. With that in mind the 2010 the schedule will be as follows:
I sincerely hope this doesn’t inconvenience anyone and I thank you for your patience and understanding as we make this change! James Sensei
Laughter Yoga Extended (03-Apr-2010) Back by popular demand, Laughter Yoga has been extended for 4 more weeks! April 7, 14, 21, & 28 from 7-8:30 PM. All funds raised will be donated to the Temple. $15 for all 4 sessions or $5 drop in. Thank you Fif and Hamish of Laughter Yoga Canada. Bring your Family & Friends!
Join us for gentle stretching, breathing and laughter exercises and socializing and FUN! Benefits of Laughter Yoga include:
Sangha Field Trip (22-Mar-2010) For April 25th, we are planning an outing to the Cochrane Ecological Center, a wildlife rescue center. You may check the following websites for more information on the center and driving directions. It will take about an hour or so from the temple. We are scheduled to meet at the Center at around noon and will participate in a wildlife tour and activities for a couple of hours. There are a few picnic tables just outside the entrance, so you may bring your own lunch to eat before the tour. The recommended minimum donation is $5 per person. We need to let the Center know how many are participating, so please e-mail by April 15 if you plan to come. Also, because of the long distance, please let us know if you would like to carpool from the temple. Here is the link to the website http://www.ceinst.org/ and the driving directions http://www.ceinst.org/CEI%20Location.pdf Calgary Temple Annual General Meeting (17-Mar-2010) The Temple's Annual General Meeting will be held on Apr 18 at noon. Everyone is encouraged to attend and have their voice be heard!
Sangha Field Trip Planned
(25-Feb-2010) The
Dharma school has a field trip planned to the Cochrane Ecological Institute
(CEI) for April 25 and as Sensei James will be in Vancouver that weekend,
the temple will not have a service so the whole sangha is invited to
go. There will be a signup sheet at the temple and we can try to
arrange carpooling, if possible. Plan would be to leave the temple at
10:30am so that everyone gets out there by noon-ish and all should take a
bag lunch with them.
Coffee Connections (25-Feb-2010) Everyone is invited to a Coffee Connections Party to be held March 18 at 2:30 PM. This event will help support the Women's Center of Calgary. A guest speaker from the Women's Center will be available to provide information on services provided and accept donations. Tax receipts for donations greater than $10 will be issued. Please come out and help support and empower women Calgary.
Laughter Yoga (15-Feb-2010) Fun for All! Facilitated by Laughter Yoga Canada. Their Mission Statement “Laughing for Peace, Loving Kindness and Well Being” March 24 & 31 - 7-9PM $10 person or $15 if you bring a buddy
Highlights of Trip to Japan Our Calgary Temple is part of the Jodo Shinshu Buddhist tradition centred at Hongwanji in Kyoto. In Oct '09, our Sensei James traveled with several Sangha members to Japan in order to meet Jodo Shinshu practitioners from different parts of the world and to learn of our tradition's history and current practices. The video link below shows some picture highlights of that trip. There are also links to other Jodo Shinshu videos featuring talks by the Gomonshu - the leader of our tradition - and to other ceremonies at Hongwanji. Enjoy!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AzqhzPikQg4
(02-Feb-2010) Update Dear Calgary Buddhist Temple Members and Friends
My name is Jean Masuda and I am coordinating volunteers for the Temple casino.
Our casino dates are:
Monday March 8 and Tuesday March 9 at: Cash Casino – 4040 Blackfoot Trail
The casino is drawing closer, and there are still some vacant volunteer positions.
Please consider helping us with this major fundraising event. We receive a significant benefit for this event; it is one of the most effective ways to raise funds for the temple!
I am looking for Count Room volunteers for both Monday and Tuesday nights These shift start at 10 pm and usually finish up by 2:30 am.:
There are 3 vacant positions for the Tuesday Day Shift. The day shift runs from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm. These positions are:
There are 2 vacant positions for the Tuesday Night Shift. The night shift is from 6:00 pm to 2:30 am. These positions are:
Please contact Jean Masuda if you can volunteer for any of these positions.
(15-Jan-2010) We have been assigned our casino dates:
Looking for volunteers for the 4 shifts (2 each day for 2 days). The day shift runs from 10:30 am to 7:00 pm and the night shift is from 6:00 pm to 2:30 am.
Please contact the Calgary Buddhist Temple Casino Volunteer Coordinator, Jean Masuda, if you can volunteer for any of these positions. We realize that the days that we have been assigned are inconvenient but the volunteer response from this community for the last casino was very positive, and hope that you can find a way to make time in your busy lives to help out the Temple with this very important fundraiser. Unique Evening on Thursday, Jan 21 @ 7:30pm Everyone is welcome to
attend this special opportunity with members of the
Inter-Faith
Network of Calgary. From Geisha to Diva: The Kimono of Ichimaru (1-Jan-2010) A collection of 24 magnificent, rare kimonos and other personal effects that once belonged to Ichimaru, a geisha turned popular singer and entertainer in 20th Century Japan, will be on display at the Okotoks Art Gallery from January 8 - March 7, 2010.
This travelling exhibit, organized by the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and the Department of Canadian Heritage’s Museum Assistance program, showcases intricately patterned and embroidered kimonos from the 1930s to 1970s. It also features obi (waist sashes), wigs, hair combs, fans, sandals and other belongings of Ichimaru.
The show tells the story of the elegant and accomplished entertainer who rose from a background of poverty to become one of her country’s national treasures. It also provides insight into women’s history in Japan, and how gender roles, cultural values and stereotypes affect ideals of artistic expression.
Further details are available by visiting www.okotoksculture.ca.
JODO SHINSHU BUDDHIST TEMPLES OF CANADA (JSBTC) Day (17-Sep-2009) With school back into session, we are reminded that Fall is immediately around the corner and that the Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temples of Canada Day is before us.
The JSBTC (formerly the Buddhist Churches of Canada) Day, held annually in October, marks the founding of this national organization that brings all Jodo Shinshu followers together in one encompassing group through which we can draw upon each other’s strength and wisdom. This organization was founded in October, 1974. The JSBTC is the official organization by which the mother temple, the Nishi Hongwanji, can support the efforts of the Jodo Shinshu followers in Canada.
JSBTC Day also gives all of us the opportunity to commemorate and express our gratitude to the pioneers and other past members who were very active in the propagation of Buddhism in Canada.
The selection of the service date to commemorate this occasion is flexible and can be held on a day that is suitable for each temple. As in the past, the donations received at the temples from this very special JSBTC Day go toward the continued education of our present and future ministers and other initiatives deemed important by the National Board. Indeed, without the support from contributors there would be a financial challenge for the Board to undertake programs.
Please note that to be environmentally friendly, JSBTC Day Konshi envelopes will not be printed. Donations can be brought to the temple or cheques payable to JSBTC can be sent to: Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temples of Canada 11786 Fentiman Place Richmond, B.C. V7E 6M6
I am sure you will learn more about the significance of JSBTC Day by listening to your minister. We look forward to your attendance and support on this very special Day.
In Gassho, Dave Ohori, President Public Lectures (15-Sep-2009) Come and Make History! (02-Sep-2009) November 1, 2009 will mark the first ever Community History day for the Calgary Japanese Community Association. In support of the History Preservation Project, the event is designated to be a completely interactive day, allowing participants an option to come and share their history with the community.
When: November 1, 2009 between 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM (drop in anytime) Where: Calgary Nikkei and Seniors Center, 2236 - 29th Street SW, Calgary, AB
To Register: cjcamain@shaw.ca or 403-242-4143 (Mari)
Document your History for inclusion in the book using computers/volunteers (pre-registration is required) Share your photos - Bring them along for scanning and returned to you Reminiscing circle - in the lounge area with food and refreshments with friends This event has been made possible in part to a grant from the National Association of Japanese Canadian's Endowment Funds. Suggestions and a few examples (the presentation is of your own choice) and/or email Alan.tanaka.book@gmail.com for submission or for further information.
SUGGESTED GUIDE: Please use Word program; Style - Arial; Size 10
2009 Alberta Buddhist Conference (28-Aug-2009) The 31st annual Alberta Buddhist Conference (ABC) will be held at the new Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta in Lethbridge, AB on Nov 13, 14 and 15. Main speaker will be Rev Ken Yamada, the resident minister of the Berkeley, California Higashi Hongwanji Temple. This year's theme, "Dharma Energy - Tranquility" (translated as Yasuragi in Japanese), attempts to capture the renewed strength embodied in a new building and sangha to emphasize Buddhist serenity, peace and gratitude. Some of Rev. Yamada’s Dharma talks may be read on his temple’s website: http://www.bombu.org/
The conference is open to the public. Registration is $60, which includes lunch and banquet. All events will be held at the new temple, 470 – 4th Av. S. Lethbridge, Alberta Canada
(10-July-2009 - Updated 25-Aug-2009) The Calgary Buddhist Temple has generously received tickets to hear the Dalai Lama speak at the Telus Convention Centre on Thursday, October 1st, 2009 at 10:30am.
The raffle tickets are 1 for $10 or 3 for $25. A maximum of 500 tickets will be printed and there are 12 Dalai Lama ticket prizes available to be won! The draw will take place on Thursday, September 3, 2009.
Update: Draw date originally scheduled for Sunday, September 13th however, due to the requirements of the screening process for Raffle Draw winners, the draw date had to be adjusted. This will actually increase the odds for winners as less tickets have been sold.
Raffle tickets can be purchased at the Calgary Buddhist Temple after Sunday morning or Thursday evening service until the draw date. Proceeds from this raffle will help support the work of the Calgary Buddhist Temple.
Please note that this is a smaller venue than the Dalai Lama's public talk at the Calgary Saddle Dome and a name security check may be performed. In addition, be aware that a limited number of raffle tickets are available.
(10-July-2009) The Calgary Buddhist Temple is pleased to present the Calgary Buddhist Film Series on Nov 5 (at the Temple), 6, 7 & 8 (at the Calgary Public Library). More information...
Storied buddhist shrine finds new home (10-May-2009) Published in the Calgary Herald - A beautiful piece of southern Alberta spiritual history has found a new, permanent home. The shrine from the former Japanese Buddhist temple in Raymond,... Read full article
Lethbridge Dedication Service (29-Apr-2009) A Dedication ceremony for the new Temple in Lethbridge and an Ochigo parade were held on Apr 26. Watch the YouTube video courtesy of R. Miyai. Read the Lethbridge Herald article Buddhists Celebrate New Temple
(21-Apr-2009) Check out the Merchandise page and find out what's available for purchase at the Temple.
Raymond
Shrine Installation
(7-Apr-2009) A Japanese Celebration will be held on Sunday May 3, 2-4 pm where Reverend Leslie Kawamura, Rev. James Martin and Rev. Ikuta will lead a blessing ceremony for the shrine which is now on display at the Glenbow Museum on Level 2 (included with admission or Glenbow Membership). We will also celebrate Hanamatsuri (Buddha's Birthday) with great joy and happiness. Enjoy a wonderful dance performance by the Kaede Cultural Society and finish the afternoon with some tea and Japanese snacks. Everyone is welcome. Flyer outlining this event, and other events planned at the Glenbow to celebrate Asian Heritage Month.
(7-Apr-2009) For those interested, the University of Calgary will be welcoming His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama as their honored guest at NOW – a two-day event and conference from September 30th to October 1st, 2009.
Beginner's Sushi-making (2-Apr-2009) Join us on May 4, 7:30-9:30pm & May 11, 7:30-8:30pm for Cost is $30 plus incidental expenses for the 2 evenings & pre-registration is required. Email today to register and be a part of this fun, learning experience!
Hanamatsuri Guest Speaker (16-Mar-2009) Leslie Kawamura Sensei will be our guest speaker at the Hanamatsuri service on Sunday, April 5/09. Please plan to attend!
2009 Youth Tour to Japan (05-Mar-2009) Tentative dates have been set for July 10-25. Click here for more information
Annual General Meeting (AGM) (22-Feb-2009) Get involved! Sunday, April 19 after service, is the Calgary Buddhist Temple's Annual General Meeting (AGM). Please stay to attend as this is open to everyone. We need your input and we just can't do it without you!
Shoshinge Commentary (20-Feb-2009) Thursdays, March 5 & 19, be are honored to be having Ikuta Sensei doing a Shoshinge Commentary on these evenings. We will update further as we go along.
Women's Federation Dana Day
(20-Feb-2009) Sunday, March
22 is the our Women's Federation Dana Day. Dana means to give without desire
for receiving something in return. Annually, across Canada, our women's
organization designate one day when all donations go to the Women's
Federation for designation to worthwhile causes supporting the propagation
of Buddhism. Please give generously.
Temple Clean-Up (20-Feb-2009) Sunday, March 29 is Temple Clean-Up after the service. Many hands would be greatly appreciated!
(09-Feb-2009) Beginning on Wednesdays, March 11 - Apr 29 from 7:30-9pm at the Temple. Cost is $150 per person and pre-registration is required - email Sensei James. Take part in this wonderful opportunity - No previous experience necessary! There will be some incidental expenses such as bachi (drumsticks) and practice drum material.
Guide to Jodo Shinshu Teaching and Practices (27-Jan-2009) Adapted from: Renken Tokuhon Study Group Text for Followers of Shinran Shonin has been compiled by Kyojo S. Ikuta & Trudy Gahlinger of the Calgary Buddhist Temple. The Guide to Jodo Sinshu Teaching and Practices is available by download in Adobe PDF format.
(Please note file size is 6.13 MB)
Introduction to Buddhism (25-Jan-2009) Plan to attend the next Introduction to Buddhism session on Sunday, March 8 from 2-3:00pm at the Temple. Open to all who are interested in learning more about Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.
Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Family Retreat - May 16-18, 2009, Manning Park, BC (13-Jan-2009) Sponsored by the Living Dharma Centre, hosted by Vancouver Buddhist Temple. Enjoy a weekend designed to promote fellowship between the various age groups within the families attending. The event is open to anyone who is curious about or interested in the teachings of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism. Early registration is due by January 23, 2009. Please make all cheques payable to Vancouver Buddhist Temple. To request a registration form or if you have any questions, contact the VBT office: 604 253-7033 or e-mail: retreat.vbt@gmail.com.More information can be found at www.livingdharmacentre.ca. Alternatively click to download the Retreat Brochure in PDF format.
BCCWF Stamp and Coin Recycling (10-Jan-2009) Stamp out Waste - Recycling Postage Stamps & Foreign Coins: The Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temples of Canada Women's Federation (JSBTC WF) have long supported children in developing countries by donating used![]() Do you have left-over foreign coins that you won't be needing or using in the future? The BCCWF also collects foreign coins in a fundraising effort for UNICEF. If you have any you'd like to get rid of, please drop them off in the stamp jar for pick up.
Guest Speakers in January (23-Dec-2008) Sensei Ikuta will be doing a commentary on Shoshinge at the Thursday, Jan 15 Service, and Sensei Kawamura will be our guest speaker on the Sunday, Jan 18 Service.
Sensei Ikuta Retires
It's official. In recognition of Sensei Ikuta's retirement, a special video was put together of well wishes. Watch the Video Read the article on Sensei Ikuta on the Living Dharma Centre website - Buddhist Leader in Canada Retires
30th Annual Alberta Buddhist Conference (ABC)
What a jam-packed weekend! The ABC was held in Calgary November 7 - 9 and it was a huge success! The theme for this year was "Living the Dharma Today" and the conference was well attended as it included something for everyone. We were honored to have Reverend Jerry Hirano of the Salt Lake Buddhist Temple as our special guest speaker. There were additional speakers who all positively contributed to our theme and sharing of living everyday Buddhism - Calgary would like to extend our sincere appreciation to Sensei Hirano, our own resident minister James Martin, Sensei Izumi, Sensei Kawamura, Sensei S.K. Ikuta and Sarah Empey.
24/07/10 |