One of my first gymnastics coaches, Shiro Tanaka, invited me to attend a Buddhist English language festival in Tokyo hosted by the International Buddhist Congregation, a division of Rissho Kosei-kai. IBC offers an English language service every Sunday.

Here’s the Great Sacred Hall, only one building of what’s almost a small city in their Tokyo Headquarters.

Though I have studied the Buddha, I didn’t know much about Japanese Buddhism. The RKK teachings are not as strict as what’s practiced in Thailand, by comparison, more welcoming to lay people.

“Buddhism for Today”

We stayed at the excellent Pilgrimage Hall residence. Pilgrims.

Here’s a statue of co-founder Nikkyo Niwano (1906–1999). He’s remembered for his interfaith work, his calls for global peace and disarmament.

… As of 2010 there are over 240 churches and centers in 20 countries. Membership currently stands at 6.5 million members, with the majority living in Japan. …

All good. Shiro feels the organization should have more Canadian members, though.

A special thanks to Reverend Suzuki who gave me a personal summing up of the RKK teachings.

See more photos of our two days at RKK with the IBC.