How Our Temple Will Continue to Exist

Of organizations, there are three kinds. First, there are those that are organized on the basis of the power, wealth or authority of great leaders.

Second, there are those that are organized because of their convenience to the members. They will continue to exist as long as the members satisfy their conveniences and do not quarrel.

Third, there is the kind that is organized with some good teaching as its center and harmony as its very life … [this] is the only true organization, for in it the members live in one spirit …

[Anguttara Nikaya 3-118, Soceyyan Sutra, in Teachings of the Buddha, 478]

We are the organization. Over the years, some people have come and gone, according to their convenience. I’m grateful that they were here because every person who is or was part of the SFVHBT sangha matters. We wouldn’t be the temple we are without their presence, however fleeting and for whatever reason they were here. Thanks to every being and every cause and condition that has touched this temple, the dharma echoes in the San Fernando Valley. Searching for a religious or spiritual path is a highly personal matter. Nobody can make another person listen to what they aren’t ready to hear. That the rest of the sangha can keep the doors open matters not only for those who are here, but also for those who may seek the refuge and guidance of our teaching in the future. With the single purpose of hearing the dharma, no matter what our other differences, there will be no quarreling but instead harmony within the sangha.

Our national organization, the Buddhist Churches of America, is facing an existential crisis as membership rapidly declines and temples close. The writing was on the wall long ago, and it was a wake-up call to rally to our only true treasures of the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. Thanks to this, the SFHVBT sangha has been strengthened without any doubt by welcoming all who seek to hear the teaching and walk the path together. As long as members continue to do this, the temple will continue. Of course many other activities may be enjoyed, but recognize that they are subject to the convenience of the members and will change as members change. A sangha that actively follows the Buddha-dharma is the diamond-like strength of the temple. May you always remember this, contemplate it, and respect it. It has helped centuries of people to weather life’s challenges. May it always be here for you at SFVHBT.

As you may read elsewhere in this newsletter, my time as your resident navigator is coming to an end in a few months. Speaking for myself, sixteen years have gone by in a flash and they were filled with such joy in walking with all of you. My gratitude has always been and always will be deep for this enriching experience and for you. It’s too soon to say good-bye, so until next time, Namo Amida Butsu.

In gassho,

Rev. Patricia Usuki