What goes on at SFVHBT?

Sunday Services are opportunities to learn about the timeless wisdom of the Buddhist teachings and how to apply them in your daily life.

We do this through listening to dharma talks from our ministers, chanting sutras, singing, and moments for reflection and quieting the mind.

An otoki, or a shared meal featuring plenty of homemade treats, follows our special services.

Dharma School is a weekly educational program for k-middle school aged children.

Students learn age-appropriate Buddhist lessons in a warm and friendly environment through hands-on activities and occasional service activities.

Classes and Seminars are offered as opportunities to deepen one’s understanding of Buddhism through study and discussion.

Past topics include finding Buddhism in daily life, Buddhism and economics, and the teachings of Shinran Shonin, the founder of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.

Sangha Teens and Junior Young Buddhist’s Association are programs for older students that blend Buddhist education with outings, leadership opportunities, and collaboration with peers from our sister temples

Buddhist Women’s Association (BWA), also known as the fujinkai, has been the backbone of the temple for generations. Open to people of all genders, the BWA is a welcoming community that supports the temple through fundraisers, scholarships, and more. Their chirashi is some of the bes in LA!

Obon is a joyful gathering in remembrance of our deceased ancestors similar to Día de los Muertos

Each summer our sangha (community) comes together for a weekend-long celebration that includes Japanese folk dancing, carnival games, bingo, food, and cultural displays including taiko drumming and martial arts.

Drop My Ego – Buddhism teaches that we awaken to a greater reality when we let go of our ego. DME is a program led by sangha members to learn something new in a safe, supportive community. Some past activities include:

• Sushi and okonomiyaki making
• Stargazing
• Karaoke
• Senryu poetry
• Improv comedy
• Local hiking

Sangha Gatherings are intergenerational activities and fundraisers that bring our community together and are open to all, including:

• Outings to local museums
• Afternoon teas
• Chili cook-off and bingo tournament
• Gardening hour
• Spring fling social and dance