We endeavor to provide the opportunity to practice Jodo Shinshu Buddhism through shared experiences in genuine fellowship. We endeavor to learn through Buddhist educational activities, to promote personal spiritual growth for the BWA members and the temple community at large. We support the Palo Alto Buddhist Temple and community through activities to enhance the mission of the temple.
Buddhist Women's Association (BWA) of the Palo Alto Buddhist Temple was founded in May 1926 with fewer than half a dozen women. Originally, this small group, also known as Fujinkai, met in homes of members, working and planning in support of the temple through hospitality, fund raising, welfare and community activities.
Today, more than three-quarters of a century later, its scope and membership have kept pace with the growth of the temple and the focus of BWA activities is on the study and propagation of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism through shared experiences, fellowship and educational programs. The annually-elected cabinet and members meet monthly to discuss and plan a wide variety of community and educational activities to support the temple and temple community.
Dayan Qigong, an exercise system
- 8 Monday sessions beginning February 23, 2009 from 9:45-11:45 am
Sunday, April 19, 2009 - 10 am - BWA-in-charge of Dharma service - Eshinniko (Shinran Shonin's wife) Memorial Service with Rev. Carol Himaka of Enmanji Temple as guest speaker
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Rev. Carol Myokei Himaka grew up in San Diego. She received her B.A. from San Diego State University, and M.A. from the Institute of Buddhist Studies and Cal State Hayward. In Kyoto she received her tokudo and kyoshi ordination in 1979 and 1980, respectively, and kaikyoshi ordination in 1982.
Rev. Himaka served at the Fresno Betsuin from 1981 to 1985. She became the Director of the Department of Buddhist Education at BCA Headquarters from 1989 to 1996. Then she went to Enmanji Buddhist Temple in Sebastapol where she is currently serving.
President Eimi Okano
1st Vice President Miyoko Yoshii
2st Vice President Sherri Kawazoye
3nd Vice President Jeanette Arakawa
Religious Coordinator Gayle Okano
Recording Secretary Reiko Kameda
Corres. Sec. English Sami Kushida
Corres. Sec. Japanese Hisako Kada
Treasurer Amy Nagareda
Asst Treasurer Emiko Hamai
Rep-at-large Joanne Gozawa
Ex-Officio Janet Kameda