"We come to realize that ultimate reality embraces us in boundless compassion and wisdom."

All the schools of Buddhism begin with the life of Siddhartha Gautama, who is known as Shakyamuni Buddha, the great sage of the Shakya clan, our historical Buddha.  Shakyamuni Buddha was a living, breathing, human being and was the only teacher who has emphasized this fact.    He attributed all of his attainments to human endeavors, not divine inspiration from any external factor.

Shinran Shonin (1173-1262) is our founder and whose teachings are the basis of Jodo Shinshu.  Although he used the name Gutoku (gu means ignorant and toku means stubble-haired, implying he was neither a monk nor a layperson), he was posthumously given the name Kenshin Daishi (Great Teacher, Seer of Truth).  He was acknowledged as someone who could “see what eyes cannot see.”

Like Shinran, we too can learn to see ourselves as we truly are.  Through ever deepening cycles of learning and experience, we come to see ourselves and our lives with growing clarity.  Our lives are expanded through deeply hearing the dharma, leading us to self-reflection and critical self-examination. We come to realize that ultimate reality embraces us in boundless compassion and wisdom, and we naturally respond with great joy and gratitude.  Our life becomes one of meaning and growth, and this process begins again on a deeper and more refined level. 
– The Six Aspects of Jodo Shinshu, Rev. Seigen H. Yamaoka, BCA, 1982

The most meaningful aspect of the Pure Land teachings is their inclusive nature, offering a path of Buddhist practice that is open to all people regardless of their means and abilities.  The Buddhist Church of Fowler welcomes all visitors.  Please check our calendar for our service schedule.