March 2026: Called to Give
With several new visitors and longtime families returning, BCSB’s future is bright! This momentum has led the Board to discuss temple membership, as you might recall from February’s Geppo.
Before proceeding I must emphasize that, as long as we are able, we will ensure that opportunities to hear the Dharma will be as accessible as possible. It does not matter if you are a member or not, or even if you consider yourself a Buddhist or not. That is the nature and example of the non-discriminatory wisdom and compassion of the Buddha.
Thus, we understand that membership is not meant to draw distinctions between each other. There are no material benefits to membership akin to joining a tony athletic club or upscale speakeasy. As Rev. Marvin Harada told me, he joked with folks at Orange County Buddhist Church, “If you join as a member, then you get to work at the Obon!”
Then why become a member?
When I first started attending my home temple, San Fernando Valley Hongwanji, I was struck by the kind community that welcomed me with open hearts. They entertained my curiosities about Buddhism and got to know me as a person, asking how grad school was coming along or if I was staying healthy in the midst of flu season on campus. Moreover, I witnessed how they lived the Dharma: how they savored moments together, gave generously and joyously of their time for different events, and approached the world with compassion, humility, and gratitude. I heard stories about how their families gave everything they could to the temple (when they often had so little) out of an abiding belief in the sustaining power of Buddhism to help them navigate life’s vicissitudes. I feel that same spirit with all the senses at BCSB.
As I awoke to a community and set of teachings that embraced me just as I am, an immense gratitude arose within me that I felt called to give back so that others could experience the warmth and clarity of the Dharma. I volunteered or donated when I could and, when my karmic circumstances were right, I became a member. No pressure from others, just a natural feeling that washed over me.
I sincerely hope that your encounters at BCSB will likewise create that feeling!
Namo Amida Butsu!
REV. J.P. DEGUZMAN