The Calgary Buddhist Temple has put together a great guide available for downloading. It's called a "Guide to Jodo Shinshu Teaching and Practices."

The Guide was translated from Japanese to English by Kyojo S. Ikuta & Trudy Gahlinger of the Calgary Buddhist Temple.  It was originally developed as an introduction to Jodo Shinshu for the layperson.

Part One describes the life and teachings of the Buddha, and the history and evolution of Jodo Shinshu teachings.

While, Part Two discusses Jodo Shinshu practices, including Jodo Shinshu religious days and services.

It also answers the questions, "What is the Pure Land?" and "Who is an evil person?" The 63 page document (check your printer for ink and paper before downloading) also contains photos and information explaining the meaning and history of the ornaments and artifacts that comprise the Jodo Shinshu tradition.

The document was originally produced by the Renken Tokuhon Study Group in Japan.

The Guide is a great way to ready, study and understand the life of the Nembutsu.


DOWNLOAD THE GUIDE TO JODO SHINSHU TEACHING AND PRACTICES...

Peacefully, at the Tuxedo Villa, on Thursday, December 25, 2008, Jenny Setsuko Nishimura, wife of the Late Rev. Hidoe Nishimura, entered Nirvana at the age of 99 years.

Jenny was born June 19, 1909 in Shiga-Ken, Japan and immigrated to Canada in 1934. She and her husband lived in British Columbia before moving to Winnipeg during the Second World War. She was predeceased by her husband in 1971. Jenny taught Sunday School at the Manitoba Buddhist Temple and worked hard to introduce Japanese culture to the community.

The family would like to thank the staff of the Extendicare Tuxedo Villa for the compassion and care given to Jenny and a special thanks to her friends and temple members who helped to provide palliative care to Jenny. Funeral service 2:00 p.m., Saturday, January 17, 2009 at Manitoba Buddhist Temple, 39 Tecumseh Street with Sensei Fredrich Ulrich officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Manitoba Buddhist Temple at 39 Tecumseh Street, Winnipeg, MB R3E 3J8.

READ A DHARMA TALK FROM SENSEI ULRICH...

Worth watching! The landmark six hour, six part mini-series, "The Story of India" is a fantastic journey through the history of India. Michael Wood is your engaging and articulate guide who brings you along on a whirlwind tour of the country and its history.

Especially don't miss episode two, "The Power of Ideas." The series spends some time under the Bodhi Tree telling the story of the Buddha.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FILM ON THE PBS WEBSITE...