Megan Kiyoko Wray, Author and Brynne Takeuchi Monterrosa, Artist

On Saturday, November 15, the Manitoba Buddhist Temple held a gala dinner to celebrate the launch of its new book, Little Temple on the Prairie – A History of the Manitoba Buddhist Temple, written by Megan Kiyoko Wray. It was a wonderful evening. Sixteen of the twenty-four temple members who survived the forced evacuation of Japanese Canadians during the Second World War were honoured. Each received a corsage or boutonniere and a beautifully wrapped copy of the book.

This publication was made possible through a grant from the Japanese Canadian Legacy Society (JCLS). We were grateful to have their CEO, Susanne Tabata, attend and offer remarks before dinner. Following the meal, guests viewed a 15-minute video produced by Robert Miyai.

Both the illustrator, Brynne Takeuchi Monterrosa, and the author, Megan Kiyoko Wray, delivered heartfelt speeches. As I looked around the room, I saw how attentively people listened to their every word. It was deeply moving to hear these young Yonsei share their reflections on learning, writing, and illustrating the 79-year history of our temple.

Below is a synopsis of the book:

"During World War II, displaced Japanese Canadians arrived in Manitoba, having lost everything to government-ordered internment and forced exile. Scattered across rural farms, they faced harsh conditions, deep isolation, and the daunting task of rebuilding their lives. Yet, despite these struggles, they created something extraordinary: a Buddhist temple that became a pillar of faith, culture, and resilience.

Little Temple on the Prairie traces the remarkable history of the Manitoba Buddhist Temple from its humble beginnings as a refuge for a scattered community to its enduring presence today. Through archival research and intimate oral histories, Megan Kiyoko Wray illuminates the perseverance of the Issei and Nisei who defied loss and discrimination to build a space of belonging—not just for themselves, but for generations to come.

This is more than a story about a temple. It is a testament to survival and solidarity, a reminder that honouring the past is not just about looking back, but about shaping the future. It calls on us to ask: how will you remember?"

Paperback copies of the book may be purchased directly from the Manitoba Buddhist Temple for $25. Payment can be made by cheque or via e-transfer to mbt.winnipeg@gmail.com.

Hardcover and digital editions are available through several online booksellers, including FriesenPress, McNally Robinson, Indigo–Chapters, and Amazon. Please note that these versions are priced higher than the paperback copies available directly from the temple.