Youth Education

In an effort to promote continued education and participation in Jodo Shinshu Buddhist studies amongst college-aged students, the Center, in conjunction with the Youth Advocacy Committee (YAC), provides a variety of programs, lectures and seminars for the students to participate in with their peers.  Through these programs, the student will be able to develop relationships with other students interested in Jodo Shinshu Buddhism, forming their own community and network.

One major annual Youth Education program is the weekend Youth Retreat, which is held during the summer at the BCA's San Luis Obispo Retreat Center. Students can participate in activities such as discussions with guest ministers, interactive workshops, and other enjoyable social activities. Any student who is currently a BCA member, as well as any student who is new to Buddhism, is invited to attend.

Summer programs for high school youth are sponsored together with the Youth Advocacy Committee to provide an opportunity for these young members to listen to Buddhist teachings, learn Buddhist cultural arts, interact with other Buddhist youth, and learn more about our religion and our community of Jodo Shinshu Buddhists.

Education in living one's life as a Buddhist begins at birth. CBE offers and sponsors programs, educational material, and activities for children of all ages throughout the country.

Introductory Buddhist Lectures

CBE sponsors a fall and spring lecture series for newcomers to learn basic and introductory information about Buddhism and Jodo Shinshu. These lectures, which are held at the Jodo Shinshu Center (JSC), are designed to encourage lively discussions with ministers or guest speakers. All are welcome to attend. Please contact CBE for the schedule of upcoming lectures.

Ministerial Training

In conjunction with local temples/churches, CBE also supports the efforts of the Office of the Bishop by providing training sessions for Tokudo Ordination and Kyoshi Certification into the Jodo Shinshu ministry. 

Tokudo Ordination Training

Tokudo is a Buddhist ordination where one makes a commitment to learning the Dharma, and is only the first step toward becoming a BCA minister. BCA recognizes the importance of nurturing ministerial aspirants and giving them the knowledge and education on how to best assist and guide the existing Sangha (Buddhist laity). Therefore, CBE provides training seminars for Tokudo aspirants under the guidance of the Office of the Bishop (For more information on Tokudo, please refer to our brochure on How to Become a Minister).

Kyoshi Certification Seminar

Kyoshi Certification from the Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha in Kyoto is required before one can apply for a BCA minister's position. Before receiving Kyoshi, one must go through rigorous educational training and active involvement at the local temple-level (Minister's Assistants Program). Although, most of the training does occur at the local temples, CBE provides these seminars for Kyoshi candidates to ensure unified and standardized training and the fulfillment of all necessary requirements to successfully receive Kyoshi Certification. (For more information on Kyoshi Certification, please refer to our brochure on How to Become a Minister).