2005 Federation of Dharma School
Teacher's League Conference

This page was developed as a resource for Dharma School Teachers to share their understanding and to continue to explore the conference theme of: “The Question is Not Whether it is True or Not, But What does it Mean?” The Conference was hosted by Southern District Federation of Dharma School Teacher’s League from April 29 - May 1, 2005. 

For a discussion on the contents of this section of our web site, please visit our yahoo.groups located at: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Venice_Hongwanji_Nembutsu/ Please view the thread titled: fdstl 2005 posts

Thank you for your continued interest and participation in our temple and its activities. Gassho

Ministers and Dharrna School teachers, welcome to 2005 BCA Federation of Dharma School Teachers League Conference. 

Children today have become increasingly wise & smart thanks to the continued advancements made in our education system. As our children grow and develop, I believe it is important that our ministers and dharrna school teachers are able to respond to their spiritual needs within the context of today's living environment and conditions. As teachers, we need to be creative and innovative when providing an explanation of the Buddha-Dharma to our children. 

My motto as Socho, Bishop of the BCA is, "Anch mosaku suru koto wo ikigai to shi, shiko sakugo wo osorem," or, ". ..to challenge oneself to search in the midst of the uncertainties of work and life, and not be afraid of making mistakes." Be flexible in making the necessary changes in the methodology that you utilize in transmitting the Buddha's teachings according to your temple's own needs and conditions. The Dharma will not lose its quality or essence even though you change your methodology. 

I wish to thank the members of the Southern District Dharma School Teachers' League for their work in organizing and hosting this year's conference. I hope that you all have a most enjoyable and meaningful time at this conference. 

Gassho,

Koshin Ogui, Socho
Bishop