Greetings From Our Minister
Welcome to the Buddhist Temple of Salinas!
Our temple belongs to the Mahāyāna Buddhist tradition known as Jōdo Shinshū, whose mother temple, Nishi Hongwanji, is located in Kyoto, Japan. We are affiliated with the Buddhist Churches of America (BCA). Our members, or Sangha, come together in fellowship to support one another and to follow the teachings of Jōdo Shinshū Buddhism.
In 2024, Jōdo Shinshū in America celebrated its 125th anniversary, marking over a century of growth and contribution to the development of Buddhism in the United States. That same year, our temple joyfully commemorated 100 years of sharing the Buddha’s teachings in the Salinas area. Though we are still growing as part of the diverse religious landscape of the Salinas Valley, we hold an important and enduring place within this community—one built upon the dedication and sacrifices of our Issei pioneers, whose vision and perseverance gave rise to the temple we cherish today.
Our aspiration is to share the Dharma with a wider audience. Even in this ever-changing world, we believe that a harmonious community can be nurtured through the boundless light and compassion of Amida Buddha. Our Sangha continues to welcome new ideas and perspectives to ensure that these wonderful teachings will continue to flourish into the future.
Jōdo Shinshū reminds us that every day can be lived as an expression of awakening. The Nembutsu, Namo-Amida-Butsu, is the path through which we are embraced by the infinite Wisdom and Compassion of Amida Buddha. The Buddhist Temple of Salinas is here to help anyone discover how we may live with gratitude for all that we receive in life.
We invite you to make this spiritual home your own. Join us in a community grounded in love, respect, gratitude, and harmony.
Reciting the Name — Namo-Amida-Butsu
Rev. Hibiki Junkyo Murakami
Rev. Hibiki Junkyo Murakami
Banner Photo by Patricia Arrance on Unsplash