Who we are
Jodo Shinshu International Office is the further development of the Hongwanji Office, founded in 2006 by Hongwanji-ha and operated under Buddhist Churches of America. JSIO has now grown into its own religious non-profit organization.
Our Mission
Under the slogan “The World is Waiting for Buddhism and Shinran Shonin” the JSIO strives to provide people with opportunities to encounter the teaching of Shinran Shonin and to nurture Nembutsu practitioners throughout the world. JSIO will develop its programs with the belief that the teaching of Jodo Shinshu Buddhism contributes to the establishment of a society where people live a life of compassion together with others.
Our Programs
Jodo Shinshu International Office (JSIO) programs all fall under one of two categories: education & training or propagation. JSIO is continuing the programs that were previously conducted by the Hongwanji Office.
International Ministerial Orientation Program
This program aims to train Japanese ministers for Kaikyoshi certification through lectures, temple visitations, Dharma message practice, and participation in various activities.
Jodo Shinshu Correspondence Course
This two-year online program provides an opportunity for anyone to learn about Jodo Shinshu Buddhism in English. Students broaden their knowledge through reading and receiving one-on-one feedback from instructors on their monthly essays.
Jodo Shinshu Speaker’s Bureau
The online directory of ministers and Buddhist speakers who can transmit the teachings to audiences within and without the Jodo Shinshu communities throughout the world.
Publication Development
JSIO produces materials, including a quarterly publication to spread the joyous voices of Jodo Shinshu Buddhists who live by the teaching of Shinran Shonin to the world. This will also include the translation of Japanese materials and ebook publication.
Teaching Materials Creation
The materials will be used in training to support the education of those working to spread the dharma such as kaikyoshi, ministerial candidates, and assistants.
Ministerial Training Development
The goal is to develop programs for those who are engaged in propagation to broaden their knowledge and develop their skills to spread the teaching more effectively.
Under Development and Future Programs
JSCC Support and Development:
This project will create a more accessible and less intensive educational program for those who are new to or interested in Jodo Shinshu Buddhism.
Networking with Other Sects and Religions:
This program will promote and create activities to increase the visibility and presence of Jodo Shinshu as a world religion by participating in communication and networking with other religions and sects.