THE BUDDHIST TEMPLE OF CHICAGO

CHICAGO, Illinois, 60640-5043 United States

Mission Statement

Founded in 1944 as an administratively independent temple, The Buddhist Temple of Chicago aspires to the following: 1. To present and explore the Three Treasures of Buddhism—the Buddha (teacher), the Dharma (teachings), and the Sangha (community). 2. To be guided and inspired by the historical Buddha, Gautama Shakyamuni, and the teachers who have followed—Shinran Shonin, Manshi Kiyozawa, and Haya Akegarasu. 3. To present the Buddha-Dharma in a language and manner relevant and understandable in contemporary America. 4. To welcome all who seek the Dharma without any exceptions. 5. To be a positive presence in our local community, working to enhance the vitality of our neighborhood. 6. To honor and continue the traditions of our founding members. 7. To always live the Nembutsu—Namu Amida Butsu.

About This Cause

The Buddhist Temple of Chicago (BTC) is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Chicago. Our membership has historically been Japanese American, but the temple has diversified over the decades to include members of European, African, Asian, Latin, and Native American descent. We welcome those who identify as LGBTQ. We even have devout Christian members who believe that the teachings of the Buddha are compatible with their religion. Anyone wishing to learn about the Dharma is welcome. The temple was founded on October 8, 1944 by Rev. Gyomay M. Kubose, a pioneer in presenting Buddhism in everyday English and one of the first Jodo Shinshu ministers in the United States to conduct Zen meditation sessions. The original site was in Hyde Park on Chicago’s South Side. The temple is now located in the vibrant neighborhood of Uptown on the North Side. A new six-sided temple building modeled after the six-sided Rokkakudo Temple in Kyoto, Japan, was dedicated May 21, 2006.

THE BUDDHIST TEMPLE OF CHICAGO
1151 W Leland Ave
CHICAGO, Illinois 60640-5043
United States
Phone (773) 334-4661
Unique Identifier 363254715