Anchored in the ancient Mahayana tradition, NASBA communities focus on Shin spirituality, offering opportunities to cultivate an open heart, trust and presence. 

 

Being a circle of equals is a unique core feature of our path. We don't have hierarchies such as gurus or priests, though we do have certified and highly experienced practice leaders and dharma teachers to facilitate the gatherings. As practitioners of the original Shin path, we stress an egalitarian and democratic community and attitude. We call each other friends (kalyana-mitra), dress casually, and are very welcoming.

 

Our two hour gathering is akin to the early Shin Buddhist dojo or training center where we train for 2 hours so that we may better practice throughout the week in our often hectic lives. In our gatherings, we practice a variety of practical spiritual "tools" to help us awaken to our endowed inner potential of compassion and wisdom. These tools include deep hearing, Zen and voice meditation, prayer and the voicing of the Nembutsu-Namu-Amida-Butsu as an expression of our trust in and gratitude for the ultimate Oneness of life, symbolized as Amida Buddha. 

 

Instead of sermons, our spiritual communities are known for its insightful and lively dharma discussions. As our founder, the 13th century Japanese reformer, Shinran Shonin, taught, "We are all fellow travelers on the path," and, as such, anyone may share his/her opinion and experience. Learning from one another in this fashion creates a strong, nourishing environment. We care for and love one another and live in service to the world.

 

Though our gatherings skillfully reflect 21st century local North American 

culture, every week, we make available the time-honored Buddhist teachings and practices, which help us to discover life’s purpose and to unfold joy, gratitude, and peace in a community setting.