Hongwanji

As part of the Jodo Shinshu Buddhist Temples of Canada (JSBTC), we are affiliated with the Nishi Hongawanji of Kyoto, Japan, the mother temple of the Jodo Shinshu (True Pure Land) sect of Buddhism.

The Gomonshu is the spiritual head of our denomination based in Kyoto, Japan. The current Gomonshu is His Eminence Monshu Kojun Ohtani, the 25th-generation descendant of Shinran Shonin to head the Hongwanji.

2026 Greeting

At the beginning of this New Year, I would like to extend my warmest greetings to you all.

In recent years, starting with Japan, but also throughout the world there have been a rash of natural disasters such as typhoons, torrential rains, earthquakes, and large-scale forest fires which has created enormous damage. I would like to convey my deepest condolences to those who lost their lives through natural disasters and express my sympathy to everyone affected. My wish is for all who are affected to be able to return to peaceful daily lives as soon as possible.

Last year, we marked a milestone as it was 80 years since the end of WWII. In July, I had the opportunity to join memorial services in Okinawa, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki, areas that were deeply affected by the
war. I was grateful to have been able to meet with some of the survivors of the war and to hear their stories. In 1995, on the occasion of the 50th Anniversary of the end of WWII and the memorial to remember those who lost their lives during the war, Sokunyo Monshu stated, “Prior to the beginning of the war, going against the teachings of Shinran Shonin, the Hongwanji using the name of the Buddha Dharma, took an active role in promoting Japan’s war efforts. This is a fact we cannot deny, and in the presence of Amida Buddha, I cannot but to express my regret and shame.” With these words, Sokunyo Monshu took responsibility for actions done by the Hongwanji organization prior to WWII. Keeping these sentiments firmly in my heart, I would like to go forward by rededicating our pursuit for peace.

Following the conclusion of WWII, the Hongwanji Organization did not shy away from admitting their active role in promoting the war effort. With humility and repentance, it has strived to create a society where all beings can live in peace.

With sincerity in our hearts, we must continue to strive for peace and not repeat the errors that were committed in WWII. Presently, there are wars and conflicts ongoing in various regions throughout the world, where countless precious lives are being threatened. In such a world, let us be mindful of the words of Shinran Shonin, “Let there be Peace in the world, and let the Buddha Dharma grow”. Together, let us move forward day by day.

January 1, 2026

OHTANI Kojun
Monshu
Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha