I had the wonderful opportunity to chat with our own Rev. Devon Matsumoto, who will soon spend about a year and a half in Japan to complete his Kaikyoshi training. Among the topics of our discussion was the question of participation in organized religion, which in general is in decline, and thoughts he may have with respect to the role himself as a minister OR the role that our own MVBT organization has in continuing to be a growing and thriving community.
SPIRITUALITY vs. RELIGION
The younger generation may embrace the spirituality of the Jodo Shinshu teachings versus embracing the rigidity of religion as an institution. That may mean that we all need to work even harder to provide opportunities for all to participate wherever we can meet them from an activity, organization or interest level. Temples that offer many ways to engage an individual may be the ones that continue to grow and thrive.
SAFE SPACES / VULNERABLE SPACES / UNCOMFORTABLE SPACES
Through his work with Compassionate Conversations/Engaged Sangha, Rev. Devon has strived to bring forth to our Sangha Community different perspectives in our own safe spaces, so that we may engage in conversation and embrace other’s lived experience to encourage increased understanding and compassion. At times this can be uncomfortable, but this may be necessary to encourage ourselves to understand another’s perspectives.
SELF REFLECTION
When creating safe spaces so that we can allow vulnerable and uncomfortable conversations, we also need to reflect on how we ourselves may or may not have influenced others. Have we always been welcoming to those new to our community? Have we ever said something that made others feel uncomfortable or unsafe? Are we even aware of when this may happen? Perhaps simply having this thought in mind will allow us to engage respectfully with others, whether they are old friends or new acquaintances.
We are all so proud of our own Reverend Devon Matsumoto and wish him a safe and learning journey to Japan!
In Deep Appreciation,
Julie Satake Ryu
MVBT President