YOUNG ADULT BUDDHIST ASSOCIATION/ADULT BUDDHIST ASSOCIATION

In May 1938, with 38 members, the Lotus Shoyukai (YABA) formed out of the Lotus Seinenkai (YBA). This group was motivated towards the “Americanization.” of the temple. After World War II, the club was reactivated in September 1946 and was composed of single and married members.

In 1964, with the older bilingual members leaving to form the Gojikai, the Shoyukai (YABA) organization was left with 200 members. Beginning in the 70s, the younger temple members felt alienated from the group and were reluctant to join an organization comprised of people the age of their parents and the organization dwindled.

By 1982, a new group known as the Adult Buddhist Association (ABA) comprised of members over 40 years of age was organized. The YABA members between the ages of 25 and 40 continued for a time but later became inactive. Today, the ABA continues to support the many temple activities.

GOJIKAI

Gojikai was formed in 1964 from older, mostly bilingual members of YABA. Before this group separated itself, YABA had an age range from the 20s to the 60s and there had some times been difficulties in communication and differences in view points and interests. This newly formed group was deeply committed to the temple. Its constitution states its purpose is “To encourage service and support of the Seattle Buddhist Church, both orally and materially, and to encourage diligent attendance to religious services.” A monthly service and meeting is held with the December meeting designated as a “Ho-onko” service.

Gojikai actively supports the activities of the temple and also through the years has sponsored the old-timers dances, golf tournaments, outings and tours, and wonderful shibai performances. In 1983, it presented a community-wide Issei appreciation night with a well received program of entertainment.

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