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This class will explore the importance of creating inclusive environments in Soto Zen Buddhist temples, where all individuals—regardless of sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental ability, race, religion, nationality, political beliefs, or socioeconomic status—are welcomed. Soto Zen communities have historically faced challenges in achieving full inclusion, often due to cultural, social, and institutional barriers. The class will examine how these challenges have been addressed and the progress made toward more inclusive practices. Participants will reflect on current obstacles to inclusivity within temples and discuss ongoing efforts needed. Finally, the class will focus on envisioning a future where Soto Zen temples are places of acceptance, compassion, and openness for all.
Rev. Konjin Gaelyn Godwin Rev. Jigaku Takenouchi
Rev. Konjin Gaelyn Godwin Rev. Jigaku Takenouchi
The Abbot of Houston Zen Center, Setsuan Konjin* Gaelyn Godwin, is connected nationally and internationally with Buddhist teachers and organizations, and, in addition to her own travels to lead Zen retreats, she brings nationally recognized teachers to Houston for Dharma teaching.
She serves as the Director of the International Division of Soto Zen, North America (a department of Soto Zen Headquarters based in Japan).
She received ordination as a Zen Priest in 1991, from Tenshin Reb Anderson, Senior Dharma Teacher at San Francisco Zen Center. She received Dharma Transmission, also from Tenshin Reb Anderson, in 2003, and was appointed Kaikyoshi (formal recognition from Japan) in 2005. Her Zen lineage is Soto Zen, through Dōgen Zenji, and through Suzuki Shunryu Daiosho, founder of San Francisco Zen Center.
Jigaku Takenouchi, a disciple of Reverend Shinsho Hata, is the 16th resident minister at Taishoji. His journey to Buddhism is a unique one, marked by a lifelong exploration of faith and a deep commitment to serving his community. Raised Catholic, Takenouchi's curiosity led him to delve into diverse traditions, including Wicca, Druidism, and Yoruba. It was through a college course with Dr. Jay Sakashita that he first encountered Buddhism, and later, under Rev. Hata's mentorship at Taishoji in Hawaii, that he discovered his true calling.
Takenouchi's path to ministry included serving as a lay assistant and deacon before undertaking the rigorous Hossenshiki (Dharma Battle). Currently, he balances his ministerial duties with furthering his understanding of religion's role in contemporary society through the religious studies program at Oregon State University. In addition to his academic pursuits, Takenouchi is actively involved in community outreach, working with the unhoused and those in need. He believes that Buddhism's teachings of compassion and interconnectedness are essential for addressing the challenges faced by marginalized communities.
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