Secular Independent Prayer 

For an explanation of the underlying teachings that support these prayers, you are encouraged to read Lotus Buddhism Redefined for a Secular Worldview.

The following link is to a Word file with the below prayers for reformatting and placement in a prayer book. Secular Independent Prayer.doc. 

For a ritual, instead of chanting Nam Myōhō Renge Kyō (in veneration of a mystical Lotus Sutra), try Sezoku Hoke Kyō, romaji for "a secular Lotus Sutra." Nam, which means "veneration of," is inferred by the way the expression is invoked. To supplement chanting, the traditional recitation from the Lotus Sutra's second and sixteenth chapters is always an option.

Of note, a formal ritual is not essential. Instead, recalling "The conditional emergence of benevolence as gifted by time, process, and potential" on occasion may be sufficient. 

If a ritual is performed, consider including the following prayer:

With faith's highest virtue sourced in immanence, the ability to shape our lives in its likeness depends on sincere and thoughtful effort alone. This ceremony supports the effort.

Our sacred image represents the conditional emergence of benevolence as gifted by time, process, and potential. Thus consciously endowed, it projects an inherent purity free of supernatural inference that can surpass and better both civil and religious authority, and encourage the pursuit of a more peaceful world.

In response to calls for a grounded principle capable of lifting all faiths, what was once a supreme truth beyond comprehension was rendered a universal ethic that requires understanding to respect. The implications are liberating, for the ultimate insight is no longer limited to a mystical union subject to claims of sectarian custody, but just as well observed firsthand in the natural order and open for emulation based on one's best judgment.

Our practice merges the meaning of this prayer with the rhythm of chanting Sezoku Hoke Kyō and welcomes reflection on such matters as overcoming difficulties, personal growth, and the advancement of a common good. The primary aspiration of this endeavor is to cultivate a foremost blend of wisdom and compassion in all.