My Journey to Tokudo and Beyond

Editor’s note: Dharma Forward is making an impact. The following article by Rev. Michael Ichi-Jō Jones of the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin is part of an ongoing series in the Wheel of Dharma highlighting Dharma Forward projects made possible with your generous donations. Dharma Forward grants helped support Rev. Jones and other Tokudo participants at the Hongwanji-ha in Kyoto, Japan, last year. To hear more about projects, to get involved, or to donate, please contact Michiko Inanaga at minanaga@bcahq.org

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My path to Tokudo has been a winding one, marked by exploration and growth. Raised Catholic, I became an altar boy, appreciating the rituals but questioning the church's messages. After my father's passing when I was 12, I distanced myself from Catholicism, uncomfortable with our priest's attempts to mentor me and to take the role of a surrogate father.

In high school, I found a welcoming Baptist congregation and was baptized at 16. Yet, once again, the teachings didn't resonate with me. Looking back, I realize I'd been searching for a way to understand life and the world around me, evident in my eclectic reading habits (philosophy, psychology, and science fiction) from an early age.

Buddhism entered my life unexpectedly when I accompanied my future wife, Elaine, to her uncle's funeral at the Buddhist Church of Oakland. Rev. Zuikei Taniguchi's Dharma message captivated me, offering a new perspective on life and death. This pivotal moment set me on the path I walk today.

I began attending services at the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin with Elaine, where we eventually married. As our oldest son started Dharma School, I delved deeper into Buddhist literature. Rev. Dr. Ronald Nakasone's "The Ethics of Enlightenment" became a foundational text for me, accompanying me on my global travels. The writings of Thich Nhat Hanh also profoundly impacted my understanding of Buddhism and of myself.

My involvement with the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin deepened when, at the urging of Eddie and Joyce Iwasaki, I joined the Board of Directors, eventually becoming President of its Board of Directors. With the sponsorship of Sumi Tanabe, this led to roles with the BCA Endowment Foundation and the Institute of Buddhist Studies (IBS) Board of Trustees, exposing me to both the organizational and spiritual aspects of the BCA.

Despite an early interest in the Minister's Assistant program, it wasn't until nearly two decades later that I could begin this journey. With support from Rinban Rev. Gerald Sakamoto and Bishop Rev. Marvin Harada, I embarked on the path to becoming a Certified Minister's Assistant and, ultimately, pursuing Tokudo ordination.

The process involved completing a two-year online Jodo Shinshu class, four Minister's Assistant Program training sessions, and the Shin Buddhist Certificate program at the IBS. During this time, I had the privilege of delivering Dharma messages and teaching a bimonthly Dharma Study Class at the San Jose Betsuin.

Tokudo training began in early 2023 with a cohort of nine other candidates. We were fortunate to have the guidance of many dedicated individuals. Rev. Jerry Hirano and Rev. Harada led the program, with Rev. Tadao Koyama and Rimban Rev. Katsuya Kusunoki serving as our primary instructors. Rev. Kiyonobu Kuwahara provided constant support and acted as our liaison with Kyoto. On a personal level, I'm deeply grateful for Rinban Rev. Sakamoto's support and Rev. Etsuko Mikame's one-on-one sessions on chanting, ritual and protocols.

This journey wouldn't have been possible without the organizational support of the BCA, IBS, Center for Buddhist Education (CBE), and the Jodo Shinshu International Office (JSIO). The staff at the Jodo Shinshu Center (JSC) — including Judy Kono, Rev. Michael Endo and Koichi Mizushima — played crucial roles. The Dharma Forward organization also provided valuable support.

Above all, I'm profoundly grateful for the unwavering support of the San Jose Betsuin Sangha, my wife, and my family. Their encouragement has been the bedrock of my journey.

As I look forward to completing the Kyoshi level at the Jodo Shinshu Center in Berkeley this November, I reflect on the incredible support I've received over the years. My heart is full of gratitude for all those who have guided and encouraged me along this path.

This journey has taught me that spiritual growth is not a solitary endeavor but a collective one, enriched by the wisdom and compassion of others. As I continue on this path, I hope to pay forward the generosity and teachings I've received, contributing to the flourishing of the Dharma in our community.