There is no dharma talk today due to the Chicago Marathon. A number of streets local to the Temple are closed for the Marathon making it very difficult for people to attend service. In light of this occasion we have decided to cancel Sunday service.

Today's service is our monthly memorial service in remembrance of those who passed away during the month of August. Sunday's service is also remembering those who died in the only use of the atomic bomb in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. 

Reverend Ron explains the significance of Obon.

This is Sensei Siebuhr's last dharma talk at the Midwest Buddhist Temple. After many years of teaching the dharma, Sensei has decided to leave the full time ministry and resume a career in the private sector.

Listen to Sensei Siebuhr's last dharma talk.

Today marks the celebration of the birth of Shinran Shonin, the founder of Jodo Shinshu. Sensei talks about Shinran and how unlikely a person he was to have started our sect, one of the predominant Buddhist sects in Japan.

The meaning of Buddhism. If you've ever wondered what is the core tenant of Buddhism listen to this podcast.

Today is Hanamatsuri, Buddha's birthday according to the Japanese calendar. Listen to Sensei's dharma talk on this special day.

What peace of mind has Buddhism brought to you? Sensei reflects upon his life and Shinran Shonin's struggles. He talks of the difference between Buddhism and the other major religions of the world.

What is karma? What is true and real?

Spring Ohigan. A reflection on the spring equinox.

Sensei talks about the masks we wear and how what we say is really not what we're thinking. Buddhism comes from lifelong learning and not in a moment of enlightenment.

There is no podcast for the week of January 31, 2010 due to technical difficulties. I apologize for missing this week. The problem has been addressed and the podcasts will resume the week of February 7, 2010.

Sensei Siebuhr reflects upon recent deaths and how those tragic events remind us all of impermance.

This Sunday is the Ho-Onko service. Ho-Onko, meaning a gathering to express our indebtedness and thankfulness, is a memorial service in honor of Shinran Shonin. It is also an occasion to express our gratitude to Amida Buddha for having awakened us to life’s supreme meaning. Ho-Onko is the most important Jodo Shinshu ceremony. Our guest speaker is Reverend Ashikaga.