September 10, 1999

Another Temple Secedes From Nichiren Shoshu

By Jeff Farr
Associate Editor

On Aug. 20, another Nichiren Shoshu temple, Zencho-ji in Hiroshima Prefecture, seceded from Nichiren Shoshu. This is the second temple to leave Nichiren Shoshu this year.

Reverend Yuren Fujita, the chief priest of Zencho-ji, held a meeting with representatives of the temple parish to explain why he had made his decision: He believes that Nichiren Shoshu is off-track, and that the heart of Nichiren Daishonin?s Buddhism is no longer found in the sect. With the leader of the laity?s agreement, a resolution to leave Nichiren Shoshu was agreed on.

Reverend Fujita then sent Nikken a notice that Zencho-ji had severed ties with Nichiren Shoshu. The chief priest submitted a strongly worded “Letter Explaining the Reasons for Secession” (see below) to the head temple, also sending a copy to SGI Deputy President Einosuke Akiya at the Soka Gakkai Headquarters.

Reverend Fujita will now join the Association of Priests Concerned About Nichiren Shoshu and Devoted to Protecting the Law.