Rev. Jokai Kow was the dynamic leader who heads the construction of this Japanese temple (the Hondo). Putting the Buddhist community together he was able to collect the necessary funds to begin the project, even the effects of the Depression were still being felt. Despite the fact that the majority of the members were poor laborers and farmers, they served their Buddhist community by donating to the Church, which was their common bond. Designed by George Shimamoto and built by the Nishiura brothers, the temple was completed in 1937. When the Japanese-Americans were relocated in 1942, to inland concentration camps, the Hondo and all other church-owned properties were left under the control of local attorney Ben Peckham, until the Japanese-Americans were able to return in 1945. In recognition of its growth, leadership and guidance in the community, the Betsuin statue was given to the Church in 1966, the first Buddhist Church to receive this honor in the United States. To meet earthquake safety requirements, the temple was restored in 1982. In meeting the needs of the community and as members there, Buddhism, the temple continues to have a pivotal role in this area.
For further information, link to the Website for the San Jose Buddhist Church Betsuin
Judith Gutierrez
Theresa Le
Melody Mark
Jane Nayagam
Andrew Phan
Chris Richardson
Veronica Rojas
Amy Timpe
