“What is the Joyous Life?” asks a follower of Tenrikyo America West Church. It is a question this church seeks to answer every day. The Tenrikyo America West Church stands as a beacon of faith. It promotes Shinto-based religion. This is a Boyle Heights touchstone. However, the religion’s influence stretches far beyond. It has over two million followers worldwide. But what makes this church so special?
Let’s step back in time. The Tenrikyo Church was established in 1934. Boyle Heights was a vibrant spiritual center. Japanese and Japanese Americans thrived here. Tenrikyo a unique faith emerged in the 19th century. Nakayama Miki a Japanese woman founded it. Her teachings centered on the idea of the Joyous Life.
Before 1940 the church resided on Cummings Street. It was near Hollenbeck Park. Later it moved to First Street. World War II brought hardship. Japanese Americans faced forced relocation. During this time an African American church rented the space. This act of neighborly kindness highlights the community spirit.
After the war the Tenrikyo Church reopened. Community members came back from internment camps. The church offered them a temporary place to stay. This compassion cemented its role. It became a vital support system.
In 1964 the church expanded its reach. It established a Judo program. This dojo became renowned. It helped make Judo an Olympic sport. This shows the church’s diverse contributions. It fosters not only spirituality but also physical discipline.
Tenrikyo Church embraced cultural exchange. It hosted many events. Local Japanese American artists showed their work. Performers shared their talents. The church actively participates in the Nisei Week Festival. This is a Los Angeles tradition since 1940.
The Tenrikyo America West Church maintains a link to its roots. It adapted to changing times. The focus remains the Joyous Life. It promotes acts of charity and mindfulness. These are cultivated through “hinokishin”. This is a voluntary effort.
Tenrikyo’s ultimate spiritual aim is unique. It involves constructing the Kanrodai. This is a divinely ordained pillar. It is at the axis mundi called the Jiba. The Kagura ritual around the Kanrodai promotes humanity’s salvation. Followers consider a pilgrimage to the Jiba a return to their origin. This act is known as “returning to O-Jiba”. The greeting “okaeri nasai” “welcome home” reflects this sentiment.
The Tenrikyo America West Church stands firm today. It is the central administrative entity. It oversees all Tenrikyo Churches in the United States and Canada. It remains an important cultural touchstone. Though the Japanese American community moved out of Boyle Heights its spirit remains. The church continues to showcase local artists. It participates in local events. It preserves its heritage.
The teachings of Nakayama Miki offer guidance. They encourage constructive attitudes. They emphasize acceptance of troubles. These principles promote mindfulness. It is about gratitude for life’s blessings. These are key to achieving the Joyous Life at Tenrikyo America West Church.