We are a circle of equals. We don't have hierarchies or gurus, though we do have lay teachers to facilitate the gatherings. As practitioners of the Shin Buddhist path, we stress an egalitarian community and attitude. We call each other friends, dress casually, and are very welcoming.  In our gatherings, we practice deep hearing, quiet sitting and voice meditation, prayer, and the voicing the Nembutsu, as an expression of our trust in and gratitude for the ultimate Oneness of life, symbolized as Amida Buddha.

Instead of sermons, our community is known for its insightful and lively dharma discussions. As our founder, the 13th century Japanese reformer, Shinran Shonin, taught, "We are all fellow travelers on the path," and, as such, anyone may share his/her opinion and experience. Learning from one another in this fashion creates a strong nourishing environment. We care for and love one another and live in service to the world. This is the true meaning of our religion.