Soka Gakkai International - USA - Santa Monica, California

Introduction

Located at 606 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, Soka Gakkai International - USA (SGI-USA) is a prominent non-profit religious organization that has been serving the local community and beyond for many years. With a strong focus on the practice of Nichiren Buddhism, SGI-USA offers a wealth of resources and support to help individuals cultivate inner peace, wisdom, and happiness. This article provides a comprehensive overview of SGI-USA, highlighting its main services, location, featured characteristics, practical information, and positive aspects mentioned in customer reviews.

Main Services

• Buddhism for Daily Life: SGI-USA's core service is helping individuals apply the teachings of Nichiren Buddhism to their daily lives. Through various classes, workshops, and resources, members learn to overcome challenges, cultivate inner strength, and find purpose and meaning in their lives.
• Weekly Discussion Meetings: SGI-USA hosts weekly discussion meetings where members can gather, share their experiences, and learn from one another. These meetings provide a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals to deepen their understanding of Buddhism and connect with like-minded others.
• Cultural and Educational Events: Throughout the year, SGI-USA organizes various cultural and educational events, such as exhibitions, lectures, and workshops, to promote a better understanding of Buddhism, its philosophy, and its contribution to society.
• Peace and Human Rights Initiatives: As part of its commitment to global citizenship and engaged Buddhism, SGI-USA actively participates in peace and human rights initiatives, both locally and internationally. Members engage in advocacy, dialogue, and collaborative projects to promote a more peaceful and just world.

Location and Access

SGI-USA's Santa Monica center is situated in the heart of the city, close to popular attractions like the Santa Monica Pier, Third Street Promenade, and Tongva Park. The center is easily accessible by public transportation, with several bus routes stopping nearby. Additionally, the center offers free parking for attendees, with accessible parking spaces available.

• Address: 606 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401, United States
• Phone: 310-260-8900
• Website: sgi-usa.org

Featured Characteristics

• Wheelchair Accessibility: SGI-USA's Santa Monica center is wheelchair-accessible, featuring an automatic entrance door, accessible restrooms, and elevator access to all floors.
• Multipurpose Spaces: The center includes various multipurpose spaces, such as a large meeting hall, classrooms, and a library, which can be used for different activities and events.
• Community Spirit: SGI-USA fosters a strong sense of community among its members, with many opportunities for individuals to connect, support one another, and engage in shared activities.

Practical Information

• Opening Hours: The SGI-USA Santa Monica center is typically open Monday through Friday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, opening hours may vary, and it is recommended to check the website or contact the center for the most up-to-date information.
• Visiting: Both members and non-members are welcome to visit the SGI-USA Santa Monica center. Interested individuals can drop by during opening hours or contact the center to arrange a visit.

Positive Aspects from Reviews

SGI-USA has an average rating of 4.8/5 on Google My Business, with 47 reviews. Many positive aspects are mentioned in these reviews, including:

• Spiritual Growth: Several reviewers mention the significant spiritual growth and personal transformation they have experienced through their involvement with SGI-USA, citing the organization's supportive community and practical teachings.
• Inclusive Community: Many reviewers appreciate the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere at SGI-USA, where people from diverse backgrounds can come together to practice and learn from one another.
• Engaging Activities: Reviewers often highlight the engaging and meaningful activities offered by SGI-USA, such as discussion meetings, workshops, and cultural events, which help them connect with others and deepen their understanding of Buddhism.
• Dedicated Leadership: Some reviewers express gratitude for the guidance and support provided by SGI-USA's leadership, citing their commitment to creating a positive and nurturing environment for members.

In conclusion, Soka Gakkai International - USA's Santa Monica center offers a wealth of resources and support for individuals seeking to cultivate inner peace, wisdom, and happiness through the practice of Nichiren Buddhism. With its welcoming community, accessible location, and engaging activities, SGI-USA is an invaluable resource for those looking to connect with like-minded others and explore the teachings of Buddhism in a practical and meaningful way.

👍 Reviews of Soka Gakkai International - USA

Sewell N.

5/5

I have been practicing Nichiren Buddhism for over 50 years. I am so grateful that President Ikeda had spread this wonderful religion all over the world. I have so much appreciation for the organization and leaders. I will continue my practice and do shakubuku in Arizona.

Soraya K.

5/5

This place is a gem. I am beyond grateful to be a part of this extraordinary community of humans. SGI USA welcomes all people, it does not matter what your background is. SGI believes in equality and the dignity of human life, so I highly recommend anyone seeking to reach their highest potential as a human in this lifetime...SGI USA is the place that will help you do just that. They are very supportive. The center is immaculate, staff is always friendly, warm, kind and helpful and you will always feel welcomed. The bookstore also has wonderful and tons of helpful, beautiful and informative merchandise to purchase. There are only countless positive things to share about SGI USA and I love ,love ,love this one!! Thank you to all who make this possible. Eternally grateful.

Cathryn D. P.

5/5

Still practicing with SGI for over 30 years. When I chant I feel more joy, more wisdom, more courage, more compassion. This is what we call our Buddha nature which we believe every person has regardless of race, intellect, sex, and regardless of the length someone has been chanting. We chant to bring out these qualities. We each have a "shrine" with a "gohonzon" which is a scroll that depicts the state of Buddhahood. We do not worship a person or a god. In fact Nichiren, the founder of this Buddhism, inscribed the gohonzon because he knew humanity's tendency is to worship a person or a priest. The shrine or altar, as we call it, represents our lives. We also believe in the interconnectedness of all life. That we are all connected to each other and to our environment. When we help another become happy we become happier and we make the world a better place. Meetings are free. There is a nominal fee to receive your own gohonzon which includes a year's subscription to the monthly magazine and weekly newspaper - a whopping $50. You're welcome to donate to the organization but it's rarely even mentioned. Honestly, I've spent way more on my gym membership. I cannot put in words the value that this amazing practice and organization have contributed to my life.

Broom T.

2/5

I have been there several times even with disabled guest like myself & volunteer on Access Paratransit Committees & Metro Public Transportation for Seniors, Elderly & Disabled Riders for over 12 years & yet SGI-USA Headquarters does not accommodate members or guest to sit up front so they may see & hear better. Nor do they even bother to greet them with opened arms. Especially so they maybe able to see the Gohonzon is seriously important. We do not feel welcomed since the latest General Director took over. Lack of compassion & common courtesy is not as available as when Danny Nagashima was the General Director. We miss his deep sense of compassion hidden in his sense of humor.

Jason

5/5

Soka Gakkai International-USA (SGI-USA) is the most diverse Buddhist community in the United States with more than 500 chapters and some 100 centers throughout the country. SGI-USA is part of the larger SGI network, which comprises more than 12 million people in 192 countries and territories around the world. SGI members base their practice on the Lotus Sutra and Nichiren Buddhism, which teaches that each person has within the courage, wisdom and compassion to face and surmount any of life’s challenges. Based on core Buddhist principles such as respecting the dignity of human life and the interconnectedness of self and the environment, SGI engages in various peace activities, including human rights education, the movement to abolish nuclear weapons and efforts to promote sustainable development.

Eduardo F.

4/5

Good afternoon. I am a member of the Soka Gakkai Temple in the city of Santa Momica, California for family reasons. Perd ok. My Gohanzon and I would like to know how I can do to get Otto Vio in the cities of Ensenada Mexico Geacias

Eber R.

5/5

Excellent organization. fostering world peace and personal contentment. It is not a temple and it is a lay organization. Amazing people, truly!

Tibbi G.

5/5

A place beyond time and space. A place of humanity's love for all living beings. A portal into and through cycles of Life itself. A place of growth and reverence.