GARDENA BUDDHIST CHURCH
100 years of
Dharma & Community
WITH HANDS TOGETHER, HEARTS TOGETHER - CELEBRATING A CENTURY OF GRATITUDE IN GARDENA
100
Years of Service
1926
Founded in Gardena, CA
2026
Centennial Year
Organization Spotlight
Honoring a Century of Dedication
Buddhist Womens Association
Celebrating a century of dedication, we honor the Gardena Buddhist Church Buddhist Women’s Association for their steadfast commitment to the teachings and community since 1926. We recognizes the profound legacy of the Fujinkai, whose generations of service continue to inspire and strengthen our Sangha
Dharma School
We honor the Gardena Buddhist Church Dharma School for 100 years of sharing the Buddha’s teachings with our youth. We recognize the countless teachers and families who have dedicated themselves to guiding the Sangha members and a lasting foundation of wisdom and compassion
1920's- 1930's
Founding & First Temple
The Gardena Buddhist Church is established in 1926 by pioneering Japanese American families in Gardena. The Dharma School is opened as well as the founding of the Fujinkai followed by the creation of the Japanese Language School. The need to expand and support from the growing Sangha lead to the dedication of a third church building in 1938 at Dalton Ave and 166th St
1940's - 1950's
Resilience through adversity - maintaining the Dharma through internment and reconstruction
Due to incarceration of Temple leaders and members during WWII, the Gardena Buddhist Church and Japanese Language school ceased operations; not to reopen again until 1945. A period marked with racism and segregation, members, GBC became the center for both the Dharma and social interaction for the community. Post-war recovery was marked by the construction of a minister’s residence in 1949, which also served as the official church office
1960's - 1970's
Era of Expansion - building a permanent home for GBC
1963, New Temple and classroom building #1 construction completed at 166th street location. 1968 - Donation of Temple Bell from Ichikawa, Japan; 1975 - Opening of Classroom Building #2 to accommodate the Japanese Language School enrollment
1980's - 1990's
Fires and reconstruction
Multiple arson fires led to the destruction of the Temple in the early 80's with the dedication of the current Temple building in 1982. Celebration the 70th Anniversary in 1996; providing an opportunity to honor those responsible for rebuilding of GBC following the internment and the fires.
2000's - 2010's
Modernization and outreach - evolving the Dharma for a new century
GBC celebrated its 75th Anniversary in 2001 and 90th Anniversary in 2016; honoring decades of history and community Service. New initiatives such as the "Wisteria Chugakko" summary program, formation of the groundbreaking LGBTQ+ organization "Ichimi" and restablishment of YABA focusing on opportunities to share the Dharma for young adults. GBC invests in its digital infrastructure and broadens online and social media footprint
2020's - Today
Looking Forward - Hands Together, Hearts Together for the next century
Beginning with the COVID-19 pandemic. A period served as a powerful lesson in impermanence and highlighted the deep interdependence of our Sangha and the community around us. In 2023, GBC Forward! project to raise $2M to support capital improvement projects; ensuring the temple remains a 'home' for future generations.
JUNE 2026
Bingo and Dinner Fundraiser
Hosted by JR. YBA - Enjoy a Huli-Huli Dinner and an evening of fun and prizes featuring Bingo and a Silent Auction
Invitation Only
Renyo Shonin Memorial Service
For the first time, GBC will recognize the gifts of Renyo Shonin ... Special Guest Speaker - Bishop Marvin Harada
Open to Sangha
BWA 100th Luncheon
Members and guests of the Buddhist Women's Association will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the organization.
Invitation Only
Aug 2026
OBON
The theme for Obon 2026 is "Celebrating Together: Dharma, Sangha, Community". Please come with your family and friends as we celebrate GBC's 100th anniversary with food, games, and Obon Dancing on Aug 2nd and 3rd.
Open to Sangha
Dharma School 100th Luncheon
GBC Dharma School will celebrate the 100th anniversary of their founding with invited guests
Planning Pending
Sept 2026