Resident Minister

Reverend Shindo Nishiyama became Jikoen’s 6th resident minister in 2005. He was born and raised in Fukuoka, Japan. His father was the head minister of Zenpuku ji Temple. He attended Ryukoku University and in 1987 graduated with a BA degree in General Buddhism and Jodo Mahayana Shin Buddhism. His desire to learn English motivated him to travel to the US and attend Mesa University in Grand Junction, Colorado in 1987. After a year, he enrolled in Hawaii Pacific University to continue his English studies. It was at Hawaii Pacific University that the best thing that ever happened to him in his life occurred. He met his future wife, Suzue. They were married in 1990 in Fukuoka. She currently serves as the Lumbini Preschool Director. They have two children, Shanna and Skyler-Shinji.

Prior to his assignment to Jikoen, Reverend Nishiyama served at Waimea Hongwanji (now West Kauai Hongwanji). It was on Kauai in the aftermath of Hurricane Iniki that he learned the meaning of being a Hongwanji minister in Hawaii. He served as Executive Assistant to Bishop Chikai Yosemori before his assignment to Jikoen. Rev. Nishiyama credits his father and Rev. Yosemori as two important individuals in his life who taught him the true spirit of the Shin Buddhist ministry.

Reverend Nishiyama is best loved for his interesting, relevant, and humorous Dharma Messages, his excellent singing, and his deep commitment to sharing the Dharma.

A little known fact about Reverend Nishiyama is that he worked at Ski Instructor for two seasons at Hakuba, Nagano. Also his favorite foods are Poke and Wisdom Water.

Temple Officers

Minister’s Lay Assistants

Jaryd Oshiro
Keith Oshiro
Pete Doktor