Frequently Asked Questions
Last Updated: 11/5/2019
General Questions
I have a question and I’m sure who to ask. Who do I ask?
Ask our Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
You can expect a reply to let you know we’ve received your message within 3 business days.
Who is in charge of ____ at the Temple?
See our Governance page.
I have an idea for a class, event, or program at the Temple. Who do I talk to?
Contact the Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
I lost something / found something at the Temple.
Contact the Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
Visiting the Temple
How much does it cost to visit the Temple?
Weekly services and most events are free. Donations of any amount are always welcome. The Temple is a non-profit and is completely funded by its members and visitors.
Is childcare available at services?
Babysitting is not available at services. We do offer Dharma School for school aged kids at our Sunday service.
Are my kids old enough for Dharma School?
Kids who are 4 years and up are welcome a Dharma School. Younger kids may join Dharma School with a parent.
Is the Temple open to the public outside of weekly services and scheduled events?
No. At this time, the Temple is only open during weekly services and scheduled events.
I am a Buddhist visiting the Toledo area. Can I stay overnight at the Temple?
No. The Temple does not have accommodations for guests to stay overnight. You are welcome to visit our services and events.
Can I do an Ango / practice period in residence at the Temple?
No. BTT does not have a residency program at this time.
Sesshin
How do I register for sesshin?
Visit our Sesshin Retreats page to earn more about sesshin and how to register
Volunteering
How do I volunteer to help out at the Temple?
Contact the Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
Can I represent the Temple at {a class / an event / etc.}?
Contact the Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
I want the Sangha to participate in a community service project.
Contact the Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
Donations
I want to donate something to the Temple (books, art, furniture, physical items).
Books for the Temple Library - books on Buddhism, Zen, and related topics can be left in the book donation basket on the Temple library shelf. Please let us know in advance if you wish to donate more than 1 box of books at a time by emailing info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org
Everything else - the Temple has limited space and so we accept few donations of physical items. If you wish to discuss donating an item, please contact the Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
Can I make a monetary donation online / Can I set-up a recurring donation?
Yes! Please make a donation on our website: www.buddhisttempleoftoledo.org/donate
I want to make a major donation to the Temple.
Contact the Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
How can I get a record that I made a donation-in-kind to the Temple?
Contact the Membership & Dana Committee at membership@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org for instructions before making your donation.
How do I get reimbursed for something I bought for the Temple?
Contact the Board info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org for instructions before making your purchase.
Who do I contact to ask a question about a pledge or a donation I’ve made?
Contact the Membership & Dana team: membership@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org
Buddhist Ceremonies (Weddings, Funerals, Memorials, Baby Blessings, House Blessings)
Can Reverends Rinsen and Do’on or another Zen Priest officiate our wedding?
Clergy at BTT only officiate weddings for Temple Members. Temple Members can contact Rev. Rinsen and Rev. Do’on directly or start the process by connecting with our Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org to be put in touch with clergy to discuss your situation.
How do I schedule a Baby Blessing or a House Blessing Ceremony?
House Blessings and Baby Blessings at BTT are available for families that are members of the Sangha. Temple Members can get the process started by contacting the Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
How do I schedule a funeral or memorial service?
In general, funerals and memorial services are available for Temple members and their families. Temple Members and their families can contact Rev. Rinsen and Rev. Do’on directly or start the process by connecting with our Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org to be put in touch with clergy to discuss your situation.
In some cases, BTT clergy are also available to provide funeral and memorial service for Buddhists who are not Temple members. Please contact our Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org to be put in touch with clergy to discuss your situation.
Members & Membership
I’ve moved / changed phone numbers / got a new email address. How do I update the Temple records?
Contact the Membership & Dana team: membership@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org
How do I change my pledge?
Contact the Membership & Dana team: membership@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org
How do I join/renew my membership?
Fill out a new membership form in person at the Temple or online at www.buddhisttempleoftoledo.org/join or email the Membership & Dana team at membership@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
Advertising and Fundraising
I have an idea for a Temple Fundraiser.
Contact the Membership & Dana team: membership@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org
Can I put up a flyer / poster / order form at the Temple?
The Temple generally does not allow fundraising or advertising for outside organizations or events, or educational fundraisers, with the exception of making contact information for mental health care providers and public health services and hotlines available.
If you have any questions about this policy and how it applies in your situation, please contact the Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
How can I send an email on the Sangha mailing list about my fundraiser / gig / book release?
The Temple generally does not allow fundraising or advertising for individuals, or for organizations, events, or educational fundraisers.
If you have any questions about this policy and how it applies in your situation, please contact the Board of Directors at info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.
Facilities
How can I get a key to the Temple?
If you need a key to the Temple, contact info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org to make arrangements.
Who can I tell about needed repair, maintenance, or cleaning?
Contact a member of the Grounds & Buildings Committee or email info@buddhisttempleoftoledo.org.