The Free Religion Institute is pleased to announce another session in our ongoing series with Rev. Michinori Maruta exploring the connections between Buddhism and Free Religion (自由宗教 jiyū shūkyō).
These talks and discussions have thus far been offered as standalone sessions rather than a formal course for the Institute. We’re excited to share that we have plans to develop this into a structured course offering, with details of a new series to be announced soon.
All Institute materials are available to IARF members registered on our community platform. If you don’t have an account yet, you can set it up for free at iarf.net/register.
Buddhism and Free Religion (自由宗教 jiyū shūkyō)
Upcoming Session: The Middle Path and Free Religion
Join Rev. Michinori Maruta for an exploration of Buddhist perspectives on Free Religion
Thursday, 8 May 2025
Previous Sessions in this Series
26 April 2025: What does jiyu (自由, freedom) mean to you?
Rev. Maruta shared perspectives on freedom from a Buddhist viewpoint and invited participants to share their ideas.
29 March 2025: Buddhism and Jiyū Shūkyō
Exploring connections between Buddhism and free religion.
22 February 2025: Buddhism and Liberation
Rev. Michinori Maruta explored Buddhist perspectives on liberation in this initial session of the series.

About the Instructor: Rev. Michinori Maruta
Rev. Michinori Maruta has dedicated his life to Buddhist practice and interfaith dialogue since joining Rissho Kosei-kai (RKK) in 1966. After studying applied chemistry at Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, he pursued Buddhist studies at RKK Seminary and later studied the New Testament at Ripon College, Cuddesdon, England. His diverse experience includes significant work in interfaith dialogue and cooperation at RKK headquarters, serving as minister at RKK centers in California and Hokkaido, and since 2001, leading the Institute of Mindful Life. Through lectures, seminars, and digital platforms, he continues to share Buddhist wisdom and promote mindful living, bringing together traditional teachings with contemporary understanding.