Myokei Caine-Barrett, Shonin

Bishop, Nichiren Shu Order of Buddhism of North America

Myokei Shonin - as she is called with her bishop title, was born in Okinawa in Japan. Raised by a Japanese mother and an African American father, Myokei grew up in Texas, where, as a young girl, she first connected with the community of Japanese women who gathered to chant together.

Dedicating her life to the practice of chanting and with the completion of the arduous training of austere practices in Japan years later, today she is the first American woman and the first person of African Japanese descent to receive full ordination as a priest, and the only woman to become a bishop in the Nichiren Shu Order of Buddhism worldwide. Based in Houston, Texas, she is the guiding teacher of Myoken-ji Temple.

For over twenty years, Myokei Shonin has also led two remarkable local prison sanghas that are continuing to this day, and has been active in both Healing Warrior Hearts (a program for veterans returning home) and The Gathering: Buddhist Teachers of Black African Descent. Her presence and teaching reflect a lifetime of deep practice rooted in compassion and the all-seeing eye of true equality in all beings. 

For more about Myokei Caine-Barrett, Shonin, and her teachings

https://myoken-ji-usa.org

Reference article on Myokei Shonin

https://www.lionsroar.com/meet-a-teacher-myokei-caine-barrett-shonin/

Teaching on the Lotus Sutra by Myokei Shonin

https://www.lionsroar.com/nichiren-shonin-a-teacher-of-equality/

Join the upcoming talk given by Myokei Shonin in the Dharma Stewardship series on August 24, 2025 (SUN) titled, "How Did We Get Here and What Can We Do About It? The Power of Choice and Changing the World. Join the series here: https://www.kwanumzenonline.org/

Recordings available post-session. Scholarship provided upon request.

Takeaways:

• Myokei Shonin's unique background includes being the first American woman ordained as a priest in the Nichiren Shu Order of Buddhism, reflecting significant cultural and spiritual milestones.
• The practice of chanting serves as a profound foundation for Myokei, fostering community and personal growth throughout her spiritual journey.
• Through her work with marginalized communities, including prisons and veterans, Myokei Shonin exemplifies the Buddhist principle of compassion and equality for all beings.
• In her teachings, Myokei emphasizes the importance of unity among diverse communities to overcome societal divisions and promote healing and understanding.
• The concept of Sangha, or community, is central to Myokei's practice, highlighting the necessity of connection and support in spiritual development.
• Myokei Shonin's life illustrates the transformative power of Dharma, as she encourages individuals to recognize their inherent potential for change and growth.