Celebrating the Career of David Ryoe Matsumoto
On Saturday, June 15th, the Mountain View Buddhist Temple hosted a heartfelt celebration for the career and retirement of David Ryoe Matsumoto, President of the Institute of Buddhist Studies (IBS).
Friends from IBS and the Buddhist Churches of America (BCA) gathered to honor his impactful career.
The event commenced with reflections and light-hearted jokes from distinguished speakers including Dr. Richard Payne, Dr. Scott Mitchell, Dr. Takashi Miyaji, Rev. Jerry Hirano, and Professor Mitsuya Dake.
Bishop Marvin Harada delivered a dharma message on “great compassion” and its embodiment in daily life, honoring Dr. Matsumoto’s influence.
After the service, attendees enjoyed bento and cake in the gym, sharing memories and extending congratulations.
Dr. Matsumoto’s kindness, steadiness, and dedication to the dharma and education were deeply appreciated by all.
His unique blend of institutional insight, passion for the dharma, and embodiment of Buddhist values left a lasting impact on both IBS and his sangha.
As of July 1, 2024, Dr. Scott Mitchell succeeded Dr. Matsumoto as IBS President. Dr. Mitchell expressed his gratitude, stating:
“It was wonderful to see how many lives Rev. Dr. Matsumoto has touched over his many years of service not only to IBS but to the Berkeley and Stockton temples.
I’ve been honored and deeply grateful to have worked with him over the last decade and look forward to carrying on his work into the future.”
A detailed profile of Dr. Matsumoto’s career and legacy will be featured in the September issue of the Wheel of Dharma magazine.
