Buddhist Incense Burner (Koro), c. 1947-2007
P20070020002

Between 1945 and 1947, Japanese Canadians residing in the Taber region established the Taber Buddhist Church. For the next 60 years, the Church served as the community’s cultural, religious, and social hub. This incense burner, called a Koro in Japanese, was one of the first religious artifacts acquired by the Church.

During the Church’s ceremonies, powdered or stick incense was lit and placed in the Koro to smolder. The burning of incense is a ritual widely practiced in Shin Buddhism, signifying respect and gratitude towards Amida Buddha. The Koro displays many symbols associated with Shin Buddhism, including the Jodo Shinshu crest and dragons which symbolize good omens.

In 2007, the Church closed and the incense burner was donated, along with the Church’s Buddhist Shrine, to the Galt Museum & Archives. In April, 2009, a larger, amalgated Buddhist Temple was dedicated in Lethbridge, Alberta - the Buddhist Temple of Southern Alberta.

Donated by the Taber Buddhist Church