Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions we receive most often — from those considering succession and those aspiring to stewardship.
If your question is not covered, please feel free to reach out via the contact form.
Questions From Those Considering Succession
A. No fees are charged for consultations or introductions. We do not solicit or pressure. Ending after just a conversation — for example, discovering a different direction fits better, or that a handover within your denomination is more appropriate — is entirely welcome. Before any stage involving actual costs (such as specialists' fees for filings), we always provide a written estimate for your consent.
A. Please feel free to reach us via the inquiry form or email (contact@shukyohoujin-ma.com). After we review your message, a case manager will follow up by phone or email. For the initial hearing, you may share your situation while keeping your name and the name of your corporation private. Once you feel ready to proceed further, we will ask for the necessary information. The scope and pace of what you share are entirely up to you.
A. Rather than relying on principles alone, we minimize disclosure risk through operational structures. Specifically: (1) access to your consultation information is restricted to your case manager and the minimum necessary staff, (2) all external outreach (to prospective applicants and others) is performed only via the method and timing you have designated, (3) case summaries shared with prospective applicants have the corporation's name and location redacted, and (4) written non-disclosure agreements are in place with prospective applicants and partner specialists. Additionally, the timing, method, and wording of explanations to parishioners, shrine supporters, and the community are determined carefully in consultation with you.
A. Consultation contents are handled with the utmost care and are never disclosed to any outside party without your consent. When explanations to parishioners or the community become necessary, we consider the timing and approach with you.
A. Of course. We especially recommend consulting at the "still uncertain" stage. We consider all options — including successor search within your denomination, merger, and succession — and search with you for a path that suits your situation. We never rush conclusions.
A. Yes. We introduce applicants only after confirming their business plans, structures, and sources of funds, and you decide through multiple meetings. If you are not satisfied, feel free to decline; we never pressure recommendations.
A. The handling of principal images, sacred objects, and sacred implements, and the continued management of cemeteries and columbaria, are treated as especially important matters and are set out in a written agreement in advance. When rites such as transfer or de-consecration are required, we consider observance-appropriate approaches together with you.
Questions From Those Aspiring to Stewardship
A. Prior experience alone is not the deciding factor. What matters is respect for the sacred place and the community, together with a sustainable operating plan. We provide support that includes building the necessary structure — including securing those responsible for religious activities (chief priest, head priest, etc.) — together with specialists.
A. With religious activities at the core, public-interest endeavors such as cemetery and memorial park operation, or sound use of real estate for nurseries and care facilities, are permissible. However, provisions in the rules, permits, and coordination with the competent authorities are required, so we recommend proceeding with specialists from the planning phase.
A. We ask you to submit your business plan, operational structure, and source of funds in writing, and confirm them through meetings. This process is essential to determine carefully whether you are fit as a steward of the sacred place, and we appreciate your cooperation.
A. Given the nature of these matches, some time may be required. We prioritize the quality of the connection over volume and arrange introductions only where both sides can be satisfied. If you register your desired conditions with us, we will reach out when a matching case arises.
Please Ask Us Directly About Any Question Not Answered Here
Your case manager will respond attentively to your specific circumstances. Consultations are free of charge and strictly confidential.