On SGI debate

"That is why we are willing to engage in debate with you, Nichiren Shoshu, or anyone who claims to know the truth. You have to admit it takes cheek, but...." -- SGI leader

You are mistaken about this too. Al Albergate wrote:

Dear Mark,

Sorry for the delay in responding to your request for a formal debate between members of SGI and the Kempon Hokke  [my former sect]. Thank you for the offer. We are well aware of the claims of the Kempon Hokke Sect and those claims have been thoroughly refuted in the past in Japan. We see no reason to repeat this exercise. If you have something new and would like to meet individually to discuss these matters, please let me know.

Sincerely,

Al Albergate
SGI-USA Director of Community Relations
525 Wilshire Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Tel: (310) 260-8958
Fax: (310) 260-8917
Email: aalberg...@sgi-usa.org

Greg Martin also turned down my offer for a formal debate.

I responded to them that the SGI will not debate because they do not have the ammunition to win the debate and this is the real reason for their refusal. Al, being a PR specialist, his reason for not debating is neither factual nor substantial. My contention is that a formal debate should be held face to face in an auditorium, with video camera documentation and neutral judges. 

Also, to what end should I debate you informally? Paul was defeated and he is still as arrogant as ever; never converted; apparently didn't learn anything from the debate; and worst of all, he slanders us more than he did before the debate.

It is Mappo and the debate was already won by Nichiren yet, many refused to believe. I have no illusion about my meager debating abilities compared to the master but I continue to correct erroneous views for my own edification, yours, and because I highly respect true Buddhism. The poison has penetrated deeply in the lives of most SGI and Nichiren Shoshu members. I have no false hope that I am capable of saving the vast majority of you. I just defend what the Buddha has entrusted to me and hope that one or two of you may be converted to the true teachings, if even for an hour or a day.