Chaplain Balabhadra Bruce Costain, B.A., B.Ed., Ph.D.
- Born: April 25, 1944.
- 1974: learned and began regular practice of meditation.
- 1976: began the study of Eastern philosophies.
- 1980: introduced to 'Jainism' and the notion of 'Unconditional Love' at a lecture in Toronto Canada
by the Jain teacher Gurudev Shri Chitrabhanu. Shortly after became a committed vegetarian and now adheres
to the 'vegan' diet and attitude.
- 1985: initiated as a Jain adherent and given the name 'Balabhadra', which was legally adopted.
- 1981: B.A. (Psychology) and a B.Ed. were completed. 1985: M.A. obtained (thesis entitled Jainism: An Ethical
Structure for Non-violent Action. 1991: Ph.D. requirements completed (thesis title, An Ethic of Unconditional
Love as the Basis for Human Development. Both thesis have been compiled into a book entitled "Applied Jainism".
- Journeyed to Japan, South Korea, Thailand, and throughout India (6 times) for further religious-philosophical and
cultural understanding.
- Since 1984 has taught, lectured, lead workshops and retreats, and participated in a variety of Jain educations
functions in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
- 2003: Became the first Jain in North America to complete training and be certified as a Chaplain by the
Association of Clinical Pastoral Education, Inc. Held hospital Chaplain position at a major medical facility
in Nashville, Tennessee.
- Presently: Instructor/Counselor/Lecturer/Writer in Applied and Theoretical Jainism and Pure Soul Meditation.
- Resides in Nashville, Tennessee where life's experiences continue to validate the truth that living according
to the insights of Jainism (thereby protecting his Soul) brings many, many blessings.
