승가 노후복지 운영의 사례 검토 -대한불교조계종을 중심으로- = Review of Welfare Programs for Senior Sangha in Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

In April of 2011, Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism introduced a new legislation called, Legislation to Protect the Welfare of the Sangha. From October of same year, senior monks and nuns over 65 years old were able to receive financial support, including medical expenses and cost incurring from hospitalization. Moreover, there are further plans to provide appropriate place of practice and annual practice pension (basic living expenses) in the near future. Therefore, in response to the expressed need of the Jogye Order`s Sangha members, this article examines implementation status of Senior Sangha Welfare Programs and future challenges which lies ahead. In addition, operational status of communities that practice and live independently without any support from the Jogye Order has been reviewed, along with the areas that require further attention. Sangha Welfare Association established in accordance with the Senior Welfare legislation will plan, maintain, and research on Jogye Order`s Sangha Welfare programs and District Sangha Welfare Association will be constructed in 24 District Temples. The content of Senior Welfare program include establishment of place to practice, financial support for daily practice(daily necessities), and guaranteed health care costs(medical expenses, therapy cost) among other support. In respect to the recommended measure to meet future challenges, the following have been suggested: utilization of national security system and set up of standard measures, plan for welfare program delivery and division of roles within the Welfare System, acquirement and implementation of Public Aid type assistance. Moreover, it is also recommended that for the welfare of the Sangha, fraternal organizations must be ultimately developed. According to the wishes of those who understand the needs of the Sangha, Community of Buddhist Practice comprised of Welfare Centers, which offers various support should be established as a reasonable alternative. Currently, communities built for Buddhist practice is primarily operated by Bhikkunis independently, and in order to overcome financial operating difficulties and for the maintenance of Sangha member`s meditation and propagation activities, new activities and strategies should be implemented to support insufficient functions in conjunction with reinforcement of the current Welfare systems. Sangha members should collaborate together to seek other community involvement measures.