New Year`s Greeting - Moiliili Hongwanji Mission

Nonprofit Organization
MOILIILI HONGWANJI MISSION
902 UNIVERSITY AVENUE
HONOLULU HI 96826
US POSTAGE
PAID
HONOLULU HI
PERMIT NO 430
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Telephones:
Office: . . . . . . . . . 949-1659
Preschool: . . . . . . 946-4416
Project Dana: . . . . 945-3736
Website: http://www.moiliilihongwanji.org
New Year’s Greeting
“Immeasurable Light and Life.”
At the beginning of the year, I would like to send you my greetings.
Monshu
May we all continue to live every day of this year in appreciation of the Nembutsu.
At the Hongwanji, the restoration work of the Goeido (the hall of the founder Shinran
Shonin) which began eight years ago, is near completion. In the end of last fall, the shelter
canopy was removed and newly-tiled roof of the hall has become visible again. Two-hundredyear and three-hundred-seventy-year old tiles were also reused and account for a certain
percentage of the tiles that are on the roof. Through this fact, you can tell the enthusiasm and
high standard of skill of the people in those days. The restoration project is scheduled to
continue for two more years, mainly focusing on the interior of the hall, and for the most part,
the inner altar.
Although the buildings and other structures of the Hongwanji are steadily being readied in
preparation for the seven hundred fiftieth memorial for Shinran Shonin, with regard to the
attitude, demeanor, and conduct of each one of us, there seems to be much that still needs to be
done.
Traditional systems and rites are important and are the basis of our religious organization.
However, they might be difficult to understand for those persons who were born and raised in
regions that are distant from the organization. In addition, some of those traditions may not be
essential for them. In these cases, I would like to suggest a way to present and inform them of
a short cut, a way of living in which they “entrust themselves to the Primal Vow and recite the
Nembutsu.” Although the means by which one can learn it in this manner is increasing, such
as through various publications and the internet, nothing is more important than the bonds
between humans. This is because we can feel the working of Amida Tathagata in those who
live with the Nembutsu. Let us cope with modern people’s problems, talk about the Dharma
using the present terms, and live together intoning the Nembutsu.
January 1, 2007
OHTANI Koshin
Monshu
Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha
VOLUME 51 - NO. 1
JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2007
BISHOP’S NEW YEAR’S MESSAGE
January 1, 2007
Happy New Year! May Peace be with you
always!
As you know, the United States is primarily a
Christian nation, although interest towards Buddhism
is rapidly spreading. Throughout the country,
Buddhists are the minority. However, amongst the 50
states, only the State of Hawaii has designated April
8, Buddha Day, and December 8, Bodhi Day, as a
Holy Day. Why do you suppose this is so?
It is so because our pioneer Buddhists
followed the Buddha’s teachings well and contributed
to the growth of the State of Hawaii, as well as to the
growth of our country.
Our early Japanese Issei immigrants and
senior Niseis relied heavily upon Buddha’s teachings
to overcome many obstacles such as racial
discrimination, difficult labor conditions, World War,
and the like. Even under the most dire situations, they
were able to contribute significantly to make Hawaii
what it is today. In other words, they have
demonstrated that Buddhism is not only for oneself
but for all people and that Buddhism is a teaching
wherein all people can attain true happiness, hand in
hand, to become truly free human beings.
As I stated earlier, the Buddhists are still a
minority group in the United States. Perhaps, because
of this fact, I have occasionally seen Buddhists who
do not want to say that they are Buddhists. However,
it may not be due solely to the minority status, but
quite possibly because they do not understand
Buddha’s teaching well. Perhaps, when they are
asked, “What is Buddhism?” by their children,
grandchildren, or friends, they are unable to respond.
If they understood just a little about Buddhism, they
would say that Buddhism is a teaching that teaches
everyone that all living beings can truly live in Peace.
Consequently, they are able to say, with pride and
deep conviction, “I am a Buddhist.”
In present times, there is a general tendency
for people to be more self-centered and selfish.
Unfortunately, people who do not demonstrate care
The White Way is the newsletter of the Moiliili Hongwanji
Mission, 902 University Ave., Honolulu, HI 96826. It is
printed seven times a year in January, March, May, June,
August, October and December.
and concern about the welfare of others are forgetting
the very simple truth that man cannot live alone. The
heart and mind are being neglected, or in many cases,
forgotten. We should not choose to accept this as the
status quo.
At the beginning of the New Year, in
inheriting the great works of our pioneers and
predecessors of Nembutsu Teaching with gratitude,
let us reflect upon our actions and let us pledge
ourselves to continue to listen to the teachings of the
Buddha with renewed energy and eagerness so that all
living beings may live in Peace. And, let us continue
to convey the wonderful teachings of the Buddha to
future generations. Have the confidence to be a
Buddhist! World Peace is on your shoulder!
Again, Happy New Year to all of you. May
Peace be with you always!
Namu Amida Butsu
Chikai Yosemori, Bishop
NEW YEAR’S MESSAGE
Frederick S. Nonaka, President
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii
Another year is coming to an end and I wish to
take this opportunity to extend to all of you my best
wishes for a happy, healthy and prosperous new year.
May we look forward to a safe and peaceful 2007, not
only for ourselves, but for all people throughout the
world.
This year 2006 will soon be part of history. It
was somewhat similar to the previous year in terms of
the situation in Iraq and Afghanistan as well as havoc
caused by natural disasters here and abroad. On
October 15, we in Hawaii were affected by a major
earthquake which caused considerable damage,
especially on the Big Island. Fortunately, there were
no causalities, but it reminded us that tragedy can
strike anywhere at any time.
Realizing how vulnerable we are, let us
resolve to try to understand and put into practice the
Nembutsu Teaching in our daily lives. Taking refuge
in Amida’s Teaching will help us to live each day to
its fullest potential.
To the Board of Directors, Committee
members, and ministers, thank you for your dedication
in carrying out your responsibilities. I humbly ask for
your continued support and cooperation. Let us strive
to keep Hawaii Kyodan moving forward to better
serve our members and community.
Namu Amida Butsu.
“A NEW YEAR’S THOUGHT”
by Horaku/Dharma-Pleasure
(Rev. Eric Matsumoto)
Happy New Year! As we greet the New
Year, more than any other time of the year, we are
conscious of time. But how soon we forget and next
year we hear the same refrain, “Where did the year
go?” It’s true there are so many things to do. But,
time is fleeting. It does not wait. It is limited and
because it is, we need to consider “What is most
important in life?” “Did you smile today?” “Did you
hug someone today?” “Did you thank someone
today?” Guided by the Buddha’s Wisdom, let us not
project all our goals to the future nor reminisce the
past only. What is important is to recognize the
present moment! This does not mean we should not
plan for the future or completely forget the past, but
all too often our thoughts dwell too much in the past
or way in the future and we don’t fully appreciate
and live the present. The Dharma provides an
enlightened perspective which gives birth to a new
understanding (within us) from which arise a change
in our behavior or actions. The Teachings of the
Buddha are not only to be believed, but lived.
I would like to take this opportunity and
means to express my sincere appreciation and
gratitude, to one and all, for your generosity, support
and dedication to both myself and my family, and
the Temple. Thank you very, very much! In 2007, I
ask for your continued support in enhancing our
Temple under the leadership of Mr. Shuichi
Miyasaki and the Temple Board of Directors
including our new Outreach Coordinator, Mr. Alex
Shanklin. A special request to those who may be
considering coming to Temple, please join us. Your
Temple needs you! As we enter our second century,
the Temple needs your willingness and commitment
to plan, execute, and participate in its programs and
activities to remain a vibrant part of the Community.
As we savor the newness of the New Year, I
leave you with this poem from “True Wealth,
Reflections on What Matters Most in Life”, A Blue
Mountain Arts Collection, Author Unknown.
“Every morning you are handed twenty-four golden
hours. They are some of the few things in this world
that you get free of charge. If you had all the money
in the world, you couldn’t buy an extra hour. What
will you do with this priceless treasure?” Namo
Amida Butsu
PRESIDENT’S NEW YEAR’S MESSAGE
Best Wishes for the Holidays and a Very
Happy New Year.
Thank you to the Board of Directors,
Officers, Committee Chairs and its members and our
congregation who have generously contributed their
time, talent and treasures to the Moiliili Hongwanji
Mission in making our centennial year 2006 a very
successful year. Ernie Morikubo chaired the
Centennial Steering Committee comprised of many
sub-chairs and volunteer members. The temple
completed a substantial facility improvement project
including needed repairs/painting of the buildings, a
new sound system for the hondo, additional lighting
for the front staircase and parking lot, and enclosure
of the lanai for improved security and safety. The
cost of the facility improvements was $280,000. The
Centennial Fund drive, with the help of over 80
volunteers, raised $320,000 from our members and
our surrounding community. In addition to the
capital improvement project, our centennial programs
during 2006 included a seminar, a youth dance, an
intergenerational cultural fair and magic show, an
oral history development, a BWA-sponsored youth
essay contest and children’s art contest, a wonderful
centennial commemoration service and banquet, and
a Keirokai recognition of the elder members. Thank
you to everyone for your hard work and your
generous kokua.
Having concluded our centennial
commemoration year 2006 with superb
accomplishments and activities, we are looking
forward to serving our community in the next
century. Alex Shanklin, a student at the Kapiolani
Community College, has been hired as our “Outreach
Coordinator” effective January 1, 2007.
Please
watch for program developments under Alex’s
leadership. While seeking programs to share the
Dharma among our membership and our community
at large, Alex will be assisting the various
organization of our temple in coordinating our
programs to enlarge participation.
Thank you to all of our members for your
wholehearted and generous support!
Mahalo and gassho,
Shuichi Miyasaki, President
SHINRAN SHONIN’S MEMORIAL DAY
(HOONKO) SERVICES
Moiliili Hongwanji will observe the memorial
service for Shinran Shonin on Sunday, January 14,
2007 as follows:
9:00 AM:
Family English Service
Speaker:
Rev. Sandra Hiramatsu
10:30 AM:
Japanese Service
Speaker:
Rev. Hiromi Kawaji
Please join us. Refreshment of zenzai and
soba will be served following both services.
PROJECT DANA APPRECIATION SERVICE
Project Dana at Moiliili will hold its 18th
Volunteer Appreciation Service on Sunday, January
28, at 9:00 AM. Please join us as we recognize new
Project Dana volunteers and express our great
appreciation to all of the Project Dana volunteers.
KEIROKAI, ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP
MEETING & NEW YEAR LUNCHEON
On Sunday, February 11, 2007 Moiliili
Hongwanji Mission will hold its annual membership
meeting, New Year Banquet (Shinnenenkai) and
annual Keirokai Recognition. This year our Keirokai
Recognition will be held at our 9:00 AM Service
honoring temple Sustaining (Gojikai) members whose
80th birthday falls in 2007. We will also welcome
new Sustaining Members who have joined the temple
membership during the past year.
Following the service, President Shuichi
Mivasaki will conduct the Annual Membership
Meeting and all members are encouraged to attend.
This year there will be no election since Board
members are serving a two-year term
The annual New Year’s Banquet will follow at
the Japanese Cultural Center at 11:15 AM. The
Buddhist Women’s Association is in charge and is
planning a wonderful day. Flyers have been mailed
out so please be sure to signup by January 26.
MONTHLY JAPANESE SERVICE/SERMON
January 14 at 10:30 AM: Rev. Hiromi Kawaji will
be the speaker at the Hoonko Japanese Service.
February 18 at 10:30 AM: Rev. Eric Matsumoto
will present a sermon in Japanese.
MONTHLY MOVIE NIGHT
The following movies will be shown in the
annex hall beginning at 6:30 PM:
Tues., Jan. 30: Hi, Dharma!
Wed., Feb. 14: Keeping the Faith
Fri., Feb. 23: Children’s Movie Night
Heisei Tanuku Gassen Ponpoko
(Heisan-era Racoon War Ponpoko)
There is no charge, and popcorn and drinks will be
provided. Please call the temple office at 949-1659
to sign up!
SPRING SEMINAR
Moiliili Hongwanji’s Spring Seminar will be
held on Saturday, March 17, 2007. Please save the
date.
With Sympathy
DEEPEST SYMPATHY
Deepest sympathy is extended to the families
of the following who have recently passed away:
Mr. Melvin Susumu Hayashida, 59, on Sept. 22
Mr. George Nobuo Wasa, 82, on Nov. 6
Mr. Namio “James” Yoshino, 84, on Nov. 18
Mr. Charles Yasuro Arakaki, 86, on Nov. 24
Mr. Ryan Sakae Mogi, 34, on Dec. 12
Mrs. Hisayo Yamasaki, 96, on Dec. 13
Mrs. Jane Sumiko Noguchi, 80, on Dec. 20
Mr. Norman Tsuneo Shimada, 66, on Dec. 25
May the Onembutsu provide solace during this time
of sorrow.
MEMORIAL
SERVICE
SCHEDULE
The year 2007 is the special memorial year
for those who passed away in
2006... ………….. 1 year memorial
2005…………….. 3 year memorial
2001…………….. 7 year memorial
1995…………….13 year memorial
1991…………….17 year memorial
1983.……………25 year memorial
1975.……………33 year memorial
1958…………….50 year memorial
The memorial service is a special opportunity
to gather with family members in honor and
remembrance of your loved one and to listen to the
words of the Dharma, If you would like to hold a
memorial service, please call the temple office at
949-1659 to make arrangements. Arrangements for a
service in your home may also be made.
THE 95TH LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY
The 95th Legislative Assembly of the Honpa
Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii will convene at the
Hawaii Betsuin on February 9 and 10, 2007. We will
be represented at the assembly by delegates Rev.
Matsumoto, Susan Morishige and Shuichi Miyasaki;
and observers Roy Masuda, Blayne Higa and Albert
Yasukochi. Makoto Kunimune also will attend as a
Hawaii Kyodan Advisor. Please make your concerns
known to our Board of Directors, so that our delegates
can carry your message to the 2007 Legislative
Assembly.
HEADQUARTERS NEWS
Personnel
Ms. Ann Ishizu, State Youth Specialist, attained
Tokudo ordination on Oct. 16, 2006. Congratulations,
Ann!
Rev. Irene Nakamoto, Acting Director of the Office of
Buddhist Education, resigned from Hawaii Kyodan
due to personal reasons effective Dec. 31.
Rev. Kumika Soga was appointed as a Full Time
Minister’s Aide to the Lahaina Hongwanji effective
Jan. 1 under the supervision of the Hawaii Kyodan
through Rev. Daien Soga.
Rev. Shigenori Makino, Acting Rinban of the Honpa
Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin, will retire from Hawaii
Kyodan effective Jan. 31.
Rev. Shingo Furusawa, a new minister of the Hawaii
Kyodan will be assigned to Hawaii Betsuin effective
Feb. 1.
Rev. Toshio Murakami, Resident Minister of Pearl
City Hongwanji, will retire from Hawaii Kyodan
effective Feb. 28.
Heartfelt Gratitude and Appreciation
On Nov. 6, Bishop Chikai Yosemori was presented
with a check of $38,000 from the Fred Haruto
Shintaku Charitable Remainder Trust. Waipahu
Hongwanji and Mililani Hongwanji, where Mr.
Shintaku was a member, were also named in the
Trust. The Hawaii Kyodan is truly grateful to the
family of Fred and Ruth Shintaku for the generous
contribution.
1st Overseas District Representatives’ Seminar
The 1st Overseas District Representatives’ Seminar
was held Nov. 30 to Dec. 2, and ministers and lay
leaders of overseas districts had an opportunity to
renew their understanding and appreciation of Jodo
Shinshu by visiting their mother temple in Kyoto.
Attending were Rev. Shoji Matsumoto, Rev. Shindo
Nishiyama, Arthur Nakagawa of Hawaii Betsuin,
Dr. Warren Tamamoto of Aiea, Wayne Fujioka of
Lihue, Stanley Okamoto of Wailuku, and Jane Iida
of Hilo Betsuin.
2007 Legislative Assembly
2007 Legislative Assembly will be held Feb. 9 & 10
at the Hawaii Betsuin. The Living Treasures Banquet
will be held on Feb. 9 at the Sheraton Waikiki.
BCA Jodo Shinshu Center
Bishop Yosemori, Mr. Frederick Nonaka and BSC
Director Rev. Thomas Okano attended the
Dedication Ceremony of the Jodo Shinshu Center of
Buddhist Churches of America Oct. 20-23, 2006.
Bishop’s Transition
Bishop Chikai Yosemori, the 14th Bishop of the
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii, will retire
from Hawaii Kyodan effective Feb. 28, 2007. The
new Bishop will assume the position on Mar. 1.
To honor and extend our deep appreciation to Bishop
Yosemori for his 11 years of leadership as Bishop
and also 42 years of service to Hawaii Kyodan, the
Hawaii Kyodan is planning an Aloha Banquet:
ALOHA BANQUET FOR BISHOP YOSEMORI
Date: Thursday, March 1, 2007
Time: 5:30 PM - No-host cocktail
6:00 PM - Program starts
Place: Hilton Hawaiian Village Coral Ballroom
Registration fee: $60.00 per person
Those wishing to attend should send payments to
their temples which will consolidate and forward
the payment to Headquarters by February 10.
Dress is aloha attire.
INVESTITURE CEREMONY & WELCOME
BANQUET FOR NEW BISHOP
Date: Thursday, May 3, 2007
Time/Place: Investiture Ceremony - 4:00 PM at
Hawaii Betsuin; Welcome Banquet - 6:00 PM
at Sheraton Waikiki
Registration fee: $60.00
More information will be forthcoming.
RETIREMENT PARTY FOR REV. MAKINO
Friends of Rev. Shigenori Makino are
planning a retirement party on Friday, January 19,
2007 at the Hale Koa Hotel Banyan Tree Showroom
at 6:00 PM. For more information, contact Hawaii
Betsuin, Kailua Honganji or Moiliili Hongwanji. (For
those who wish to give a personal gift, gifts will be
received at the registration table.)
A SPECIAL INVITATION FOR VOLUNTEERS
Date:
Sunday, January 28, 2007
Time:
9:00 AM
Place:
Moiliili Hongwanji Mission
You are cordially invited to the 18th Anniversary of Project Dana at Moiliili Hongwanji Mission. This is the time we welcome the newest volunteers from 2006 and recognize ALL the volunteers to express our appreciation for their DANA for
the past 18 years. As we enter into the Year of the
Boar, let us renew our commitment to volunteer
caregiving to our members and friends in the community. Mark your calendars and looking forward
to seeing you there.
OSTEOPOROSIS? OSTEOARTHRITIS?
RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?
On November 25, Dr. Linda Tom, M.D.,
Staff Geriatrician at Tripler A.M.C. and Chief of
Staff at Leahi Hospital gave a very informative session on medical conditions which affect many elders. Here are a few notes from her talk.
• Osteoporosis is characterized by low bone mass
and deterioration of bone structure which causes
the bones to be very fragile and increases the
risk for fractures.
• Over 10 million Americans have osteoporosis of
which 8 million are women. This condition is
responsible for 1.5 million fractures per year.
• Some risk factors: female, thin or small frame,
age, current low bone mass, medications, inactive lifestyle, smoking or excessive alcohol.
• The first line of defense is prevention which includes nutrition, exercise, and medications.
• Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in older adults, also called degenerative
joint disease. The cartilage (slippery material
that allows bones to glide over each other) wears
down allowing bones to rub against each other.
• Osteoarthritis most often occurs at the ends of
fingers, thumbs, neck, lower back, knees and
hips.
• Osteoarthritis is one of the most frequent causes
of physical disability and the major cause of
knee, hip and back pain in adults.
• Treatment may include joint care, rest, physical
therapy, exercise, weight reduction, or joint injections.
• Rheumatoid Arthritis more commonly starts at a
younger age. Usually inflammation of the joints
occur and can involve other organs such as skin
and lungs.
• Treatment might involve pain relief as well as
disease modifying drugs to prevent progressive
joint destruction.
Be sure to see your doctor for follow up for any of
these conditions.
DID YOU KNOW THAT?
The following statistics are provided by the
National Alliance for Caregiving:
• More than half of the care recipients live alone.
• 73% of caregivers are female.
• 1.4 million children ages 8-18 provide care for an
adult relative.
• 30% of family caregivers caring for seniors are
themselves 65 years or older.
• 21% of caregivers live in the same household as
their care recipient.
FALL PREVENTION TIPS
Let’s try to prevent falls in the coming year.
Here are a few tips to remember.
• Exercise to maintain muscle strength and improve coordination.
• Maximize your vision by wearing correct glasses.
• Eat foods that are nutritious and healthy.
• Wear appropriate shoes and use assistive devices
(i.e. canes, walkers) when necessary.
• Notify your doctor of any falls.
• Call Project Dana for a home safety assessment.
A BIG MAHALO
Clean windows to let the sunshine in!
Hedges and tress trimmed! Screens dust free! Thank
you, Dharma School students and parents, for your
hard work in helping to maintain the Project Dana
office and yard throughout the year. We are truly
grateful for this assistance.
HAPPY NEW YEAR
As we say good-bye to 2006 and welcome in
2007, we would like to express our appreciation to
all the volunteers for their continuing DANA. May
you and your loved ones have a happy and safe new
year. “May all beings be happy.”
TEMPLE CLEANUP
MAHALO
Nearly 50 members
led by co-chairs Jay Hamai
and Shuichi Miyasaki came to help clean the temple
on November 26. The day began with the chanting
of Juseige after which everyone dispersed to all
parts of the temple Mahalo to faithful old-timers
who carry on with years of experience under their
belts and to first timers with their willing
enthusiasm! Members brought gear from home
including rags, small ladders, buckets, gutter
cleaners and more, to tackle this annual cleaning. A
delicious lunch, prepared by the BWA members
featured chicken with bamboo shoots and
mushrooms and ono accompaniments. Donations of
other delicious treats added to the great lunch.
Mahalo to all for your great help and contributions!
NOTE: A pair of jade earrings was found on the
annex hall walkway during the cleanup. Please call
the temple office at 949-1659 if this might be yours.
WHITE WAY BROADCAST
Please tune in to Radio KZOO (1210AM on
your dial) each Saturday morning from 7:45 to 8:00
AM for Moiliili Hongwanji’s White Way Broadcast.
Our schedule is listed below (with speaker’s name
followed by the sponsor).
Jan. 13: Rev. Eric Matsumoto (Mrs. Shizue Okamura)
Jan. 20: Mr. Frederick Nonaka (M/M Shuichi
Miyasaki)
Jan. 27: Rev. Tatsuo Muneto (Mrs. Shigeko
Yoshimura)
Feb. 3: Rev. Shigenori Makino (Mrs. Michiko
Morikubo)
Feb. 10:
Rev. Yoshiaki Fujitani (Mrs. Renee
Kaneshiro and Ms. Pamela Nakanishi)
Feb. 17:
Rev. Thomas Okano (Ms. Nancy
Kouzuki)
Feb. 24:
Ms. Ann Ishizu (Mrs. Shimeji
Kanazawa)
Mar. 3: Mrs. Lois Yasui (M/M Makoto Kunimune)
Mar.10: Rev. Shigeaki Fujitani (Ms. Donna Higashi)
For the year 2007 the following dates are still
open for sponsorship: May 26, June 2, July 7, and
September 15. If you would like to sponsor a
broadcast, please call the temple office at 949-1659.
You’re generous kokua is most deeply appreciated.
The cost of sponsoring a broadcast is $65.
WELCOME TO OUTREACH COORDINATOR
One of the friendly people who will greet you
at our Sunday service is Alex Shanklin, our new temple
Outreach Coordinator who came on board on January
1. Alex recently moved to Oahu from Kauai where he
was an active member of Kapaa Hongwanji. He has
been attending Sunday services at Moiliili with his
daughter Zuri and is currently enrolled as a student at
Kapiolani Community College. Welcome Alex!
CENTENNIAL FUND MAHALO
Mahalo to the following for their generous
contributions to the Centennial Fund:
Plumeria
Ellen Shimada
Puakenikeni
Stanley & Sumiko Shimada
MAHALO FOR SOCIAL CONCERNS FUND
CONTRIBUTIONS
Thank you very much to members and friends
for your generous contributions to the Honpa
Hongwanji Social Concerns Fund. A total of $1,923
was contributed by Moiliili members and forwarded to
the Honpa Hongwanji Social Concerns Committee.
TEMPLE MEMBERSHIP
A warm and hearty welcome is extended to
new Sustaining (Gojikai) Members Howard Egami,
Kevin and Kay Kitazumi, Dr. Richard Ando and Alex
Shanklin. We hope you will join us often at the temple
and we express our deep appreciation for your
membership pledge.
Thank you to Sustaining (Gojikai) Members
for sending in your 2007 dues so promptly. A mailing
was sent to members at the end of December which
included the 2007 Hongwanji calendar, a temple
schedule of events, and the new publication by
Hongwanji International Center entitled “Jodo
Shinshu, A Guide,” a booklet which summarizes the
basics of Jodo Shinshu. If you have any questions, or
if you are interested in joining the temple membership,
please call the temple office at 949-1659.
KARUNA SOCIETY
Recent projects have included painting the
preschool outdoor tables and trash bins, re-striping the
Kapaakea parking lot after sealant was applied,
installing a light fixture, replacing rubber caps on the
annex hall tables and screen clips on the windows,
grassing and more. Members also enjoyed a delicious
year-end dinner at Chin’s Kahala Chinese restaurant.
BWA NEWS
Welcome, New Members: Nancy Hironaka,
Debby Hirose Ridao, Alisa Kondo, Lehua Matsuoka,
and Fusaye Betty Muramaru
Our deepest sympathy and condolences are
extended to the families of the BWA members who
passed away during the past year and who were
remembered at the November general membership
meeting: Ruth Mitsuko Akimoto, Jane Matano
Hatta, Toyoko Hirai, Ethel Fujie Kajiyama, Betty
Asayo Matsumoto, Fumiyo Migimoto, Yoshie
Mogami, Chiyoko Sorakubo, Yasuko Doi Tanaka,
Margaret Shizuko Yasuoka, Tokiye Helen
Yonemura. Sympathy is also extended to the family
of Hisayo Yamasaki who passed away on December
13 .
Thank you very much to Mrs. Shimeji
Kanazawa and Mrs. Shuku Najita who spoke at the
BWA-sponsored Hoonko service on November 12.
Mrs. Kanazawa gave a heartwarming and tenderloving talk about her 12-year-old sister Emiko who
died 73 years ago. Mrs. Najita, Emiko’s best friend,
spoke on her remembrances of growing up in
Kamuela.
The following officers were elected at the
November 12 general membership meeting:
President Donna Higashi, Honorary President
Tamayo Matsumoto, 1st Vice President Lois Ohta,
2nd Vice President Ethel Miyashiro, 3rd Vice
President Cyndi Osajima, Recording Secretary
Jeanne Watari, Corresponding Secretary Anne
Kawabata, Treasurer Alice Shiroma, Assistant
Treasurer Beverly Yasukochi, Auditors Grace
Yamamoto, Kathleen Komo, Susan Morishige,
Hideko Kumagai, Shuku Najita. Welcome to new
director Wendy Nakanishi.
Thank you very much to the 2006 officers,
advisors and directors for their leadership and
support. Let us look forward to a challenging 2007
and extend congratulations to the officers, advisors,
and directors. Happy New Year to everyone!
Contributed by Rose Nakamura
NEXT MEETING: Please mark your calendars for
the next BWA general meeting on Sunday,
February 25 at 10:30 AM following the 9:00 AM
Sunday Service.
BWA CARE DAY
Compassion and respect are thoughtprovoking words. When we put them into action,
we have CARE (Compassion and Respect for
Elders) DAY. Last year Moiliili Hongwanji BWA
presented the CARE DAY at the 9:00 AM service,
but this year with Rev. Eric Matsumoto’s suggestion,
it was held on Wednesday, November 29, in
conjunction with the weekly Preschool Keiki
Service. A great idea it was! The youngsters were
excited to see grandparents, uncles and aunties and
friends among the elders who joined them in the
temple during their service. Their regular morning
service was conducted by Rev. Matsumoto. As a
special interaction, the children offered leis to each
of the seniors. In return, the BWA ladies and
gentleman strummed “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star”
as their interaction number. Before their dismissal,
the children and elders had a chance to mingle to the
delight of both parties.
After the children left, Rev. Matsumoto gave
a short message about CARE DAY before the group
was escorted to the Annex Hall where several
activities were prepared. Stringing beads to make
nenju was conducted by Wendy Nakanishi. Cyndi
Osajima was with a group to create mini ikebana.
Edgar Hamasu was happy to play card games with
the men folks. Hideko Kumagai was a hit with selfhelp shiatsu and nostalgic children’s songs. The
lunch was a hit also. Sue Sonoda and Helen
Hamasu prepared delicious healthy dishes. Anne
Kawabata’s almond float was very refreshing.
Each elder went home with a bag of goodies
donated by BWA members. Thank you, ladies, for
your contribution. Betsy Nishioka and Betty Koseki
handled the display and distribution of the
donations.
Much couldn't be accomplished without the
help of Rev. Matsumoto, Donna Higashi, Rose
Nakamura and Jeanne Watari for this day of
intergenerational get together. We would like to
thank the Preschool Director, Mrs. Alison Sakamoto
and the Staff for allowing the BWA members to
share in your morning service.
In gassho, and mahalo,
Contributed by Michiko Motooka
[Thank you to Michi Motooka for coordinating this
CARE DAY activity. Everyone had a most enjoyable
time!!]
OINK’S PORK CHOPS
Hauoli Makahiki Hou! Happy New Year!
Five Star ’07 Resolutions:
*Make religious services a regular family affair.
*Volunteer and attend annual temple events:
Mochitsuki--January, Annual Meeting and
Shinnenenkai (New Year’s Party)--February, Bon
Dance & Obon Observance--July, Temple Fundraiser-October, and Clean-up--November, and all major
services.
*Attend workshops to learn more about Buddhism
and/or learn tips to enrich your life
*Participate in an organization at our temple.
*Read Jodo Shin Buddhism books throughout the
year.
With A Bang!
Pop! Congratulations to Alex Shanklin for
being selected as our new Moiliili Hongwanji
Outreach Coordinator. This position was formerly
known as Program Coordinator.
Pop! Pop! Kudos to Dr. Richard Ridao, M.D.,
for being named Chief Medical Officer for the
University Health Alliance (UHA).
Pop! Pop! Pop! She’s b-a-c-k! Hats off to our
State Youth Specialist, Ann Ishizu, who spent the
month of October in Kyoto, Japan. Mission—to
receive her tokudo ordination.
Actively Involved.
The Honolulu United Buddhist Women’s
Association announced its new officers. Our temple is
represented by Donna Higashi (Vice-President), Alice
Shiroma (Treasurer), and Helen Hamasu
(Representative to the Federation meetings).
Congratulations. Thank you for sharing your time
with BWA.
Wally Hironaka recently volunteered to
participate with the Karuna Club. This club assists our
temple by providing maintenance to its grounds and
facilities including the Pre-School. More volunteers
are always welcomed.
Hudson Fukuki is currently enrolling students
of all ages for his Monday & Thursday karate classes.
It meets 6:00-7:00 p.m. in the temple annex. A small
fee is being charged.
Emergency Preparedness II.
Consider buying a portable propane stove and
propane canisters for stove fuel. Do you have easy
access to cash? Fill your bathtub with water. Read the
November ’06 issue of Consumer Lines by the
Hawaiian Electric Co. for information on purchasing a
generator. Do you have enough gas in your car? Cut
out other emergency preparedness tips. Place it in a
sheet protector and place it where it is always available
and visible.
Something to Share.
A humorous story? Recognition? A joke or
riddle? A recipe or two?
Almost anything is
acceptable. Send it in to the temple.
Closing Quote by Misora Hibari.
“Life is truly like a flowing stream. Sometimes
the flow is fast, sometimes slow, meandering or
straight, narrow or wide. But in the end, we all flow
into the same ocean.”
HAPPY STRUMMERS NEWS
Fifteen years ago, a short article was written
in the Moiliili Hongwanji’s The White Way:
UKULELE LESSONS OFFERED
Have you ever had a secret desire to play some
kind of musical instrument? The Moiliili Fujinkai is
organizing a group to learn to strum the ukulele. It will
be a session open to anyone who wishes to play some
Hawaiian, Japanese and American tunes. Music sheets
will be provided, but you must have your own ukulele.
Mr. Yoshiaki Matsuoka, our instructor, is willing
to spend half an hour on Sundays from10:30 to 11:00
AM at the annex hall.
A definite time schedule will be presented later
but the first session will be on April 19, Sunday, from
10:30 AM at the Annex Hall so bring your ukulele and
join in the learning, fun and fellowship.
This initial session will be approximately 12
lessons. A minimal fee of $5.00 will be accepted for the
entire session.
(Contributed by Michiko Motooka)
The Fujinkai invited everyone to join. We
were Moiliili Hongwanji Ukulele Club but we are
now known as Moiliili Hongwanji Happy Strummers.
Membership has changed throughout the years.
We’ve said goodbyes and hellos on many occasions,
but we are very fortunate and thankful to be
strumming for these many years. We have Yoshiaki
Matsuoka, our instructor, who has kept us busy and
satisfied throughout the 15 years. Our latest
appreciation luncheon was held in November, the
fourth in the beautiful setting of Willows.
We are delighted to have two new members
added to our group. We welcome Myrna Masueda
and Nancy Toyama. They are members of Hawaii
Betsuin and we are more than happy to have them
join us. Plans are being made to visit Hale Pulama
Mau, and we are invited to play on January 28 for the
annual Project Dana Sunday Service.
Contributed by Michiko Motooka
January 2007
2007 Slogan: “Embraced by the Vow:
In Deep Listening”
Sunday
Monday
1
New Year’s Day
Tuesday
2
Wednesday
3
10:00 AM - New Year
Service
Temple……..….949-1659
Pre-School….....946-4416
Thursday
4
Friday
5
Saturday
6
9:00 AM - HBC Buddha
Day Altar Comm.
Mtg. at HQ
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
1:00 PM - BWA Exec.
Board Mtg.
6:00 PM - Karate
7
8
9
9:00 AM - English Service
Mochtsuki
6:00 PM - Honolulu Minis- 6:00 PM - Karate
ter Family Get7:30 PM - Choir Practice
together
14
9:00 AM - Hoonko Serv.
Speaker: Rev. S. Hiramatsu
10:30 AM - Japanese
Hoonko Service
Speaker: Rev. H. Kawaji
11:30 AM - United Jr. YBA
Mtg.
21
15
Martin Luther
King, Jr. Day
16
9:00 AM - Shinran Shonin
Morning Chanting
11
9:15 AM - Preschool
10:00 AM - Franciscan
Keiki Service
Adult Care
9:30 AM - Living Treasure
Mtg.
1:00 PM - HBC Buddha
Day Mtg.
7:30 PM Temple Board
Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
.
17
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
18
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
22
6:00 PM - Karate
23
24
25
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
29
5:00 PM - Honolulu Dist.
Buddhist Ed. Mtg.
7:00 PM - Honolulu Hongwanji Council PreLeg. Assembly Mtg.
30
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Membership
Committee Meeting
31
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
9:00 AM - Project Dana
Appreciation Service
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
6:30 PM - Movie Night:
“Hi, Dharma!”
13
Karuna Workday
10:30 AM - Maunalani
Visitation
19
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
20
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
5:30 PM - Rev. Makino
Retirement Party at
Hale Koa
26
27
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
8:00 AM - Jr. YBA Feder.
Meeting
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
6:00 PM - Karate
12
9:00 AM - Minister’s Mtg.
& Seminar Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
9:00 AM - English Service
Speaker: Rev. Irene
Nakamoto
28
10
February 2007
2007 Slogan: “Embraced by the Vow:
In Deep Listening
Sunday
Monday
Tuesday
Wednesday
Temple……..….949-1659
Pre-School….....946-4416
Thursday
1
Friday
2
3
5
6
7
8
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
5:30 PM - Karuna GetTogether
6:00 PM - Karate
4
Saturday
9
10
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
9:00 AM - English Service
2:00 PM - State Minister’s
Meeting
7:30 PM Temple Board
Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
11
9:00 AM - Joint Service &
Keirokai Recognition
10:00 AM - Annual Membership Meeting
11:15 AM - New Year
Banquet at JCCH
18
NO CHOIR PRACTICE
12
13
14
Valentine’s Day
9:15 AM - Preschool Keiki
Service
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
19
President’s Day
6:30 PM - Movie Night
“Keeping The Faith”
20
9:00 AM - English Service
Parinirvana Day
10:30 AM - Japanese Svc.
21
9:15 AM - Preschool Keiki
Service
6:00 PM - Karate
7:00 PM - Honolullu
Hongwanji Council
Meeting
26
9:00 AM - English Service
27
28
9:15 AM - Preschool Keiki
Service
10:30 AM - MHBWA Mtg.
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
15
10:15 AM - Oahu Care
Visitation
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Membership
Committee Mtg.
22
16
17
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
24
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
10:30 AM - Maunalani
Visitation
7:30 PM - Karuna Meeting
23
10:00 AM - Hawaii
Kai Assisted Living
Karuna Workday
9:00 AM - Project Dana
Adv. Committee Mtg.
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
25
6:00 PM - Karate
95th Legislative Assembly
Giseikai
6:30 PM - Children’s
Movie Night: “Heisei Tanuki
Gassen Ponpoko”
In Appreciation
TO THE TEMPLE:
10/29
11/4
Eugene Makino
Mr. & Mrs. Melvyn Yoshinaga in memory of Koyo
Wasa
11/8
G. & S. Sonoda in memory of brother Yoshio
Fukumitsu
11/13 Shimeji Kanazawa in memory of Emiko Ryusaki
11/14 Mr. & Mrs. Akira Koba
11/15 Mrs. Janyce Miyashiro in memory of Lillian Katahira
11/15 Lily Muraoka in memory of Michael Muraoka
11/17 Melvyn & Jane Yoshinaga in memory of George Wasa
11/19 Matsuko
11/20 Oscar O. Ogata in memory of Masako Ogata
11/20 James M. Nekota in memory of mother Ume Nekota
11/20 Richard K. Imaino
11/20 Hikaru and Charlotte Mashita in memory of mother
11/21 Jonathan Shimada
11/21 Miharu Fukumitsu in memory of Yoshio Fukumitsu
11/21 Asako Takane & Mashiko Abe in memory of Nobuo
Ota’s 17th memorial year service
11/21 Celebrity Tuxedos
11/29 Gertrude Morishige in memory of Koyo Wasa
11/29 Gertrude Morishige in memory of Yuu Fujishige
11/30 Harano
11/30 Wesley Katahira in memory of Lillian Katahira
11/30 Michael Scott Shiroma
12/1
Tasuku Matsushima in memory of Charles Goichi
Kimura
12/1
Tasuku Matsushima
12/1
Evelyn Kirihara
12/1
I. Yamamoto
12/2
Thelma Uehara one year service for Sotaro Uehara
12/5
David Fujimoto
12/5
Barry Maeda
12/7
Valerie Falle
12/7
Anonymous
12/9
Eugene Makino
12/11 Stanley K. Tanaka in memory of parents Tomokichi
&Hatsue Tanaka
12/12 Edith N. Horii
12/13 Lillian F. Shiraki
12/15 Michael Sorakubo in memory of Chiyoko Sorakubo
12/15 Yashiki
12/18 Jane Tamura in memory of Eichi Nakamura
12/18 Shinji Futa
12/18 Kenneth Fujimoto
12/21 J. H. Suzurikawa
12/21 Mr. & Mrs. Tsuyoshi Onuma in memory of Sunao &
Yoshiye Takata
12/22 Minoru Kanda
12/22 Mr. & Mrs. Bert S. Maedo in memory of Maedo Family
12/24 Ethel & Grace Kitagawa
12/24 Elsie Okino
12/24 Dr. Carl Becker
12/24 Mary Inamura
12/24 Florence Hirata
12/24 Janet Wasa in memory of George N. Wasa
12/26 Anonymous
12 /26 Anonymous in memory of Edward & Florence
Okabayashi
12/26 Norma & James Nekota in memory of Yutaka &
Sakuyo Nikaido
12/26 Matsuoka, Iwasaki
12/28 Anonymous in memory of Kiso & Sumako Sakamoto
12/28 Robyn Akahoshi in memory of Ralph K. Akahoshi
12/28 Kenneth & Janice Okumura
12/28 Tsugio & Frances Aoyama
12/30 Chieko Yoshida
12/30 Violet & Raymond Mimaki
12/30 Shuku Najita
12/30
12/30
12/30
Yasunori Deguchi
Family of Kihachi, Suma, Nobuo Tanoue
Shigeyoshi & Fumie Hanamoto in memory of mother,
Hanayo Harada
1/3/07 Eileen Okimoto in memory of Asako Okimoto
TO THE NOKOTSUDO:
11/4
11/6
11/7
11/7
11/13
11/15
11/17
11/28
11/29
11/29
12/18
12/18
12/22
12/24
12/30
Wasa Family in memory of Koyo Wasa
Charles & Suyeko Koyanagi
Mr. & Mrs. Bert S. Maedo in memory of grandfather,
Shinji Maedo
Anonymous
D. & M. Nekotani in memory of father, Tsunekichi
Lily Muraoka in memory of Michael Muraoka
Wasa Family in memory of George Wasa
D. Shimokawa
Bessie Tanaka
Anonymous
Jane Tamura in memory of Eichi Nakamura
Robert Watari
Richard Kawasaki in memory of Harry & Doris
Tomita
David Shimokawa
Family of the late Toyoko Hirai
TO BWA:
11/13
11/13
11/21
12/15
Shimeji Kanazawa in memory of Emiko Ryusaki
Yoshiko Ebisu
Rose Nakamura
Anonymous in memory of Chiyoko Sorakubo
TO PROJECT DANA:
Beverly Foundation, Nuuanu Congregational Church
N. Abe, C. Becker, W. Chock & L. Chee, M. Chun in memory of Grace
Sakai, D. Clark, A. Compton, W. Ebisu, D. Demeral, D. Fujimoto, R.
Gonzales, E. & H. Hamasu, M. Hirano, K. Ing-De Soto in memory of
Grace Sakai, K. Iwata, M. Kanda, E. Kawatani, D. Kido, R. Kim, F.
Kogachi, E. Kohara, G. Kuramoto, R. Kuriki, J. Kushiwa in memory
of Grace Sakai, L. Lau, G. Lippincott, C. Matano in memory of Jane
Hatta, R. Matsui, G. & J. Matsumoto, J. Murashige, F. Naito, S.
Najita, F. Naliielua, G. Nanamori, T. Noguchi, T. Oda, F. & S. Okano,
S. Pyun, R. Ramo, M. Sheldon, G. & S., Sonoda, Y. Takishita, B.
Tanaka, H. Thanh, C. Thomas, H. Toda, A. Toshima, E. S. West
In Memory of Kiku Nakamura and Torru Nakamura: H. Ito, E.
Kagimoto, S. Kanazawa, R. Nakamura, E. Sakai, D. Tamayoshi
TO THE WHITE WAY:
11/8
12/21
12/26
12/28
12/30
Shizue Okamura
Mitsuru Kunihiro
Minoru Maedo
Kenneth & Janice Okumura
Chieko Yoshida
EITAIKYO DONATIONS
. Hank Akimoto, June Matsumoto, Hiroko Okubo, Roy M.
Sesoko.
. Lily Y. Muraoka.
. D. Higashi, Toshimasa Tando.
. Wallace & Nancy Hironaka, Eugene Makino, Violet Mimaki,
Susan Morishige, Melvin & Karen Murakami, Rose & Gwen
Nakamura, Myrtle Nakasato, Donald Okano, Ken Sato, Sumie
Tanaka, S. Toyoshiba, Thelma Uehara, Mitsue Yokota.
. Janet Akahoshi, Richard Ando, Yoshiko Ebisu, Michie Hamao,
Edgar & Helen Hamasu, Edith Horii, Walter Kaiura, S.
Kanazawa, Akira Kawabata, O. Kawabata, Akiko Kie, Nancy
Kouzuki, Michi Motooka, Tsuneo Muramaru, David Nekotani,
C. Nomura, M. Shiraki, T. & S. Shiramizu, Shigeo Sorakubo,
Minako Suehiro, Bessie Tanaka, George Uemura, R. Urata, J.
Watari, Yamamoto, Burt Yoneshige, Reiko Yoshioka.
. Robert Kinoshita, Delma O. Kiyomoto, Charles Koyanagi,
M. Takenaka.
.
Amy H. Amazaki, Laura Aoki, Chiyono Ebisu, K.
Furukawa, Sumie Hamamoto, Ethel Hasegawa, Toshiyuki
Hiranaga, Florence Hirata, Perry T. Honjo, George M.
Inamura, Fusae Ishiyama, Misue Ishiyama, Tomoe Ishiyama,
Reiko Izumi, Fred Kajioka, T. Kayahara, E. Kitazaki,
Kathleen S. Komo, H. Kumagai, Michiko Kurokawa, Hikaru
Mashita, C. Matano, Yusei Matsui, I. Mikuni, James
Mimuro, Elaine Miyamoto, Adeline M. Morihara, Gertrude
Morishige, Doris Muraoka, M. Murata, Shizue Nagao,
Kiyoko Nagatani, Tomie Nakahara, Misae Nakamura,
Vivian S. Nakamura, W. Nakanishi, N. K. Nakatsuka,
Midori Narahara, Millie Nishida, Florence Nishino, Betsy
Nishioka, Torao Noguchi, L. Ohta, Kiyoko Okada, Kimiko
Okano, P. Okubo, Yaeko Onuma, E. Ryusaki, Tsuyuko
Sasaki, S. & E.S. Shintaku, G. & S. Sonoda, I. Takamura,
Jane C. Tamura, Tanaka, Alice T. Tanaka, Edwin N.
Tanaka, Yasuko Tanaka, Richard K. Teramoto, Isamu
Tsukamoto, Ushio Tsukazaki, Janet Umeda, Helene
Uyemura, James Wasa, Shigeo Wasa, Hisayo Yamasaki,
Gene K. Yokota, Bessie Yoshimura.
. George H. Furukawa, Susumu Kato, Thelma M. Kobayashi,
Momoyo Miyazaki, Fusae Oshio, K. Shigemoto, Merwyn &
Karen Sumida, Baron C. Taira, Howard T. Takaki.
JR. YBA NEWS
On December 20th & 22nd, 2006, the
United Jr. YBA of Honolulu worked at the
University of Hawaii Rainbow Classic
basketball game. We helped manage a
concession stand. We raised some money
to help us with our upcoming 50th Jr. YBA
State Convention to be held in Honolulu
in June ‘07. Thank you to everyone who
came out to help!!
For our 50th Jr. YBA State Convention,
please
pass
the
word
to
different
organizations and businesses in the
community. If they would like to place an
ad in our convention booklet, or make
any monetary donation, or contribute
any souvenir items for our registration
packet, we would appreciate it very much.
P l e a s e
c o n t a c t
u s
a t
or
leave
a
convention50@gmail.com
message at the temple office. Deadline is
April 15th, 2007.
Contributed by Ryne M.
YESS CAMP XXIV
Youth from 9th grade to 23 years of age are
invited to participate in YESS (Young Enthusiastic
Shinshu Seekers) CAMP XXIV—“Know Your
Roots”—at Camp Kokokahi on March 26-28, 2007.
The registration fee is $70 through February 15 and
$75 from February 16 to March 10.
It has been said, "The new school year
doesn't slow down until after Christmas", and it
certainly is proving to be true.
November started off with Mrs. Alison and
Mrs. Kuniyuki traveling to Atlanta, Georgia for the
NAEYC Conference, a nation-wide conference held
annually for early childhood professionals. Upon
their return, Mrs. Alison and Mrs. Kuniyuki had a lot
of cutting-edge ECE information to share with the
staff.
November was also parent-teacher month for
the three's and two-and-a-half year-old classes. It
was good to share information about the children's
progress with their parents.
On Nov. 29, 2006, we celebrated CARE Day
with the old-time members of Moiliili Hongwanji's
temple. At our weekly Keiki Temple Service the
children presented 25 members with homemade leis
and entertained them with three song, "Sunbeams,”
“Buddha Loves You” and “Lord Buddha Is With
Me". Rev. Eric gave a short homily which reminded
us, "We need to take care of our grandmas and
grandpas because they were the ones who took care
of our mommies and daddies." A touching reminder
in this month of Thanksgiving.
Contributed by Henrietta S.
In December, we started with picture-taking
with Santa in the morning. Santa came all the way
from the North Pole. On the same day, Bubble
Show with Santa was held. The bubble lady was
amazing! She showed us so many different ways to
make bubbles even with her hands. She wrapped all
of us individually in a bubble.
Our Annual Winter Program on December
15 was a huge success. All the classes practiced
hard. They sang and danced with a big crowd
looking on. Thank you for coming to see us! And
thank you again, Santa Claus, for giving us presents
and watching our show.
On our last day of the Fall semester, we went
on an excursion to Honolulu Hale. Thank you to
Victoria’s daddy, Mr. C. D., for inviting us to recite
the Pledge of Allegiance at Honolulu City &
Council chamber. Happy Holidays and hope you
had a great Winter Break!
Contributed by Tamayo M.
teachings + reflection=
a life of awareness
a New Years Message from Pieper
Toyama
Our ministers tell us that the light
of Amida Buddha is boundless, unhindered, and nondiscriminating. They say that Amida is constantly
working-- in Honoka‘a, Denver, and Darfur, among
young and old, charitable and greedy, foolish and
more foolish, Buddhist and not. Yet, as many times
as we’ve heard this, how many of us are aware of
Amida Buddha in our daily lives?
At the Pacific Buddhist Academy, our goal is to bring
up generations of students to become adults who will
contribute directly to peace. To this end, we teach
our students Buddhist values and morals as they are
expressed by the Paramitas or Six Perfections. But
Amida Buddha’s intention is not merely to make
good people or to achieve a tenuous reprieve from
war. Rather, Amida intends to wake us up to the truth
of his presence in each of us and in turn the truth of
our connectedness. This maturing insight, distinct
from ethics and morals, becomes the foundation from
which peace naturally arises.
How then, do we open our students’ eyes to the truth
of Amida Buddha? How do we help them realize the
presence of Amida and how they are all profoundly
interdependent?
One way in which we try to awaken students to
Amida’s presence is through regular meditation
sessions during
our lunch break.
Students begin
the sessions by
offering incense
at the
Obutsudan. We
then ask them to
sit quietly and
think about the perfection within themselves, about
their Buddha nature. The true awakening to Amida
within is a most difficult task that most of us have not
yet achieved. However, we believe that the
possibility of that awakening increases by the sheer
number of times we engage in reflection. So we ask
the students to press on week after week.
We talk about the various ways in which we are
unaware of or hide that perfection. Then we talk
about our relationships and how Amida is at work
in those who care about us. We plan how we will
work together with those caring individuals who
can help us awaken to Amida within. Finally, we
end our sessions chanting, reciting a metta or sitting
in silent meditation. It is our belief that through
constant attention to Amida Buddha at work within
ourselves and in our relationships, that Amida will
become a living and personal presence in their lives.
As adults attend weekly Sunday temple services;
PBA students also attend temple services every
Friday morning. We attend Dharma classes and
Nembutsu Retreat lectures; PBA students take a
spiritual development class once a week taught by
our volunteer Chaplain, Rev. Alan Urasaki. We are
all, PBA youth and temple members, fortunate to
have opportunities to hear and study the teachings.
Yet, as important as it is to intellectually grasp the
Dharma, I believe that we must take the time to
pause and reflect upon Amida’s presence in
ourselves and in those with whom we relate daily.
Only when we genuinely feel this presence are we
able to create the conditions for true peace.
I would like to thank each of you who supports the
Pacific Buddhist Academy. My wish for 2007 is
that each of us, without exception, becomes aware
of Amida’s presence in our lives, even if only for a
brief moment.
In Gassho,
OPEN HOUSE
for Prospective Students
In January, PBA will begin accepting applications for
the 2007-08 school year, grades 9 thru 12.
Come to an OPEN HOUSE! Talk with PBA teachers
and Head of School, Pieper Toyama. Visit our
classrooms. Learn about our academic and peace
curriculums.
THURSDAY, January 25, 2007
6:00 to 7:30pm
in the Hawai‘i Betsuin Annex temple
Call 532-2649 for more information or directions.
BWA quilters made this quilt for Caden Matsumoto’s
1st birthday in November
Bubble Lady amazes Preschoolers--she put them in a bubble!
Outreach Coordinator
Alex Shanklin & daughter Zuri
Happy 1st Birthday, Caden!
Good friends enjoy seeing one another at
BWA’s CARE DAY on November 29
Outgoing and incoming BWA
presidents Rose Nakamura &
Donna Higashi
Dr. Thanh Hyunh
Enjoying CARE DAY Fellowship
Thank you, everyone, for helping with temple cleanup!!
BWA lunch at Paradise Grill in Moiliili on Nov. 12
Dr. Carl Becker
Karuna Society enjoys year-end dinner at Chin’s Kahala
年頭の辞
光寿無量 新しい年の初めにあた
り、ご挨拶申し上げます。
今年も、お念仏とともに一日
を過ごしましょう。本願寺では、
八年前に始められました御影堂
（宗祖親鸞聖人の御堂）の修復工
事が完成に近づきました。昨年の
晩秋には、素屋根が取り外され、
葺き替えられた瓦屋根が全部見え
るようになりました。二百年前、
三百年前の瓦も何 割かは、再び、
屋根に戻されました。当時の人々
の熱意と技術の高さがわかりま
す。工事はあと二年ですが、主に
内部、特にお内陣などが残ってい
ます。
本願寺の建物は、親鸞聖人七
百五十遠 忌を迎える準備が着々と
進んでいますが、私たち一人ひと
りの姿勢や行動の面では、まだま
だ、できることがのこっているよ
うに感じます。
伝統的に制度や儀式は大事で
あり、宗門の基層ですが、宗門か
らはなれた所で生まれ育った方々
には、わかりにくいこｔがあり、
必ずしも必要なことがばかりでも
ありません。そのような場合に
は、近道で、「本願を信じ、念仏
申す」生き方をしっていただき、
受け取っていただく方法もあるの
ではないでしょうか。そのための
手段として、出版物、インター
ネットなど利用できるものが増え
ていますが、なにより大切なの
は、人間同士のつながりです。阿
弥陀如来のはたらきが感じられる
のは、お念仏に生きる人の姿だか
らです。現代人の悩みに取り組
み、現代の言葉を用いて、共に
仏法を語り、お念仏申す人生をお
くりたいと思います。
２００７年１月１日
浄土真宗本願寺派門主
大谷光真
新年の挨拶
皆様、明けましておめでとうございま
す。
新年を迎えるこの元旦に皆様に新年の挨
拶とともにお礼を申し上げたいと思いま
す。旧年、色々とお世話になりました。
あ
こ と し
皆様のご親切とご協力によって充実した
一年でした。去年はモイリリ本願寺に
とってとても大きな意味ある行事、お寺
の創立百周年と世界仏婦大会、がありま
しておかげさまでどちらも無事終了いた
しました。有難うございました。心より
厚く御礼申し上げます。思いますに、今
年、新年に、なすべきことは次の百年を
考えて、わがお寺の基盤特に護持会（メ
ンバーシップ）をより一層固めて確かに
することではないでしょうか。また、皆
様のお力を貸していただくことになりま
す。何卒、宜しくお願いいたします。皆
様が良いお年を迎えるように、特に世界
平和、を念じて挨拶にさせていただきた
いと思います。 南無阿弥陀仏
合掌
松本、エリック・釈法楽
し
あんないもう
お知らせ
ね ん ど
ごしょうきほうおんこう
いちがつじゅうよっか
ご案内申し上げます。今年、２００７
にちようび
ご ぜ ん く じ えいごかぞくらいはい
年度の御正忌報恩講は一月十四日（
ひらまつ
せんせい
日曜日）に、午前９時英語家族礼拝は
ご ぜ んじ ゅ う じ さんじゅっぷん
にほんごらいはい
平松サンドラ先生をむかえ、そして、
かわじひろみせんせい
つと
午前１０時３ ０分よりの日本語礼拝は
に が つ
にほんごせっきょう
じゅうはちにち
川路広美先生をむかえてお勤めいたしま
みなさま
まい
ま
す。そして、二月の日本語説教は十 八 日
合 掌
がっしょう
にございます。皆様のお参りをお待ちし
おります。