COME CELEBRATE BUDDHA DAY (HANAMATSURI)!

Nonprofit Organization
MOILIILI HONGWANJI MISSION
902 UNIVERSITY AVENUE
HONOLULU HI 96826
US POSTAGE
PAID
HONOLULU HI
PERMIT NO 000
ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED
Telephones:
Office: . . . . . . . . . 949-1659
Preschool: . . . . . . 946-4416
Project Dana: . . . . 945-3736
Website: http://www.moiliilihongwanji.org
“COME CELEBRATE BUDDHA DAY (HANAMATSURI)!”
by Shaku Horaku (Rev. Eric Matsumoto)
Opening Reflection:
Amida, who attained Buddhahood in the infinite past,
Full of compassion for foolish beings of the five
defilements,
Took the form of Sakyamuni Buddha and appeared in
Gaya.
From The Collected Works of Shinran, page 349
I would like to cordially invite you to attend
Moiliili Hongwanji’s annual Buddha Day Service
which will be on April 6th beginning at 9:00 AM.
Every year in April, we celebrate the birth of a very
special person, Prince Siddhartha (or Siddhattha)
Gautama, who later becomes Sakyamuni Buddha, and
to emphasize this auspicious occasion, there is a
special term that is used to refer to Prince
Siddhartha’s birth. Though the observance is
commonly known as Hanamatsuri or “Flower
Festival” in Japanese and “Buddha Day” in Hawaii,
there is another word “Gootan-E” (or sometimes
“Kootan-E”) which is used to refer to this service/
celebration. An ordinary person’s birthday is known
as “tanjoobi” in Japanese, but in the case of Prince
Siddhartha Gautama and in our Shin Buddhist
Tradition, the birth of Shinran Shonin (1173-1262),
our Sectarian Founder, the service held to
commemorate their births is referred to as Gootan-E.
In the case of Sakyamuni Buddha another term
“Kanbutsu-E” is also used which can be translated
“Pouring of Sweet Tea Gathering.” Both individuals
are revered as having “descended from the realm of
Enlightenment” to share the Dharma with us. Hence,
a special word is used to denote their births as persons
VOLUME 52 - NO. 2
who have appeared from the realm of enlightenment
with the purpose of leading all of us to that same
enlightenment.
In Jodo Shinshu/Shin Buddhist Tradition,
Sakyamuni Buddha is considered a human
manifestation of Amida Buddha, a universal cosmic
Buddha, who made very special vows. In order to
share the Nembutsu Dharma, Amida Buddha more
concretely manifested itself as the Historic Buddha,
Sakyamuni, and was born in India (or present day
Nepal). In our Mahayana Buddhist Tradition that
fateful day falls on April 8th according to a Chinese
calendar used by Japanese Buddhists.
That day is described as follows “The trees were
abloom with beautiful flowers that gave off pleasant
fragrances; the deep green grasses were like the tail
feathers of a peacock and swayed like soft fine silk
blown by the wind. The queen took a pleasant stroll;
she leaned on the limb of an asoka tree which
drooped down because of the weight of its flowers. At
that moment, the Bodhisattva was born, suddenly and
yet peacefully. Immediately after birth, he took seven
steps in each of the four directions and proclaimed
‘In heaven above and on earth below, I am the most
honored one.’ …The Naga King rained down cold
and warm water and bathed the body of the
Bodhisattva. The great earth trembled and shook
with joy. Shortly, thereafter, the infant was received
by the queen…the prince was named
“Siddhattha...”
(From Buddha-Dharma, Numata
(Continued on page 2)
MARCH-APRIL 2008
(Continued from page 1)
Center, page 5). “Siddhattha” meant “Every wishfulfilled” expressing the joy of the King and Queen.
At the same time, as I reflect upon the birth of
the Prince/Buddha and relate it to my life “What
significance does the Prince’s birth have to do with
my life?” I am made to realize that because of the
Prince’s birth, the Buddha’s birth, I will be able to
hear the Dharma and more specifically about Amida
Buddha and the Universal Nembutsu Teachings of
Unconditional Compassion. In this sense, I see a
greater significance to the name “Siddhartha” than
could be imagined by his parents. For in Buddhism,
we are not looking at attaining only individual peace
and happiness but the peace and happiness of all life.
According to the Wisdom of Enlightenment “All is
One and One is All.” And thus, in the name of
Siddhartha/Siddhatta, I personally see the aspiration
and fulfillment of the peace and happiness of not
only a few, but of all life including mine. The
nobility which the Prince speaks of (in his quote) is
referring to the nobility of an enlightened life which
is directly connected to the peace and happiness of
all other forms of life too. Hence, the line “In heaven
above and earth below, I am the most honored one”
concludes with the line “I shall dispel the suffering
that fills the world.” The birth of Prince Siddhartha
Gautama is the historical beginning of the end of my
suffering too. How joyous! How grateful!
Namo Amida Butsu=Entrusting in the Buddha
of Immeasurable Life & Infinite Light.
REV. MATSUMOTO AWAY APRIL 7 - 10
Rev. Matsumoto will be in Berkeley from April
7 to 10 to attend meetings at the Jodo Shinshu
Center. In the event of a religious emergency, please
contact the temple at 949-1659 for assistance. If the
office is closed, please call Rev. Shindo Nishiyama at
262-4560 (residence) or 754-3737 (cell).
JAPANESE SERMON
On Sunday, April 20, following the 9:00 AM
Sunday service, at 10:30 AM, Rev. Matsumoto will
present a sermon in Japanese. You are cordially
invited to attend.
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.
SPRING EQUINOX (HIGAN) AND
RENNYO SHONIN COMMEMORATION
SERVICE
Moiliili Hongwanji’s Spring Equinox and
Rennyo Shonin Commemoration Service will be
observed on Sunday, March 16 as follows:
9:00 AM – Family English Service
Speaker: Rev. Alan Urasaki, Chaplain of
Hawaii’s Federal Prison and the Pacific
Buddhist Academy
10:30 AM -Japanese Service
Speaker: Rev. Thom Nakanishi, former Bishop
of South America and Hawaii Districts.
Higan (translated “Other Shore”) Services are held
twice a year during the Spring and Autumn Equinox
when day and night are of equal length and
everything is in balance. It is a time to rededicate
ourselves to listening to the Dharma. At our Spring
Higan Service, we also honor Rennyo Shonin, the
8th Abbot and the restorer of the Hongwanji.
MHM BUDDHA DAY & INITIATORY RITES
Moiliili Hongwanji will hold it’s Buddha Day
Service on Sunday, April 6, at 9:00 AM as we
commemorate the birth of Sakyamuni Buddha in
Lumbini Garden nearly 2,600 years ago. Please join
us for this celebration. An initiatory rites ceremony
will also be held to “formally” introduce our young
children to the Buddha, Dharma, Sangha.. If you
would like for your young child or grandchild
(infant to several years old) to participate, please call
the temple office at 949-1659 by March 31.
HBC BUDDHA DAY OBSERVANCE
The Hawaii Buddhist Council Buddha Day
observance will be held on Sunday, April 13, at
9:00 AM at McCoy Pavilion at Ala Moana Park.
Bishop Wajira Wansa of Jodo Mission will be the
speaker, and entertainment will follow. There will
be no service at Moiliili Hongwanji and everyone is
encouraged to attend this joint celebration with other
Buddhist denominations in Hawaii.
Those wishing to order bento lunch ($6 for
adults and $3.50 for children) should turned in their
orders and payment to Moiliili Hongwanji no later
than March 26. Carpooling to Ala Moana Park is
also being arranged. (Flyers will be mailed out.)
“MINDFUL COMMUNICATIONS:
Living in Peace and Harmony”
A jointly-sponsored Project Dana
and MHM Spring Workshop
Project Dana and Moiliili Hongwanji Mission,
cordially invite you to a Spring Workshop on
“Mindful Communication: Living in Peace and
Harmony” on Saturday, April 26 from 9:30 to
11:30 AM. Mrs. Gwen Fujie, a most dynamic
speaker who has presented programs to hundreds of
organizations, will share ways to communicate
more effectively. We hope you will join us as we
learn to promote peace and harmony at home, at
work, and in our community through “mindful
communications.” Please RSVP to Project Dana at
945-3736 or the temple office at 949-1659 so we
may have an idea of how many people will be
attending. Mark your calendars for this “not to be
missed” presentation!
NEW ORGAN DEDICATION ON MAY 4
Please join us for a musical performance by the
choir at the Sunday Service on May 4, at 9:00 AM,
in dedication of the temple’s new digital piano/
organ which was purchased late last summer. The
choir will perform some beautiful gathas during the
service and a short musical program after the
service. Please plan to attend!!
With Sympathy
DEEPEST SYMPATHY
Moiliili Hongwanji Mission extends its deepest
sympathy and condolences to the families of the
following who have recently passed away:
Mrs. Tsuyuko Sasaki, 83, on January 9
Mrs. Mae Toshie Kudo, 64, on January 16
Mrs. Ellen Asaye Shimada, 88, on January 25
Mrs. Shizuko Ohta, 91, on February 18
Mr. Carl Torao Matsuda, 89, on February 20
We were also saddened to learn of the passing of
Mrs. Elizabeth Sugihara, the daughter of Rev. and
Mrs. Konin Matano, our past resident minister. May
the Onembutsu provide solace to family members
and friends during this time of sorrow.
OUTREACH PROGRAM SCHEDULE
MONTHLY MOVIES
March 7 (Fri), 6:30 PM: Dr. Suess’ The Cat in the
Hat. The original cartoon. Fun for everyone. The
story of a corrupting imaginary friend that teaches
that fun is within the reach of everyone.
March 12 (Wed), 6:30 PM: Hula Girls. A Japanese
movie about the revitalization of a coal town in
Japan into a tourist town with a Pacific Island theme.
Movies are shown in the Annex Hall. There is
no charge and everyone is invited.
“THE SACRED ARTS OF BHUTAN”
March 23 (Sun), 2:30 PM. Academy of Arts
Exhibit “Dragon’s Gift: The Sacred Arts of Bhutan”
$10 group admission for a guided tour (normal
admission is $20). Please call the office at 949-1659
or see Alex Shanklin by March 19 if you would like
to sign up. Following the 9:00 AM service on
March 23, Rev. Matsumoto will present a short
information session on the Bhutan Exhibit
HAWAII KYODAN ALOHA LUNCHEON
To honor and thank Mr. Frederick S. Nonaka
for his 10 years of leadership as President of the
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii and to
welcome incoming President Mr. Alton Miyamoto,
an Aloha Luncheon will be held on Saturday, May
3, at 12:00 PM (after Hawaii Kyodan Board of
Directors’ Meeting) at the Pacific Beach Hotel. The
cost is $35 and deadline is April 20. (Please sign up
at the temple office.) Mr. Nonaka and Mr.
Miyamoto request that donations be made to the
Pacific Buddhist Academy in lieu of any lei or gift,
2008 YBICSE
This year’s Young Buddhists’ International
Cultural Study Exchange is scheduled for July 16–
26. Fifteen Jodo Shin Buddhist youth from 9th grade
to age 25 will particulate in this program which
includes visiting Honzan, experiencing a home stay,
touring historical Jodo Shinshu sites, and meeting
young people from different countries. The cost of
the trip is $1,500 with the remainder subsidized by
Hawaii Kyodan. Application forms are available at
the temple office and the deadline is April 5.
Chaperones will be Reverend Koho Takata, HQ, and
Wanda Costa, Kapaa Hongwanji.
EDEN AT HOME WORKSHOPS
Twenty EAH Certified Trainers from
Oahu, Maui, and Hawaii are committed to
provide Care Partner workshops for groups of
Project Dana volunteers and caregivers.
Project Dana Moiliili has scheduled its
workshops as follows: April 5, 12, & 19
(Saturdays), 8:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. and August
16 & 17 (Saturday/Sunday), 9:00 a.m.-3:00
p.m. Lunch will be served.
Anyone interested is most welcome to sign
up for the workshop by calling Project Dana at
945-3736.
Eden at Home is a new Eden Alternative
initiative that applies ten principles to improve
quality of life for Elders living at home and their
Care Partners. “Home” relates not only to homebased care, but to the Elder’s community, to the
Elder’s world, and how he or she relates to and
interacts with it. The vision behind this program
rests on five assumptions:
• An Elder is someone who, by virtue of life
experience, is here to teach us how to live.
• Elders are understood to have a legacy or gift to
share with their loved ones and communities.
• Meaningful care is defined as that which
nurtures the human spirit as well as the human
body, and recognizes and celebrates each
person’s unique capacity for growth.
• The Elder, or the individual often described as a
care receiver, is an active participant in his or
her own care plan—thus, a Care Partner in his or
her own care; and
• Elderhood is honored as a valued phase of
human development rather than merely the
decline of life.
Eden at Home strives to offer something richer
than your standard “how-to” caregiving skills
program. The first step toward transforming the
giving and receiving of care with our Elder care
partners is asking ourselves honestly how we
perceive aging and Elderhood. How do our attitudes
or fears about aging impact the way we care for or
relate to our Elder care partners? Eden at Home has
three basic goals:
• To create a life worth living for Elders living at
home and their care partners.
• To prepare people for the experience of
Elderhood, by creating opportunities to enjoy the
richness of Elderhood and for those with whom
the Elder is cooperating to receive the gifts of
that richness.
• To prepare society to embrace Elderhood, by
paving the way toward a culture that
acknowledges the distinctive nature of
Elderhood and its contribution to the well-being
of all people.
Elder is…
• A title of honor that captures the essence of
wisdom, experience and a life lived.
• Someone who, by virtue of life experience, is
here to teach us how to live; and
• Someone who is not necessarily chronologically
older.
Care Partner is…
• An active participant in their care plan—thus, a
partner in their own care plan.
• Someone who acknowledges the important
ability to give as well as receive in creating
quality of life.
• Realizing that opportunities to give as well as
receive is the antidote to helplessness (one of the
‘three plagues’).
• When those usually described as care receivers
learn that they have something to give—no
matter how subtle—and those usually described
as caregivers realize there are ways that they can
receive from care receivers, amazing shifts can
occur in the care balance dynamic.
Hawaii Eden at Home Certification Training
Jackie Boland, Associate Director, AARP
Hawaii, secured funds to sponsor approximately
twenty care partner trainees from the ranks of
Project Dana. A three-day Trainer Certification
Workshop ensued in mid-December led by Laura
Beck, Program Director, Eden at Home.
TEMPLE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Aloha and Happy New Year!
Mochitsuki, our Keirokai, Shinnenenkai &
Annual Meeting, and the Honpa Hongwanji
Legislative Assembly & Aloha Banquet with the
Living Treasures program were great successes.
Thank you to all who participated in these events.
(Please check our website moiliilihongwanji.org for
more details).
At the 96th Legislative Assembly, it was
announced that in 2009, Hawaii will observe the
750th Shinran Shonin Memorial Service along with
the 120th Hawaii Kyodan Anniversary celebration.
The Gomonshu, Lady Ohtani and Honzan staff will
be in Hawaii to celebrate this auspicious event in
September, 2009 visiting Honolulu-Oahu, Hawaii
(Island), Maui and Kauai during their visit. Due to
the importance of such a historic event, the Hawaii
Kyodan has started a campaign to raise funds and
plan the upcoming events. While the event
committees have been formed and certain events
already planned, the committees do not have all the
details and will inform the various temples of their
participation via their district and temple meetings
throughout this year and next. All Hawaii Kyodan
temples are asked to help support this event and we
solemnly ask everyone’s cooperation as more
detailed information becomes available.
Moiliili Hongwanji Mission Board of Directors
is looking forward to planning a year of meaningful
events while beginning to execute a 2-year strategic
plan to bring Moiliili Hongwanji Mission into our
next 100 years. The strategic plan is broken up into
5 stages of development: Define, communicate,
implement, integrate and re-evaluate our purpose,
philosophy, practices, projections and plans. In this
strategic plan’s infancy it is most important for all
of our Board of Directors and Committee
chairpersons to listen and learn from our Sangha in
order to best guide our actions. The Three Treasures
guide our actions, “I go to the Buddha for guidance,
I go to the Dharma for guidance, I go to the Sangha
for guidance.” In this light, I have made it a point to
attend all the committee meetings that I physically
can and listen and learn the many valuable pieces of
information and history about our temple. I ask that
all of our members help by making the extra effort
to come forth, participate, and share information
that will help our various missions to keep Moiliili
Hongwanji Mission a leader and asset to our
community. May the infinite light and compassion
of Amida Buddha guide all of our actions. Namu
Amida Butsu.
In Gassho,
Bert Ogasawara, President
2008 KEIRO RECOGNITION, ANNUAL
MEETING & NEW YEAR’S PARTY
On Sunday, February 3, 2008, at the Moiliili
Hongwanji’s morning service the keiro (80 year old)
members of the church were honored. This year 14
members were recognized with a gift and certificate.
The new Gojikai or dues-paying members of the
church were also recognized with a Jodo Shinshu
book. After a brief break, the annual business
meeting was conducted by Vice President Rose
Nakamura. The main order of business was the
election of new officers and directors for 2008 and
2009. Bert Ogasawara was elected the new
president succeeding Shuichi Miyasaki.
Later that morning, one hundred fifteen
members and guests gathered to celebrate Moiliili
Hongwanji’s 2008 Annual New Year’s Party.
Spearheaded by the Moiliili Hongwanji Dharma
School PTA and Jr. YBA, it was held at the Pagoda
International Ballroom from 11:15a.m.- 2:00p.m.
Starting with a sit-down lunch of chicken and
fish and salad bar choices, the program was
interspersed with many lucky name drawing prizes.
During the formal program, we heard speeches from
Bishop Thomas Okano and the new incoming
president Bert Ogasawara. Outgoing president
Shuichi Miyasaki’s message was shared and a
special appreciation gift was given on behalf of the
Moiliili kyodan to Mrs. Pearl Miyasaki since Mr.
Miyasaki was away on a Japan trip. It was a
beautiful koa clock. Thanks to Tamayo Matsumoto,
a DVD slide show was shared of the 2007
year. Entertainment followed in the informal
program which included the Dharma School
students and special “obasan” dancing the
“Mottainai Ondo.” The Jr. YBA’s Jan Ken Po
competition yielded $125 which was promptly
donated to the Ministerial Training Fund. The rest
of the afternoon was spent socializing and playing
BINGO with lots and lots of prizes. Every family
also went home with a 5-pound bag of rice. It was a
day enjoyed by all. Thank you to all the hard
working committee members and donors.
Contributed by Donna Higashi
HEADQUARTERS NEWS
Condolence
Mrs. Chisae Muneto, the mother of Rev. Tatsuo
Muneto, BSC Director, passed away on January 23,
2008 at the age of 94.
Personnel
Rev. Yuika Hasebe is assigned to Hawaii Betsuin as
Associate Minister effective February 1.
Rev. Jikyo Miyoshi, a Honzan Trainee, completed
his training program and returned to Honzan
effective February. 20.
Rev. Kazunori Takahashi is assigned to Hilo Betsuin
as Associate Minister effective March 1.
Rev. Mariko Nishiyama of Hilo Betsuin is assigned
to Lahaina Hongwanji as Resident Minister effective
March 1.
Mr. Sol Kalu, will be the Hawaii Kyodan
Scholarship Student from this spring and will leave
for Japan on March 10.
The 96th Legislative Assembly
158 delegates, observers, and guests attended the
96th Legislative Assembly. The following
resolutions were adopted: 1) Budget for 2008 of
$1,225,287; 2) The 750th Shinran Shonin Memorial
Commemoration Projects; 3) Every Person
Ministry—Development of a Minister and Lay
Ministry; 4) Hawaii Kyodan Funeral Guidelines; 5)
Resolution of Condolence to Mr. Albert S.
Nishimura; and 6) Resolution of Appreciation to Mr.
Frederick Shigeru Nonaka. A collection of
$5,700.00 was raised and distributed to the
Ministerial Training Fund, Buddhist Study Center
Endowment Fund and Pacific Buddhist Academy.
Honored at the Aloha Banquet were 2008 Living
Treasures Dr. Charles P.K.M. Burrows. Benjamin
Kodama, Edwin Mahiai Beamer, Elsie T. Tanaka,
and Rev. Sam Cox.
2008 Ministers Wives Seminar
The annual State Ministers’ Wives Seminar will be
held on March 21 and 22 at the Ala Moana Hotel.
Shinran Shonin’s 750th Memorial & Hawaii
Kyodan’s 120th Anniversary
The 96th Legislative Assembly approved a Shinran
Shonin’s 750th Memorial Commemoration and
Hawaii Kyodan’s 120th Anniversary Celebration
Project Campaign ($6 million) to be carried out over
a four year period (2008-2011) by the Hawaii
Kyodan ministers and members for the following
purposes:
1. Purchase and renovate the property adjacent to
Hawaii Betsuin referred to as the “Ching
Property” ($3,000,000) by Hawaii Kyodan
2. Contribute to Hawaii Kyodan’s 750th memorial
commemoration
and
120th
anniversary
celebration operating costs ($600,000)
3. Subsidize Hawaii Kyodan’s 750th memorial
commemoration donation to Honzan ($400,000)
4. Contribute to the Hawaii Kyodan’s Ministers’
Welfare Fund ($250,000)
5. Contribute to Pacific Buddhist Academy’s
capital campaign for the construction of facilities
toward the development of a school with 240
students ($1,750,000)
Each member is encouraged to contribute at least
$1,000.00 or $250 per year for four years to
actualize the project goal. Pledge card and
explanation brochure for each project will be
distributed shortly.
Contact Information: Ideas for the Shinran Shonin
750th Memorial & Hawaii Kyodan’s 120th
Anniversary events may be forwarded to:
General Chair:Rev. Koho Takata at
execsec2@lava.net
Commemoration Project (including fundraising):
Rev. Ryoso Toshima at ryosot@hawaii.rr.com
Buddhist Education: Reverend Tatsuo Muneto at
bscdir@hawaii.rr.com *Leadership Workshop:
Nurturing Leaders, Sharing the Teachings,
Encountering Wisdom, Mar. 20 & 21, 2009 at
Hawaii Betsuin Speaker: Rev. Marvin Harada &
Professor from Ryukoku University, *Production of
DVD and New Gathas, *Publication of Books and
Service Books
Public Relations: Rev. Toyokazu Hagio at
T.Hagio@gmail.com *Publicity, Photo, Video,
Commemoration Booklet, Posters, Banners, Logo,
Mascot, t-shirts, Polo Shirts, Souvenirs, etc.
Commemoration Service.: Rev. Eric Matsumoto
minister@hawaii.rr.com *Commemoration Services:
Sept. 6, 2009 at Hilton Hawaiian Village, *Ground
Breaking Ceremony, Confirmation Rites: Sept. 6,
2009 at Hawaii Betsuin
Ohana Conference: Rev. Yukiko Motoyoshi at
yukikomotoyoshi@yahoo.com Sept. 5, 2009, Hilton
Hawaiian Village, Speaker: Rev. Dr. David
Matsumoto of Berkeley Buddhist Temple
Ohana Conference
As one of the programs of Shinran Shonin’s
750th memorial observance and Hawaii Kyodan’s
120th anniversary celebration, the Ohana Conference
will be held on Saturday, September 5, 2009 at
Hilton Hawaiian Village. The Ohana Conference is
designed to incorporate the profound teachings of
Shinran Shonin which bind the Sangha together.
The term Ohana seems to express this core intent of
the conference best, which is to include all who are
embraced by the Nembutsu and are strengthen by
the common bond of his teachings. The theme of
this conference will be “Annon - May peace and
tranquility prevail throughout the world”, and the
keynote speaker will be the Rev. Dr. David
Matsumoto of Berkeley Buddhist Temple. The
registration fee will be $100.00.
GATHA LYRICS CONTEST FOR SHINRAN
SHONIN’S 750TH MEMORIAL
You are invited to submit lyrics for a gatha
contest that is being held to commemorate Shinran
Shonin’s 750th Memorial in Hawaii in 2009. The
winning lyrics will be set to music by a composer to
be commissioned and become the theme song for
Hawaii’s celebration. The theme of the lyrics should
focus on the commemoration theme, “May peace
and tranquility prevail throughout the world” (visit
www.hongwanjihawaii.com, News and Events, to
read “Message from Monshu Koshin Ohtani on the
Seven Hundred Fiftieth Memorial for Shinran
Shonin,” and other messages, including an
explanation of the memorial logo.) or on aspects of
Shinran Shonin’s life and legacy. All entries must be
received by May 31, 2008. The winning entry will
receive $500. Information and guidelines are
available at the temple office.
PBA GOLF TOURNAMENT
The 4th Annual PBA Golf Tournament in
memory of Dr. Albert Miyasato will be held on
Wednesday, April 9 at Hawaii Prince Golf Club.
The cost for individual golfers is $150. Please call
Lori at (808) 532-2649 for information.
TASTE OF HONGWANJI ON MARCH 30
Hawaii Betsuin’s Taste of Hongwanji will be
held on Sunday, March 30 from 8:00 AM to 12:00
noon. There will be lots of good food, produce,
plants, crafts, rummage sale and much more.
Additional parking will be available at
Kawananakoa School.
WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS
Welcome to the following who have joined our
Sustaining (Gojikai) Membership:
Mr. Edwin Ogasawara
Mrs. Satsuye Tanaka
Miss Krystal Kakimoto
Mr. Jock Narusaki
M/M Neil and Joann Nakamura
Welcome also to Cam Holtey who joins his wife
Kathi Takakuwa as a family member. We hope our
new members will join us often at the temple and we
express our deep appreciation for your membership
pledge.
WHITE WAY RADIO BROADCAST
Please tune in to Radio KZOO (1210AM dial)
for Moiliili Hongwanji's White Way Radio
Broadcast each Saturday from 7:45 – 8:00 AM to
hear a Dharma message by ministers and lay
speakers. Our schedule is listed below (with
speaker’s name followed by the sponsor’s name):
Mar. 15: Rev. Arthur Marutani (Ms. Donna Higashi)
Mar. 22: Mr. Ernest Morikubo (Mrs. Mitsue Yokota)
Mar. 29: Rev. Jan Youth (Mr/Mrs. Noboru Saito)
Apr. 5: Rev. Toshio Murakami (Mrs. Shizuno
Toyoshiba)
Apr. 12: Mr. Pieper Toyama (Mrs. Rose Nakamura)
Apr. 19: Rev. Koho Takata (Mrs. Michiko Motooka)
Apr. 26: Dr. Alfred Bloom (Ms. Edith Maeda)
May 3: Rev. Midori Kondo (Dr/Mrs. Richard Ando)
Mahalo to our speakers, sponsors and volunteer
staff who make our broadcast possible. The date
May 31 is still open for sponsorship. If you would
like to sponsor this broadcast, please call the temple
office at 949-1659. The cost is $65.
You are also invited to tune in to the Hawaii
Besuin’s radio programs on Saturday at 7:30 AM
(Japanese) and Sunday at 10:00 AM (English).
Buddhist Women’s Association
NEWS
BWA PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE:
Tock, muush, stir, slurp!
Those were the sounds emanating from
Moiliili’s Hongwanji’s grounds, kitchen and annex
hall as the BWA ladies participated in mochitsuki,
making mochi, cooking zenzai and taste-testing the
o-soba which became the refreshments for the
annual Hoonko service on January 13th. Over 135
servings were served to members including delivery
to 30 homebound seniors. Everyone enjoyed the
special new year’s foods which was gratifying for
the hard working BWA ladies. Special thank you’s
go out to: Grace Yamamoto, Karen Murakami,
Helen Hamasu, Sue Sonoda, Shuku Najita, Cyndi
Osajima, Lily Muraoka, Betsy Nishioka, Michi
Motooka, Ethel Shintaku, Kathleen Komo, Donna
Higashi, and Jeanne Watari for helping prepare and
serve the special refreshments.
We once again have a full calendar year planned
for the BWA in this year of the rat. We will
certainly be scurrying to: service and support our
temple, participate in more opportunities for new
learning and growth and last but not least enjoying
lots of camaraderie and fun along the way!
Our representatives to the Honolulu United
BWA are Lois Ohta, Donna Higashi, Tamayo
Matsumoto, Rose Nakamura & Alice Shiroma.
Alternates are Ethel Shintaku and Helen Hamasu.
Our BWA is in charge of this year’s Education
Workshop on June 14, so please save the date!
We warmly welcome our new BWA members
Loretta Baker, Sumie Makino and Satsuye Tanaka.
Looking forward to a great 2008!
Important Dates:
Saturday, April 19, 1:30 PM: General membership
meeting with activity.
Sunday, April 27, 10:00 AM: BWA members have
been invited to join Hawaii Betsuin BWA for their
Eshinni & Kakushinni Day Service followed by
fellowship and light lunch. A flyer will be mailed.
Contributed by Lois Ohta
Mahalo for Dana Day Donations
Thank you to BWA members and friends for your
generous Dana Day donations. Donations will be
consolidated and forwarded to the Honolulu United
BWA to support worthy agencies.
HAPPY STRUMMERS NEWS
Project Dana celebrated its 19th year providing
and receiving lovely meaning to our daily lives. The
Happy Strummers were happy to accompany the
congregation in singing “Dana Rainbow” and “Do
Your Really Care,” their theme songs.
One of our members suggested visiting a
company producing ukuleles. They are of different
sizes and shapes but they all become makers of
melodic and beautiful tunes and a work of art. Many
individuals find pleasure in making their own
ukuleles at their home. They are a one of a kind
handiwork.
The Strummers are planning on visiting Oahu
Care Facility in April. Moiliili Hongwanji ministers
and friends have been long time visitors there for
many years.
Contributed by Michiko Motooka
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Hope you are taking action in keeping your
New Year resolutions for a happy and healthy
lifestyle. Health and wellness issues and awareness
are for everyone. It’s ageless and continuous
throughout one’s lifetime.
Parents of young children should put up barriers
near steps/stairways so babies and toddlers don’t go
tumbling down. Grownups need to wear slip
resistant footwear. Rubber zori are dangerous on
wet surfaces. Heed “Wet Floor” signs! And ladies,
it’s a “no-no” to walk in nylons on hard wood floors,
stairs, or highly waxed floors.
Use hand rails and count the steps as you go up
and down stairs. This will make you focus on what
you are doing. Limit your conversation until you
have completed your stair climbing or descent.
Focus/Self Awareness is the key.
A survey is being considered to assess the needs
of the congregation regarding health and wellness
from parents to seniors. When completed, it will be
presented after one of our Sunday Services. If
anyone has a topic they would like to share, please
let us know.
Contributed by Helen Hamasu
HAWAII FEDERATION OF BWA
2009 STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM
Young women from ages 17 to 23 who are
members of a Jodo Shinshu family and are active in
temple activities are invited to apply to be one of two
representatives in the 2009 BWA Student Exchange
Program to Japan. The exchange program (14 days)
will take place in late July to early August of 2009.
Application forms are available at the temple office
and the deadline to apply is March 18, 2008.
Students from Hawaii and Japan participate in this
exchange in alternating years, so this summer
representatives from Japan will be visiting Hawaii.
EAGLE SCOUT PROJECT
Ryne Masuda of Boy Scout
Troop 33 chartered by the Manoa
Elementary School Association of
Parents and Teachers, completed
an Eagle Scout Project for Moiliili
Hongwanji Mission on Saturday, February 16. He is
also an active member of our temple’s Jr. YBA.
Ryne’s Eagle Scout Project’s objectives were
achieved with the execution of a service project by
planting plants along the back and a portion of the
side fence at the Project Dana site of Moiliili
Hongwanji Mission to furnish the temple’s altars
with long lasting greens/foliage and to beautify the
property. Selection of plants included red ti-leaf,
several varieties of crotons, money tree, hybrid
hibiscus and bird of paradise.
Besides much
digging, clearing of designated areas, and planting, a
major part of the day’s project was the installation of
a water sprinkler system.
Ryne was able to successfully complete his
Eagle Scout Project with the help of a grant from
Charles Pankow Builders, Ltd. with assistance from
Bert Ogasawara, Alex Shanklin and Wally Hironaka
from Moiliili Hongwanji Mission, thirty of Troop 33
Boy Scouts with their fathers, and his supportive
parents, Lily and Roy Masuda.
Thank you, Ryne, for a much valued Eagle
Scout Project and we shall look forward to your altar
beautifications at Moiliili Hongwanji Mission.
SUSTAINING (GOJIKAI) MEMBERSHIP
Thank you to Sustaining Members for sending
in your membership dues for 2008. Your support is
deeply appreciated. If there are any questions, or for
more information about our temple Sustaining
Membership, please call the temple at 949-1659.
The choir celebrated its 3rd anniversary on
February 18 with a potluck fellowship. An
unbelievably delicious array of food, good
fellowship and much fun and song highlighted the
celebration. We are most grateful to choir director
Edwin Tanaka and accompanist Francis Okano
whose continuing dedication, leadership and musical
talent make it possible for the choir to continue.
The choir is preparing for its performance on
May 4 to dedicate the temple’s new digital piano/
organ. Some beautiful gathas which have been
performed as part of Japan’s Midou Ensoukai choral
festivals will be performed at the service and a short
enjoyable musical program will follow the service.
We hope you will all join us!
CONGRATULATIONS!
Blue Ribbon Nomination
Aina Haina Elementary School is one of three
schools in Hawaii recently nominated for the 2008
No Child Left Behind-Blue Ribbon Award based on
outstanding student achievement. Congratulations
to Principal Susan Okano and her staff and students,
and good luck to them in the final selections!
Way to Go!
Jonathan Gates was selected as one of two
outstanding students to represent Hawaii at the 46th
annual United States Senate Youth Program in
Washington D.C.
Hello To New Arrivals
New parents Kathi Takakuwa and Cam Holtey
greeted their baby, Luke, born on Dec. 7.
Kayla, born on Dec. 14, was welcomed by parents
Raymond and Arlyne Takiue and brother Jayden.
Exciting News!
Jock Narusaki and Krystal Kakimoto recently
announced their engagement—congratulations.
Organizational Tip
From a recent article in the Honolulu Star
Bulletin—If you find that your ”To-Do” list, while
helpful for getting organized, is just overwhelming,
try making a list of just three things you absolutely
must accomplish for the day followed by the three
people you must contact. Finish these and anything
more is above and beyond.
March 2008
2008 Slogan: “Embraced by the Vow:
In Gratitude”
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Temple……..….949-1659
Pre-School….....946-4416
Project Dana…..945-3736
Thu
Fri
1
March 23, Sunday
Following service a
short information
session on Bhutan
Exhibit (for those
attending)
2
Hongwanji Day
3
Girl’s Day
4
5
9 AM - 3 PM - 750th &
120th Buddhist Ed.
Seminar Mtg. at HQ
10
16
Spring Equinox &
Rennyo Shonin
9:00 AM - Spr. Higan Svc
Speaker: Rev. Alan
Urasaki
10:30 AM - Japanese Svc
Speaker: Rev. Thom
Nakanishi
23
9:00 AM - English Service
Dharma School Class
2:30 PM - Bhutan Exhibit
at Art Academy
30
9:00 AM - English Service
Dharma School Class
11
9:00 AM - Ministerial
Training Comm. Mtg.
9:00 AM - English Service
Dharma School Class
PTA Meeting
6
12
17
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
6:30 PM - Movie Nite:
Hula Girls
18
3:00 PM - 750th & 120th
Publication Comm.
Mtg at HQ
19
8:30 AM - BSC Ryukoku
Spring Seminar at
BSC
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
25
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
31
6:00 PM - Karate
No Choir Practice
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
6:00 PM - Karate
10:00 AM - Franciscan
Visitation
2:00 PM - 750th & 120th
Divison Chair Mtg.
6:30 PM - Children’s
Movie Night: Dr.
Seuss: Cat in the Hat
14
10:30 AM - Maunalani
Visitation
15
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
9:00 AM - Project Dana
Advisory Mtg. at
Makiki Christian
5:00 PM - 2008 Peace
Day
6:00 PM - Karate
20
21
9:00 AM - Ministers’ Mtg.
22
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
Minister’s Wives Seminar
1:30 PM - Minister Wives
Visitation to MHM
6:00 PM - Nembutsu Retreat Mtg. at Jikoen
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
24
8
1:00 PM - Ministers
Lay Ed Exploratory
Committee Mtg. at HQ
13
10:30 AM - Altar Omigaki
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
7
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
7:30 PM - Temple Board
Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
1:00 PM - Fed. Jr. YBA
Teleconferencing Mtg
at HQ
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
8:45 AM - BWA Federation
Installation & Mtg. at
Betsuin
9 :00 AM - English Service
Speaker: Jock Narusaki
9
Sat
26
6:00 PM - Karate
Prince Kuhio
Day
(Holiday)
27
28
29
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
9:30 AM - 442nd/100th
Remembrance Service at Keehi Lagoon
Park
YESS CAMP
(Maui)
6:00 PM - Karate
April 2008
2008 Slogan: “Embraced by the Vow:
In Gratitude”
Sun
Mon
Tue
1
Wed
2
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
Temple……..….949-1659
Pre-School….....946-4416
Project Dana…..945-3736
Thu
3
Fri
4
Sat
5
10:15 PM - Oahu Care
Visitation
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
8 AM-1 PM - Project Dana
Training
7:30 PM - Temple Board
Meeting
6
7
8
Buddha Day
9:30 AM - Japanese
Dharma Class
9:00 AM - MH Buddha
Day Service &
Initiatory Rites
9
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
10
11
10:30 AM - Maunalani
Visitation
12
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
\
8 AM-1 PM - Project Dana
Training
Fed Jr. YBA Mtg. on Kauai
6:00 PM - Karate
7:00 PM - Preschool
Comm. Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
11
13
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
14
9:00 AM - HBC Buddha
Day Service at
McCoy Pavilion
20
9:00 AM - English Service
Dharma School Class
15
9:30 AM - Japanese
Dharma Class
9:30 AM - BSC Program
Committee Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
7:00 PM - Honolulu
Hongwanji Council
No Choir Practice
21
22
\
16
17
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
23
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
9:30 AM - Japanese
Dharma Class
Followed by Japanese
Sermon
24
10:00 AM - Hawaii Kai
Retirement
6:00 PM - Karate
27
9:00 AM - English Service
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
28
9:30 AM - Japanese
Dharma Class
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
6:00 PM - Karate
29
30
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
19
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
8 AM-1 PM - Project Dana
Training
1:30 PM - BWA Meeting
9:00 AM - Ministers’ Mtg.
6:00 PM - Karate
Administrative
Professional Day
18
25
9:00 PM - MH Preschool
Spring Program
26
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
9:30 AM-11:30 AM - MHM
Spring Seminar &
Project Dana Workshop with Gwen Fujie
In Appreciation
TO THE TEMPLE:
1/1
1/1
1/1
1/1
1/1
1/1
1/2
1/2
1/2
1/3
1/4
1/4
1/4
1/6
1/7
1/7
1/10
1/13
1/14
1/14
1/15
1/18
1/19
1/20
1/27
1/27
1/27
1/27
2/1
2/1
2/3
2/3
2/3
2/3
2/3
2/3
2/3
2/3
2/7
2/10
2/17
2/17
2/17
2/20
2/20
2/20
2/24
2/26
2/26
2/26
Eugene Makino
Sarah J. Miyasaki
Aiko Nakaya
Sadao Moriyama
Nancie Tsubota
Mr. & Mrs. James Wasa & Family
Anonymous
Kenneth A. Okumura
Shuku W. Najita
Philip Okubo
Tasuku Matsushima in memory of Chika
Matsushima
Oscar Ogata
Rex Horita
Karen Kikukawa
Stanley K. Tanaka
Perry T. Honjo
Shuichi & Pearl Miyasaki
Satsuye Tanaka
Akira Kawabata
Merry K. Okano in memory of Rev. Ryoshin
Okano’s 33rd memorial year
Hideko Okimoto )
Greg & Lynn Tam
Edna Maeda in memory of Fred T. Maeda, Harrry
Y. Inase, Hazel T. Inase & sister
Karen Kikukawa
Mr. & Mrs. Melvin Yoshinaga in memory of Mr.
Shigeo Wasa
Barbara Brennan
Karen Kikukawa
Minoru Kanda
Yayoi Wasa on the 1 year memorial of Shigeo Wasa
Mr. & Mrs. Bert Maedo
Sarah Miyasaki
Michiko Kurokawa
Eugene Makino
Bishop & Mrs. Thomas Okano
Rebecca Ryan
Richard Kawasaki
Rev. & Mrs. Shigenori Makino
Satsuye Tanaka in memory of Donald K. Hamada
Michiko Motooka
Rev. Tetsuo & Yoko Fukushima
Virginia Cuskaden
Karen Kikukawa
Susan Morishige
Kazuko Choy in memory of Yaiko Tsuchiya
Tasuku Matsushima in memory of Torakichi Oride
Joanne Kealoha
Juliet Lee
Rose Hiranaga in memory of Shiraki Family
Irene Haraga in memory of husband, Herbert
Haraga
Lois Yasui
TO THE NOKOTSUDO:
1/2
1/3
1/4
1/7
1/14
1/15
1/20
1/24
1/24
1/24
David Nekotani
Kazuo Hiranaka
Tina Kuriyama in memory of Harry & Doris Tomita
Perry T. Honjo
Suyeko Koyanagi
Hideko Okimoto
Wayne Tsukazaki
D. Shimokawa
Yoshinobu Matsushima
Helen Futagawa in memory of Mamoru & Shisu
Futagawa
1/25 Katsuto Shigemoto in memory of Anne Asae
Shigemoto
1/28 Ichiro & Jean Fukumoto in remembrance of
Hatsune Fukumoto
2/19 Harry & Bessie Kida
TO THE BUDDHIST WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION:
1/10 Shuichi & Pearl Miyasaki
1/14 Merry K. Okano in memory of Rev. Ryoshin
Okano’s 33rd memorial year
2/20 Rose Nakamura )
TO PROJECT DANA:
Hawaiian Electric Industries, Honpa Hongwanji Mission of
Hawaii (Committee on Social Concerns)
A. Fairfax, A. Hartnett, C. Higa in memory of Midori
Nakagawa, M/M M. Hirano, N. Horii, M/M J. Hughes, N.
Inouye in memory of mother, H. Iwai, C. Kamimura, S.
Kanazawa in memory of Yoshiko Chung, in memory of Tadao
Ouchi, and in memory of Mrs. Nishimura, D. Kiyomoto,
Kobara Family, D. Kong, A. Kubota, E. Kuyeoka, M/M M.
Kunimune, R. Kuriki, L. Lee, S. Makey, R. Matsui, M.
Miyata, J. Murashige, S. Najita, F. Naliielua, G. Nanamori,
K. Okano, F. & D. Ouchi, N. Sheldon, M/M S. Shintaku, C.
Thomas, T. Toma, A. Toshima, J. Vannatta in memory of
Jody Leavitt, and in memory of Carol Franklin, T. Young
Caring for Caregiver: V. Chock and G. Dutro
19th Anniversary: L. Aoki, M/M B. Brennan, D. Higashi, F.
Kiyokawa, M/M K. & B. Koseki, M. Motooka, K. Murakami,
F. Muramaru, M/M R. Nakagawa, T. Nakahara, R.
Nakamura, C. Ogasawara, A. Shiroma, Y. Takishita, M/M R.
Takuoka, M/M R. & J. Watari
TO DHARMA SCHOOL:
1/10 Shuichi & Pearl Miyasaki
TO JR. YBA:
1/10 Shuichi & Pearl Miyasaki
TO THE BONBU CLUB:
1/10 Shuichi & Pearl Miyasaki
TO THE WHITE WAY:
1/2
1/2
1/3
1/8
1/10
2/15
Kenneth A. Okumura
Ruth Tokumi
Irene Miyazaki
Tsuneyoshi Miyashiro
Shuichi & Pearl Miyasaki
Mr. & Mrs. Bert Maedo
THANK YOU TO:
HOONKO DONATIONS
. Irwin M. Kurashige.
. Walter M. Kaiura.
. D. Higashi, Alice Tando.
. Akiko Kie, Momoye Motoba, Lily Muraoka, Rose & Gwen
Nakamura.
. Richard & Thelma Ando, Y. M. Ebisu, Michie Hamao,
Wallace & Nancy Hironaka, Iimura, Shimeji Kanazawa,
Thomas & Alisa Kondo, Eugene Makino, Yoshiaki
Matsuoka, Raymond I. Mimaki, Robert H. Mizuno, Susan
Morishige,
Murakami, Bert & Cynthia Ogasawara,
Donald Okano, Merry K. Okano, Ken Sato, Roy & Nancy
Shimamoto, Tatsuki Shiramizu, Grace M. Yamamoto,
Mitsue Yokota.
. Rona Fukumoto, B. Higa, Perry T. Honjo, Reiko Izumi,
O. Kawabata, Isao Kitagawa, Kodama, K. M. Koseki,
Nancy Kouzuki, June Matsumoto, Tasuku Matsushima,
Ethel Miyashiro, M. Morikubo, Michiko Motooka, Tsuneo
& Fusaye Muramaru, Myrtle Nakasato, David Nekotani,
Kiyoko Okada, Joanne Sakata, Kiyoko Sato, Kiyoshi
Shigefuji, Mitsuru Shiraki, Asako Takane, S. Toyoshiba,
Isamu Tsukamoto, Janet Umeda, R. Urata, S. Uyeunten,
Reiko Yoshioka.
. Edith N. Horii, Masao Kajioka, Robert T. & Hatsue S.
Kinoshita, Delma Kiyomoto, Charles Koyanagi, Masaya
Takenaka, Alan Yokota, Gene K. Yokota.
. M. Abe, Amy Amazaki, Laura Aoki, Chiyono Ebisu,
Sumie Hamamoto, Ethel Hasegawa, T. M. Hasuike, T.
Hiranaga, Kay Hironaka, Fred H. Kajioka, Yukiko
Kajiwara, T. Kayahara, Karen Kikukawa, Kathleen S.
Komo, H. Kumagai, Hikaru Mashita, Yusei Matsui, I.
Mikuni, James T. Mimuro, Elaine Miyamoto, Hiroji
Miyazaki, Adeline Morihara, Gertrude Morishige, Doris E.
Muraoka, Shizue Nagao, Kiyoko Nagatani, Tomie
Nakahara, Misae Nakamura, W. Nakanishi, N. K.
Nakatsuka, Millie Nishida, Florence Nishino, Torao
Noguchi, Lois Ohta, Kimiko Okano, Hiroko Okubo, Yaeko
Onuma, Ellen Ryusaki, S. & E. S. Shintaku, G. & S.
Sonoda, Harumi Suzuki, I. Takamura, Jane C. Tamura,
Alice Tanaka, Sue Tanaka, Takashi Tanaka, Richard
Teramoto, Ushio Tsukazaki, G. Uemura, Helene Uyemura,
James Wasa, Jack Watanabe, Helen Yoshimoto, Bessie M.
Yoshimura, Shigeko Yoshimura.
. Susumu Kato, Thelma M. Kobayashi, Momoyo Miyazaki,
M. Murata, Elsie Y. Okino, K. Shigemoto, Merwyn &
Karen Sumida, Baron C. Taira, Howard T. Takaki, Hazel
Yonamine.
Wally & Nancy Hironaka - new computer with printer
and monitor for the temple office and a refrigerator
George & Sue Sonoda—new step stool ladder for the
kitchen
Mr. & Mrs. Robert Katayama - HP printer
Yoshiaki Matsuoka - portable keyboard
Mel & Ruth Takemoto - mochi machine
MAKAPUU HIKE
Our temple hike was to the Makapuu
Lighthouse on Sunday, February 17th. Ryne
and Lily Masuda, Paul and Nikiya, Emma Kie,
Cyndi Osajima, and Hudson Fukuki hiked to
the top. It was a beautiful day with a cool
breeze. The paved path made it an easy and
enjoyable hike. At least two young whales put
on a grand show for us. They breached
(jumped up and splashed in the water)
continuously leaving traces of white water from
the splashing. It was a fun day of fellowship
and sightseeing. We look forward to the next
hike.
Contributed by Hudson Fukuki
DHARMA SCHOOL NEWS
Recently the Moiliili Hongwanji Preschool
sponsored a Scholastic Book Fair in the temple
annex. The Dharma School students who were
present on that Sunday were awarded a
“Dharma School Appreciation Certificate” of $6
to spend at the Book Fair. Mahalo to the
Dharma School PTA for generously providing
the certificates and encouraging our students
in the joy of reading!
A HOUSEHOLD HINT: To remove crusted burnt
food from your stainless steel pot, cover the burnt part
with a solution of 1 part vinegar and 3 parts water and
a few drops of dish detergent and soak overnight. If
the burnt part still remains, simmer for a few minutes.
WORDS OF THANKSGIVING
We are truly grateful for this wonderful
food. We wish to share it with all beings.
As we partake of this wonderful food, let
us remember Amida Buddha’s compassion which surrounds all forms of life.
Namu Amida Butsu. Itadakimasu.
January
Happy New Year to all of you. The New
Year came by fast and we started our year with
lot of interesting and useful activities.
January 10th was Jim Gamble’s puppet
show—Peter and the wolf, with lots of
instrument and puppet coordination. The
children were fascinated and at the end the
puppeteer even asked questions about the
whole show and the children felt involved while
answering the questions.
Being the month for safety and security
awareness, January 18th was our in-school
visit by the HPD as one of the parent
volunteered to bring his team, along with the
squad team with trained dogs. They talked
about their job of saving and helping people,
the seatbelt law, and wearing helmet while
riding bikes and also to call 911 for any
emergency. The dogs impressed us all with
their amazing talent of
putting a show of
catching the “bad guys”. Later we all got to pet
them and surprisingly all children were happy
to do that. The children even got to sit on their
patrolling police cars and motor bikes and use
their microphones to announce like the little
officers. I feel it’s a great inspiring opportunity
for them to have such an experience.
Being also the month of “transportation”,
Hawaiian Railways was the best choice as
always. January 25, children got to tour the
site where the old trains are parked which
almost was like antique pieces. Later we went
on the train ride and the children loved the
view outside through the big open windows
and also could wave at the railway crossing
showing their Hawaiian shaka sign. People
were nice to response back.
On the whole it was a fun month with lot
educational trips, in school activity and
everyone seemed to be well-adjusted with the
new year, especially the news students who I
am sure must be looking forward for some
more fun in the future trips.
Shared by Mrs. Sanchita Dutt
Mrs. Sanchita’s class meets the well-trained police dogs
Preschool children welcome in the Chinese New Year
A photo opportunity during Makapuu hike
Ryne’s Eagle Scout project at Project Dana
Experts share the art of mochi making
Annual mochitsuki is a big hit
Juliet Kono Lee shares her
Tokudo experience
Rev. Makino’s Japanese Dharma class
Bert Ogasawara is our new temple
president
Honoring those who are 80 years “young” in 2008
Temple Board of Directors for 2008-09
Pearl Miyasaki receives gift of appreciation
on behalf of Shuichi Miyasaki
Dharma School students perform
“Mottainai Ondo” with “obasan”
Recognizing new Gojikai members who have joined
during the past year
人生の四つの大きな出来事
思いますに、仏教徒として人生に四
つの大きな出来事または為す事べき
ことがあります。結論から申し上げ
ますと、生まれること、法に出遇う
こと、法を伝えること、そして大涅
槃をうることの四つです。伝統的に
は、お釈迦様の人生には八つの大き
な出来事があったと伝わり、それら
がよくお説教の話に登場したり、絵
として描かれたりします。でも、こ
れは偉大な釈尊の場合です。しか
し、普通の我々にも、少なくても人
生にそのうちの四つが共通するので
はないかと思う法楽です。繰り返し
て申しますと生まれること、法に出
遇うこと、法を伝えること、そして
大涅槃をうることです。お釈迦様の
場合はシダッタ王子に生まれ、悟り
を開いてお釈迦様となり、悟られて
法を他者に伝え、そして最後に八十
２００８年３月－４月号
白 道
第４５８号
歳の人生の終わりに大涅槃に入られ
るのです。法要でいえば、花祭り
（四月八日）成道会（十二月八
日）、 初転法輪の日（一月二十五
日）、そして、涅槃会（二月十五
日）の四つです。とういことで、モ
イリリ本願寺では、毎年この四つの
法要を勤めております。お釈迦様を
拝むのでなくて、釈尊の人生におけ
るこの四つの大きな出来事を記念し
ながらこれらの意義を確認し、また
我々の人生をも振り返る大切な法要
です。私たちも、確かに人間として
いのちを受け、生まれました。そし
て、まさに今念仏の法に出遇って感
謝して喜ばせていただいておりま
す。尊い念仏に出遇った以上はこの
上ないこの喜びを他にも分かち合っ
ていきたいという願いをいだくのは
当然ではないでしょうか。または、
あるお経に次から次へと念仏の行を
すすめてゆくならば、こういう人を
大悲を行ずる人とあります。そし
て、最後にこのいのちが終わるにつ
れて素晴らしい涅槃の世界、お浄土
に生まれさていただくのです。四月
にお釈迦様の誕生日を祝う花祭りが
勤まりますのでお釈迦様の誕生を喜
びながら苦悩の多い我々の人生であ
るかもしりませんが人間として生ま
れて尊い念仏のみ教えを聞くことの
出来たことを喜ばせていただきま
しょう。そして、忘れずにご家族の
方または友人などもお誘いの上法要
にお参りしましょう。
＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊＊
ご案内
三月十六日、日曜日、に本年度の春
の彼岸会ならびに蓮如上人を偲ぶ法
要が勤まりますので皆様のお参りを
お待ちしております。午前九時の英
語礼拝のご講師が浦崎アラン先生で
す。午前十時半の日本語礼拝のご講
師が元ハワイ教団総長中西、利正先
生です。四月六日がモイリリ本願寺
の花祭りです。そして、四月十三
日、 McCoy Pavilion
にて、ハワイ仏
連の花祭りが勤まります。いずれ
も、午前九時から始まります。四月
の日本語説教が四月二十日の午前十
時半です。どうかお参り下さいま
せ。合掌。