OCEANOCEAN
Kahului Hongwanji Buddhist Temple Kahului Hongwanji Buddhist Temple Kahului Hongwanji Buddhist Temple Kahului Hongwanji Buddhist Temple
Volume 7, Issue 4 Path of Entrusting - Live the Teachings! April 2013
East Asia
In all east Asian countries Buddha's Birth is celebrated on the 8th day of the 4th month in the Chinese lunar calendar (in Japan since 1873 on April 8 of the Gregorian calendar), and the day is an official holiday in Hong Kong, Macau, and South Korea.
Nepal
The birth of the Buddha is often celebrated by Buddhists in Nepal for an entire month in the Buddhist cal-endar. The actual day is called Buddha Poornima (or Buddha Purnima), also traditionally known as Vai-shakh Poornima. Although the day marks not just the birth of Shakyamuni Gautama Buddha, but also the day of Enlightenment, and Mahaparinirvana. But as a gentle effect of West, the event of Birth is given para-mount importance.
The event is celebrated by gentle and serene fervour, keeping in mind the very nature of Buddhism. People, especially women, go to common Viharas to observe a rather longer-than-usual, full-length Buddhist sutra, as something like a service. The usual dress is pure white. Non-vegetarian food is normally avoided. Kheer, a sweet rice porridge is commonly served to recall the story of Sujata, a maiden who, in Gautama Buddha's life, offered the Buddha a bowl of milk porridge after he had given up the path of asceticism following six years of extreme austerity. This event was one major link in his enlightenment.
It is said that the Buddha originally followed the way of asceticism to attain enlightenment sooner, as was thought by many at that time. He sat for a prolonged time with inadequate food and water, which caused his body to shrivel so as to be indistinguishable from the bark of the tree that he was sitting under. Seeing the weak Siddhartha Gautama, a girl named Sujata placed a bowl of milk in front of him as an offering. Realis-ing that without food one can do nothing, the Buddha refrained from harming his own body.
Japan
In Japan, Buddha's birth is also celebrated according to the Buddhist calendar but is not a national holiday.
On this day, all temples hold Kanbutsu-e (Japanese: 灌仏会 ), 降誕会 ( G ōtan-e), 仏生会 (Busshō-e), 浴仏会 (Yokubutsu-e), 龍華会 (Ryūge-e), 花会式 (Hana-eshiki) or 花祭(Hana-matsuri, meaning 'Flower Festi-
val'). The first event was held at Asuka-dera in 606. Japanese people pour ama-cha (a beverage prepared from a variety of hydrangea) on small Buddha statues decorated with flowers, as if bathing a newborn baby.
Korea
In Korea the birthday of Buddha is celebrated according to the Lunisolar calendar. This day is called
(Seokga tansinil), meaning "Buddha's birthday" or (Bucheonim osin nal) meaning "the
day when the Buddha came". Lotus lanterns cover the entire temple throughout the month which are often flooded down the street. On the day of Buddha's birth, many temples provide free meals and tea to all visi-
Hanamatsuri—Buddha’s Birthday
Celebrations in Asian Countries
Excerpts from Wikipedia
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Giving a Shout-Out!
Thank you to everyone for your help and support of our March 30 KHM Ba-
zaar! This event could not have happened without you!
************************** At our Sunday service on March 10, Mike Munekiyo, President of Wailuku Hongwanji, was the guest speaker. The theme for his talk was “Dana.” As Dana, or selfless giving, is a main emphasis for Buddhists, it plays an important part in our spiritual and our everyday lives. Mike asked the question: How do we make dana a part of life every day? Just as we have to practice baking a cake, playing base-ball, or playing a musical instrument, dana requires practice, too. So we need to be sensitive and open to the times when by our actions we can make others’ lives a little easier or a little better. We need to be aware, also, of the instances when we are the recipients of dana—when someone does something to or for us that makes us feel better. When we feel better, we, in turn, are more apt to do something positive or encouraging to others. Thank you, Mike, for your comments—your comments gave clarity to a concept that could have seemed intimidating or unreachable. You brought into focus one of the primary practices of our religion.
************************** Some comments on Dana— In theory, selfless giving seems so easy. In practice, the opportunity for selfless giving is oftentimes fragile, falling prey to the “I’ll do it later” pitfall or the missed chance to say or do something. When the moment passes, it usually doesn’t come again. If you have a positive or supportive comment, say it. The other side of the coin is also true--If you have a comment that is hurtful, don’t say it. Negative words do not have to see the light of day. Dana does not have to be a newspaper headline story. In fact, certain instances of dana is at its purest when no one knows who the giver is. Dana is as near as our family, fellow workers, or colleagues. Just because we see certain people eve-ryday does not mean that we can ignore them, that we don’t need to be kind and gentle to them. Perhaps the opposite is more to the point: Because we see certain people every day, we need to be even more thoughtful and appreciative of them. There is the Dana of the Hands when we physically work to make things better for others. There is the Dana of the Heart when we connect with others through feelings and words. There is the Dana of the Mind/Thoughts when we try to rise high and think the best of people and events. Wait! Don’t we receive a guide and a reminder every time we say the Golden Chain of Love? “To think pure and beautiful thoughts...” “To say pure and beautiful words...” “To do pure and beautiful deeds...” Thank you, Buddha! In Gassho, Janet
President’s Corner
3
Hosha
Hosha means to give or to help as an expression of one’s gratitude. In the spirit of hosha, let’s all consider working for the temple to be a privilege.
Please come and help!
April 6, 7:30 a.m. April 20, 7:30 a.m. Window Cleaning—Jr. YBA
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Mark Your Calendar!
Service Responsibilities
April 7 No service at temple
April 14 Jr. YBA
April 21 Dharma School
April 28 BWA/Kyodan
Mothers’ Day Brunch at KHM
Sunday, May 12
We welcome everyone to our annual Moth-ers’ Day Brunch after Sunday service. RSVP to the temple office (871-4732) by May 5. Please join us in honoring our moth-ers and grandmothers!
Hanamatsuri Service
Sunday, April 7, 9 a.m.
Velma M. Santos Community Center
The Central Maui Buddhist Council’s annual Hanamatsuri event will be held on April 7. Hanamatsuri commemorates the birth of Shakyamuni Buddha 2,500 years ago, and is one of the most celebrated observances in the Buddhist tradition. Featured speaker is Lama Gyaltsen of the Maui Dharma Center. Games, entertainment and lunch will fol-low the service.
KHM will be ordering lunch for the attendees. If you plan to attend, please sign up at the temple office. Everyone is invited to this event. It’ll be a wonderful opportunity to connect with the different Buddhist sects on Maui!
Kahului Hongwanji is in charge of the refreshment table this year. We appreciate any donation of refreshments.
Kahului Hongwanji Hanamatsuri Service
& Infants’ Initiatory Rites
Sunday, April 21, 9 a.m.
Parents formally present their child to the Buddha and Sangha for the first time in Infants’ Initiatory Rites. At Ka-hului Hongwanji, it is incorporated with the Hanamatsuri Service. Please contact the temple office at 871-4732 by Sunday, April 14, if you wish to have your child be part of this ceremony.
Dates to Remember!
April 7 Central Maui Buddhist Council’s Hanamatsuri Service April 21 KHM Hanamatsuri Service & Infants’ Initiatory Rites May 5 Boy’s Day May 11 Maui Matsuri—KHM booth May 12 Mothers’ Day Brunch after Family Service at KHM May 19 Fujimatsuri at WHM May 26 Gotan-e Service at KHM
Fujimatsuri Service
Sunday, May 19, 9 a.m. at WHM
The Maui Hongwanji Council’s Fujimatsuri festivities will be held at the Wailuku Hongwanji Mission. Please contact the temple office (871-4732) by May 5, if you plan to at-tend as a count for lunch is needed.
Gotan-e
Sunday, May 26, 9 a.m. at KHM
Gotan-e commemorates the birth of Shinran Shonin (1173-1262), the founder of Jodo Shinshu. We observe this day to raise awareness in the Nembutsu teaching, to pay tribute to our founder, and to take pride in the Buddhist heritage. Please join us!
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Buddhist Women’s Association
The annual Maui United BWA Spring Assembly will be held on Saturday, April 20 at Dani’s in Wai-luku. Helen Wai, the guest speaker from Hawaii Energy, will speak about energy efficiency. The cost is $20 and the deadline to participate is Sunday, April 14. Please confirm your attendance with Patsy Saki or Charlotte Wilkinson. Red Discount Card Service: This service is available for eligible seniors who are 60 years and older and are permanent residents here on Maui. Pick up your red card and a senior discount list at MEO’s Com-munity Service Office, 249-2970. The MEO’s newsletter Senior Scoop is available to BWA members so please see Irene Matsuda or Charlotte Wilkinson for a copy. Upcoming events: Visitation/Community Service to Kula Hospital will be on Saturday, May 4 after hosha. Details will be discussed at the BWA meeting on Saturday, April 6 at 8:30 a.m. The Buddha says, “The world is a reflection of one’s own mind.” This quote by Shakyamuni Buddha comes from the book Great Compassion: The Essence of Shin Buddhism by Mary Wada-Roath. This small book of Jodo Shinshu Buddhist sayings and other related quotations is meant to be used as a portable companion for those seeking to understand the teaching. (Preface)
Great fun and yummy food on the BWA’s outing on Girl’s Day 2013!
New members Joyce & Pat! Smile! - Bernie, Reiko and Thelma
Mabel: Ono! Susan & Sally dressed in Kimono!
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Pack & Troop 64 News
Pack and Troop 64 would like to thank KHM members for their support at the recent car wash and Scout Sunday service. The Scouts would also like to thank Steven Lee for sharing his aquaponic farm. The Scouts and their families learned how the farm worked and even helped clean and weed different areas in-cluding the eggplant and cilantro crops. They learned how to plant new cilantro seedlings. They fed the chickens and the fish. Everyone was able take home beans, eggplant, tomatoes and more. The moms were rewarded with papaya plants. Everyone had a great time and look forward to doing it again. Scout-O-Rama was a lot of fun, and Cub Scouts were able to share their map and compass skills while the troop participated in merit badge classes. Other activities keeping the Scouts learning and busy included a service project for Kealia Pond in Maalaea. Park Ranger Courtney and Volunteer Paula showed them how to pull weeds around the ponds. They planted 150 ground cover plants. The Scouts also learned about endangered birds, plants and other animals. The overnight camp at KHM before the bazaar kept the Scouts busy and the bazaar items secure.
Maui Matsuri Food Booth
at UHMC
Saturday, May 11, 3 p.m.—9 p.m.
At the upcoming Maui Matsuri, Kahului Hongwanji will be selling many ono-licious food items—bento, musubi, cold noodles, and a variety of baked products. Donations of baked goods are appreciated. Please come and support the Maui Matsuri and KHM’s food booth. Mahalo!
Scout Sunday Service action!
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Easy Dipping Sauce
Stir together – 1 part Yoshida sauce 2 parts Sweet Chili sauce Ground chili powder to taste Green onion (chopped) to garnish. Perfect as a dip for fried chicken, pork, beef or fish! Yum!
Recipes Welcome
The newsletter staff welcomes you to share a favorite recipe with our sangha. Please send a copy to the temple office or send it via email to [email protected]. Please email your picture and we will gladly insert it in the recipe corner. Mahalo!
4H
Volume 7, Issue 4 OCEAN Page
4H-ers joined church kyodan members to clean the temple’s windows. They worked hard and made the windows shine until they could see their reflections. What a great job! The winning duo: First time participants in the 4H Teach in Demonstrations Renee and Megan wowed the judges with their awesome PowerPoint presentation, poise, and self confidence. The dynamic duo dem-onstrated their version of taco salad. Their hard work earned them a blue ribbon. Congratulations to Renee and Megan.
Left: Window cleaning time at the temple!
Above: Megan and Renee show the results of the great effort they put into their demonstration.
Recipe Corner
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Highlights of Kahului Hongwanji Mission Board Meeting Tuesday, February 26, 2013
Members Present: Rev. A. Hironaka, J. Shimada, G. Hiyakumoto, I. Tokishi, I. Matsuda, A. Yoshimoto, E. Nishimura, H. Toyama, S. Emura, G. Hironaka, C. Suyama, D. Toyama
UNFINISHED BUSINESS
Giseikai Resolution #1 Budget for 2013 - Adopted. Resolution #2 Amendment to Increase the Ministers’ Pension Benefit - Adopted. Resolution #3 Amend Policy on Health Insurance Subsidy for Retired Ministers, Spouses and Wid-
ows - Adopted. Resolution #4 Closing of Kahuku Hongwanji Mission – Adopted. Resolution #5 Resolution of Condolence and Appreciation for Mr. Teruo Morigaki of Papaikou
Hongwanji – Adopted. Resolution #6 Resolution of Appreciation and Condolence for the Most-Reverend Junjo Tsumura,
12th Bishop, HHMH – Adopted. Resolution #7 Extension of HHMH Financial Support for the Pacific Buddhist Academy –
Adopted with amendment Resolution #8 PBA Financial Assistance – Adopted. Resolution #9 Membership Definition – referred to the Membership & Proration Committee.
NEW BUSINESS
Maui Matsuri – May 11, 2013 Guy Hironaka and Harriet Toyama volunteered to co-chair the event. Looking for a baked goods chairper-son. Susan Emura will be in charge of decorating the booth.
Mother’s Day - Guy Hironaka volunteered to chair the brunch.
REPORTS
Minister’s Report & Announcements - Rev. Hironaka asked that work on the PA system be a priority.
Dharma Education Service Responsibilities
May (proposed)
May 5 Jr. YBA May 12 Dharma School May 19 No service (Fujimatsuri at WHM) May 26 BWA – Gotan-e Window cleaning on 5/18 – Dharma School
Facility (Maintenance) – One of the sump pumps replaced for $170.
BWA – Serving on the Maui United BWA are Kallie Keith-Agaran - 1st Vice President, Ellen Nishimura - Auditor, Joan Yokoyama – Director, Yukari Murakami – Newsletter Chair, and Pam Farnsworth – Student Exchange Chair.
Honpa Hongwanji Mission 05/18/13 - 5/19/13 – Dr. Ugo Dessi, 2013 BSC Scholar in Residence will be speaking at Lahaina on May 18 and at Wailuku on May 19 at our Fujimatsuri.
Meeting was adjourned at 8:02 p.m.
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Grateful Acknowledgments As of March 11, 2013
Thank you for your most generous donations. We are sorry if we have omitted or misspelled your name. Please assist us by calling the office (871-4732) so we can make proper corrections. Also, if you prefer your listing to be ‘Anonymous’, please let us know by indicating this desire on your check. Mahalo.
FUNERAL
In memory of Edith Taguchi Edmund & Ellen Nishimura In memory of Yasumasa Sakuma Lillian Sakuma In memory of Fusaye Dorothy Tamura Naomi Tamura & John Tamura
MEMORIAL SERVICES
In memory of Alice Sorayama (49 day) Yutaka Sorayama & family Isao & Susan Asada In memory of Sakae Mukai (25 year) Larry & Joan Yokoyama Mr. & Mrs. Roy Mukai Mr. & Mrs. Stanley Mukai Mr. & Mrs. Mel Mukai Troy & Jean Yokoyama Darin Yokoyama & Maureen Oshiro Patrick & Sue Nomura In memory of Alice Sumida (3 year) Baron Sumida James & Yvonne Nagoshi In memory of Fumie Yoshizawa (7 year) Earl & Elli Funakoshi In memory of Jamie Hozaki (49 day) Karl Hozaki Wallace & Joyce Endo In memory of Yoshio Tsuhako (13 year) Misao Tsuhako Ron & Elise Tsuhako Shirley Saffery In memory of Masako Kihara (1 year) Joe & Barbara Tanaka In memory of Janet Yaeko Yayoshi (1 year) Gail Omura
In memory of Kyoichi Abe, Haruno Abe & Matsuyo Abe (Re-burial) Alan & Beverly Abe In memory of Fumie Yoshimura (7 year) Audrey Harding Walter & Ione Tokishi Mr. & Mrs. Harold Okumura In memory of Hideyuki Matsuda David & Marilyn Matsuda (49 day) In memory of Tsuna Hiyakumoto (33 year) Satsuko Hiyakumoto Gerald Hiyakumoto Diane Ino Kenneth & Lynette Mizuo Isamu Hiyakumoto In memory of James Hozaki (1 year) Yutaka Sorayama & family
SPECIAL Thomas Abe Barbara Mende & Jeanne Tadaki Larry &Joan Yokoyama In memory of Mr. Shiro Fujimoto & Mrs. Nato Fujimoto Jane Shimada In memory of Jerry Ojiri Laura Ojiri & Donna Ojiri In memory of Patricia Boyer & Masaru & Evelyn Omori William Boyer & Erika Boyer
NEWSLETTER
Violet Nishijima
USE OF PROPERTY
Flower Arranging Class
GOLD AWARDS
Yutaka Sorayama Tomoe Sato Pat Borg Satsue Kanechika Nobuko Yamashige Yukie Kohama Diane Ino Mikiko Gushi Chieko Hiwatashi Lillian Sakuma
BWA In memory of Hideyuki Matsuda David & Marilyn Matsuda In memory of Edith Taguchi Donald & Shirleyan Yamasaki In memory of Yasumasa Sakuma Lillian Sakuma
DHARMA SCHOOL
In memory of Yasumasa Sakuma Lillian Sakuma
JR. YBA
In memory of Yasumasa Sakuma Lillian Sakuma
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IN MEMORIAM
Kahului Hongwanji Buddhist Temple extends deep sympathy and condolences to the family of the following member who passed away recently:
Fusaye Dorothy Tamura, 86 February 20, 2013
Memorial Service
A memorial service is held in gratitude for the compassion of Amida Buddha and the life of Nembutsu. It is a time for family members and friends to gather together on behalf of the de-parted person, to share their memories, and to express thankfulness and gratitude.
To make arrangements for a memorial ser-vice, please call the temple office at 871-4732.
Memorial Listing
APRIL
1 YEAR (2012) Shimizu, Tamae, 81 April 12 Yoshioka, Takashi Roy, 94 April 18 Hirano, Kiyoko, 98 April 19
3 YEAR (2011) Shiotsugu, Kimie Tsukano, 96 April 7 Makishima, Etsuro, 101 April 11 Shoda, Tsuyako, 98 April 18 Shimabukuro, Susan Kikue, 55 April 26
7 YEAR (2007) Matsumoto, Masaru, 92 April 17 Nakamura, Yoshito, 80 April 23 Okada, Sadami, 95 April 26
13 YEAR (2001) Nakagawa, Tsuruko, 91 April 1
17 YEAR (1997) Enomoto, Mitsuo, 85 April 16
25 YEAR (1989) Machiguchi, Tsuya, 89 April 21 Agena, John Hideo, 56 April 25
33 YEAR (1981) Tamura, Kurahei, 90 April 23 Tanaka, Harue, 64 April 28
50 YEAR (1964) Manju, Eiji, 75 April 20 Masunaga, Kyuichi, 85 April 25 Sasagi, Aya, 68 April 26 Ajitomi, Uto, 82 April 29
MAY
1 YEAR (2012) None 3 YEAR (2011) Sera, Nobue, 91 May 3 Tanaka, Jean Fumie, 79 May 5 7 YEAR (2007) Nakayama, Yoshio, 90 May 26 Ihara, Fumiye, 91 May 29 13 YEAR (2001) None 25 YEAR (1997) Kondo, George Yukio, 79 May 11 Murakami, Harry Toshio, 66 May 12 Isa, Hosho, 94 May 24 25 YEAR (1989) None 50 YEAR (1981) Nakamura, Iwaichi, 80 May 6 Miyamoto, Noboru, 76 May 9 Fuchikami, Tsui, 88 May 26 50 YEAR (1964) Nishiyama, Hisano, 85 May 23
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Obon Dance Practice Saturday, April 20, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Saturday, May 18, 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Kahului Community Center Annex Everyone welcome. No experience necessary. For infor-mation please call the temple office (871-4732).
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March 2013
2013 RYUKOKU UNIVERSITY – BSC SPRING SEMINAR: MARCH 21, 2013
The keynote lecturer for this year’s seminar is Prof. Nobuhiro Fukagawa of the Ryukoku University and we
are very fortunate to have PD Dr. Ugo Dessi of the University of Leipzig, Germany, the 2013 BSC Scholar in
Residence, who will be presenting one lecture.
Prof. Nobuhiro Fukagawa was born in 1953 in Yamaguchi, Japan. He gradu-
ated from the Master and Doctoral programs of Shin Buddhism (Shinshu-gaku)
in Ryukoku University graduate school. Since 1991 he has been a professor of
Ryukoku University, teaching Shin Buddhism doctrine specializing in the Propa-
gation of Shin Buddhism. He also teaches at the school of Kangakuryo with the
academic status of Shikyō. During the Ryukoku-BSC Spring Seminar 2013, Pro-
fessor Fukagawa will present a two part lecture on Shinran’s Teaching and the
Propagation Shin Buddhism (親鸞が開いた仏教と真宗の伝道). The lecture cov-
ers the overall and characteristics of Buddhism in the context of world relig-
ions, the view of human beings in Buddhism, the development of Buddhism
and Shin Buddhism, the doctrine of Shin Buddhism, and the soteriological the-
ory and significance of Shin Buddhism Teaching.
Dr. Ugo Dessi’s lecture will be about The Morality of Shin Buddhist in Japan. The lec-
ture is based upon the results of a survey that he conducted in Japan in 2008. This sur-
vey was conducted among 400 Shin Buddhist followers belonging to the Nishi Hong-
wanji and the Higashi Hongwanji. He was greatly helped by Professor Kawasoe Taishin
of Ryukoku University, who helped to facilitate the survey.
LAY ASSISTANT YOUTH RETREAT (LAY RETREAT)
With the guidance of the Ministerial Training committee, we will be having a retreat to train interested
youth in becoming Ministerial Lay Assistants for the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii. The three-day
retreat will go over ritual, doctrinal and historical teachings as well as get the opportunity to deeply re-
flect on how the teachings influence their daily lives. Participants will also get the opportunity to conduct
their own service, including leading chanting and delivering a Dharma message. Upon completion of this
retreat, participants will be presented with a Monto-shikisho and a certificate signed by the Bishop offi-
cially recognizing them as Minister’s Assistants at their respective temples.
We would like to invite interested participants who are in High School through 35 years old. However,
since the retreat requires participants to be active members of the temple who are willing to assist their
minister; an approval from their respective minister will be required.
The dates for the retreat will be from Saturday, May 25 to Monday, May 27 held at the Buddhist Study
Center. For additional information, please e-mail Jake at [email protected].
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii HEADQUARTERS UPDATE
1727 Pali Highway, Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 Phone: (808) 522-9200 Fax: (808) 522-9209
Web: www.hongwanjihawaii.com Email: [email protected]
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PROMOTION OF INTERFAITH HARMONY
On February 2, 2013, Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii co-sponsored with the kind assistance of Hawaii
Betsuin as the host site of a Hawaii Interfaith Harmony Week event planned by All Believer’s Network. Inter-
faith Harmony Week is a United Nation’s Program intended to promote Interfaith Harmony around the
World. At this Symposium, 14 Spiritual Traditions gathered to share their views and understanding to pro-
mote religious harmony and understanding. The following is a partial report by the organization’s President
Dr. Saleem Ahmed. Bishop Eric Matsumoto represented the Buddhist Tradition at this Symposium. The fol-
lowing excerpts are part of a report submitted by Dr. Saleem Ahmed about the Symposium which is taken
from The Council for a Parliament of the World Religions blog.
Speakers Shed Bias At Hawaiian Interfaith Harmony Week Symposium
“While it’s easy to highlight beauties of one’s own religion and/or point fingers at others for the world’s
problems, how often do we “fault” our religion?” “In the discussion that followed, it became clear that pas-
sages of exclusion ... in ... “discriminating religions” had a contextual basis; a basis that might no longer be
applicable.” “Instead of passing judgment against other religions based solely on a few selected passages of
exclusion found in their sacred texts and ours, we should try to understand the context in which such pas-
sages were revealed. ... Those passages were often replaced by other passages promoting inclusion.” “A
whole new set of relationships evolves when followers of various religions recognize the spiritual similari-
ties transcending religions. Then, ritualistic differences are readily accepted as culture-based observances –
which might even evolve further as humans transition from being Earth-based communities to becoming
inter-galactic pioneers – while still revering the same Reality.” “This paradigm shift in the way we look at
our own religion – from unquestioned acceptance to objective analysis – and followers of other religions –
from “lost souls” to fellow travelers on the path to the same Destination – can then strengthen our own
“interfaith quotient” and inspire us to promote interfaith harmony.”
• Another Interfaith Harmony event was held on February 7, 2013 spearheaded by Pacific Buddhist Acad-
emy, with participation by students of St. Andrew’s Priory and Hawaii Betsuin’s Hongwanji Mission
School Middle School. It took place at Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin.
UH HILO DISTINGUISHED ALUMNI AWARD GIVEN TO BISHOP ERIC MATSUMOTO
The University of Hawaii at Hilo honored Bishop Eric Matsumoto, Dr. Larry Kimura and
Ms. Valerie Takata as Distinguished Alumni and also presented Mr. Gerald De Mello
with the Distinguished Service Award. The Awards Banquet was held on February 22,
2013 at the UH Hilo Student Center Dining Room.
Konawaena High School graduate Bishop Matsumoto graduated from UH Hilo in 1983.
He was also the recipient of the prestigious Crown Prince Akihito Scholarship in 1983.
Bishop Matsumoto became the 16th Bishop of the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii
in 2011.
OAHU DISTRICT CELEBRATES SANGHA DAY
On the first Sunday in March, the Oahu Hongwanji Council annually celebrates Sangha Day, a gathering of
Oahu District temples. It was hosted this year by Wahiawa Hongwanji. The theme this was "A Sustainable
Lifestyle, Eat Local" because of the extensive exposure in our local markets as well as the press. We had a
presentation by Ho Farms with the brother and sister team of Neil and Shin Ho.
This year's celebration also recognized Wahiawa's pioneering background in agriculture from the first Cali-
fornia farmers to the Issei immigrants who worked on the pineapple plantations. They emphasized their
desire to bring fresh produce to local consumers and their products are, for example, in Costco and Food-
land. Many of us know their products, especially the cucumbers and tomatoes.
Highlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of HawaiiHighlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of HawaiiHighlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of HawaiiHighlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii————continuedcontinuedcontinuedcontinued
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Following the Ho presentation, participants had a choice of visiting three areas:
1. Visitation to the Leilehua High School Agricultural Learning Center (farm)
2. Lecture about a home hydroponics system by Ms. Karen Yamamoto
3. Games for children
This Sangha Day brought together over 200 participants who learned they can become less dependent on
imported products and support local farmers or even become small farmers themselves. We will then be-
come more interdependent and help our island economy. Success is . . . participating in an event, educa-
tion for yourself that can be passed on to others, and reflecting on Buddhist values and principles that we
can use in our daily lives.
HAWAII DISTRICT HOLDS GATHAFEST
On February 24, 2013, Kona Hongwanji Buddhist Temple hosted the 39th Annual Hawaii District Gatha-
Fest. Approximately 200 Sangha members from temples throughout the Big Island converged at our So-
cial Hall for a fun-filled day of singing selected gathas and songs.
Keeping in mind that in Buddhism, “change” or impermanence is a basic principle, we chose the Gatha-
Fest Theme, “Change in Style.” Participants were encouraged to get creative with their song selections
and/or instruments or they could choose traditional gathas. Several temples responded with “changes.”
Honokaa’s Dharma Band performed two numbers accompanied by keyboard and guitar playing. Hilo Be-
tsuin’s Dharma group sang two original gathas written and composed by BJ Soriano accompanied by a
band of ukulele players. Kona Hongwanji and The United Jr. YBA sang gathas with “Buddhistic” words re-
written by Daren Katayama to familiar tunes such as the Bon Dance song, “Beautiful Sunday” (re-titled
Namanda Beautiful Sunday) and “Lean on Me” (re-titled Amida to Lean On) respectively. In addition, the
required gatha which was sung by everyone in attendance was entitled “Everybody Was Sutra Chanting.”
Again, Daren Katayama re-wrote the words to the tune “Everybody Was Kung-Fu Fighting” from the
movie, “Kung-Fu Panda.”
To add to the entertainment, the entire Sangha was asked twice to get on their feet and dance “Gangnam
Style!” They were ably led by Kona Hongwanji Jr. YBA members, Michael Gusman and Trent Terada.
Bishop Matsumoto and his family as well as all the Big Island Ministers in attendance were all good sports
and gave their best rendition of the Korean celebrity “Psy!” Everyone had a blast!!!
The world indeed was made a happier place that day with all of the voices singing out loud in harmony
and “Change in Style!” (Article by Betty Takeoka)
KAHUKU HONGWANJI MISSION CLOSED ITS DOOR
The members and friends of Kahuku Hongwanji Mission
(Minister: Rev. Kojun Hashimoto) gathered at the tem-
ple to observe its closing service on December 31,
2012. For many years the Kahuku Hongwanji Mission
provided spiritual comfort and consolation to the Japa-
nese workers at the Kahuku Plantation. The Hongwanji
Mission was established in Kahuku with ministers from
Betsuin traveling to Kahuku. Due to the fervent desire,
a decision to build a temple was made in October 1901.
Construction was completed in May 1902 and the dedi-
cation service was conducted in July 1902. The closing
of Kahuku Hongwanji Mission (effective December 31,
2012) was formally approved at this year’s Giseikai.
Highlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of HawaiiHighlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of HawaiiHighlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of HawaiiHighlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii————continuedcontinuedcontinuedcontinued
14
Volume 7, Issue 4 OCEAN Page
Highlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of HawaiiHighlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of HawaiiHighlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of HawaiiHighlights of Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii————continuedcontinuedcontinuedcontinued
HAWAII BUDDHIST COUNCIL CELEBRATES BUDDHA DAY
Hawaii Buddhist Council which is comprised of seven Japanese Buddhist Denominations will be observing
Buddha Day to celebrate the birth of Shakyamuni Buddha on April 7, 2013 at Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii
Betsuin. The service will start at 9:00 am followed by entertainment at the Social Hall. Activity Booths,
Game Booths, and Food Booths will be provided for all the family members to enjoy. Headquarters Book-
store will open on that day. For more information, please contact HQ at 522-9200.
PACIFIC BUDDHIST ACADEMY 7TH ANNUAL TAIKO FESTIVAL
Please join us for the 7th Annual Taiko Festival, “The Winds of Change,” on Sunday, April 7, 2013 at the
Mamiya Theatre at St. Louis School with performances at 2:00pm and 6:30pm.
Celebrating our 10th Anniversary, the Pacific Buddhist Academy Ohana looks forward to many significant
changes this year: The groundbreaking of our new classroom building, the retirement of founding Head of
School Pieper Toyama and welcoming Robert Cody as our new Head of School. The Winds of Change hon-
ors these milestones by reminding us of the impermanent nature of life and the importance of viewing
change as an opportunity to learn and grow. How do we embrace the lessons of life when the winds of
change blow?
Through practice and performances, students develop teamwork, concentration, and self-discipline. Taiko
serves as a “reflective art” which helps to ground students mentally, physically and spiritually.
Under the direction of Sensei Jay Toyofuku, the students of Hyaku Sen Ki Kai Taiko (Many Rivers, One
Ocean) strive to master the art of Taiko with diligence and gratitude.
This year, we will be joined by special guest artists Ron Miyashiro and Laurie Rubin and will feature per-
formances by Hongwanji Mission School Students as well as the 2012 KZOO Radio Karaoke Grand Cham-
pion Amy Katsumoto and friends.
Please contact the office at 532-2649 to purchase tickets or for more information. Mahalo!
SADAKO CRANE EXHIBIT UPDATE
In the October 2012 issue of the Headquarters Update, information about the donation of an actual
crane/tsuru folded by Sadako Sasaki of Hiroshima by her Family to Hawaii was reported. Sadako’s
nephew, Mr. Yuji Sasaki, did the presentation at Pearl Harbor at a ceremony that was planned by the Ha-
waii Federation of Jr. YBA and our Youth Specialist Jake Chang with the National Park Service. Prior to the
presentation, Yuji Sasaki visited Hawaii Kyodan including Hongwanji Mission School and Pacific Buddhist
Academy. Since September of last year, Honpa Hongwanji has been working together with other organi-
zations in the community to realize the goal of creating a permanent display for the crane at the Valor of
the Pacific Monument. At a recent meeting attended by our President Alton Miyamoto, plans for creating
the permanent display were discussed and a plan has been proposed. We now need your support to cre-
ate this display with the message of world peace. Shortly, HQs will be sending detailed information to
Temples and Affiliated Organizations on how donations can be forwarded for this worthy cause-the pro-
motion of world peace and harmony.
DONATION TO HONPA HONGWANJI
You can now make a donation to Honpa Hongwanji through online with your Credit Card. Please visit our
website at www.hongwanjihawaii.com and click “Donation to Honpa Hongwanji” on the main page.
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and your donations are tax de-
ductible to the maximum extent allowable by law.
15
Office Phone: 871-4732
Office Fax: 877-2640
April 2013
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
1
Hanamatsuri Procla-
mation—Mayor’s
office
2
3
4
5
(Office Closed)
6
(Office Closed)
7:30 a.m
. Hosha
8:30 a.m
. BWA Meeting
7 9 a.m
. Central Maui
Hanamatsuri @
Velma McWayne San-
tos Community Center
in W
ailuku
8 6 p.m. Scouts Mtg
9
10
5:30 p.m
. 4H Mtg
11
12
(Office Closed)
13
(Office Closed)
14
9 a.m
. Family Service
(Jr. YBA)
15
6 p.m. Scouts Mtg
16
17
18
19
(Office Closed)
20 (Office Closed)
7:30 a.m
. Hosha
Window Cleaning-Jr. YBA
11 a.m. MUBWA Assembly
@ Dani’s
21
9 a.m
. Family Service
Hanamatsuri & Infants’
Initiatory Rites with
Rev Ai Hironaka
(Dharm
a School)
22
6 p.m. Scouts Mtg
6:30 p.m
. Maui
Hongwanji Council
Mtg @
KHM
23
6:30 p.m
. Board of
Directors’ Meeting
24
5:30 p.m
. 4H Mtg
25
26
(Office Closed)
27
(Office Closed)
8:30 a.m
. Hojukai
28
9 a.m
. Family Service
(BWA/Kyodan)
29
30
16
April Calendar of Events
Kahului Hongwanji Buddhist Temple 291 South Puunene Avenue Kahului, Hawaii 96732
Address Service Requested
Office: (808) 871-4732 Fax: (808) 877-2640
Email: [email protected] Website: http://kahuluihongwanji.org
Minister-in-Charge
Reverend Ai Hironaka
Kyodan President
Janet Shimada
Office Secretary
Sharon Higa
Office Hours: Sunday-Thursday
8 am—12 noon
Fri-Sat—Closed
Nokotsudo hours: daily 8 a.m.—5 p.m.
Hosha
Saturday, April 6, 7:30 a.m. Saturday, April 20, 7:30 a.m.
*********
BWA Meeting
Saturday, April 6, 8:30 a.m. **********
Central Maui Hanamatsuri Service
at Velma McWayne Santos Community Center
Sunday, April 7, 9 a.m. **********
Hanamatsuri & Infants’ Initiatory Rites
at KHM
Sunday, April 21, 9 a.m. **********
Hojukai
Saturday, April 27, 8:30 a.m. ***********
Sunday Family Service
Sundays, 9 a.m. **********
Dharma School
Sundays after service ***********
Scouts Meeting
Mondays, April 8, 15, & 22, 6 p.m. ***********
4-H Meeting
Wednesdays, April 10 & 24, 5:30 p.m. ***********
Yoga Class
For schedule contact Kallie Keith-Agaran
***********
Non-Profit Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
PERMIT NO. 37
Kahului, Hawaii
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