Do You Have `A Place of Peace`

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
“DO YOU HAVE ‘A PLACE OF PEACE’ IN YOUR HOME?”
by Shaku Horaku (Rev. Eric Matsumoto)
The May 29, 2007 issue of The Honolulu
Advertiser carried an article entitled “Place of Peace”
by Loren Moreno. The article emphasized a very
important point that may have been forgotten because
of our society’s focus on materialism—the value of a
spiritual space—something that traditionally in
Buddhist cultures was considered an integral part of
any house or home.
In the newspaper article, an artist shares, “It’s
important to have a separate space… There has to be
some sense of peace, a peaceful place just for
myself.” An interior designer suggests “create your
sanctuary within other spaces…” A yoga instructor
says, “In today’s world we’re constantly going and
receiving messages.... Physically, we have to find time
to slow down, to reflect and to process.” And finally,
a school principal responds “...personal time in a
sanctuary helps slow the mind and temporarily
removes you from the pace and struggles of life.”
The article continues, “He also encourages students
who may be facing problems in school or at home to
use the butsudan as their own space for reflection.”
“That act and space,” he said “serves as a mechanism
to change your state.” The school principal is Mr.
Pieper Toyama, Head of School of our Pacific
Buddhist Academy, who has a four-foot tall butsudan
or Buddhist altar in his office at PBA.
Traditionally, in Jodo Shinshu, we’ve always
had this “space” that the article talks about. The
space is the butsuma or Buddhist Altar Room and the
sanctuary a butsudan or Buddhist Altar. The room
VOLUME 51 - NO. 5
with the altar was considered the most important
room in the house, and it was a space shared by all
members of the family, but still a very personal place
for each family member.
The most common representation of Amida
Buddha in the Buddhist altars is the scroll painting of
Amida Buddha. Rennyo Shonin established the
custom of chanting the Shoshinge or “Gatha of True
Entrusting” and Wasan or Hymns/Poems written by
Shinran Shonin which contain the essence of Shin
Buddhist teachings. Later the tradition of reading
Rennyo Shonin’s letters or Gobunsho also became an
important part of a traditional service in Jodo
Shinshu. This was done not only at the temple, but at
home before the altar. Many of the Issei or First
Generation faithfully followed this practice of having
a Buddhist altar and chanting at home. I have heard
many Nisei or Second Generationers say how they
used to sit before the altar when they were growing
up.
But then with World War II and changing
times with different values, the custom of having a
Buddhist altar and chanting daily before it dwindled,
and the significance of the altar lessened.
Furthermore, many people have the mistaken notion
that an altar is important only after there has been a
death in the family. Please do not confuse the
butsudan or an altar for the Buddha with a senzodan
or altar for ancestors. In Jodo Shinshu, we express
our reverence and gratitude to Amida Buddha at the
altar. Out of respect for our ancestors, we place
(Continued on page 2)
AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2007
(Continued from page 1)
reminders of them such as pictures or the Family
Record Book near the altar.
The altar should be the heart or center of the
home. We encourage people to have the altar in a
central place in the house where everyone, including
visitors or guests, can access it. The ideal would be
to have the altar in a central area accessible to all but
in an area that could somehow be made private
when needed. The altar serves as a physical area or
place that members of the family can avail
themselves to express their spirituality, to affirm
their religion, or to reflect—a place to connect with
oneself and others. On one hand it is a place to get
away from the “world”, but on the other hand a
place to get more in touch with the “world.” It is a
place to laugh, to smile, to cry, to express gratitude
and awareness both as an individual or together as a
family. The altar via the Teachings is also a place to
receive inspiration and guidance. It is a place that
we share the Buddha-Dharma with each other. And
truly it is the Dharma that makes the difference in
our lives. The Buddha-Dharma provides us “Right
Understanding” based on Wisdom and Compassion
and gives us the strength and courage to endure and
overcome suffering, hardships and challenges. The
altar was probably the most apparent place that the
joy and gratitude for the Dharma was traditionally
expressed. We, today, have begun to rediscover the
importance of having a spiritual place in the home
that is different from any other room or space in the
house. Do you have “A Place of Peace” in your
home?
To conclude, I quote Mr. Toyama once
again, “In the course of the day there are lots of
things happening. ... I stop, hit the gong, say the
name of the Buddha. It most definitely slows you
down, makes you pay attention... (It provides me
with a place and) ...time to reflect and thank
everyone that brings something into my life.” As
Mas Kodani and Russell Hamada say “The most
priceless adornment that any butsudan may have is
the outpouring of gratitude for the Wisdom and
Compassion of Buddha.”
Namo Amida Butsu=Entrusting in the
Buddha of Immeasurable Life and Infinite Light.
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.
NO SUNDAY SERVICES IN AUGUST;
SERVICE RESUMES SEPT. 2.
There are no Sunday services in August.
However, please see page 5 for activities including a
Peace Seminar on August 18 and the monthly
movies for August and September!
Our regular 9:00 AM Sunday service will
resume on the September 2. Please come with
family and friends as we listen to the dharma and
enjoy fellowship in the Sangha. Dharma School
families, please note that Dharma School
registration will take place at the Hawaii Betsuin on
Sunday, August 26.
TEMPLE FELLOWSHIP ON SEPT. 9
Please join us for an Autumn Fellowship
Luncheon on Sunday, September 9. This activity for
members, guests, and friends will be from 10:00 to
2:00 PM following the 9:00 AM English Family
Service and is planned by the Membership
Committee. Please come for good food, fellowship,
and entertainment. We expect a good number of
attendees so the Committee welcomes volunteer
helpers. Please call the temple office at 949-1659.
The deadline to sign up is August 26. (A sign up
flyer will be mailed soon.)
CONCERT
FOR PEACE
On Friday, September 21, 2007 from 7:00 to
9:00 PM, come and enjoy a concert for peace at
Moiliili Hongwanji.
Performances will include
Hawaiian and Buddhist chants, Indian dance,
Cambodian music, pianist Francis Okano, the Moiliili
Hongwanji Choir and Happy Strummers, the
Hongwanji Children’s Choir and taiko by the students
of the Pacific Buddhist Academy.
This concert is presented by the Moiliili
Hongwanji Buddhist Women's Association and Jr.
Young Buddhist Association. It is open to the public
and free! For more information, call Moiliili
Hongwanji at 949-1659. Please plan to join us as we
celebrate the first Hawaii State Peace Day designated
on September 21 (as passed by the 2007 Hawaii State
Legislature through legislation introduced by the
Hawaii Federation of Jr. YBA’s). THANK YOU to
those who made donations toward the purchase of
lotus candleholders for this event.
AUTUMN EQUINOX (HIGAN) AND SEVEN
MASTERS COMMEMORATION SERVICE
Our Autumn Equinox and Seven Masters
Commemoration Service will be on Sunday,
September 23. We are very happy to welcome as
our speaker for both services, the Rev. Tatsuo
Muneto, Director of the Buddhist Study Center, who
recently served as chief minister of the Hilo Betsuin
and served as resident minister at Moiliili
Hongwanji. Please join us.
9:00 AM: English Family Service
Speaker: Rev. Tatsuo Muneto
10:30 AM: Japanese Service
Speaker: Rev. Tatsuo Muneto
ANNUAL FUNDRAISER ON OCT. 14
Moiliili Hongwanji’s annual temple fundraiser
will be held on Sunday, October 14 from 9:00 AM to
1:00 PM. Chicken and chili tickets will be mailed to
members and friends at the beginning of September,
and makizushi preorder tickets will also be available.
Thank you so much for your support in the past, and
we ask for your continued support this year.
TEMPLE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE
Dharma School
On Sunday, June 10, the annual recognition of
Dharma School students, teachers and organist took
place. Congratulations were also extended to
graduating senior Akemi Holmes.
Thank you very
much to Dharma School teachers Supervisor Donna
Higashi, Ethel Shintaku, Lily Masuda, Tamayo
Masumoto, Rona Fukumoto, and organist Noriyo
Morikubo for contributing so much time and effort to
nurture the Jodo Shinshu Onembutsu teaching in our
youth. The perseverance of the students in learning
the Onembutsu teaching is indeed inspiring.
Bon Dance
Moiliili Hongwanji had a very successful Bon
Dance on July 6 and 7. Special thanks go to Chair
Ernie Morikubo and the Bon Dance Committee, and to
the many who volunteered their help and offered
generous donations.
State Lay Convention 2007
Honpa Hongwanji State Lay Convention is
being held on September 14, 15 and 16 at the Hawaii
Betsuin. Moiliili Hongwanji is being represented by
delegates Susan Morishige, Walter Ebisu, Roy Masuda
and Shuichi Miyasaki and observer Rose Nakamura.
Thank you to all the participants.
Annual Fundraiser
The annual fundraiser for Moiliili Hongwanji
will be held on October 14 with Keith Hamao as chair.
The items for sale will include hot broiled chicken,
Zippy’s chili, and maki-zushi. Please help us to make
this event a successful one.
In gassho,
Shuichi Miyasaki, President
BON DANCE MAHALO
Waaaallllll folks, another one has
come and gone—Bon Dance, that
is. Hongwanji soul; joyful expression via
the dance route. Every year, the Bon Dance seems to
roll around quicker than the year before. Nonetheless,
this year's celebration of life went off successfully as
scheduled. There were the familiar faces of those who
come each year. Several who usually attend were
missed, and hopefully, they are alright.
Each year, the Bon Dance is the result of a
major team effort. To those of you who took the time
and made the effort, a BIG MAHALO! Sometimes
helping can get stressful but when reminded of the
purpose for this celebration, it's all good. The more
help there is, the more enjoyable it can be for
everyone because the stress will be "thinned out."
This year, we were a little shorthanded at times, but
everything went well, thanks to everyone’s pitching in
to get it done!
The Bon Dance is truly a spiritual event with
deep religious significance and a manifestation of
profound joy through dance. Although the dances and
music may change with the times, the purpose and
meaning, of which we should be well aware, remain
constant. Mahalo everyone (once again)! A-A-W-WRRIGHT!
Contributed by Ernie Morikubo
Bon Dance Chair
With Sympathy
DEEPEST SYMPATHY
Moiliili Hongwanji Mission extends its
deepest sympathy and condolences to the families of
the following who have recently passed away:
Mr. Yoshio Takenouchi, 87, on June 12
Mr. Masayuki Sato, 83, on June 15
Mr. Edward Yoshimi Kitazaki, 73, on June 28
Mr. Hisao Teraoka, 87, on July 6
Mr. Kenji Miyaki, 82 on July 9
Mrs. Tsuruko Kato Sumida, 97, on July 26
May the Onembutsu provide solace to family
members and friends during this time of sorrow.
VOLUNTEER TRAINING SESSION
Date: Saturday, August 11, 2007
Time: 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM
Place: Hawaii Betsuin Social Hall
Topic:
“Diet and Other Lifestyle
Factors for Healthy Aging: Secrets
from the World’s Longest-Lived
People”
(Okinawa Study)
Bradley Wilcox, MD, MSc with the
Pacific Health Research Institute and
Department of Geriatric Medicine, John A.
Burns School of Medicine, will speak on his
research and book of the Okinawan people
and their lifestyle which enables them to live
long healthy lives. Everyone invited. RSVP to
Project Dana at 945-3736 by Friday, July 27.
THE TALE OF CASEY (OR A SCAM THAT
FAILED)
Once upon a time - just last month in
fact - an Elder named Casey who enjoys
entering sweepstakes, received a telephone
call. The caller informed Casey that he had
just won a $25,000 cash prize. Would he be
willing to meet the company representative to
receive his winnings?
Casey, who is disabled and wheel-chair
bound, eagerly agreed. The caller emphasized
that the company representative had to
return to the East Coast the following day so
Casey was urged to be on time.
Casey
eagerly
arranged
for
transportation from Project Dana. He
reported to the meeting place in good time
only to discover no one there. In fact, he
realized that he did not know exactly whom to
report and where to report. Disappointed, he
asked to be taken home.
Soon thereafter, he received another
call. The caller apologized for not giving good
directions. Casey was asked the name of the
street where he lives.
A meeting was
arranged at the Don Quijote floral shop.
Before ending the conversation, the caller
explained that the company representative
had to extend his stay in Honolulu. Due to
the unexpected expenses, Casey was asked to
bring a $1,000 check with him.
He was
assured that the amount would be returned to
him immediately.
At this point the Fraud Unit of the
Honolulu Police was called. The Lieutenant in
charge confirmed that a scam was in progress.
He explained that any time a 'Free' contest
asks for any kind of pre-payment, the game or
contest is illegal. Thieves have been calling
from as far away as the East Coast and
Canada. Two local victims lost $50,000 and
$100,000 of their life savings. They never
received a prize!
It took quite a bit of effort to convince
Casey not to respond to the thief's calls, but
he finally did and the calls stopped.
If you are caught in a similar situation,
contact the following telemarketing fraud
resources:
• Office of Consumer Protection
(808)586-2636
• Office of the Attorney General
(808) 586-1186
• Project Phonebusters (Royal Canadian Mounted
Police)
(705) 495-8501
• Better Business Bureau
(808) 536-6956
• Federal Bureau of Investigation
(808) 521-1411
• To remove your name from a mailing list, write to:
Mai1 Preference Service
Direct Marketing Association
P.O. Box 9008
Farmingdale, NY 11735-9008
or
Telephone Preference Service
Direct Marketing Association
P.O. Box 9018
Farmingdale, NY 11735-9014
Direct Marketing Association updates
its mailing list four times yearly. Only the
companies that subscribe to the two services
are affected.
WORDS OF WISDOM
“I believe all religions pursue the same
goals, that of cultivating human goodness and
bringing happiness to all human beings.
Though the means might appear different, the
ends are the same.”
Selected quotes from His Holiness, the Dalai
Lama, from Words of Wisdom by Margaret
Gee, in 2005 Calendar, Andrews McNeel
Publishing
MOILIILI HONGWANJI OUTREACH PROGRAMS
PEACE SEMINAR
SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2007
8:30 AM—12:00 Noon
Moiliili Hongwanji Annex Hall
With Speakers:
B. Jeannie Lum, Associate Professor of Peace Education
Spark Matsunaga Institute for Peace, UH Manoa
“The Contemporary Understanding of Peace within the
United Nations’ UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific
and Cultural Organization) Program for Creating Cultures of Peace”
Dr. Robin Fujikawa, Professor of Philosophy
Kapiolani Community College
“Peace and the Buddha Dharma: Buddhist Perspective of Peace”
United Jr. Young Buddhist Association Members
Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii
“Peace Day Resolution Proposed by Jr. YBA and
Passed by the 2007 Hawaii State Legislature”
Everyone is cordially invited to attend this seminar on such an important and meaningful
topic. Please call the temple at 949-1659 for more information.
AUTUMN FELLOWSHIP & LUNCHEON
Sunday, September 9, 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM
Follows the 9:00 AM English Family Service. Food and fun. Please bring all your family and
friends. Everyone invited. Deadline to sign up: August 26. (Flyer with more information will
be forthcoming.)
AUGUST & SEPTEMBER MOVIE SCHEDULE
(Movies are shown at 7:00 PM in the Annex Hall)
August 15, Wednesday: Quill (the story of a seeing eye dog)
August 24, Friday (Children’s Night): Happy Feet
September 7, Friday (Children’s Night): Kiki’s Delivery Service
September 12, Wednesday: Letters from Iwo Jima
NOTE: H-Power Plant Tour on August 25 announced in last newsletter is canceled.
HEADQUARTERS NEWS
Double Congratulations to Rev. & Mrs. Umitani:
The second daughter of Rev. and Mrs. Toshiyuki
Umitani, Riho Mercie Umitani, was born on June 8.
In addition, Rev. and Mrs. Umitani are permanent
residents of the United States as of June 18.
Condolence:
Mr. Kazuki Okura, member of Honomu Hongwanji
and an Honorary Advisor of the Honpa Hongwanji
Mission of Hawaii passed away on June 10 at the
age of 92. Ingo, KI-JYO-IN.
Mr. Clinton Gault, father of Rev. Mary David
passed away on June 14.
Mrs. Shizuka Murakami, mother of Rev. Shinkai
Murakami, passed away on June 20.
Personnel: Rev. Shoji Matsumoto, an Associate
Minister of Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin, will
be assigned to Kona Hongwanji as its Resident
Minister effective September 1.
Shinran Shonin’s 750th Memorial Service:
Shinran Shonin’s 750th Memorial will be held at
Honzan (Mother Temple), Kyoto, from April 2011
to January 2012. Rev. Koho Takata, General Chair,
formed a Central Committee to plan and carry out
the Memorial Service and Project in Hawaii. The
750th Memorial Service for Shinran Shonin in
Hawaii will be observed in 2009. If you have
suggestions or ideas for this once-in-a-lifetime
commemorative event, please feel free to contact
Rev. Takata at [email protected] or 522-9200.
750th Anniversary Slogan: “May peace and
tranquility prevail throughout the world.”
Support our Pacific Buddhist Academy:
The Pacific Buddhist Academy’s second
annual awards banquet, Lighting Our Way, will be
held at the Sheraton Waikiki on Friday, October
26, 2007. Honorees who have contributed to our
community by demonstrating leadership rooted in
compassion and an awareness of interdependence
include VADM Robert K. U. Kihune, USN (Ret.),
Yoshiharu Satoh, Shinichi Shiotsuka and Corporate
Honoree KTA Super Stores. Tables as well as
individual seats are available and donations are
welcome. For more information, call PBA AT 5227395 or email [email protected]
NEMBUTSU RETREAT
The 2007 Honolulu District Nembutsu
Seminar will be held Saturday and Sunday,
October 27 and 28. The speaker will be the Rev.
William Masuda. Please save the dates!
WELCOME TO NEW MEMBERS
A warm and hearty welcome is extended to the
following who have recently joined our Temple
Sustaining (Gojikai) Membership:
Ms. Lois Ohta
Mr. and Mrs. Jimmy and Sharon Kitazaki
Mrs. Juliet Lee
We look forward to seeing you 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. The schedule is
listed below (the speaker’s name is listed first,
followed by the sponsor):
Aug. 11: Rev. Koho Takata (Mrs. Yoshiko Ebisu)
Aug. 18: Rev. Arthur Marutani (Mrs. Michie Hamao)
Aug. 25: Rev. Shigeaki Fujitani (M/M. Makoto
Kunimune)
Sept. 1: Rev. Toshio Murakami (Mrs. Michiko
Morikubo)
Sept. 8: Dr. Alfred Bloom (Messrs. Alan & Gene
Yokota)
Sept. 15: Rev. Eric Matsumoto (M/M. Toshimasa
Tando)
Sept. 22: Ms. Kathi Takakuwa (Mesdames June
Matsumoto, Jean Sato, and Karen Murakami)
Sept 29: Rev. Yoshiaki Fujitani (Mr. Reese Morikubo)
You’re also invited to tune in to KZOO for the
Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin’s radio program on
Saturday at 7:30 AM (Japanese) and Sunday at 10:00
AM (English). Mahalo to our speakers, our sponsors
and our volunteer staff for making this program
possible.
AFFIRMATION RITES
The annual Affirmation Rites sponsored by the
Honolulu Hongwanji Council will be held on Sunday,
September 30 at 11:00 AM at Hawaii Betsuin. The
fee is $50 and the deadline to register is July 31.
Please call the Hawaii Betsuin for more information.
Buddhist Women’s Association
NEWS
Important Dates:
Please mark your calendars for the following:
Saturday, Sept. 22: Honolulu United BWA Annual
General Membership Meeting hosted by Jikoen
BWA. More information will be mailed to members.
Sunday, Sept. 30, 10:30 AM: MHBWA General
Meeting following the 9:00 AM Service
Special Mahalo
Wendy Nakanishi taught us how to make
wrist O-nenju on June 24, 2007 following the general
meeting. It was a very satisfying and fruitful
afternoon.
Bon Activities News
Mahalo to BWA members for your kokua
with the Bon Dance (see below) and for your help
with the choba and refreshment for Bon Mairi
services.
Autumn Fellowship
Please join old and new members of the
temple and affiliated organizations for a fun event on
Sunday, September 9th, following the morning
service. A BBQ lunch as well as a meaningful
program is being planned. Watch for news.
“A Concert for Peace”
The MHBWA is co-sponsoring this event
with the Moiliili Jr. YBA. Spearheaded by new
members, Joy Miyasaki and June Harrigan-Lum, and
assisted by Kathi Takakuwa, plans are progressing
nicely for MHM’s Concert for Peace on Friday,
September 21, from 7:00 - 9:00 PM. Close to 150
candleholders have been ordered and will shine at
our temple as a symbol of peaceful wishes
throughout the world.
Contributed by Donna Higashi
Gokurousama, Bon Odori Kitchen Helpers!
I saw a living "Golden Chain of Love" in
action on Friday, July 6th and Saturday, July 7th in
our Hongwanji kitchen. It was humbling and
inspiring to see our BWA women work so hard and
put together four dinners for workers and dancers
over the two nights. At the 10:30 p.m. dinner, 100+
folks were fed on each night!
On their feet for many hours, the "shower cap
gang" were still able to laugh, dance (Tanko Bushi
around the kitchen work island) and enjoy each other
as they chopped away preparing all the delicious
gochisou. The average age?....75+. Thank you all for
your untiring efforts to make Bon Odori 2007
a success...once again.
The "shower cap gang" included: Lily
Muraoka, Sue Sonoda, Kathleen Komo, Ethel
Shintaku, Nancy Hironaka, Karen Murakami, Ethel
Miyashiro, Grace Yamamoto, Liz Matsumoto, Betsy
Nishioka, Betty Koseki, Rose Nakamura, Helen
Hamasu, Alice Shiroma, Jean & Ken Sato, and
myself. Many of these same folks also donated
ingredients, fruits and snacks for the dinners.
Hontouni gokurousama deshita! You helped make
many workers and dancers happy.
Contributed by Lois Ohta
PACIFIC RIM COLON CANCER
AWARENESS THROUGH CONGREGATIONS
AND MOLIILI HEALTH AND WELLNESS
Are you enjoying the extra daylight hours of
summer? We all need Vitamin D for healthy bones.
We need at least 15 minute daily of sunshine. If you
are going to be out longer than 15 minutes, be sure to
put on your sunscreen.
American Cancer Society says August is
Childhood Cancer Awareness month, and September
is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness and Leukemia and
Lymphoma Awareness month. Check it out.
The Pacific Rim Colon Cancer Awareness
Through Congregations second telephone survey is
almost completed for Moiliili. Thank you for
participating and responding to this 3-year study.
We need to eat legumes as part of a healthy diet.
Did you know that draining and rinsing a can of beans
before adding it to your recipe will reduce the sodium
content? Also, if you add a tablespoon of vinegar
when cooking dried beans, the “gas” will be reduced.
Cooking Smart (American Cancer Society Recipe)
White Bean, Red Onion, and Tomato Salad
1 16-oz can white beans
1 Tbsp olive oil
Salt and fresh ground pepper to taste
2 ripe tomatoes, seeded and diced
1/4 c red onion, diced
2 Tbsp fresh oregano or 2 tsp dried oregano
Place beans into a small bowl, add olive oil, salt
and pepper mixing gently. Add tomatoes, onion and
oregano and toss to mix. Makes 4 servings. Approx.
per serving: 174 calories, 6 grams of fat
Contributed by Helen Hamasu
OINK’S PORK CHOPS
Three Cheers. 50th Jr. YBA State
Convention.
Moiliili Hongwanji’s Jr.
YBAers were recognized at the
Awards Banquet on June 30th at Ala
Moana Hotel.
Jonathan G. placed first in the
Oratorical Contest. Ryne M. placed first in the Essay
Contest. Nikiya T. placed second in the Art Contest.
Way to go Moiliili!
Mahalo to the officers, advisors and all the
committee members for coordinating this year’s State
Convention. Many thanks also go to all the alumni,
advertisers, donors, manpower assistants and happi
coat sewers. It’s “on the road” to Hilo next year, to
begin the next 50 years!
Dharma School Recognition.
Akemi H. was recognized as this year’s high
school graduate. She matriculated at Iolani and is off
to Michigan State University in the fall. Good luck,
Akemi!
Service Time.
You’ll never know what to expect until you
come to temple service. Rev. Ai Hironaka of Aiea
Hongwanji was our guest speaker at the O’Bon Family
Service on July 15th. He left the congregation in
stitches as he talked about his arrival in Hawaii and
related it to his Dharma message. Sources say the
Japanese service was just as hilarious. Another Augie
T. in the making with a “twist of Buddhism”?
Photogenic Clicks.
The Honolulu Advertiser’s July 18-24, 2007
issue of Honolulu People/Honolulu Faces recently
published photos of members and friends of Moiliili
Hongwanji at our Bon Dance on July 6th and 7th. The
stars featured were Alice Shiroma, Betty Dela Cuesta,
Wally Oda and family, Walter Ebisu, George Sonoda
and the Roy Matsumoto family members. Smile, you
never can tell when you’ll be in the news.
Tidbits. Earth Day article in May 2007 White Way
Issue.
“If everyone used one less napkin a day, think
how many trees we could save.” Correct. But just
think how many more trees we could save if
advertisers stop mailing us all that “junk” mail. Right?
Bed Bugs?
A Project Dana site coordinator suggested this
method of getting rid of bed bugs at the April 2007
Advisory Committee meeting. “…wash all bedding
and clothes in hot water. Spraying kills the adult bugs
but not the eggs. Steaming will kill the eggs.
Steaming device can be bought at As Seen on TV
Store.” As they say, “Don’t let the bed bugs bite.”
A Final Word.
“See You in September”…at the Autumn
Fellowship Cookout. Free grindz, drinks, talk story
time and fun. So see you all on September 9th!
HAPPY STRUMMERS NEWS
Many groups and organizations visit Hale
Pulama Mau to entertain the residents there. On June
10, the Happy Strummers had the pleasure of
meeting about a hundred eager fans.
The Strummers prepared ten pieces of
nostalgic Hawaiian, American and Japanese
melodies. Moiliili Hongwanji Karaoke singers also
brought their talents. Betsy and Tommy Nishioka and
Millie and Bucky Matsuoka belted out their karaoke
renditions.
Moiliili Hongwanji will be celebrating its first
Peace Day Event called “A Concert for Peace” on
September 21. Several temple and community
members will present musical numbers to celebrate
the occasion. The Happy Strummers are practicing a
piece called Splendor of an Evening Sky for its part
in the program. The last lines of the gatha read:
“Ever watchful over us throughout day and night.
Hearing this my lonely heart fills with lasting peace.”
Contributed by Michiko Motooka
Moiliili's choir worked hard preparing for the
2007 Choralfest held at the Honpa Hongwanji
Hawaii Betsuin on Saturday, August 4th and Sunday,
August 5th. Under the direction of Nola Nahulu, 140
voices from Hongwanji temples throughout the State
practiced together for one day and then performed at
the Betsuin's 10:00 AM Sunday service on August
5th. Two years ago, several Moiliili choir members
experienced the dynamic directing of Ms. Nahulu.
This year 11 members participated in this 2nd
Choralfest. Five beautiful gathas were selected: In
Bloom (Saki Ni Ou), Within the Light (Hikari no
Nakani), Nembutsu, The Law of Change and The
Golden Chain of Love—the last two songs written
by Hawaii folks. We happily welcomed the voice of
Michi Motooka to our choir for this special event,
and our own choir director, Edwin Tanaka, switched
positions lending his beautiful tenor voice to this
one-day special statewide Hongwanji choral event.
Contributed by Lois Ohta
August 2007
2007 Slogan: “Embraced by the Vow:
In Deep Listening
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
1
Temple……..….949-1659
Pre-School….....946-4416
Thu
2
Fri
3
Sat
4
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
8:00 AM - Choralfest
Workshop at Betsuin
6:00 PM - Karate
5
6
7
8
9:30 AM - Ministerial Train- 10:00 AM - Franciscan
ing Committee Mtg. at
Visitation
BSC
10:00 AM CHORALFEST SERVICE
At Betsuin
9
10
11
10:30 AM - Maunalani
Visitation
10:15 AM - Oahu Care
Visitation
3:00 PM - Concert for
Peace Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
12
13
9
19
14
15
9:30 AM - Living Treasures Mtg.
11:30 AM - United Jr. YBA
Meeting
State Tokudo Training
Session at BSC
7:30 PM - Temple Board
Meeting
1:30 PM - BWA Conv.
Booklet Mtg.
State Tokudo Training
Session at BSC
6:00 PM - Karate
16
10:00 AM - Hawaii Kai
Retirement
17
Admission Day
(Holiday)
18
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
8:30 AM - 12 noon Annual Seminar
6:00 PM - HAIB Board
Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
20
7:00 PM - Movie Night
“Quill”
21
22
7:30 PM - Membership
Meeting
23
24
9-11 AM - Japan students
Orientation at MH &
Project Dana
9:00 AM - Ministers’ Mtg.
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
26
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
27
5:30 PM - HQ Budd. Ed.
Meeting
7:00 PM - Honolulu Hongwanji Council Mtg.
28
29
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
9:00 AM - Dharma School
Registration at
Betsuin
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
7:30 PM - Membership
Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
30
3:00 PM - 750th Mtg. at
Betsuin
7:00 PM - Movie Night
“Happy Feet”
31
9:00 AM - Minister Session
With Prof. Naito
6:00 PM - Preschool Open
House
6:00 PM - Karate
25
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
9:00 AM - Power Plant
Excursion
September 2007
2007 Slogan: “Embraced by the Vow:
In Deep Listening
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Temple……..….949-1659
Pre-School….....946-4416
Project Dana…..945-3736
Thu
Fri
Sat
1
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
9:00 AM - Project Dana
20th Anniversary
Meeting
2
3
Labor Day
(Holiday)
4
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Minister’s Study
Session at BSC
9:00 AM - English Service
5
6
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
7:30 PM - Temple Board
Meeting
9
10
11
10
9:00 AM - English Service
Membership Autumn
Fellowship
12
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
8
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
\
9:00 AM - HI Kyodan Board
Meeting at Betsuin
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
7
6:00 PM - Karate
13
10:00 PM - Franciscan
Visitation
7:00 PM - Children’s Movie
“Kiki’s Delivery Service”
14
15
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
22
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
10:30 AM - Maunalani
Visitation
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
7:00 PM - Bonbu Club
16
17
18
9:00 AM - English Service
7:00 PM - Movie Night
“Letters from Iwo Jima” 6:00 PM - Karate
19
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
20
21
HUHHBWA Membership
Meeting at Jikoen
9:00 AM - Ministers’ Mtg.
United BWA Rep. Mtg.
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Membership
Committee Meeting
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
Autumn Ohigan Svc
23 Speaker:
Rev. Muneto 24
5:30 PM - HQ Buddhist Ed
Meeting
25
9:00 AM - Eng. Service
10:30 AM - Japanese Serv.
9:00 AM - English Service
10:30 AM - MHBWA Mtg.
11:00 AM - Affirmation Rite
at Betsuin
30
26
9:15 AM - Preschool
Keiki Service
27
10:00 AM - Hawaii Kai
Retirement
6:00 PM - Karate
7:30 PM - Choir Practice
7:00 PM - Bonbu Club
6:00 PM - Karate
7:00 PM - “A Concert For
Peace”
28
29
8:30 AM - Tai Chi
9:00 AM - Project Dana
Advisory Comm. Mtg.
In Appreciation
TO THE TEMPLE:
5/30 Hisayo Hironaka
6/1
6/1
6/2
6/2
6/3
6/4
6/5
6/5
6/5
6/5
6/5
6/5
6/5
6/10
6/10
6/14
6/15
6/17
6/18
6/18
6/18
6/22
6/22
6/25
6/25
6/26
6/27
6/27
6/28
6/28
6/29
6/29
7/2
7/2
7/3
7/3
7/7
7/9
Barbara Tong
Ralph Okumura
Tasuku Matsushima in memory of Roy Tadao
Kimura
Alice Hayashi in memory of Mosaku Nakamoto &
Shizuyo Nakamoto
Richard & Thelma Ando
Kumiko Carlin
Martha M. Hirashima in memory of Masaichi &
Shizuyo Hirashima
Vanessa M. Huff in memory of Masaichi &
Shizuyo Hirashima
Judy Y. Hiramshima in memory of Masaichi &
Shizuyo Hirashima
Iris H. Hirashima in memory of Masaichi &
Shizuyo Hirashima
K. Sayle Hirashima in memory of Masaichi &
Shizuyo Hirashima
X Press Distribution. Inc. in memory of Masaichi
& Shizuyo Hirashima
X Press Trucking in memory of Masaichi &
Shizuyo Hirashima
Karen Kikukawa
Eugene Makino
Misaye Takehara
Don, Joyce & Glenn Arakaki in memory of
Charles & Chiyoko Arakaki & Leiona Jardine
Clara Uechi
Richard Kawasaki
Yashiki
Donna Higashi
Lynn T. Tam
Walter Kaiura
Tulane Ebisu in memory of deceased family
members
James K. Wasa for first Obon for Shigeo Wasa &
George Nobuo Wasa
Susumu Kato in memory of Shinnojo Kato 50th
memorial year
Mashiko Abe for Hatsubon in memory of Richard
M. Abe
Richard Imaino in memory of mother, Kio
Imaino
Jimmy Kitazaki
Edwin K. Horimoto for Obon in memory of
Sherrod & Lorraine Horimoto
Violet Mimaki for Obon in memory of Kio Imaino
Thelma Hirata in memory of Hisae Takamori
Sharon Katada in memory of Takio & Shizuka
Katada
Violet Ishida in memory of Larry F. Ishida
Tasuku Matsushima in memory of Shizuko
Matsushima
Hank Akimoto for Obon in memory of Ruth M.
Akimoto
Brian Taniguchi for Bon Dance
Kiyoshi Shigefuji
7/9
7/9
7/9
7/10
7/10
7/11
7/11
7/12
7/13
7/14
7/15
7/14
7/16
7/16
7/18
7/18
7/19
7/19
Richard Schenley/Mieko Kaseda in memory of
Jane Hatta
Yoshio Hanamoto for Obon in memory of Moichi
& Kikuyo Hanamoto
George & Jane Tom for Obon in memory of Helen,
Momi, Pat & Eddie Ogata
Glenn Yamauchi
Eleanor S. Ando in memory of Yoshinobu Ando
Peggy Arita for Obon in memory of Tsunesaburo
& Same Kubota
Junichi Suzurikawa in memory of Kay N.
Suzurikawa
Lillian F. Shiraki for Obon in memory of Iwao &
Chieko Matsumoto
Mildred Mowaa for Obon in memory of Kihachi,
Suma & Nobuo Tanoue
Eugene Makino
Fujie Sato, Sharol & Milton Deguchi, Earlynn & Brian
Isa in memory of Masayuki Sato
Dorothy Ogawa in memory of Takeshi Ogawa
Frances Nishita for Obon in memory of Haito
Nishita
Fumiko Saito
Charlotte Takishima
E. Tanaka
Masao Tamura for Obon in memory of
Tsunetaro & Tsuji Tamura
Kazuko Choy in memory of Tsuchiya Yaeko
TO THE NOKOTSUDO:
6/3
6/14
6/26
7/7
7/11
7/14
7/15
7/16
7/16
Richard & Thelma Ando
Honest H. Uyeno
Charles & Suyeko Koyanagi
Elaine Miyamoto in memory of Matsuichi, Shin,
& Terato Miyamoto
Doris M. Hasegawa in memory of Kenji & Yaeko
Inase
Yasuhiko Kawawaki
Bessie Tanaka
Glen & June Matsumoto
Lily Y. Muraoka
TO THE BWA:
5/30
6/1
7/13
7/15
Hisayo Hironaka
Richard & Thelma Ando
Donna Higashi
Bessie Tanaka
TO PROJECT DANA:
Hawaii Betsuin BWA, Honolulu United BWA, Ifuku Family
Foundation, Japanese Women’s Society Foundation, Nuuanu
Congregational Church.
R. & T. Ando, J. Aquino, B. Canon, M. Fukumoto, S.
Kanazawa in memory of Yoshiko Takushi, A. Kie, A.
Kobayashi, E. Kuyaoka, G. Okamoto, M. Pang, S. Shintaku,
T. Sasaki, T. Takishita in memory of Chiye Takishita, A.
Toshima, G. Turner, W. Uesato, T. Yoshida, T. Young.
TO DHARMA SCHOOL:
6/3
Richard & Thelma Ando
TO THE WHITE WAY:
6/13 Janice Kochiyama
7/7 Elaine Miyamoto
ADDITIONAL GOTANE DONATIONS:
.
.
Tatsuki Shiramizu
Betsy Yoshimura
ADDITIONAL EARTHQUAKE DONATIONS:
Michie Hamao, Betty Koseki, Ellen Ryusaki, T. Shiramizu, Alice
Tanaka.
OBON DONATIONS:
C. Matano, Gladys & Ben Sugawa, Jane C. Tamura.
Shunji Adachi, Kishie Fujioka, Melvin M. & Judith T. Fukumoto,
Kazuto Kadokawa, Hiroshi & Janet Kato, Richard K Kawasaki,
Karen Kikukawa, Natsuko Kunimune, Barry I. Maeda, Janet Sato,
Roy Sesoko, T. Shiramizu, Kenji Tsuruda, Ed & Vee Uwaine.
Toshimasa Tando.
Donna Higashi, Thomas & Patsy Ideue, Sharon Katada, Florence
Matsui, Edward S. Tagawa, K. Takakuwa, Junko Yokoyama.
Richard & Thelma Ando, Junji Dote, Ichiro Fukumoto, Michie
Hamao, Wallace & Nancy Hironaka, Rex Horita, S. Kashiwamura,
Akiko Kie, Thomas Kondo, Bert Maedo, Eugene Makino, R. Masuda,
June Matsumoto, Tasuku Matsushima, James Mimuro, Melvin
Murakami, Lily Y. Muraoka, Rose & Gwen Nakamura, Myrtle
Nakasato, Ruth Okada, Donald Okano, Ken Sato, Roy & Nancy
Shimamoto, Helene Uyemura, Honest Uyeno, K. Yamamoto, Milton
T. Yamasaki, Mitsue Yokota, Chieko Yoshida.
Amy H. Amazaki, Yoshiko M. Ebisu, Shinji Futa, Sumie Hamamoto,
Edith N. Horii, Tad & Irene Iimura, Reiko Izumi, Walter Kaiura, S.
Kashiwamura, Wayne N. Kato, O. Kawabata, Nancy K. Kouzuki,
Charles Koyanagi, Florence Matsumura, Ethel Miyashiro, Adeline M.
Morihara, Michiko Motooka, Tsuneo & Fusaye Muramaru, N. K.
Nakatsuka, David Nekotani, Fumie Nogami, C. Nomura, Kiyoko
Okada, Doris A. Okamoto, Yaeko Onuma, M. Shiraki, Shigeo
Sorakubo, Asako Takane, Janet Umeda, R. Urata, Sharen Uyeunten,
Yayoi Wasa, J. Watari, Kenneth Yamaguchi, Satomi Yoshimoto.
Delma Kiyomoto, Murata, Takashi Tanaka, Richard Teramoto,
Alan T. Yokota, Gene K. Yokota, Bessie Yoshimura.
M. Abe, Laura Aoki, Chiyono Ebisu, Geroge H. Furukawa, Ethel
Hasegawa, T. Hasuike, Toshiyuki Hiranaga, Elaine Hirashima,
Florence M. Hirata, Kay Hironaka, George & Mary Inamura, Alan
Kagawa, Fred H. Kajioka, Yukiko Kajiwara, Fumiko Kanazawa,
Minoru Kanemoto, Kathleen Komo, H. Kumagai, Michiko Kurokawa,
Yusei Matsui, I. Mikuni, Elaine Miyamoto, Tsuneyoshi Miyashiro,
Hiroji Miyazaki, Momoyo Miyazaki, Gertrude Morishige, Doris E.
Muraoka, Carolyn Y. Murashige, Shizue Nagao, K. Nagatani, Tomie
Nakahara, Miyeko Nakamoto, E. Nakamura, Misae Nakamura, W.
Nakanishi, Midori Narahara, Millie Nishida, Florence Nishino,
Aimee E. Nishioka, Torao Noguchi, Koyumi Y. Oda, L. Ohta,
Hiroko Okubo, Philip T. Okubo, Ellen Ryusaki, Tsuyuko Sasaki, S.
& E. S. Shintaku, G. & S. Sonoda, Elsie Sunada, Harumi K. Suzuki, I.
Takamura, Alice Tanaka, Ushio Tsukazaki, G. Uemura, Chieko
Yoshimura.
Thelma M. Kobayashi, Mildred T. Nakagawa, Elsie Y. Okino, Fusae
Oshio, K. Shigemoto, Baron C. Taira, Howard T. Takaki, Shizue
Tanaka, Hazel Yonamine.
NOTE: Donations made at the choba table for the joint family
Bon services during Bon Mairi week are not listed in the Bon
Donations. Please call the temple office at 949-1659 if you have
any questions. Mahalo.
MAHALO FROM JR. YBA
The Junior Young Buddhist Association held
its 50th Annual State Convention in Honolulu at the
Ala Moana Hotel on June 29th-July 1st, 2007.
The United Jr. YBA of Honolulu would like to
express our deepest appreciation and gratitude to the
members of Moiliili Hongwanji who helped us make
our convention a very memorable one. We would like
to thank those who have given donations, helped out
with our community service project, been a part of our
convention planning, and alumni and friends who
participated.
This year to commemorate our 50th
anniversary, we decided to include a Jr. YBA happi
coat in every participant’s registration packet. This
would not have been possible without the help of some
of our wonderful Moiliili Hongwanji members. We
would like to thank Nancy Hironaka, Anne Kawabata,
Iris Miyagi, Noriyo Morikubo, Susan Morishige,
Yaeko Onuma, Ethel Shintaku, and Ruth Takemoto for
taking time out of their busy schedules to help sew the
happi coats.
We would also like to give a BIG MAHALO
to advisors Joy Wasai Nishida, Ann Ishizu, Lily
Masuda, Alisa Kondo and Rev. Eric Matsumoto for
helping us plan for this convention. They worked very
hard to keep things going with our meetings and our
convention planning. Without their help, this
convention would have not been possible.
Thank you also to:
Melvin and Ruth Takemoto for helping out with our
hospitality committee with all the wonderful breakfast
and snacks provided. They also provided and set up
the shave ice and snacks at the community service
project at Ala Moana Park.
Rona Fukumoto and Alisa Kimura for planning the
games at the community service project.
Roy Masuda for helping with the transportation of
luggage to and from the airport.
Noriyo Morikubo and Ernie Morikubo for cutting all
the happi coat patterns and providing invaluable
advice for the sewing of happi coats.
Jeanne Watari & Anne Kawabata for helping out with
our services committee and always supporting the Jrs.
Moiliili Hongwanji Kyodan and BWA for the generous
ad donations for the Convention booklet and for the
unwavering support provided over the years.
We apologize if we inadvertently missed any
names of the people who supported us. Thank you
again, for all who have helped with our 50th Jr. YBA
State Convention. We greatly appreciate your love and
support for the Juniors. (Contributed by Alisa Kondo)
PRESERVING BUDDHISM IN HAWAII
By Ryne Masuda
50th Jr. YBA State Convention Winning Essay
How can we preserve Buddhism in Hawaii for
the next generation? That is a big question facing the
youth of today. With that in mind, the United of
Honolulu selected the theme “Golden Chain of
Generations” for the 50th Jr. YBA State Convention.
The United of Honolulu picked the theme
“Golden Chain of Generations” because we are
celebrating 50 years of existence of the Jr. YBA. The
Jr. YBA lasted this long because many teens wanted to
learn about Buddhism and believed that Buddhism
could be “stretched around the world”. Do teens of
today believe this? It’s hard to say. I feel that some
teens enjoy learning about Buddhism and like to
socialize with others. On the other hand, many young
people today are too involved in their own activities
and don’t care about Buddhism.
When the 21st century came, membership in
the Hongwanji system in Hawaii began to drop
because the members became older and frail. Dr.
George J. Tanabe, Jr. stated in his article, “The Future
of Buddhism in Hawaii” that “the future of any
organization lies in its youth, and younger people are
not going to temples at a high enough rate to sustain
them”. I truly agree with him. Younger people aren’t
coming to temple because they have other
commitments on Sundays, not interested, it does not
relate to them.
That is not the only problem. There is also a
shortage of ministers in Hawaii.
The Honpa
Hongwanji Hawaii Kyodan often has to request
ministers from Honzan in Japan, our main temple
headquarters. Often, ministers are not bilingual and
there is a language and cultural barrier. A shortage of
ministers often means ministers must double up duties
at multiple temples, which takes time away from their
families. These issues have been discussed for the last
25 years, but we have not been able to resolve it. What
should we do?
One positive thing is that Moiliili Hongwanji
Mission has acted on taking care of the elderly and
began a nonprofit organization called Project Dana.
Project Dana helps the frail and elderly who are
homebound. It was founded in 1989. To this day,
Project Dana has expanded to the neighbor islands.
Because of Project Dana, the community has become
more aware of the Buddhist temples and Buddhism.
Another positive outreach to the public that
happened this year was the Hanamatsuri Buddha Day
Service at Kapiolani Bandstand. We opened up the
event to the public so others can learn about Buddhism.
How can the Junior Young Buddhist
Association do its part to preserve Buddhism in
Hawaii? In my opinion, we need to expand our
program and make ourselves known. We need to find
activities that will bring out the youth so that we can
form bonds and come to temple for services and
activities. Activities such as Y.E.S.S. Camp and the
annual Jr. YBA Convention should definitely be
continued.
I think that temples with a preschool program
should encourage and invite the preschool students and
their parents to temple. That is the beginning. We
should encourage developing other youth organizations
so the public will be able to participate in the
organizations as well as become familiar with
Buddhism and the temple. Organizations in the
Hongwanji system such as Girl/Boy Scouts, 4-H,
martial arts and others, should be encouraged at the
temples. Also I feel that we should build our ties with
the high school students at Pacific Buddhist Academy.
We should encourage the students to attend Y.E.S.S
Camps and Jr. YBA conventions.
Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Kyodan should
build a strong relationship with Honzan and ask for
more funds to help Buddhism in Hawaii. The money
could be used for increasing ministers’ salaries,
funding programs and activities to bring out more
youth, and publicizing Buddhist events and workshops.
Without the support from Honzan, Buddhism in
Hawaii will not last in the future.
A life experience that happened recently was
when I visited the Big Island. During my stay, I visited
Papaaloa Hongwanji Mission.
Most of the
congregation at Papaaloa Hongwanji Mission are
elderly people. Many of them were born and raised in
Papaaloa and are lifelong Buddhists. They said that
before, high school students would graduate and work
on the Big Island. However today, many sugar
plantations are shutting down and other job
opportunities are limited. Many students are not
returning after college to work on the Big Island.
Papaaloa Hongwanji Mission is feeling the effects of it.
Before, their membership was up to 200 but today,
their membership is down to 56. I was very surprised.
How can they survive for another 50 years?
I feel that we need to act now. We cannot wait
another 15 to 20 years. By then the temples would
have shut down and it would be difficult to revive
them. We need to publicize Buddhism, attract more
young people with various activities, educate the
public about Buddhism, and spread the word and invite
friends to the temple and Jr. YBA. We need to
preserve Buddhism for the next 50 to 100 years!
MORE THANKS FROM THE JR.
YBA..
Jr. YBA had a very successful
Bon dance this year. Thank you to
everyone who helped make mochi in the
sweltering heat. The delicious mochi
sold out very early both Friday and Saturday nights!
Also, on both nights, lines were busy for shave ice.
Thank you to everyone who helped support the Jr.
YBA by buying shave ice. Despite the hard work
and hot weather we came together and had a fun
time.
Contributed by Kayo Brown
DHARMA SCHOOL NEWS
PTA’s Bon Dance Concession
Special thanks to the PTA parents and
students for helping at this year's Bon Dance. We
always need a lot of help, and this year was no
exception. With everyone's cooperation the food
booth did very well.
2007-2008 New School Year
On August 26, returning and new Dharma
School students are encouraged to join Hawaii
Betsuin and Jikoen students at a Registration Kickoff at Hongwanji Mission School site. Fun activities
including team sports, swimming and “picnic” type
lunch will be provided. More details will be
forthcoming.
Congratulations, Jr. YBA, for Successful 50th State
Jr. YBA Convention!
Oratorical contest winner - Jonathan Gates
Essay contest winner - Ryne Masuda
Art Contest, 2nd place - Nikiya Takemoto
Jr. YBA Advisor - Mrs. Lily Masuda
Contributed by Donna Higashi
HAWAII PUBLIC RADIO SPECIAL ON OBON
Tune in to a special Hawaii Public Radio
special broadcast by Keith Haugen detailing the
background, meaning and history of Obon dances,
Sunday, August 12, 2007, 6 to 7 PM, KHPR 88.1
in Honolulu, KKUA 90.7 in Wailuku, and KANO
91.1 in Hilo.
BON DANCE MAHALO: Thank you to
members and friends for your generous Bon
Dance donations and for MANY donations for
the concession and the kitchen. MAHALO!
Summer school started on June 30,
2007. It's been a busy and fun-filled six
weeks! We welcomed many new friends to
Moiliili Hongwanji Preschool.
Waterplay days kept us cool during
the month of June. We enjoyed splashing at
the watertable, playing in the sprinklers and
sliding on a water mat.
Our excursion to Bishop Museum was
educational and fun. We built cars out of
lego and raced model race cars at the "Speed"
exhibit, and learned about volcanoes at the
Science Adventure Center. The 4 year-old
classes also learned about the moon at the
planetarium show, Moonwitch.
We had an exciting visit to the Waikiki
Aquarium where we saw a variety of sea
animals. Our favorite exhibits were the
tanks filled with a variety of graceful
jellyfish, the shark tank which included some
enormous fish, and the edge of the reef tank
where a hermit crab crawled on our hands
and we touched spiny sea urchins and a sea
cucumber.
We celebrated America's birthday and
the Bon Festival in July and ended the
summer with two special event days. On the
last two days of summer school we enjoyed a
waterplay and shave-ice day on one day, and
a visit from the Keiki Ola Storytellers and
McDonald's Happy Meal lunch on the next
day.
To
all
of
our
graduates,
congratulations and best wishes for a happy
and successful kindergarten year! You have
an open invitation to visit us anytime. To
our returning and incoming students, we
welcome you to an exciting and fun-filled
school year.
Contributed by Mrs. Henrietta Samori
Thank you to everyone for all your
help and donations.
Congratulation to graduate Akemi Holmes!
Dharma School students recognized on June 10
Ohakamairi at Moiliili Cemetery
Stephen & Tracy
(Tayama) Brady
Jr. YBA 50th State Convention held June 29 to July 1 at Hawaii Betsuin
Kris & Kanako
(Kurosaki) Koyama
お盆が続くハワイ
モイリリ本願寺の盆おどりとお盆法要は
すでに終わりましたが八月いっぱいもど
こかのお寺で盆おどりが続いていますの
でお盆にふさわしい話をさせていただき
たいと思います。このお盆の時期は亡く
なった方々を偲んで、私のいのちを可能
にして下さる沢山の他のいのちをも感謝
しながら尊いみ教えの導きを喜ばせてい
ただく有難い行事です。 なによりも阿
弥陀様の大きなお慈悲を喜ばせていただ
くお盆です。浄土真宗ではよく阿弥陀様
を「親様」と親しく呼ぶことがありま
す。そして、この阿弥陀様にとって我々
一人一人が可愛い一人子のように可愛い
と皆様はすでに聞いてきたことだと思い
ます。この間、 面白い話を聞かせていた
だきました。中国では親指のことを「大
指」とよんで、そして小指のことを「小
指」というのです。皆様、手をハワイで
いう「シャカ」の手振りをしてみて下さ
い。親指と小指をよく見て下さい。気づ
くことは親指は小指（と他の指）の方に
向いていることです。 大きな親指は常
に小さな子供といっていい小指の方を見
ています。「親様（阿弥陀様）」はいつ
２００７年８－９月号
白 道
第４５４号
も大きな慈悲をもって小指の小さな慈悲
をも持たない我々の方に向いて下さって
いるのです。でも、なかなか気づかない
ままで、手の小指のようにいつも（親指
の方でなくて）ほかのところばかりをみ
ている我々です。同じように阿弥陀様は
いつも我々の方に向いて下さっています
が我々凡夫はなかなか親様（阿弥陀様）
の方には見ません。なぜかというと煩悩
のためです。煩悩のために親指の親様の
尊いご存在に気づかないのです。小指の
子にまかせば一生気づかないままで終わ
るかも知りませんので親指の親様がわざ
わざ呼ぶのです。これが「親様」のお呼
び声です。「心配しないで、私にまかせ
てください。まかせて下さいよ」とよび
かけて下さる阿弥陀様です。このように
して阿弥陀様はいつも我々の方に向いて
下さっているのです。 一度聞いたことが
ありますが「親」という漢字の書き方を
覚えやすく覚えるためにはこの字を三つ
にわけて覚えたらいいとすなわち「立」
と「木」と「見」の三つです。「親」と
いうものは子供のことをいつも心配して
「木のうえにまで立って見る」と覚えれ
ばいいと。皆様のご存知のことですが浄
土真宗の阿弥陀様はいつも立っている姿
です。浄土真宗の阿弥陀様は立ち上がる
仏様です。じっと、お浄土いらっしゃる
仏様でなくて、わざわざ「南無阿弥陀
仏」として娑婆世界に出てきて下さる慈
悲深い仏様です。「観無量寿経」という
お経にお釈迦様が苦しみをのぞく教えを
これから説こうとされる瞬間に阿弥陀様
が立っているお姿を現したと書いてあり
ます。阿弥陀様の大きな類のない無条件
のお慈悲を仏様の立っていらっしゃる姿
で現わすのが浄土真宗のご本尊です。こ
の大きなお慈悲をもって我々につねに向
いて近づいて下さる「親様」に気づき、
このお盆の時期に偲ぶ亡くなった方々も
我々もそしてこれからも生まれてくるも
のも摂取不捨して下さる阿弥陀様を喜ば
せていただき、そして私のいのちを可能
にして下さる他のいのちをも感謝しま
しょう。本当にお盆は歓喜会です。私達
すべてはつながって関係しあって生きて
います。生かされている私（たち）で
す。お盆というのは私達がこういうこと
に目覚めて感謝と喜びをあらわす法要と
盆おどりです。皆様様、どこかの盆おど
りで会いましょう。南無阿弥陀仏。
お知らせ
八月の日本語説教は休ませていただきま
す。次の日本語説教は九月二十三日、午
前十時半、の秋の彼岸会になります。ご
講師は仏教研究センターの所長、元モイ
リリ本願寺の駐在開教使、宗籐達雄先生
です。皆様のお参りをお待ちしておりま
す。なお、モイリリ本願寺ではハワイ州
の初めての「平和の日」の行事として九
月二十一日、午後七時、から「平和のコ
ンサート」が行なわれますことをご案内
申し上げます。合掌。